JavaScript must be enabled to play.
Browser lacks capabilities required to play.
Upgrade or switch to another browser.
Loading…
<<set $passagename to State.passage>> <<script>> if (setup.noUiPassages.includes(State.passage)) { $('#ui-bar').hide(); $('#story').css('margin-left', '0'); } else { $('#ui-bar').show(); $('#story').css('margin-left', ''); } <</script>> <<script>> var fin = document.getElementById("fin"); <</script>> <<script>> if (Save.slots.has(0)) { State.variables['day1'] = 1; } if (Save.slots.has(1)) { State.variables['day2'] = 1; } if (Save.slots.has(2)) { State.variables['day3'] = 1; } if (Save.slots.has(3)) { State.variables['day4'] = 1; } <</script>> /* Validation Quête Défunte Etreinte */ <<if $def1 is 0 and $b1 is 1>> <<set $def1 to 1>> <</if>> <<if $def1 is 1 and $def1_sig is 0>> <<set $def1_sig to 1>> <div id="intuitions">[img[data/media/graph/quetes/intui01.png]]</div> <</if>> <<if $def2 is 0>> <<set _score_def2 to 0>> <<if $cim >= 2>><<set _score_def2 += 1>><</if>> <<if $erv is 2>><<set _score_def2 += 1>><</if>> <<if $sis is 2>><<set _score_def2 += 1>><</if>> <<if _score_def2 >= 2>> <<set $def2 to 1>> <<if $def1 is 1>><div id="intuitions">[img[data/media/graph/quetes/intui01.png]]</div><</if>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $def3 is 0>> <<set _score_def3 to 0>> <<if $kov is 2>><<set _score_def3 += 1>><</if>> <<if $bag >= 3>><<set _score_def3 += 1>><</if>> <<if $mer is 2>><<set _score_def3 += 1>><</if>> <<if _score_def3 >= 2>> <<set $def3 to 1>> <<if $def1 is 1>><div id="intuitions">[img[data/media/graph/quetes/intui01.png]]</div><</if>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $def4 is 0 and $n is 1 and ($dy >= 2 or $f is 1)>> <<set $def4 to 1>> <<if $def1 is 1>><div id="intuitions">[img[data/media/graph/quetes/intui01.png]]</div><</if>> <</if>> /* SM Effects */ <<if passage() isnot "folie">> /* 0) mémoriser la valeur précédente */ <<set $sm_prev = $sm_last>> <<if $sm_prev is undefined>> <<set $sm_prev = $sm>> <</if>> /* calc tier une seule fois */ <<set $sm_tier_new = setup.smTier($sm)>> /* 1) Rupture : si on passe de >0 à <=0 */ <<if (not $sm_rupture) and ($sm_prev > 0) and ($sm <= 0)>> <<set $sm = 0>> <<set $sm_rupture = true>> <<set $sm_last = $sm>> <<set $sm_tier_new = setup.smTier($sm)>> <<script>> clearTimeout(setup._ruptureGotoTimer); setup.onSmRupture() .catch((e) => console.error("[smFx] rupture run failed", e)) .finally(() => { setup._ruptureGotoTimer = setTimeout(() => Engine.play("folie"), 10000); }); <</script>> <<else>> /* 2) Détection de palier franchi */ <<if $sm_tier_prev is undefined>> <<set $sm_tier_prev = $sm_tier_new>> <<elseif $sm_tier_prev isnot $sm_tier_new>> <<run setup.onSmTierChange($sm_tier_new, $sm_tier_prev)>> <<set $sm_tier_prev = $sm_tier_new>> <</if>> /* 3) Effets continus selon palier : via classes body (CSS) */ <<script>> const tiers = ["sm-n","sm-a","sm-b","sm-c","sm-d","sm-e"]; document.body.classList.remove(...tiers); const tier = State.variables.sm_tier_new; // "n" | "a" | "b" | "c" | "d" | "e" document.body.classList.add("sm-" + tier); /* Liens "folie" en C/D/E — restreint au récit : #passages exclut #ui-bar et #ui-dialog, la navigation reste utilisable. */ $('a').removeClass('folie'); if (tier === "c" || tier === "d" || tier === "e") { $('#passages a').addClass('folie'); } // Pulse : b/c/d/e (sinon -> retire les classes pulse) setup.smPulse.startFor(tier); <</script>> <<set $sm_last = $sm>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $vc >= 3 and ($passagename is "appart_n_1" or $passagename is "appart_n_2" or $passagename is "appart_n_3" or $passagename is "appart_n_4" or $passagename is "appart_j_1" or $passagename is "appart_j_2" or $passagename is "appart_j_3" or $passagename is "appart_j_4")>> <<goto "poli_1">> <</if>> <<if $oval is 3>> <<smLoss D3>> <</if>> <<script>> var act = State.active.variables['act']; if (act <= 0) { $('#link_0 a, #link_1 a, #link_2 a, #link_5 a').hide(); } if (act <= 1) { $('#link_2 a, #link_5 a').hide(); } if (act < 5) { $('#link_5 a').hide(); } if (act > 1) { $('#link_2 a').show(); } if (act >= 5) { $('#link_5 a').show(); } if (act >= 2) { $('#link_0 a').show(); } <</script>> <<script>> $(function(){ $(".tonitruant").animate({ opacity: 1, fontSize: "100%" }, 5000 ); }); <</script>> <<script>> $(function(){ $(".zoomout").hide("scale", 50000); $(".zoomin").show("scale", 50000); }); <</script>> <<script>> $(function(){ $(".blanc").animate({ opacity: 0 }, 52000 ); }); <</script>> <<script>> $(function(){ $('.obscure').animate({ opacity: 1, }, 1500); }); <</script>> <<script>> $(function(){ $('.clair').animate({ opacity: 1, }, 1500); }); <</script>> <<script>> $(function(){ $('.coup') .animate({fontSize: "300%"}, 400) .delay(100) .animate({fontSize: "100%"}, 200); }); <</script>> <<script>> $(function(){ $('#ecrit_auto') .animate({opacity: "0.2"}, 100) .delay(10000) .animate({opacity: "hide"}); }); <</script>> <<script>> $(function(){ $('#intuitions img') .animate({width: "400px", height:"400px", opacity: "1"}, 10) .animate({width: "0px", height:"0px", opacity: "0.5"}, 4000) }); <</script>> <<script>> $(function(){ var melange = $(".melange"); melange.shuffleLetters(); var folie = $(".folie"); folie.shufflefolie(); }); <</script>> <<if $oval < 3>> <<script>> $(function(){ $(".show_name").attr('class', 'hide_name'); }); <</script>> <</if>> <<if $kov is 2 and ($yan is 2 or $yan is 3)>> <<set $yan to 4>> <</if>> <<if $mid2_nature >= 3 and ($passagename is "exorcisme_2" and $rit2 is 0) or $passagename is "telma_1" or $passagename is "telma_2" or $passagename is "telma_3" or $passagename is "jess_10_1_1" or $passagename is "jess_10_1_2_1" or $passagename is "jess_3_1" or $passagename is "cim_10" or $passagename is "pits_3">> <<if $succ6 is 0>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ6 to 1>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $hist is 5>> <<if $succ8 is 0>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ8 to 1>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $f is 1 and $e is 2 and $dy is 2 and $t is 1 and $tele is "done" and $gadd >= 1 and $livre >= 2>> <<if $succ9 is 0>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ9 to 1>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $uni >= 1 and $tele >= 1 and $cim >= 1 and $rab >= 2 and $not >= 2 and $jess >= 1 and ($obsq >= 1) and $l is 1>> <<if $succ10 is 0>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ10 to 1>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $sel_home_day >= 0 and $succ11 is 0>> <<script>> var ext = State.variables.sel_ext || {}; if (ext["pits_3"] || ext["jess_10_1"]) { State.variables._sel_combat = 1; } <</script>> <<if $_sel_combat is 1>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ11 to 1>> <<set $_sel_combat to 0>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $meurtre is 1>> <<set _victimeAssignee to false>> <<if $cible01 is 1>><<set $victime1 to "James Wright">><<set $cible01 to 100>><<set _victimeAssignee to true>><</if>> <<if $cible02 is 1>><<set $victime1 to "Ervin Templeton">><<set $cible02 to 100>><<set _victimeAssignee to true>><</if>> <<if $cible03 is 1>><<set $victime1 to "Edward Boone">><<set $cible03 to 100>><<set _victimeAssignee to true>><</if>> <<if $cible06 is 1>><<set $victime1 to "Anton Redfield">><<set $cible06 to 100>><<set _victimeAssignee to true>><</if>> <<if $cible07 is 1>><<set $victime1 to "Yiggael">><<set $cible07 to 100>><<set $exorcisme to 1000>><<set $rab to 100>><<set _victimeAssignee to true>><</if>> <<if $cible08 is 1>><<set $victime1 to "Jessica Mendhil">><<set $cible08 to 100>><<set _victimeAssignee to true>><</if>> <<if _victimeAssignee>><<set $meurtre += 1>><</if>> <</if>> <<if $meurtre is 2>> <<set _victimeAssignee to false>> <<if $cible01 is 1>><<set $victime2 to "James Wright">><<set $cible01 to 100>><<set _victimeAssignee to true>><</if>> <<if $cible02 is 1>><<set $victime2 to "Ervin Templeton">><<set $cible02 to 100>><<set _victimeAssignee to true>><</if>> <<if $cible03 is 1>><<set $victime2 to "Edward Boone">><<set $cible03 to 100>><<set _victimeAssignee to true>><</if>> <<if $cible05 is 1>><<set $victime2 to "Telma Krieger">><<set $cible05 to 100>><<set _victimeAssignee to true>><</if>> <<if $cible06 is 1>><<set $victime2 to "Anton Redfield">><<set $cible06 to 100>><<set _victimeAssignee to true>><</if>> <<if $cible07 is 1>><<set $victime2 to "Yiggael">><<set $cible07 to 100>><<set $exorcisme to 1000>><<set $rab to 100>><<set _victimeAssignee to true>><</if>> <<if $cible08 is 1>><<set $victime2 to "Jessica Mendhil">><<set $cible08 to 100>><<set _victimeAssignee to true>><</if>> <<if _victimeAssignee>><<set $meurtre += 1>><</if>> <</if>> <<if $meurtre is 3>> <<set _victimeAssignee to false>> <<if $cible01 is 1>><<set $victime3 to "James Wright">><<set $cible01 to 100>><<set _victimeAssignee to true>><</if>> <<if $cible02 is 1>><<set $victime3 to "Ervin Templeton">><<set $cible02 to 100>><<set _victimeAssignee to true>><</if>> <<if $cible03 is 1>><<set $victime3 to "Edward Boone">><<set $cible03 to 100>><<set _victimeAssignee to true>><</if>> <<if $cible06 is 1>><<set $victime3 to "Anton Redfield">><<set $cible06 to 100>><<set _victimeAssignee to true>><</if>> <<if $cible05 is 1>><<set $victime3 to "Telma Krieger">><<set $cible05 to 100>><<set _victimeAssignee to true>><</if>> <<if $cible07 is 1>><<set $victime3 to "Yiggael">><<set $cible07 to 100>><<set $exorcisme to 1000>><<set $rab to 100>><<set _victimeAssignee to true>><</if>> <<if $cible08 is 1>><<set $victime3 to "Jessica Mendhil">><<set $cible08 to 100>><<set _victimeAssignee to true>><</if>> <<if _victimeAssignee>><<set $meurtre += 1>><</if>> <</if>> <<if $meurtre is 4>> <<set _victimeAssignee to false>> <<if $cible01 is 1>><<set $victime4 to "James Wright">><<set $cible01 to 100>><<set _victimeAssignee to true>><</if>> <<if $cible02 is 1>><<set $victime4 to "Ervin Templeton">><<set $cible02 to 100>><<set _victimeAssignee to true>><</if>> <<if $cible03 is 1>><<set $victime4 to "Edward Boone">><<set $cible03 to 100>><<set _victimeAssignee to true>><</if>> <<if $cible05 is 1>><<set $victime4 to "Telma Krieger">><<set $cible05 to 100>><<set _victimeAssignee to true>><</if>> <<if $cible06 is 1>><<set $victime4 to "Anton Redfield">><<set $cible06 to 100>><<set _victimeAssignee to true>><</if>> <<if $cible07 is 1>><<set $victime4 to "Yiggael">><<set $cible07 to 100>><<set $exorcisme to 1000>><<set $rab to 100>><<set _victimeAssignee to true>><</if>> <<if $cible08 is 1>><<set $victime4 to "Jessica Mendhil">><<set $cible08 to 100>><<set _victimeAssignee to true>><</if>> <<if _victimeAssignee>><<set $meurtre += 1>><</if>> <</if>>
<<nobr>> <div id="actionsm"><<include "action">><<include "santementale">></div> <<include "time">> <<include "chapitre">> <ul id="enquete"> <<if passage() neq "accueil">> <<if $tut1 is 1>> <li style="border:none"><<popupmemento "MEMENTO" "memento">></li> <</if>> <<if $reve is 0>> <li class="inv-menu"> <<popup "INVENTORY" "inventaire">> <<set _n = setup.inv.newCount()>> <<if _n > 0>><span class="inv-count">+<<print _n>></span><</if>> </li> <<if $bloc is 0 and (setup.hasDayAction() or setup.hasNightAction())>> <li><<map "Investigation" "investigation">></li> <</if>> <</if>> <li @class="'intui-menu' + ((setup.intui && setup.intui.anyNew()) ? ' is-new' : '')"><<succes "Intuition" "intuition">></li> <</if>> <li><<succes "Achievements" "succes">></li> <li><<link "Options">><<run UI.settings()>><</link>></li> <li><<popup "CREDITS" "credits">></li> </ul> <</nobr>>
<<set $reve to 1>> <<set $bloc to 1>> <<run setup.inv.reset()>> <<run setup.intui.baseline()>> <<set $telm_lastday_day to -1>> <<set $telm_lastday_night to -1>> <<set $telm_paid_day to -1>> <<set $telm_return to "">> <<if ndef $succes>><<set $succes to 0>><</if>> <<if ndef $succ1>><<set $succ1 to 0>><</if>> <<if ndef $succ2>><<set $succ2 to 0>><</if>> <<if ndef $succ3>><<set $succ3 to 0>><</if>> <<if ndef $succ4>><<set $succ4 to 0>><</if>> <<if ndef $succ5>><<set $succ5 to 0>><</if>> <<if ndef $succ6>><<set $succ6 to 0>><</if>> <<if ndef $succ7>><<set $succ7 to 0>><</if>> <<if ndef $succ8>><<set $succ8 to 0>><</if>> <<if ndef $succ9>><<set $succ9 to 0>><</if>> <<if ndef $succ10>><<set $succ10 to 0>><</if>> <<if ndef $succ11>><<set $succ11 to 0>><</if>> <<if ndef $succ12>><<set $succ12 to 0>><</if>> <<if ndef $succ13>><<set $succ13 to 0>><</if>> <<if ndef $succ14>><<set $succ14 to 0>><</if>> <<if ndef $succ15>><<set $succ15 to 0>><</if>> <<if ndef $succ16>><<set $succ16 to 0>><</if>> <<if ndef $quet1>><<set $quet1 to 0>><</if>> <<if ndef $quet1_1>><<set $quet1_1 to 0>><</if>> <<if ndef $quet1_2>><<set $quet1_2 to 0>><</if>> <<if ndef $quet1_3>><<set $quet1_3 to 0>><</if>> <<if ndef $quet2>><<set $quet2 to 0>><</if>> <<if ndef $quet3>><<set $quet3 to 0>><</if>> <<if ndef $quet4>><<set $quet4 to 0>><</if>> <<set $mid2_nature to 0>> <<set $mid2_hantise to 0>> <<set $mid2_nom to 0>> <<set $exorcisme to 1000>> <<set $def1 to 0>> <<set $def2 to 0>> <<set $def3 to 0>> <<set $def4 to 0>> <<set $def1_sig to 0>> <<set $deftotal to 0>> $deftotal <<set $posx to 2863>> <<set $posy to 1968>> <<set $sm to 100>> <<set $day to 0>> <<set $sm_seen to []>> <<set $act to 5>> <<set $vj to 1>> <<set $vc to 0>> <<set $wait to 0>> <<set $telemer to 0>> <<set $teleper to 0>> <<set $telesis to 0>> <<set $telepername to 0>> <<set $teledy to 0>> <<set $easter_necronomicon to false>> <<set $tut1 to 0>> <<set $tut2 to 0>> <<set $tut3 to 0>> <<set $tut4 to 0>> <<set $entry1 to 0>> <<set $entry2 to 0>> <<set $entry3 to 0>> <<set $entry4 to 0>> <<set $entry5 to 0>> <<set $entry6 to 0>> <<set $entry7 to 0>> <<set $entry8 to 0>> <<set $entry9 to 0>> <<set $entry10 to 0>> <<set $entry11 to 0>> <<set $entry12 to 0>> <<set $entry13 to 0>> <<set $entry14 to 0>> <<set $entry15 to 0>> <<set $entry16 to 0>> <<set $entry17 to 0>> <<set $entry18 to 0>> <<set $entry19 to 0>> <<set $entry20 to 0>> <<set $a to 0>> <<set $a1 to 0>> <<set $b to 0>> <<set $b1 to 0>> <<set $c1 to 0>> <<set $d to 0>> <<set $d1 to 0>> <<set $e to 0>> <<set $f to 0>> <<set $g to 0>> <<set $h to 0>> <<set $i to 0>> <<set $i1 to 0>> <<set $j to 0>> <<set $k to 0>> <<set $l to 0>> <<set $l1 to 0>> <<set $m to 0>> <<set $m1 to 0>> <<set $n to 0>> <<set $o to 0>> <<set $p to 0>> <<set $r to 0>> <<set $s to 0>> <<set $t to 0>> <<set $u to 0>> <<set $u1 to 0>> <<set $v to 0>> <<set $y to 0>> <<set $z to 0>> <<set $att_telm to 0>> <<set $cim to 0>> <<set $cum to 0>> <<set $dy to 0>> <<set $dream to 1>> <<set $bag to 0>> <<set $bag_tel to 0>> <<set $bak to 0>> <<set $convoc to 0>> <<set $ecri to 0>> <<set $erv to 0>> <<set $exor to 0>> <<set $fle to 0>> <<set $gadd to 0>> <<set $hist to 0>> <<set $jess to 0>> <<set $jesspass to 100>> <<set $jess_rit to 0>> <<set $jess_a to 0>> <<set $jess_b to 0>> <<set $jess_c to 0>> <<set $jess_d to 0>> <<set $jess_e to 0>> <<set $jou to 0>> <<set $jui to 0>> <<set $kov to 0>> <<set $let to 0>> <<set $livre to 0>> <<set $love to 0>> <<set $mer to 0>> <<set $meurtre to 0>> <<set $not to 0>> <<set $obsq to 0>> <<set $oval to 0>> <<set $pol to 0>> <<set $police to 0>> <<set $rab to 0>> <<set $sel to 0>> <<set $sis to 0>> <<set $sis_v to 0>> <<set $sis_n to 0>> <<set $spot to 0>> <<set $tele to -1>> <<set $telm to 0>> <<set $uni to 0>> <<set $yan to 0>> <<set $ritnom to 0>> <<set $ritobj to 0>> <<set $ritlieu to 0>> <<set $dial_off_1 to 0>> <<set $dial_off_2 to 0>>volume 0.5 <<set $dial_off_3 to 0>> <<set $dial_off_4 to 0>> <<set $dial_tel_1 to 0>> <<set $dial_tel_2 to 0>> <<set $dial_tel_2_2 to 0>> <<set $dial_tel_3 to 0>> <<set $dial_tel_4 to 0>> <<set $dial_tel_5 to 0>> <<set $cible00 to 0>> <<set $cible01 to 0>> <<set $cible02 to 0>> <<set $cible03 to 0>> <<set $cible04 to 0>> <<set $cible05 to 0>> <<set $cible06 to 0>> <<set $cible07 to 0>> <<set $cible08 to 0>> <<set $victime1 to 0>> <<set $victime2 to 0>> <<set $victime3 to 0>> <<set $victime4 to 0>> <<set $news1 to 0>> <<set $news2 to 0>> <<set $news3 to 0>> <<set $news5 to 0>> <<set $news6 to 0>> <<set $news7 to 0>> <<set $news8 to 0>> <<set $news_title_day2_1 to 0>> <<set $news_title_day2_2 to 0>> <<set $news_title_day2_3 to 0>> <<set $news_title_day3_1 to 0>> <<set $news_title_day3_2 to 0>> <<set $news_title_day3_3 to 0>> <<set $news_title_day3_4 to 0>> <<set $news_title_day4_1 to 0>> <<set $news_title_day4_2 to 0>> <<set $news_title_day4_3 to 0>> <<set $news_title_day4_4 to 0>> <<set $news_desc_day2_1 to 0>> <<set $news_desc_day2_2 to 0>> <<set $news_desc_day2_3 to 0>> <<set $news_desc_day3_1 to 0>> <<set $news_desc_day3_2 to 0>> <<set $news_desc_day3_3 to 0>> <<set $news_desc_day3_4 to 0>> <<set $news_desc_day4_1 to 0>> <<set $news_desc_day4_2 to 0>> <<set $news_desc_day4_3 to 0>> <<set $news_desc_day4_4 to 0>> <<cacheaudio "intro" "data/media/audio/music/intro.mp3">> <<waitforaudio>> <<cacheaudio "tictac" "data/media/audio/son/horloge.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "jour" "data/media/audio/son/jour.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "reve" "data/media/audio/son/reve.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "repo" "data/media/audio/son/ecrit_auto.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "bang" "data/media/audio/son/gun.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "mystery2" "data/media/audio/son/Mystic-mystery-02.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "dong" "data/media/audio/son/Dong-horloge-1-coup.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "phase01" "data/media/audio/son/Suspens-loop-strange_phase-01.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "phase02" "data/media/audio/son/Suspens-loop-strange_phase-02.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "phase03" "data/media/audio/son/Suspens-loop-strange_phase-03.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "phase04" "data/media/audio/son/Suspens-loop-strange_phase-04.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "strange" "data/media/audio/son/Short-strange-loop-01.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "mystery-dark3" "data/media/audio/son/Mystere-Dark-03.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "sursaut-dark2" "data/media/audio/son/Sursaut-Dark-02.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "incant" "data/media/audio/son/incant.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "woosh" "data/media/audio/son/woosh.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "badtime" "data/media/audio/music/badbadtime.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "cocoanut1" "data/media/audio/music/cocoanut1.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "cocoanut2" "data/media/audio/music/cocoanut2.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "cocoanut3" "data/media/audio/music/cocoanut3.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "cotton" "data/media/audio/music/cottonwoods.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "cumail_epilog" "data/media/audio/music/cumail_epilog.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "cumail_fin" "data/media/audio/music/cumail_fin.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "cumail_melodie" "data/media/audio/music/cumail_melodie.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "ereth" "data/media/audio/music/ereth.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "hurle" "data/media/audio/music/hurle.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "mamar_exor" "data/media/audio/music/mamar_exor.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "mamar_prep" "data/media/audio/music/mamar_prep.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "infernale" "data/media/audio/music/marches_infernales.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "suspens_dark" "data/media/audio/music/suspens_dark.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "tension" "data/media/audio/music/tension.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "zuulu" "data/media/audio/music/zuulu.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "appart_j_3" "data/media/audio/music/appart_j_3.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "appart_n_2" "data/media/audio/music/appart_n_2.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "maximilien_dark" "data/media/audio/music/maximilien_dark.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "yiggael" "data/media/audio/music/yiggael.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "oogr" "data/media/audio/music/oogr.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "cale01" "data/media/audio/music/cale01.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "Klemhr1" "data/media/audio/music/Klemhr1.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "drone" "data/media/audio/music/drone.mp3">> <<run setup.uiUpdate()>>
<div class="c5" id="c5"><h2 class='titre'>maximilien</h2></div> <video id="intro_vid" class="zoomable-video" autoplay muted playsinline preload="metadata"><source src="data/media/vids/introduction.mp4" type="video/mp4" /></video> <div id="continuer"><div style="max-width:250px;margin:0 auto">[img[data/media/graph/acc_dec.png]]</div>@@.beauty_link;<<link "One less day to live is always one more story to write...">><<goto "i">><<audio "intro" fadeout>><</link>>@@ <div style="max-width:250px;margin:0 auto">[img[data/media/graph/acc_dec.png]]</div></div> <<nobr>> <style> #passages {max-width:800px;} .passages {line-height:0;} </style> <script> $(document).ready(function() { $("#c5 > h2").lettering('words').children("span").lettering().children("span").lettering(); }) </script><<audio "intro" play>> <</nobr>>
<div id="action"><<if $vj neq 0>><<print $act>><</if>></div>
<<nobr>> <style> #sm_sub, #sm_add { left: 70% !important; } </style> <div id="list_lien"> <div class="appart_lien_j"> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right"><<popup "Letters / newspapers" "lecture">></div> <<if setup.hasDayAction()>> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right"><<map "Investigation" "investigation">></div> <</if>> <<if $e is 0>> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right"> @@#link_1;<<link "Send for the doctor">><<goto "med_1">><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><</link>>@@ </div> <</if>> <<if $n is 0 and $act >= 2>> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right"> @@#link_2; <<if $y is 1 and $act >= 2>> <<link "Let myself drift a while">><<goto "repo_1">><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><</link>> <<elseif $act >= 2>> <<link "Take some rest">><<goto "repo_1">><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><</link>> <</if>> @@ </div> <<else>> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right"> <<link "Wait for evening">><<goto "fin_jour">><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><</link>> </div> <</if>> </div> </div> <<if $act <= 0>> <<goto "fin_jour">> <</if>> <<set $bloc to 0>><<set $wait to 0>><<set $reve to 0>><<set $v to 0>><<set $posx to 2863>><<set $posy to 1968>> <</nobr>> <<if $tut2 is 0>><div id="tutoriel"><div class="tuto_title">TUTORIAL: <span style="color: #b6bac0">ACTIONS</span></div><p><span style="padding-right: 8px"><<include "action">></span>The story unfolds through a succession of days and nights. The indicator above shows how many actions you have available for the day. The cost in actions of any initiative on your part is marked on the links in the story as follows: @@#link_1;<<link "">><</link>>@@ / 1 action toward a short scene. @@#link_2;<<link "">><</link>>@@ / 2 actions toward a long scene. @@#link_0;<<link "">><</link>>@@ / toward a scene containing a series of links with varying action costs. <span style="color: #00ab4f">The day ends once your actions are spent.</span> Your nighttime investigations are free, but they may reduce the number of actions available the following day, to reflect your moral or physical fatigue.</p> </div><<set $bloc to 0>><<set $tut2 to 1>><</if>><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><<audio "appart_j_3" play volume 0.5>>
<<nobr>> <style> #sm_sub, #sm_add { left: 70% !important; } </style> <<set _telmTopicsJ to ($dial_tel_2 is 0 or $dial_tel_2 is 1 or ($rab > 1 and $dial_tel_4 is 0) or ($exor >= 1 and $dial_tel_4 is 1))>> <div id="list_lien"> <div class="appart_lien_j"> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right"><<popup "Letters / newspapers" "lecture">></div> <<if setup.hasDayAction()>> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right"><<map "Investigation" "investigation">></div> <</if>> <<if _telmTopicsJ and ($telm neq 2 and $telm neq 3) and $cible05 neq 100 and $telm_lastday_day neq $day and $act > 0>> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right;margin-top:10px"> @@#link_1; <<link "Speak with Telma">> <<set $telm_return to passage().title>> <<set $act to ($act - 1)>> <<set $telm_lastday_day to $day>> <<set $telm_paid_day to $day>> <<goto "telm_0">><<audio ":playing" fadeout>> <</link>> @@ </div> <</if>> <<if $e is 0>> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right"> @@#link_1;<<link "Send for the doctor">><<goto "med_1">><</link>>@@ </div> <</if>> <<if $bag is 3 and $bag_tel is 0>> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right"> <<link "Telephone the Bagrovyy">><<goto "bag_2">><</link>> </div> <</if>> <<if $n is 0 and $act >= 2>> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right"> @@#link_2; <<if $y is 1 and $act >= 2>> <<link "Let myself drift a while">><<goto "repo_1">><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><</link>> <<elseif $act >= 2>> <<link "Take some rest">><<goto "repo_1">><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><</link>> <</if>> @@ </div> <<else>> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right"> <<link "Wait for evening">><<goto "fin_jour">><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><</link>> </div> <</if>> </div> </div> <<if $act <= 0>><<goto "fin_jour">><</if>> <<set $bloc to 0>><<set $reve to 0>><<set $wait to 0>><<saltWake>> <</nobr>> <<nobr>><<silently>> <<if $victime1 neq 0 and $victime1 neq "Edward Boone">> <<if $victime1 is "James Wright">><<set $news1 to 1>> <<set $news_title_day2_2 to "New Victim of the Ogre of South Boston">><<set $news_desc_day2_2 to "Professor James Wright of Sylver Bay College and his wife, Sue, were savagely attacked by the Ogre last night. Mr. Wright’s battered body bears the unmistakable marks of the monster’s brutality, while Mrs. Wright remains in critical condition in the intensive care unit at Lynn Hospital. The Ogre appears to have slipped unnoticed into the couple’s South End residence shortly after midnight. Two neighbors reported hearing what they described as ‘terrible crashes,’ followed by screams. Both witnesses claim to have seen the figure of a young man fleeing down the street soon afterward. Acting on an anonymous report, police reached the house twenty minutes later and discovered the mutilated victims. According to a statement from Commissioner Graham, a special unit has been formed to bring the monster’s reign of terror to a swift end.">> <</if>> <<if $victime1 is "Ervin Templeton">><<set $news2 to 1>> <<set $news_title_day2_2 to "The Ogre Devours a Gravedigger">><<set $news_desc_day2_2 to "Ervin Templeton, aged seventy-three, was found dead in his home last night. A gravedigger at Baker Street Cemetery in West Roxbury for the past forty years, Templeton lived in a dilapidated shack on the outskirts of Oak Hill. The brutality of the attack and the condition of the partially dismembered body have led authorities to attribute the crime to the Ogre of South Boston. The killer now appears to be moving still farther south, a shift that investigators have so far been unable to explain.">> <</if>> <<if $victime1 is "Anton Redfield">><<set $news6 to 1>> <<set $news_title_day2_2 to "The Ogre at the Cocoanut Grove">><<set $news_desc_day2_2 to "Anton Redfield met his death last night in a Back Bay alley at the hands of the still-unidentified Ogre of South Boston. Redfield, a doorman at the Cocoanut Grove, left work at his usual hour of two o’clock and set out on foot for his apartment, only to cross paths with the most savage of murderers. His body was discovered at approximately four-thirty by an Amsterlake Inc. deliveryman making his daily rounds. The corpse was so badly mutilated that identification was possible only from the papers found upon it. Redfield’s colleague, Stan Stratmann, reports that earlier in the evening Redfield had been involved in a violent altercation while ejecting a white man in his twenties from the Cocoanut Grove. The young man is said to have threatened his life. Could he be the Ogre now terrorizing Boston? Until the killer has been identified and arrested, authorities urge the public to exercise the utmost caution when venturing out at night.">> <</if>> <<if $victime1 is "Yiggael" and ($ritlieu is "" or $ritlieu is 0)>><<set $news7 to 1>> <<set $news_title_day2_2 to "Killer Attacks the Jewish Community!">><<set $news_desc_day2_2 to "The Adath Jeshurun Temple in Roxbury was the scene last night of a massacre carried out by the serial killer responsible for the recent slayings across Boston. No fewer than five rabbis were murdered inside the place of worship, which was also subjected to a hateful desecration. The blasphemous attack has sent an unprecedented shock through the Jewish community, whose leaders are demanding redress. Mayor Josiah Quincy III is to meet with prominent dignitaries this morning to discuss the community’s safety and pledge that the killer will be brought to justice. The special unit leading the investigation is under intense pressure, but officials remain confident that the truth will soon come to light through its efforts.">> <<elseif $victime1 is "Yiggael" and ($ritlieu neq "" and $ritlieu neq 0)>><<set $news7 to 1>><<set $news_title_day2_2 to "The Murder of Two Rabbis">><<set $news_desc_day2_2 to "Rabbis Yiggael, aged sixty-seven, and Levy, aged forty-six, both of the Adath Jeshurun Temple in Roxbury, were killed last night during a ceremony held outside the place of worship. Police quickly confirmed that the unspeakable crime could only have been the work of the serial killer responsible for Boston’s recent slayings. Deeply shaken by the tragedy, the Jewish community is demanding action from the authorities. Mayor Josiah Quincy III is to meet with prominent dignitaries this morning to discuss the community’s safety and pledge that the killer will be brought to justice. The special unit leading the investigation is under intense pressure, but officials remain confident that the truth will soon come to light through its efforts.">> <</if>> <<if $victime1 is "Jessica Mendhil" and $jess_e is 0>><<set $news8 to 1>> <<set $news_title_day2_2 to "The Ogre Strikes a Secret Society!">><<set $news_desc_day2_2 to "The Ogre of South Boston claimed another victim last night. Jessica Mendhil, a seventy-one-year-old medium and fortune-teller, was found by laborers working at the construction site beside her Roslindale home. The front door stood wide open when they arrived, and one of the men, Rodrigo Bonifacio, ventured inside, where he discovered the old woman’s lacerated body lying in a pool of blood. Clear signs of a struggle were visible throughout the house. According to her neighbors, Jessica Mendhil was a discreet and mysterious woman who rarely ventured outside. Investigators are now trying to determine what common thread links the Ogre of South Boston’s victims.">> <<elseif $victime1 is "Jessica Mendhil" and $jess_e is 1>> <<set $news_title_day2_2 to "The Death of the Ogre of South Boston">><<set $news_desc_day2_2 to "This madman’s killing spree proved short-lived. Last night, when he went after his next intended victim, the Ogre instead encountered his own executioner—to his great surprise, and ours. Jessica Mendhil, a seventy-one-year-old medium and fortune-teller, brought the killer’s odious crimes to an end inside her own home. Despite the trauma of the encounter, Miss Mendhil was able to explain that she had caught the Ogre breaking into the house and, acting on instinct, seized a decorative dagger of African origin mounted on the wall of her parlor. She drove it into his throat at the very moment he hurled himself savagely at her. The killer’s identity remains unknown. Police are bringing their investigation to a close, though many questions remain unanswered, and we shall continue to report on any further developments in the coming days. In the meantime, the authorities continue to urge the utmost vigilance pending Commissioner Graham’s official statement.">> <</if>> <<elseif $victime1 is "Edward Boone" and $p is 0>> <<set $news3 to 1>><<set $p to 1>> <<set $news_title_day2_2 to "Satanic Scandal!">><<set $news_desc_day2_2 to "A sinister tale of satanic worship has shaken respectable Brookline society. Yesterday police uncovered the scene of an apparent satanic rite when they discovered the bodies of Edward Boone, a respected attorney, investor, and philanthropist, and his wife, Stela, inside their home. Mr. Boone lay dead in the ransacked parlor with a severe wound to the head. According to the authorities, nothing had been stolen, suggesting that the crime may have arisen from a personal vendetta. Edward Boone had not reported to work for twelve days, and uncollected mail had begun to pile up. The true horror, however, lay hidden in the basement. The Boone cellar had been transformed into a grotesque parody of pagan worship, complete with ritual objects and demonic signs traced across the walls and floor. In one corner lay Mrs. Boone’s body, already in an advanced state of decomposition. Her chest had been cut open and her heart removed with a dagger. Authorities are still assembling the evidence needed to get to the bottom of the case, which at present appears to involve a third person whose identity remains unknown.">> <<else>> <<set $news_title_day2_1 to "Ben Shields Joins the Red Sox!">><<set $news_desc_day2_1 to "Red Sox officials took a considerable gamble when they advanced Shields the money for his train fare, but their faith in his attempted comeback now appears likely to pay handsome dividends. Joe Conway, supplier of the Red Sox uniforms, has in fact been instructed to take measurements for two new sets. This would seem to confirm that Ben Shields will be among the players present at Fenway Park when the Red Sox open the new season. Another player attracting considerable speculation is Carl Vaschall, a semi-professional recommended by Steve O’Rourke. Even on an unpredictable field, where a ball may die in loose sand or take a hard, erratic hop, he has already displayed some of the finest infield work seen this year.">> <</if>> <<if $cible03 is $day and $p is 0>> <<set $news_title_day2_3 to "Satanic Scandal!">><<set $news_desc_day2_3 to "A sinister tale of satanic worship has shaken respectable Brookline society. Yesterday police uncovered the scene of an apparent satanic rite when they discovered the bodies of Edward Boone, a respected attorney, investor, and philanthropist, and his wife, Stela, inside their home. Mr. Boone lay dead in the ransacked parlor with a severe wound to the head. According to the authorities, nothing had been stolen, suggesting that the crime may have arisen from a personal vendetta. Edward Boone had not reported to work for twelve days, and uncollected mail had begun to pile up. The true horror, however, lay hidden in the basement. The Boone cellar had been transformed into a grotesque parody of pagan worship, complete with ritual objects and demonic signs traced across the walls and floor. In one corner lay Mrs. Boone’s body, already in an advanced state of decomposition. Her chest had been cut open and her heart removed with a dagger. Authorities are still assembling the evidence needed to get to the bottom of the case, which at present appears to involve a third person whose identity remains unknown.">><<set $p to 1>><<set $news3 to 1>> <</if>> <<set $v to 0>><<set $bloc to 0>><<set $posx to 2863>><<set $posy to 1968>> <</silently>><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><<audio "appart_j_3" play volume 0.5>><</nobr>>
<<nobr>> <style> #sm_sub, #sm_add { left: 70% !important; } </style> <<set _telmTopicsJ to ($dial_tel_2 is 0 or $dial_tel_2 is 1 or ($rab > 1 and $dial_tel_4 is 0) or ($exor >= 1 and $dial_tel_4 is 1))>> <div id="list_lien"> <div class="appart_lien_j"> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right"><<popup "Letters / newspapers" "lecture">></div> <<if setup.hasDayAction()>> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right"><<map "Investigation" "investigation">></div> <</if>> <<if _telmTopicsJ and ($telm neq 2 and $telm neq 3) and $cible05 neq 100 and $telm_lastday_day neq $day and $act > 0>> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right;margin-top:10px"> @@#link_1;<<link "Speak with Telma">><<set $telm_return to passage().title>><<set $act to ($act - 1)>><<set $telm_lastday_day to $day>><<set $telm_paid_day to $day>><<goto "telm_0">><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><</link>>@@ </div> <</if>> <<if $bag is 3 and $bag_tel is 0>> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right"> <<link "Telephone the Bagrovyy">><<goto "bag_2">><</link>> </div> <</if>> <<if $n is 0 and $act >= 2>> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right"> <<if $y is 1 and $act >= 2>> @@#link_2;<<link "Let myself drift a while">><<goto "repo_1">><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><</link>>@@ <<elseif $act >= 2>> @@#link_2;<<link "Take some rest">><<goto "repo_1">><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><</link>>@@ <</if>> </div> <<else>> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right"> <<link "Wait for evening">><<goto "fin_jour">><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><</link>> </div> <</if>> </div> </div> <<if $act <= 0>> <<goto "fin_jour">> <</if>> <<set $bloc to 0>><<set $reve to 0>><<set $wait to 0>><<saltWake>><<if $convoc is 2 and $police is 1>><<set $vc += 1>><<set $convoc to 100>><</if>> <</nobr>> <<nobr>> <<if $victime2 neq 0 and $victime2 neq "Edward Boone">> <<if $victime2 is "James Wright">><<set $news1 to 1>> <<set $news_title_day3_2 to "New Victim of the Ogre of South Boston">><<set $news_desc_day3_2 to "Professor James Wright of Sylver Bay College and his wife, Sue, were savagely attacked by the Ogre last night. Mr. Wright’s battered body bears the unmistakable marks of the monster’s brutality, while Mrs. Wright remains in critical condition in the intensive care unit at Lynn Hospital. The Ogre appears to have slipped unnoticed into the couple’s South End residence shortly after midnight. Two neighbors reported hearing what they described as ‘terrible crashes,’ followed by screams. Both witnesses claim to have seen the figure of a young man fleeing down the street soon afterward. Acting on an anonymous report, police reached the house twenty minutes later and discovered the mutilated victims. According to a statement from Commissioner Graham, a special unit has been formed to bring the monster’s reign of terror to a swift end.">> <</if>> <<if $victime2 is "Ervin Templeton">><<set $news2 to 1>> <<set $news_title_day3_2 to "The Ogre Devours a Gravedigger">><<set $news_desc_day3_2 to "Ervin Templeton, aged seventy-three, was found dead in his home last night. A gravedigger at Baker Street Cemetery in West Roxbury for the past forty years, Templeton lived in a dilapidated shack on the outskirts of Oak Hill. The brutality of the attack and the condition of the partially dismembered body have led authorities to attribute the crime to the Ogre of South Boston. The killer now appears to be moving still farther south, a shift that investigators have so far been unable to explain.">> <</if>> <<if $victime2 is "Anton Redfield">><<set $news6 to 1>> <<set $news_title_day3_2 to "The Ogre at the Cocoanut Grove">><<set $news_desc_day3_2 to "Anton Redfield met his death last night in a Back Bay alley at the hands of the still-unidentified Ogre of South Boston. Redfield, a doorman at the Cocoanut Grove, left work at his usual hour of two o’clock and set out on foot for his apartment, only to cross paths with the most savage of murderers. His body was discovered at approximately four-thirty by an Amsterlake Inc. deliveryman making his daily rounds. The corpse was so badly mutilated that identification was possible only from the papers found upon it. Redfield’s colleague, Stan Stratmann, reports that earlier in the evening Redfield had been involved in a violent altercation while ejecting a white man in his twenties from the Cocoanut Grove. The young man is said to have threatened his life. Could he be the Ogre now terrorizing Boston? Until the killer has been identified and arrested, authorities urge the public to exercise the utmost caution when venturing out at night.">> <</if>> <<if $victime2 is "Yiggael" and ($ritlieu is "" or $ritlieu is 0)>><<set $news7 to 1>> <<set $news_title_day3_2 to "Killer Attacks the Jewish Community!">><<set $news_desc_day3_2 to "The Adath Jeshurun Temple in Roxbury was the scene last night of a massacre carried out by the serial killer responsible for the recent slayings across Boston. No fewer than five rabbis were murdered inside the place of worship, which was also subjected to a hateful desecration. The blasphemous attack has sent an unprecedented shock through the Jewish community, whose leaders are demanding redress. Mayor Josiah Quincy III is to meet with prominent dignitaries this morning to discuss the community’s safety and pledge that the killer will be brought to justice. The special unit leading the investigation is under intense pressure, but officials remain confident that the truth will soon come to light through its efforts.">> <<elseif $victime2 is "Yiggael" and ($ritlieu neq "" and $ritlieu neq 0)>><<set $news7 to 1>><<set $news_title_day3_2 to "The Murder of Two Rabbis">><<set $news_desc_day3_2 to "Rabbis Yiggael, aged sixty-seven, and Levy, aged forty-six, both of the Adath Jeshurun Temple in Roxbury, were killed last night during a ceremony held outside the place of worship. Police quickly confirmed that the unspeakable crime could only have been the work of the serial killer responsible for Boston’s recent slayings. Deeply shaken by the tragedy, the Jewish community is demanding action from the authorities. Mayor Josiah Quincy III is to meet with prominent dignitaries this morning to discuss the community’s safety and pledge that the killer will be brought to justice. The special unit leading the investigation is under intense pressure, but officials remain confident that the truth will soon come to light through its efforts.">> <</if>> <<if $victime2 is "Jessica Mendhil" and $jess_e is 0>><<set $news8 to 1>> <<set $news_title_day3_2 to "The Ogre Strikes a Secret Society!">><<set $news_desc_day3_2 to "The Ogre of South Boston claimed another victim last night. Jessica Mendhil, a seventy-one-year-old medium and fortune-teller, was found by laborers working at the construction site beside her Roslindale home. The front door stood wide open when they arrived, and one of the men, Rodrigo Bonifacio, ventured inside, where he discovered the old woman’s lacerated body lying in a pool of blood. Clear signs of a struggle were visible throughout the house. According to her neighbors, Jessica Mendhil was a discreet and mysterious woman who rarely ventured outside. Investigators are now trying to determine what common thread links the Ogre of South Boston’s victims.">> <<elseif $victime2 is "Jessica Mendhil" and $jess_e is 1>> <<set $news_title_day3_2 to "The Death of the Ogre of South Boston">><<set $news_desc_day3_2 to "This madman’s killing spree proved short-lived. Last night, when he went after his next intended victim, the Ogre instead encountered his own executioner—to his great surprise, and ours. Jessica Mendhil, a seventy-one-year-old medium and fortune-teller, brought the killer’s odious crimes to an end inside her own home. Despite the trauma of the encounter, Miss Mendhil was able to explain that she had caught the Ogre breaking into the house and, acting on instinct, seized a decorative dagger of African origin mounted on the wall of her parlor. She drove it into his throat at the very moment he hurled himself savagely at her. The killer’s identity remains unknown. Police are bringing their investigation to a close, though many questions remain unanswered, and we shall continue to report on any further developments in the coming days. In the meantime, the authorities continue to urge the utmost vigilance pending Commissioner Graham’s official statement.">> <</if>> <<if $victime2 is "Telma Krieger">><<set $news5 to 1>> <<set $news_title_day3_2 to "Massacre at the Krieger Boardinghouse">><<set $news_desc_day3_2 to "It was last night at the Krieger boardinghouse in South Boston that Telma Krieger, aged twenty-two and daughter of the landlady, Martha Krieger, met a gruesome death in the clutches of the killer now known throughout the city as the South Boston Ogre. According to the first accounts gathered at the scene, the young woman was in her room when her screams awakened several residents. Victor Salinger, a war veteran, and Samuel O’Donnell, a traveling salesman, state that they rushed upstairs at the height of the commotion and found the creature bent over its victim in a room already ransacked. Despite the six shots fired by Salinger, the killer is said to have escaped by jumping out the window and vanishing into the night. Another boarder, Maximilien Cornwell, a psychology student, was found in such a state of shock that he could give investigators only a confused account. Police, who see the unmistakable hand of the murderer who has already bloodied South Boston, urge the public to exercise the utmost caution and promise increased nighttime patrols in the neighborhood.">> <</if>> <<if $victime2 is "Telma Krieger">> <<set $news_title_day3_1 to "Three Scarlet Fever Patients Quarantined in Lynn">><<set $news_desc_day3_1 to "Three people suffering from scarlet fever were placed in isolation yesterday at Lynn Hospital. Although city authorities have not disclosed their identities, two of them, a man and a woman, are known to be employed by Andrew Schlehuber Inc. The third was a member of the local commandery of the Knights Templar, for which the same catering company arranged a gathering last Thursday evening at the Market Street lodge in Lynn, following the return of a delegation from the Springfield conclave. The gathering took place on the night of the Salem and Weymouth college festivities, when numerous cases of the illness known as scarlet fever were reported.">> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $news_title_day3_1 is 0 and $news_title_day3_2 is 0 and $news_title_day3_3 is 0 and $news_title_day3_4 is 0>> <<set $news_title_day3_1 to "Three Scarlet Fever Patients Quarantined in Lynn">><<set $news_desc_day3_1 to "Three people suffering from scarlet fever were placed in isolation yesterday at Lynn Hospital. Although city authorities have not disclosed their identities, two of them, a man and a woman, are known to be employed by Andrew Schlehuber Inc. The third was a member of the local commandery of the Knights Templar, for which the same catering company arranged a gathering last Thursday evening at the Market Street lodge in Lynn, following the return of a delegation from the Springfield conclave. The gathering took place on the night of the Salem and Weymouth college festivities, when numerous cases of the illness known as scarlet fever were reported.">> <</if>> <<if $cible03 is $day and $p is 0>> <<set $news3 to 1>><<set $news_title_day3_3 to "Satanic Scandal!">><<set $news_desc_day3_3 to "A sinister tale of satanic worship has shaken respectable Brookline society. Yesterday police uncovered the scene of an apparent satanic rite when they discovered the bodies of Edward Boone, a respected attorney, investor, and philanthropist, and his wife, Stela, inside their home. Mr. Boone lay dead in the ransacked parlor with a severe wound to the head. According to the authorities, nothing had been stolen, suggesting that the crime may have arisen from a personal vendetta. Edward Boone had not reported to work for twelve days, and uncollected mail had begun to pile up. The true horror, however, lay hidden in the basement. The Boone cellar had been transformed into a grotesque parody of pagan worship, complete with ritual objects and demonic signs traced across the walls and floor. In one corner lay Mrs. Boone’s body, already in an advanced state of decomposition. Her chest had been cut open and her heart removed with a dagger. Authorities are still assembling the evidence needed to get to the bottom of the case, which at present appears to involve a third person whose identity remains unknown.">><<set $p to 1>><<elseif $victime2 is "Edward Boone" and $p is 0>><<set $news3 to 1>><<set $news_title_day3_3 to "Is the South Boston Ogre a Satanist?">><<set $news_desc_day3_3 to "Confusion and terror reigned the night before last at the Boone residence, where its owner was massacred and pagan rites were apparently performed. Edward Boone, an attorney and investor, lived with his wife Stela in Brookline. At first light, a newsboy noticed the front door standing ajar. According to his statement, he called out several times before entering the house and finding the parlor in complete disarray. He summoned the police immediately afterward. Officers found the premises in a state of extreme disorder and neglect. Inspector Peter Westfold, who is leading the investigation, cited spoiled food in the kitchen and a pile of letters dating from late August. But the most inhuman horror awaited the authorities in the basement. There they found Mr. Boone’s savagely mutilated body, prepared “à la Ogre” and clad in ceremonial robes. Worse still was the decomposing body of Mrs. Boone, whose heart had been cut from her chest. The heart has not been recovered, although the weapon used in the crime, an antique dagger, was found at the scene. The basement in which the dreadful events unfolded had been staged for an unmistakably satanic ritual, with candles and heretical symbols traced upon the floor. At present, every conjecture remains possible, and the police are unwilling to draw even a tentative conclusion. Edward Boone had not appeared at work for nearly two weeks, suggesting that he may have played a key role in the affair and maintained some particular connection with the South Boston Ogre.">><<set $p to 1>> <</if>> <<if $m is 1>> <<set $news_title_day3_4 to "Desecration of a Jewish Cemetery">><<set $news_desc_day3_4 to "Last night, Baker Street Cemetery in West Roxbury was the scene of its caretaker’s murder and the desecration of one of its graves. The Jewish community is deeply shaken by this heinous act. Reynald Ackles, the cemetery caretaker, evidently caught one or more vandals in the act and paid with his life; his body was found only a few paces from the grave early this morning. A recent burial site was ransacked, leaving the deceased woman’s body exposed to the light of day. She was Amassia Zemaria, interred last August beside her two sisters, all three of whom died tragically in a fire at their home earlier that month. The Zemaria sisters were buried in the Polonnoye section, named after the region of Ukraine from which they came. They had fled the pogroms of 1881, which terrorized Jews in Kiev and the surrounding area.">><<set $m to 2>> <</if>> <<set $v to 0>><<set $bloc to 0>><<set $posx to 2863>><<set $posy to 1968>> <<audio ":playing" fadeout>><<audio "appart_j_3" play volume 0.5>><</nobr>>
<<nobr>> <style> #sm_sub, #sm_add { left: 70% !important; } </style> <<set _telmTopicsJ to ($dial_tel_2 is 0 or $dial_tel_2 is 1 or ($rab > 1 and $dial_tel_4 is 0) or ($exor >= 1 and $dial_tel_4 is 1))>> <div id="list_lien"> <div class="appart_lien_j"> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right"><<popup "Letters / newspapers" "lecture">></div> <<if setup.hasDayAction()>> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right"><<map "Investigation" "investigation">></div> <</if>> <<if _telmTopicsJ and ($telm neq 2 and $telm neq 3) and $cible05 neq 100 and $telm_lastday_day neq $day and $act > 0>> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right;margin-top:10px"> @@#link_1;<<link "Speak with Telma">><<set $telm_return to passage().title>><<set $act to ($act - 1)>><<set $telm_lastday_day to $day>><<set $telm_paid_day to $day>><<goto "telm_0">><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><</link>>@@ </div> <</if>> <<if $bag is 3 and $bag_tel is 0>> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right"> <<link "Telephone the Bagrovyy">><<goto "bag_2">><</link>> </div> <</if>> <<if $n is 0 and $act >= 2>> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right"> @@#link_2; <<if $y is 1 and $act >= 2>> <<link "Let myself drift a while">><<goto "repo_1">><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><</link>> <<elseif $act >= 2>> <<link "Take some rest">><<goto "repo_1">><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><</link>> <</if>> @@ </div> <<else>> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right"> <<link "Wait for evening">><<goto "fin_jour">><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><</link>> </div> <</if>> </div> </div> <<if $act <= 0>> <<goto "fin_jour">> <</if>> <<set $bloc to 0>><<set $reve to 0>><<set $wait to 0>><<saltWake>> <</nobr>> <<nobr>> <<if $victime3 neq 0 and $victime3 neq "Edward Boone">> <<if $victime3 is "James Wright">><<set $news1 to 1>> <<set $news_title_day4_2 to "New Victim of the Ogre of South Boston">><<set $news_desc_day4_2 to "Professor James Wright of Sylver Bay College and his wife, Sue, were savagely attacked by the Ogre last night. Mr. Wright’s battered body bears the unmistakable marks of the monster’s brutality, while Mrs. Wright remains in critical condition in the intensive care unit at Lynn Hospital. The Ogre appears to have slipped unnoticed into the couple’s South End residence shortly after midnight. Two neighbors reported hearing what they described as ‘terrible crashes,’ followed by screams. Both witnesses claim to have seen the figure of a young man fleeing down the street soon afterward. Acting on an anonymous report, police reached the house twenty minutes later and discovered the mutilated victims. According to a statement from Commissioner Graham, a special unit has been formed to bring the monster’s reign of terror to a swift end.">> <</if>> <<if $victime3 is "Ervin Templeton">><<set $news2 to 1>> <<set $news_title_day4_2 to "The Ogre Devours a Gravedigger">><<set $news_desc_day4_2 to "Ervin Templeton, aged seventy-three, was found dead in his home last night. A gravedigger at Baker Street Cemetery in West Roxbury for the past forty years, Templeton lived in a dilapidated shack on the outskirts of Oak Hill. The brutality of the attack and the condition of the partially dismembered body have led authorities to attribute the crime to the Ogre of South Boston. The killer now appears to be moving still farther south, a shift that investigators have so far been unable to explain.">> <</if>> <<if $victime3 is "Anton Redfield">><<set $news6 to 1>> <<set $news_title_day4_2 to "The Ogre at the Cocoanut Grove">><<set $news_desc_day4_2 to "Anton Redfield met his death last night in a Back Bay alley at the hands of the still-unidentified Ogre of South Boston. Redfield, a doorman at the Cocoanut Grove, left work at his usual hour of two o’clock and set out on foot for his apartment, only to cross paths with the most savage of murderers. His body was discovered at approximately four-thirty by an Amsterlake Inc. deliveryman making his daily rounds. The corpse was so badly mutilated that identification was possible only from the papers found upon it. Redfield’s colleague, Stan Stratmann, reports that earlier in the evening Redfield had been involved in a violent altercation while ejecting a white man in his twenties from the Cocoanut Grove. The young man is said to have threatened his life. Could he be the Ogre now terrorizing Boston? Until the killer has been identified and arrested, authorities urge the public to exercise the utmost caution when venturing out at night.">> <</if>> <<if $victime3 is "Yiggael" and ($ritlieu is "" or $ritlieu is 0)>><<set $news7 to 1>> <<set $news_title_day4_2 to "Killer Attacks the Jewish Community!">><<set $news_desc_day4_2 to "The Adath Jeshurun Temple in Roxbury was the scene last night of a massacre carried out by the serial killer responsible for the recent slayings across Boston. No fewer than five rabbis were murdered inside the place of worship, which was also subjected to a hateful desecration. The blasphemous attack has sent an unprecedented shock through the Jewish community, whose leaders are demanding redress. Mayor Josiah Quincy III is to meet with prominent dignitaries this morning to discuss the community’s safety and pledge that the killer will be brought to justice. The special unit leading the investigation is under intense pressure, but officials remain confident that the truth will soon come to light through its efforts.">> <<elseif $victime3 is "Yiggael" and ($ritlieu neq "" and $ritlieu neq 0)>><<set $news7 to 1>><<set $news_title_day4_2 to "The Murder of Two Rabbis">><<set $news_desc_day4_2 to "Rabbis Yiggael, aged sixty-seven, and Levy, aged forty-six, both of the Adath Jeshurun Temple in Roxbury, were killed last night during a ceremony held outside the place of worship. Police quickly confirmed that the unspeakable crime could only have been the work of the serial killer responsible for Boston’s recent slayings. Deeply shaken by the tragedy, the Jewish community is demanding action from the authorities. Mayor Josiah Quincy III is to meet with prominent dignitaries this morning to discuss the community’s safety and pledge that the killer will be brought to justice. The special unit leading the investigation is under intense pressure, but officials remain confident that the truth will soon come to light through its efforts.">> <</if>> <<if $victime3 is "Jessica Mendhil" and $jess_e is 0>><<set $news8 to 1>> <<set $news_title_day4_2 to "The Ogre Strikes a Secret Society!">><<set $news_desc_day4_2 to "The Ogre of South Boston claimed another victim last night. Jessica Mendhil, a seventy-one-year-old medium and fortune-teller, was found by laborers working at the construction site beside her Roslindale home. The front door stood wide open when they arrived, and one of the men, Rodrigo Bonifacio, ventured inside, where he discovered the old woman’s lacerated body lying in a pool of blood. Clear signs of a struggle were visible throughout the house. According to her neighbors, Jessica Mendhil was a discreet and mysterious woman who rarely ventured outside. Investigators are now trying to determine what common thread links the Ogre of South Boston’s victims.">> <<elseif $victime3 is "Jessica Mendhil" and $jess_e is 1>> <<set $news_title_day4_2 to "The Death of the Ogre of South Boston">><<set $news_desc_day4_2 to "This madman’s killing spree proved short-lived. Last night, when he went after his next intended victim, the Ogre instead encountered his own executioner—to his great surprise, and ours. Jessica Mendhil, a seventy-one-year-old medium and fortune-teller, brought the killer’s odious crimes to an end inside her own home. Despite the trauma of the encounter, Miss Mendhil was able to explain that she had caught the Ogre breaking into the house and, acting on instinct, seized a decorative dagger of African origin mounted on the wall of her parlor. She drove it into his throat at the very moment he hurled himself savagely at her. The killer’s identity remains unknown. Police are bringing their investigation to a close, though many questions remain unanswered, and we shall continue to report on any further developments in the coming days. In the meantime, the authorities continue to urge the utmost vigilance pending Commissioner Graham’s official statement.">> <</if>> <<if $victime3 is "Telma Krieger">><<set $news5 to 1>> <<set $news_title_day4_2 to "Massacre at the Krieger Boardinghouse">><<set $news_desc_day4_2 to "It was last night at the Krieger boardinghouse in South Boston that Telma Krieger, aged twenty-two and daughter of the landlady, Martha Krieger, met a gruesome death in the clutches of the killer now known throughout the city as the South Boston Ogre. According to the first accounts gathered at the scene, the young woman was in her room when her screams awakened several residents. Victor Salinger, a war veteran, and Samuel O’Donnell, a traveling salesman, state that they rushed upstairs at the height of the commotion and found the creature bent over its victim in a room already ransacked. Despite the six shots fired by Salinger, the killer is said to have escaped by jumping out the window and vanishing into the night. Another boarder, Maximilien Cornwell, a psychology student, was found in such a state of shock that he could give investigators only a confused account. Police, who see the unmistakable hand of the murderer who has already bloodied South Boston, urge the public to exercise the utmost caution and promise increased nighttime patrols in the neighborhood.">> <</if>> <<if $victime3 is "Telma Krieger">> <<set $news_title_day4_1 to "A Horseshoeing Record!">><<set $news_desc_day4_1 to "Mr. Lovejoy, a blacksmith of Auburn, Maine, shod three horses in thirty-seven minutes! To our knowledge, the feat has never been surpassed. The blacksmith accomplished this feat last Wednesday. He had already been at work for twenty minutes before realizing someone was timing him. He then quickened his pace, shoeing the second horse in nine minutes and the third in eight. More remarkable still, had he been racing the clock from the very first horse, he would doubtless have done even better. Mr. Lovejoy has already been named a guest of honor at the Grand Agricultural and Livestock Show for the 1927 season.">> <</if>> <<else>> <<set $news_title_day4_1 to "A Horseshoeing Record!">><<set $news_desc_day4_1 to "Mr. Lovejoy, a blacksmith of Auburn, Maine, shod three horses in thirty-seven minutes! To our knowledge, the feat has never been surpassed. The blacksmith accomplished this feat last Wednesday. He had already been at work for twenty minutes before realizing someone was timing him. He then quickened his pace, shoeing the second horse in nine minutes and the third in eight. More remarkable still, had he been racing the clock from the very first horse, he would doubtless have done even better. Mr. Lovejoy has already been named a guest of honor at the Grand Agricultural and Livestock Show for the 1927 season.">> <</if>> <<if $cible03 is $day and $p is 0>> <<set $news3 to 1>><<set $news_title_day4_3 to "Satanic Scandal!">><<set $news_desc_day4_3 to "A sinister tale of satanic worship has shaken respectable Brookline society. Yesterday police uncovered the scene of an apparent satanic rite when they discovered the bodies of Edward Boone, a respected attorney, investor, and philanthropist, and his wife, Stela, inside their home. Mr. Boone lay dead in the ransacked parlor with a severe wound to the head. According to the authorities, nothing had been stolen, suggesting that the crime may have arisen from a personal vendetta. Edward Boone had not reported to work for twelve days, and uncollected mail had begun to pile up. The true horror, however, lay hidden in the basement. The Boone cellar had been transformed into a grotesque parody of pagan worship, complete with ritual objects and demonic signs traced across the walls and floor. In one corner lay Mrs. Boone’s body, already in an advanced state of decomposition. Her chest had been cut open and her heart removed with a dagger. Authorities are still assembling the evidence needed to get to the bottom of the case, which at present appears to involve a third person whose identity remains unknown.">><<set $p to 1>><<elseif $victime3 is "Edward Boone" and $p is 0>><<set $news3 to 1>><<set $news_title_day4_3 to "Is the South Boston Ogre a Satanist?">><<set $news_desc_day4_3 to "Confusion and terror reigned the night before last at the Boone residence, where its owner was massacred and pagan rites were apparently performed. Edward Boone, an attorney and investor, lived with his wife Stela in Brookline. At first light, a newsboy noticed the front door standing ajar. According to his statement, he called out several times before entering the house and finding the parlor in complete disarray. He summoned the police immediately afterward. Officers found the premises in a state of extreme disorder and neglect. Inspector Peter Westfold, who is leading the investigation, cited spoiled food in the kitchen and a pile of letters dating from late August. But the most inhuman horror awaited the authorities in the basement. There they found Mr. Boone’s savagely mutilated body, prepared “à la Ogre” and clad in ceremonial robes. Worse still was the decomposing body of Mrs. Boone, whose heart had been cut from her chest. The heart has not been recovered, although the weapon used in the crime, an antique dagger, was found at the scene. The basement in which the dreadful events unfolded had been staged for an unmistakably satanic ritual, with candles and heretical symbols traced upon the floor. At present, every conjecture remains possible, and the police are unwilling to draw even a tentative conclusion. Edward Boone had not appeared at work for nearly two weeks, suggesting that he may have played a key role in the affair and maintained some particular connection with the South Boston Ogre.">><<set $p to 1>> <</if>> <<if $m is 1>> <<set $news_title_day4_4 to "Desecration of a Jewish Cemetery">><<set $news_desc_day4_4 to "Last night, Baker Street Cemetery in West Roxbury was the scene of its caretaker’s murder and the desecration of one of its graves. The Jewish community is deeply shaken by this heinous act. Reynald Ackles, the cemetery caretaker, evidently caught one or more vandals in the act and paid with his life; his body was found only a few paces from the grave early this morning. A recent burial site was ransacked, leaving the deceased woman’s body exposed to the light of day. She was Amassia Zemaria, interred last August beside her two sisters, all three of whom died tragically in a fire at their home earlier that month. The Zemaria sisters were buried in the Polonnoye section, named after the region of Ukraine from which they came. They had fled the pogroms of 1881, which terrorized Jews in Kiev and the surrounding area.">><<set $m to 2>> <</if>> <<set $v to 0>><<set $bloc to 0>><<set $posx to 2863>><<set $posy to 1968>> <<audio ":playing" fadeout>><<audio "appart_j_3" play volume 0.5>><</nobr>>
<<nobr>> <style> #sm_sub, #sm_add { left: 70% !important; } </style> <div id="list_lien"> <div class="appart_lien_n"> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right"><<popup "Letters / newspapers" "lecture">></div> <<if setup.hasNightAction()>> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right"><<map "Investigation" "investigation">></div> <</if>> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right"><<link "Go to sleep">><<goto "c_2">><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><</link>></div> </div> </div> <<set $vj to 0>><<set $wait to 0>><<set $bloc to 0>><<set $posx to 2863>><<set $posy to 1968>> <<if $def2 is 0>> <<set _score_def2 to 0>> <<if $cim >= 2>><<set _score_def2 += 1>><</if>> <<if $erv is 2>><<set _score_def2 += 1>><</if>> <<if $sis is 2>><<set _score_def2 += 1>><</if>> <<if _score_def2 >= 2>> <<set $def2 to 1>> <</if>> <</if>> <<audio "mystery-dark3" play>><<timed 6s>><<audio "appart_n_2" play volume 0.5>><</timed>><</nobr>>
<<nobr>> <style> #sm_sub, #sm_add { left: 70% !important; } </style> <<set _telmTopicsN to ( ($uni neq 0 and ($e is 2 or $f is 1) and $dial_tel_2_2 is 0 and $dial_tel_2 is 1) or ($love >= 1 and $dial_tel_3 is 0) or ($dial_tel_1 is 0 and $dial_tel_2 > 0 and ($jui is 1 or $pol is 1 or $bak is 1)) or ($dial_tel_5 is 0 and $love is 2 and $att_telm <= 5) )>> <div id="list_lien"> <div class="appart_lien_n"> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right"><<popup "Letters / newspapers" "lecture">></div> <<if setup.hasNightAction()>> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right"><<map "Investigation" "investigation">></div> <</if>> <<if _telmTopicsN and ($telm neq 2 and $telm neq 3) and $cible05 neq 100 and $telm_lastday_night neq $day>> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right;margin-top:10px"> @@#link_1; <<link "Speak with Telma">> <<set $telm_return to passage().title>> <<set $telm_lastday_night to $day>> <<audio ":playing" fadeout>> <<goto "telm_0_n">> <</link>> @@ </div> <</if>> <<set _dest to ($victime3 is "Telma Krieger" ? "c_3_t" : "c_3")>> <<sleepLink _dest>> </div> </div> <<set $vj to 0>> <<set $wait to 0>> <<set $bloc to 0>> <<set $posx to 2863>> <<set $posy to 1968>> <<audio "mystery-dark3" play>><<timed 6s>><<audio "appart_n_2" play volume 0.5>><</timed>> <</nobr>>
<<nobr>><style> #sm_sub, #sm_add { left: 70% !important; } </style> <<set _telmTopicsN to (($uni neq 0 and ($e is 2 or $f is 1) and $dial_tel_2_2 is 0 and $dial_tel_2 is 1) or ($love >= 1 and $dial_tel_3 is 0) or ($dial_tel_1 is 0 and $dial_tel_2 > 0 and ($jui is 1 or $pol is 1 or $bak is 1)) or ($dial_tel_5 is 0 and $love is 2 and $att_telm <= 5))>><<set $telm_return to State.passage>> <div id="list_lien"> <div class="appart_lien_n"> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right"><<popup "Letters / newspapers" "lecture">></div> <<if setup.hasNightAction()>> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right"><<map "Investigation" "investigation">></div> <</if>> <<if _telmTopicsN and ($telm neq 2 and $telm neq 3) and $cible05 neq 100 and $telm_lastday_night neq $day>><div style="width:100%;text-align:right;margin-top:10px"><<link "Speak with Telma">><<set $telm_return to passage().title>><<set $telm_lastday_night to $day>><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><<goto "telm_0_n">><</link>></div><</if>> <<set _dest to ($victime3 is "Telma Krieger" ? "c_4_t" : "c_4")>> <<sleepLink _dest>> </div> </div> <<set $vj to 0>><<set $wait to 0>><<set $bloc to 0>><<set $posx to 2863>><<set $posy to 1968>><<audio "mystery-dark3" play>> <<timed 6s>><<audio "appart_n_2" play volume 0.5>><</timed>><</nobr>>
<<nobr>><style> #sm_sub, #sm_add { left: 70% !important; } </style> <<set _telmTopicsN to (($uni neq 0 and ($e is 2 or $f is 1) and $dial_tel_2_2 is 0 and $dial_tel_2 is 1) or ($love >= 1 and $dial_tel_3 is 0) or ($dial_tel_1 is 0 and $dial_tel_2 > 0 and ($jui is 1 or $pol is 1 or $bak is 1)) or ($dial_tel_5 is 0 and $love is 2 and $att_telm <= 5))>><<set $telm_return to State.passage>> <div id="list_lien"> <div class="appart_lien_n"> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right"><<popup "Letters / newspapers" "lecture">></div> <<if setup.hasNightAction()>> <div style="width:100%;text-align:right"><<map "Investigation" "investigation">></div> <</if>> <<if _telmTopicsN and ($telm neq 2 and $telm neq 3) and $cible05 neq 100 and $telm_lastday_night neq $day>><div style="width:100%;text-align:right;margin-top:10px"><<link "Speak with Telma">><<set $telm_lastday_night to $day>><<set $telm_return to passage().title>><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><<goto "telm_0_n">><</link>></div><</if>> <<sleepLink "c_5">> </div> </div> <<set $vj to 0>><<set $wait to 0>><<set $bloc to 0>><<set $posx to 2863>><<set $posy to 1968>><<audio "mystery-dark3" play>><<timed 6s>><<audio "appart_n_2" play>><</timed>> <</nobr>>
<<if $vc >= 3>><div id="texte">The events that follow unfold with inexorable precision and flawless logic. Every piece of evidence points to me as the man responsible for the massacres. My days in prison do nothing to stem the succession of dreams, each stranger and more violent than the last. I alone can glimpse the abominable truth taking shape under the sign of madness. At last, judgment comes in the form of a swift and painful execution, bringing the ordeal of my lingering agony to an end.</div> <div style="font-size:5em;text-align:center">THE END</div> <<else>><div id="texte">The interrogation drags on for hours. They rake over my past, dissecting my every activity and every social tie in search of a weakness they can exploit to crush me. At last, against all expectation, they release me for lack of sufficient evidence. They nevertheless forbid me to leave Boston until the investigation is concluded. I emerge from the interrogation utterly spent, yet with renewed confidence.</div> <<nobr>> <<if $day is 2>> <div id="continuer">[[Return home->appart_j_2]]</div> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <div id="continuer">[[Return home->appart_j_3]]</div> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <div id="continuer">[[Return home->appart_j_4]]</div> <</if>> <<smGain D6>><<set $vc to 0>> <<if $succ4 is 0>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ4 to 1>> <</if>> <</nobr>> <</if>>
<div id="texte">I shall never return home... The events and witness statements fit together so perfectly that they cast me as the man responsible for these massacres... The weight of guilt finally compels me to accept the role of that monster. And so they treat and punish me as the South Boston Ogre deserves. [img[data/media/img/police.jpg]] My days in prison do nothing to stem the succession of dreams, each stranger and more violent than the last. I alone can glimpse the abominable truth taking shape under the sign of madness. At last, judgment comes in the form of a swift and painful execution, bringing the ordeal of my lingering agony to an end.</div> <div style="font-size:5em;text-align:center">THE END</div> <<set $reve to 1>><<set $vc to 0>>
<div id="texte">Downtown Boston, as it is every evening, seethes with activity. The glow of the streetlamps spreads through the night fog, then breaks into shimmering fractals across the damp-slick asphalt. Cries from clusters of people burst out in drunken cheer amid the pedestrian saraband of the bustling boulevards. Since the Bagrovyy appears in no directory, I am forced to question the local fauna, using the description of the brothel from my dream. I begin by making the rounds of the restaurants and cabarets serving supper at this hour. In a smoky atmosphere teeming with boisterous tables, I have to endure jeers and accusatory looks. Before long, the petty mockery of a solitary, haughty-looking fellow points me toward places that may prove more suitable.</div> <<nobr>><div id="continuer"> [[Follow his directions->bag_1_1]] <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_n_1">><<audio "cocoanut1" fadeout>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_n_2">><<audio "cocoanut1" fadeout>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_n_3">><<audio "cocoanut1" fadeout>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_n_4">><<audio "cocoanut1" fadeout>><</link>> <</if>> </div> <<set $l to 1>> <</nobr>><<audio "cocoanut1" play>>
<div id="texte">My wanderings carry me south into Bay Village. A crowd of onlookers has gathered around Stuart Street and sweeps me along with it into Piedmont Street. The street is strung with paper lanterns, dotted with food vendors and shopfronts still inviting late-night pleasures of every kind. A sizeable clientele is packed in front of the flashing façade of the Cocoanut Grove cabaret. Snatches of music mingle with the mixed reek of alcohol and cigars seeping from the building’s entrance. [img[data/media/img/cocoanut.jpg]] Here the excitement of Boston’s finest is at its height. Everyone is shifting impatiently, waiting for a turn to enter the packed establishment. I am quickly swept up by a group of ten or so people who, despite my withdrawn, searching air, invite me to drink with them in the speakeasy set up in the basement.</div><<set $act -= 1>> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">My instinct urges me to:</span> <div id="selection"> [[Go with them->bag_1_1_1]] [[Go it alone->bag_1_2]] </div> </div> <</nobr>>
I have never drunk before. The ravages alcohol worked on my stepfather John have kept me from it until now. The very first glass sends my senses reeling. I take no pleasure in swallowing the syrupy substance, but the exhilaration it gives me feels liberating. My tongue loosens, and I reel off boast after boast, to the delight of my jubilant audience. The radiant charm of one of my admirers urges me on, and the drinks follow one another until I can no longer keep count. <div id="texte"><div class="bourratch">Between embraces and jostling bodies, arm in arm, I sink... a frail skiff crossing a vast plain of wind-rippled grass, I drift... tumbling down star-strewn banks of cloud. I ride laughter at full gallop and wallow in swagger, maimed by my ravenous, self-absorbed appetite for seduction. I drink, and my erupting belly howls itself hoarse; I drag myself along, I crawl like a worm, one more glass and I slide across the ice floe of the asphalt, while the cold of the night and the brutality of its beasts crouched in the dark devour me...<<set $bag to 3>><<smLoss D3>> <<timed 15s>><<repeat 10s>><<shaketarget "#texte" 3s>><</repeat>><</timed>> </div></div><<nobr>><div id="continuer"> [[Stand my ground->bag_1_1_2]] <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Crawl home">><<goto "appart_n_1">><<audio "cocoanut2" fadeout>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Crawl home">><<goto "appart_n_2">><<audio "cocoanut2" fadeout>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Crawl home">><<goto "appart_n_3">><<audio "cocoanut2" fadeout>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Crawl home">><<goto "appart_n_4">><<audio "cocoanut2" fadeout>><</link>> <</if>> </div><<audio "cocoanut1" stop>><<audio "cocoanut2" play>><</nobr>>
<<if $sm < 80>>Two men. Thickset brutes, built like slabs. One groans beneath my foot, battered and swollen. The other hangs from my arm, pinned against the wall, his legs kicking, choking under the pressure of my grip. – Pittsburgh! he spits. You’ll find it in Pittsburgh! God damn it, let me go! I toss him carelessly into the heap of trash. The impact is violent; he rolls several times before sprawling motionless in the dark alley. The muffled sound of the club still echoes as I move away, dragging my feet. <<nobr>><div id="continuer"> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Reach my den">><<goto "appart_n_1">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Reach my den">><<goto "appart_n_2">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Reach my den">><<goto "appart_n_3">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Reach my den">><<goto "appart_n_4">><</link>> <</if>></div><</nobr>><<set $bag to 3>> <<else>><div id="texte"><div class="bourratch">I struggle in vain as the blows come down, sharp and relentless. I do not understand; I have nothing to hold on to. The pain is not as sharp as it should be, and yet I still cannot move. The two brutes work over every part of my body for a while, then leave me like one more heap of trash in the dark alley. – That’s enough, Anton. He’s had it. Even in Pittsburgh they won’t want him in that state. – Yeah, all right. You hear that? he calls down to me. Even the whores at the Bagrovyy won’t want you anymore, you poor mug. And don’t let us see you hanging around here again!</div></div> I sob my heart out before staggering back home like the most wretched of drunkards. <<nobr>><div id="continuer"> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_n_1">><<audio ":all" stop>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_n_2">><<audio ":all" stop>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_n_3">><<audio ":all" stop>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_n_4">><<audio ":all" stop>><</link>> <</if>></div> <<set $bag to 3>> <<smLoss D3>> <<timed 1s>><<repeat 2s>><<shaketarget "#texte" 1s>><</repeat>><</timed>> <<if $day is 1 and $victime1 is 0>> <<set $cible06 to 1>> <<elseif $day is 2 and $victime2 is 0>> <<set $cible06 to 1>> <<elseif $day is 3 and $victime3 is 0>> <<set $cible06 to 1>> <<elseif $day is 4 and $victime4 is 0>> <<set $cible06 to 1>> <</if>> <</nobr>> <</if>><<audio "cocoanut2" stop>><<audio "cocoanut3" play>>
<div id="texte">I move away from this rowdy group and try, with some difficulty, to slip through the crowd. Several hundred people are crammed into the cramped building. The stifling heat, the din, and the sickening smells of all this debauchery make me deeply uneasy. I feel as if I am suffocating, and I force myself to continue my investigation by approaching the few men standing alone. The Bagrovyy means nothing to anyone. As dizziness takes hold of me again, I cross the teeming tide of bodies to take in a full breath of air. I stagger in the overcrowded street, frightened by the malaise gripping me. I try once more to stop a few people, with no greater success. In the end I give up, exhausted and afraid, and decide to seek refuge in my apartment.</div> <<nobr>><div id="continuer"> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_n_1">><<audio "cocoanut1" fadeout>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_n_2">><<audio "cocoanut1" fadeout>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_n_3">><<audio "cocoanut1" fadeout>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_n_4">><<audio "cocoanut1" fadeout>><</link>> <</if>> </div> <</nobr>>
<<set $bag_tel to 1>><<if $day < 4>><div id="texte">I go down to the parlor, make sure I have complete privacy, then pick up the telephone and call Pittsburgh information. The operator quickly connects me with the Bagrovyy, listed as a cabaret. After several insistent rings, a man with a heavy Eastern European accent finally answers:</div> <span id="dial1"></span> <span id="dial2"></span> <div id="rep"></div> <<nobr>> <<timed 13s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– Cabaret Bagrovyy. I am listening.</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial1');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 17s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– Good day. I would like to speak with:</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial2');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 19s>><<replace "#rep">><div id="continuer"><<if $kov neq 0>><<link "Alinovitch Kovaleski">><<goto "bag_2_1">><</link>> <<else>><<link "The owner of the establishment">><<goto "bag_2_2">><</link>><</if>></div><</replace>><</timed>> <</nobr>> <<else>><div id="texte">I go down to the parlor, make sure I have complete privacy, then pick up the telephone and call Pittsburgh directory assistance. The operator quickly connects me with the Bagrovyy, listed as a cabaret. After a great many rings, no one seems available to pick up the receiver.</div> <<nobr>> <div id="continuer"> <div id="continuer"> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return to my room" "appart_j_2">><<run UIBar.unstow()>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return to my room" "appart_j_3">><<run UIBar.unstow()>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return to my room" "appart_j_4">><<run UIBar.unstow()>><</link>> <</if>> </div> </div> <</nobr>><</if>> <<script>>UIBar.stow();<</script>><<set $bloc to 1>>
<span id="dial1"></span> <div id="continuer"></div> <<nobr>> <<timed 1s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– Who wishes to speak with him?</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial1');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 3s>> <<replace "#continuer">><div id="continuer"><<link "Maximilien Cornwell, son of Alanna Connellan.">><<goto "bag_2_3">><</link>><<link "The manager of the Cocoanut Grove cabaret in Boston">><<goto "bag_2_4">><</link>></div><</replace>> <</timed>> <</nobr>>
<span id="dial1"></span><<set $kov to 1>> <div id="rep"></div> <<nobr>> <<timed 1s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– Who are you, sir?</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial1');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 3s>> <<replace "#rep">><div id="continuer"><<link "I am Maximilien Cornwell, the son of Alanna Connellan.">><<goto "bag_2_3">><</link>><<link "I am the manager of the Cocoanut Grove cabaret in Boston">><<goto "bag_2_4">><</link>></div><</replace>> <</timed>> <</nobr>>
<span id="dial1"></span> <span id="dial2"></span> <span id="dial3"></span> <span id="dial4"></span> <span id="dial5"></span> <span id="dial6"></span> <span id="dial7"></span> <span id="dial8"></span> <div id="rep"></div> <<nobr>> <<timed 1s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– For what reason do you wish to speak with Alin Alinovitch Kovaleski?</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial1');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 8s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– I am looking for people who worked for him at the Bagrovyy.</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial2');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 14s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– What do you want with them?</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial3');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 17s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– In truth, I am tracing my family tree, several branches of which are missing. I am searching for the man who fathered me, and several leads have...</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial4');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 24s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– I can do nothing for you. Alin Alinovitch Kovaleski left us this past Tuesday. He died of a heart attack. The Bagrovyy is closed pending the settlement of the estate.</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial5');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 35s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– I am truly sorry. My deepest condolences, mister...?</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial6');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 38s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– Mikhail.</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial7');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 40s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– My deepest condolences, Mikhail.</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial8');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 44s>> <<replace "#rep">><div id="continuer"><<link "May I ask where Mister Kovaleski is laid to rest?">><<goto "bag_2_5">><</link>><<link "Are you a member of the family?">><<goto "bag_2_3_1">><</link>></div><</replace>> <</timed>><</nobr>>
<span id="dial1"></span> <span id="dial2"></span> <span id="dial3"></span> <div id="rep"></div> <<nobr>> <<timed 1s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– The burial has been delayed. The funeral will be held this Saturday, in the early afternoon.</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial1');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 6s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– At what address, if you please?</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial2');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 9s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– On Fifth Avenue, at the Third Presbyterian Church.</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial3');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 14s>> <<replace "#rep">><div id="continuer"><<if $yan < 2>><<link "Do you know who will take over the running of the Bagrovyy?">><<goto "bag_2_6">><</link>><</if>><<if $day is 2>><<link "Thank you, goodbye." "appart_j_2">><<run UIBar.unstow()>><</link>><</if>><<if $day is 3>><<link "Thank you, goodbye." "appart_j_3">><<run UIBar.unstow()>><</link>><</if>></div><</replace>> <</timed>> <<set $obsq to 1>> <</nobr>>
<span id="dial1"></span> <span id="dial2"></span> <span id="dial3"></span> <span id="dial4"></span> <span id="dial5"></span> <span id="dial6"></span> <span id="dial7"></span> <span id="dial8"></span> <div id="rep"></div> <<nobr>> <<set $yan to 4>> <<timed 1s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– His only son, Yanes Alinovitch Kovaleski, must succeed him, and no one else. His father founded the Bagrovyy; it is only proper that the Kovaleski family continue to enjoy its rightful property.</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial1');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 13s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– Is it possible to meet or speak with his son?</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial2');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 17s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– No, not until the succession has been settled.</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial3');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 20s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– And how long might that take?</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial4');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 25s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– As long as it takes for him to manifest himself again.</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial5');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 31s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– I’m not sure I understand.</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial6');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 34s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– Please do not insist.</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial7');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 37s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– Very well. Forgive me for troubling you.</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial8');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 42s>> <<replace "#rep">><div id="continuer"><<if $obsq is 0>><<link "Where is Mr. Alin Alinovitch Kovaleski buried?">><<goto "bag_2_5">><</link>><</if>><<if $day is 2>><<link "Thank you, goodbye." "appart_j_2">><<run UIBar.unstow()>><</link>><</if>><<if $day is 3>><<link "Thank you, goodbye." "appart_j_3">><<run UIBar.unstow()>><</link>><</if>></div><</replace>> <</timed>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">The backward movement throws me off balance, and my heel meets a raised curb that sends me falling backward. The clamor of hooves striking the ground in a slow rhythm finally recedes to my right while the gruff voice continues to bellow. My narrowed eyes try to accustom themselves to a setting bathed in bright light. I notice silhouettes carefully avoiding me and catch the occasional remark directed at me, cynically criticizing the state in which I have displayed myself. Embarrassed, and still chilled by the shock of the scene from which I have just escaped, I try to straighten myself, bracing against the nearest streetlamp... My vision sharpens; with a numb expression I watch the passersby going about their business in this street crowded with the swelling activity of morning, and at last I manage to place myself: with these red-brick houses directly inspired by New England architecture, I am on E. Broadway, a few strides from the recently built Saint George Cathedral, in the neighborhood where I live. I realize I must look like the worst sort of drunkard and immediately set about rehabilitating my appearance, awkwardly dusting off the clothes in which I had fallen asleep the previous evening, when my hands slide over a sticky, still-damp texture spread across one whole side of my jacket and trousers. //Blood//, dark red and velvety. //Lord, I am wounded, but what the devil has happened to me? What am I doing here?//</div> <div id="continuer">[[Return home->c_1_j_1_0]]</div> <<set $act to 5>><<set $day to 1>><<set $vj to 1>><<set $reve to 0>><<audio "zuulu" stop>><<audio "jour" play>>
<div id="texte">After a long moment occupied by inept conjectural questioning, my senses naturally finish assuming their assigned roles, allowing me to set off, staggering, toward the road back to my home. I labor through a few hundred yards and leave the boulevard to take one of the perpendicular streets, when I recognize Telma’s voice calling to my attention: – Mr. Cornwell? Oh, my God, Mr. Cornwell! What has happened to you? I turn around and see the young woman set down her two well-filled shopping bags before hurrying toward me. – But... but you are hurt! she resumes, gripping my arm to support me. – So it would seem, to my detriment. I still have no idea how... – Wait... wait there, I am going to help you. – Rest assured, I am in no pain, I say, putting on a more engaging bearing. – I was just on my way home. We shall go together. She retrieves her groceries and offers me the support of her shoulder. We walk cautiously back to the house, during which time she insists on asking about the events that led me there. I take it upon myself to spare her many details, presenting the simple and probable case of a bout of sleepwalking, admittedly more serious than the nocturnal wanderings through the house during which she has already had occasion to catch me, and from which she concludes the real necessity of consulting a doctor promptly. Once we have reached my room, and after informing her mother, if only to excuse her lateness, Telma gives me some basic care, minor enough in itself, yet no less attentive for that; it allows me to collect myself and fully regain my faculties. I then set about washing and changing. A good part of my suit is indeed splashed with blood, much of it dried. The fact remains, however, that it is not mine. I examine every inch of my naked body in search of some wound, without success. //Then whose blood is it?// I manage to recall the essential points of my ordeals, but only within the framework of that strange dream, as palpable as reality itself can be. And yet if I slept, I moved about during the night, and now I bear a stranger’s blood on my clothes.</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_1_j_2]]</div>
<div id="texte">I reel blindly for a brief moment when a woman’s hoarse voice startles me out of my faltering privacy: – M... Mr. Cornwell? I try to walk toward the anxious voice, stumble, and lose my balance. My body sags against a flat, solid surface, and I let myself slide to the floor, my knees bent. – Mr. Cornwell! My God, what has happened to you? the woman resumes in an alarmed tone, and I now recognize her as my landlady, Martha. – I... everything... everything is all right, Mrs. Krieger, I stammer. – No-no-no, you are not all right at all! And all this blood, my God... are you hurt? – I... I do not think so. Only stunned. My senses naturally assume their proper roles, and I now make out the corridor bathed in a timid morning light. Martha Krieger calls upon one of my fellow lodgers to help her hoist me up to my room. Fortunately, Victor, a man well built for his age, has not yet left. Helped by Martha, he takes hold of my arm and carries me up the stairs with a mixture of firmness and clumsiness, then deposits me on my bed like a sack of rubble. This done, and without further ceremony, he takes his leave, no doubt to resume the antics of one of his poems in progress. Martha busies herself with basic care, minor enough in itself, yet no less attentive for that, allowing me to collect myself and fully regain my faculties. I then set about washing and changing. My jacket, along with one whole side of my trousers, is indeed splashed with blood, much of it dried. The fact remains, however, that it is not mine. I examine every inch of my naked body in search of some wound, without success. //Then whose blood is it?// I manage to recall the essential points of my ordeals, but only within the framework of that strange dream, as palpable as reality itself can be. And yet if I slept, I moved about during the night, and now I bear a stranger’s blood on my clothes.</div><div id="continuer">[[Wait->c_1_j_1_1_0]]</div><<set $act to 5>><<set $day to 1>><<set $vj to 1>><<set $reve to 0>><<audio "jour" play>>
<div id="texte">Though I am not, so far as I know, prone to sleepwalking, Telma has not failed to worry about my strange behavior over the past few weeks; could my nocturnal wanderings through the house have grown worse? I am still brooding over my dark thoughts when someone knocks at the door. – Yes? I call back. – Mr. Cornwell? It’s me, Telma. The lovely tone of that delicate voice seeps through the partition like the gentle light of a springtime break in the clouds. – One moment, please. I finish dressing in haste, then invite her in. Her singular presence, steeped in timidity, is accompanied by a nuanced range of perfumes that fills my room from her very first steps. She wears a plum-colored scarf over her head, holding the interlaced strands of her golden hair in sophisticated patterns, and, as though in echo, a wide low-slung belt sets off the fitted dress, in shades of sand, that hides her feet. Emotion finally gets the better of her and suddenly pours forth in an uninterrupted stream: – Mr. Cornwell... I... I have just learned of the incident of which you were the victim. I took the liberty, therefore... therefore, of coming to you to inquire after your health, since my mother could give me no assurance, and I... – Telma. Calm yourself, all is well, I tell her. – But, but... – Rest assured, the worst has passed. See how I stand now. – This is not reasonable, sir. Each day your condition seems to worsen. You should follow Mother’s advice and send for a doctor. You must, willingly; at least allow him to examine you, at my expense, of course. – Out of the question. Conscious as I am, I cannot, for the moment, continue to rest complacently in ignorance of the evil that torments me. Allow me to assume every aspect of it! Stung in my pride, my sharpened tone at that instant exceeds my thought. – Please, forgive me. I was only trying to help you, she says in a tearful voice. It is only that I worry so very much about you, enough to lose my reason. – No, it is I who must ask forgiveness. I failed to show proper care for the affection you have shown me. I am sorry, Telma. I must assume I am not deserving of it. – You should. I have not... The door resounds again, marked by Mrs. Krieger’s authoritative tone: – Telma! Do not linger, I need your help in the kitchen. – I... I must withdraw, Telma resumes. You alone can know what is best for you. Know that I shall not leave the premises today, so do not neglect the support I may humbly offer you should the need arise.</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_1_j_2]]</div><<bg "data/media/img/backgrounds/appart_j1.jpg" 20 60 20>>
<div id="texte">In the peace granted me by the refuge of my little room, one imperative after another presses forward, making it very difficult for me to decide which course to take first. Yet I must choose my attitude for the hours ahead and make judicious use of this newborn day, despite the confusion weighing upon me.</div> <div id="continuer">[[Make the most of my rooms->appart_j_1]]</div> <<run setup.cp.save(1, "Day1")>><<set $bloc to 0>> <div id="tutoriel"><div class="tuto_title">TUTORIAL: <span style="color: #b6bac0">INVESTIGATION</span></div><p>The Investigation tab will appear in the menu during the sequences of the story in which you are free to move about. Choices will be listed there according to your discoveries, and will unfold across the map of Boston, by day as by night.</p></div>
<div id="texte">The void... My consciousness is torn from its nothingness, like a newborn wrenched violently from its mother’s womb. The sensation of soft ground in which I am sinking. An icy dampness soaks my clothes, trickles down, and seeps through the pores of my skin. My heart races. Above me I make out a shaft of blurred light against which shadows are moving. One of them goes still, and suddenly my flesh is lashed by some coarse matter spreading over part of my body. The snare of my nerves seizes my whole frame in a pantomime of survival when at last I perceive the terrible truth... They are burying me alive! <div id="continuer">[[Rebel->c_1_r_1_0]]</div> <<silently>><<set $reve to 1>><<set $act to 0>><<set $meurtre to 1>><<set $dream to 1>><<set $vj to 0>><<set $_arcBg to "">><</silently>><<audio ":playing" stop>><<run setup.arcBg.stop()>><<audio "reve" play>><<timed 10s>><<smLoss D4>><</timed>> <<if $sm is 100>><div id="tutoriel"><div class="tuto_title">TUTORIAL: <span style="color: #b6bac0">SANITY</span></div><p><<include "santementale">> The sanity gauge tells you the state of your mind throughout the story. Certain events will affect that state, for better or worse, and will influence your behavior and your choices as the story unfolds.<br> <span style="color: #fe0e14">A loss</span> or <span style="color: #00ab4f">a gain</span> of sanity will be signaled by a vertical animation to the left of the passages concerned.</p></div><</if>>
<div id="texte">I flail violently, trying to brace myself against that soft ground into which my hands sink up to the wrists. The impulse driving me bursts free in powerful screams: – Aaaah! Nooo! Stop! My cries rend the silence, broken only by the crackle of the drizzle and the steady rhythm of shovelfuls falling one after another. – Nooo! I beg you! I don’t want to die! At last I struggle upright, slipping more than once before coming to rest against one of the clammy walls. Reaching upward for some hypothetical hold, I then clearly make out two figures looming above this gulf, fixed against the backlit glow of a lantern. They seem to be watching me. Terror seizes my whole being, crushes my throat, warping the sound of my words. – What do you want with me?! One of them answers in a man’s voice, worn and quavering: – We’ve got to bury you, mister! The words repeat themselves, one after another, methodically, through my stricken mind—//We’ve-got-to-bury-you-mister//—and in the face of so much casualness, so much natural ease, my cerebral frenzy reaches its height. By reflex I retort: – But why? – Well... our job is to bury the dead, mister. Of course... My thoughts overlap, struggling to preserve their lucidity. None of this makes any sense. I am losing my footing...</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">How to react?</span> <div id="selection"> [[With disbelief->c_1_r_1_1]][[With anger->c_1_r_1_2]][[By waiting->c_1_r_1_3]] </div> </div> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">– You can plainly see I am not dead! – Ah, but we don’t know that, mister! – That’s absurd! I am speaking to you! I am moving, I am alive! The other man cuts in, his tone drier, more nervous: – So what? That proves nothing. All we can see is that you’re in the grave! It’s a dream, I tell myself, it must be a dream. And yet the coolness of the night, the streaming drizzle, the feel of mud, of my clothes clinging to my skin, all seem to point otherwise. The old voice interrupts my train of thought: – Well... can we get back to it, mister? – Nooo! I am certain you are mistaken! – Oh, mister, the old gravedigger cuts in with a laugh, we can’t be mistaken, and you’re not the first one to put up a fuss here. – What?! B... but... – but I... – I’m not the first? – Ooooh no, but it doesn’t happen quite as often as people think. – Not as often...? In Heaven’s name, where am I? – At Baker Street Cemetery. – B... but... – but... – I have no business in a cemetery! – Yep, I can see you’re not going to go quietly... The indolence of these men, reflected in our exchange, suddenly gives me a fresh surge of confidence. In this situation, at the very least, I have nothing to lose. – Indeed not! I reply. Surely you do not imagine I shall meekly submit to the fate you have in store for me! – All right then, we’ll go fetch the ladder and get you out, he says, almost disappointed. Don’t move! //Don’t move... Do these louts possess even the slightest notion of reason?// They vanish from my sight while I hear one of the pair remark as he walks away: – You’ll see, this business is going to come back on us...</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_1_r_2]]</div><<set $bak to 1>>
<div id="texte">– Devil take it! Stop toying with me! – But mister, there’s no call to get worked up. We’re only doing our job. – I’ll show you what I think of your job! Do you think I’m going to let this happen without resisting? The other man answers me in a dry, nervous tone: – Trouble is, the dead don’t usually talk back! – Well, I’m talking back, aren’t I? That means I’m still alive! – So what? That proves nothing. All we can see is that you’re in the grave! The indolence of these men gnaws at me to the quick; in a sudden flare of excitement, I give in to the senseless provocation: – This is too much! You are wasting your time, fools. You will never manage to bury me from up there. You shall have to come down and finish me off yourselves! As though to punctuate my words, I bend and seize a full handful of loose earth, which in my rush I make ready to hurl at them. Startled by the pressure sifting between my fingers, I fling my hand open and find there a writhing mass of worms, which I cast away at once with a scream: – Aaaah! Get me out of this hole at once or I shall no longer answer for myself! He turns to his companion. – Another mutinous dead one. The boss ain’t going to like that... Very well, mister, we’ll fetch the ladder. – A mutinous d...?! I couldn’t care less! You gentlemen are going to be in serious trouble! I shall report this to the proper authorities! I want to see the man in charge. Where is he? – At the Bagrovyy. – At the what?! – At the Ba-gro-vyy, he answers with emphasis. – Bring him here! – He never comes out of the Bagrovyy, mister. – And where is that? – Over there. You’ll find him at the end of the main path, all the way off to the far right, he says, pointing the way. – Then get me out of here. I must speak with him! – Very well, mister... – And first of all, who is your boss? Already they have vanished from my line of sight while I go on straining to harangue them. The dry-voiced one laughs as he recedes: – The one who pays in carousing! </div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_1_r_2]]</div><<set $a to 1>><<set $s to 1>><<set $bag to 1>>
<div id="texte">Only the faint glow of the moon through the clouded sky manages to score the cavity in which I stand, a perfect rectangle. I draw myself in against the wall opposite the two taciturn-looking men. – Well... can we get back to it, mister? says the old voice. Receiving no answer from me, the man resumes his work, sending down shovelful after shovelful at a steady pace. I do not move. While thoughts spin through my muddled mind, I search for some way out of this predicament when the voice rebukes me: – Well... you’d maybe better lie down, mister, because otherwise this ain’t going to do... The fellow plants his tool atop a mound of earth and turns to his companion: – What do you think, Yanes? This ain’t going to do, is it? I still do not move, waiting for the course of events to offer me an opportunity. – He’s a mutinous dead one, Ervin, the other replies in his pinched voice. He’s going to do nothing but cause trouble for us. – Yep. He doesn’t much care for it when they’re still moving. We’ll wait a while and see... Then his gaze pierces the darkness of my lair: – Hey, mister! We’re leaving you for now, and if he hasn’t picked you by the time we come back, do try to be reasonable and accept your fate. The irrational words of these men stir in me a hideous confusion ready to burst forth in a stream of frantic exclamations and angry protests. But my reason, by sheer force, succeeds in repressing the boiling of those tumultuous feelings. Without a word I draw myself into the shadow of a corner at the back, my hands clutching fistfuls of the soft, muddy walls. – At least, he adds as he walks away, this one doesn’t make any noise...</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_1_r_1_3_1]]</div> <<set $erv to 1>><<set $yan to 1>>
<<smLoss D4>><div id="texte">My silent self-denial has the advantage of buying me precious time. Even so, the possibilities open to me for escaping this hell are pitifully few... I seize one of the thicker clumps of roots and try to haul myself upward, to catch hold of the edge lined with thin grass. I cannot get high enough to grab hold of anything. My fingers slip on the wet grass, and at last the jutting roots give way. I fall backward and sprawl in the muck. This time I can only stifle a resounding groan of frustration as I think back to the humiliating altercation with the three brats that afternoon. Prostrate there beneath a fine rain that finishes stripping me bare, I sniff involuntarily between each shudder of my captive body. It is then that I perceive something like a dull rumbling rising from the center of the excavation, swelling as the earth begins to tremble. I straighten where I am, alert, my heart pounding. The sound, now clearer, becomes a bellowing, an amalgam of many sepulchral voices which, in unison, evoke in impious chant the gargling of a chthonic entity—//if he hasn’t picked you by the time we come back...//—I am paralyzed and no longer dare to breathe except in jolts. It rises faster and faster toward this grave that holds me captive, and the sluggish modulation gradually plunges me into a pleasant apathy, to which I surrender with intoxicated abandon. The entire world hums sweetly. Serene, I take the trouble to lie down, waiting for the Charon who will carry me beyond my torments. A mass of worms carpeting the trembling ground swells, as though cast up from the entrails of the earth, sliding and creeping beneath my body to caress it in waves...</div> <div id="continuer">[[Let go->c_1_r_1_3_1_0]]</div><<silently>><</silently>><<timed 10s>><<audio "oogr" play>><</timed>>
<div id="texte">Violently, a heavy object strikes my skull and tears me from my reverie. I lurch up onto my knees, my hands sunk fast in the boiling earth. A shovel lies before me. The shovel planted earlier by one of my buriers must have worked itself loose under the repeated tremors. My mind surges all at once, as though torpedoed by a straight draught of brandy: the consciousness of danger, the instinct for survival. I seize the handle, rise, and brace myself on both legs, fiercely rooted to the ground. Pivoting from the hips, I drive the head of the tool with one sharp, clean blow into the cut halfway up the wall. I shall have only a single attempt. The softness of the earth will not bear my weight on more than one support. The bellowing reaches its paroxysm, concentrating within itself the damned souls of every hell. I spring forward, drive my leap off my leading foot, throw the force of my momentum onto the wooden handle, and immediately carry through to sprawl part of my chest across the rim. I push with all my strength on my forearms and haul myself upward in jerks until my legs come up after me. At last, I manage to drag myself out of that hole. I make it another two or three yards, then collapse at full length, breathing in great gulps. Like the aftermath of a breaking wave, the tremors subside and the uproar gradually fades. After what feels like an eternity, I finally rise again with a soft hiss. A sweep of my gaze allows me to take in a distance of some twenty yards, where I can make out a tangle of gravestones blurred together in the night. A curtain of trees a little farther off, its shadowed edge cut against the sky, seems to mark the boundary of the cemetery. A little path of pale gravel stretches out before me, on one side toward the tree line, on the other toward the density of a fog at the heart of this field of rest.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">With some hesitation I make the decision to:</span> <div id="selection"> [[Flee this place as fast as I can->c_1_r_2_1]] [[Look for the cemetery entrance->c_1_r_2_2]] </div> </div><</nobr>>
<div id="texte">Only the faint, subtle glow of the moon, strained through the clouded sky, manages to cut a perfect rectangle into the hollow where I wait. The minutes feel like hours, and I am no longer certain they will return. The fine rain finishes stripping me bare; my nose runs, and I sniffle between each shudder of my trapped body. The ground shifts in a constant quiver, and little by little I make out what seems to be a low roar rising from the center of the excavation, swelling as the earth begins to tremble. I draw myself a little tighter against one of the walls. //Good God, where have they gone to fetch that ladder?// The roar grows clearer. I can now hear something like a mingling of many sepulchral voices which, in unison, evoke in profane chant the gurgling of some chthonic entity. I am paralyzed, daring to breathe only in ragged bursts. It is rising faster now toward this tomb that keeps me captive, and that sluggish sound gradually sinks me into a pleasant apathy, to which I surrender with a kind of rapture.</div> <div id="continuer"><<link "Let go">><<goto "c_1_r_2_0">><<audio "oogr" fadeout >><</link>></div> <<silently>><<smLoss D4>><</silently>><<timed 10s>><<audio "oogr" play volume 0.6>><</timed>>
<div id="texte">– Well now, mister! Don’t you want to come out anymore? The gravedigger’s voice tears me from my reverie. Lifting my head toward the silhouette, I glimpse a ladder resting on the floor of that putrid lair. A mass of worms carpets the trembling ground and keeps swelling, as though spewed up from the bowels of the earth; my legs are covered in them. I rush to seize a rung. My feet slip, and I pull with all my strength to haul myself up. I climb quickly and manage to wrench myself out of the hole. By instinct, I clutch the top of the ladder and drag it backward in a frantic run. When at last it lies on the surface, I cover another two or three yards and collapse full-length, gulping air in great draughts. At once the tremors subside and the roar fades, while the two gravediggers, standing over the void, observe the darkness with detachment. – Heh, looks like it didn’t want to let you go, mister, the older one says. I remain silent, panting and stunned, incapable of forming a coherent sentence, so thoroughly has unreason overwhelmed common sense. – Well now, it’s not like we got nothing else to do... See you around, mister! I keep staring at them in amazement at the edge of the grave as they gather their tools, take up their lanterns, and set off behind me along a gravel path bordered by tombs. – Wh... what didn’t... didn’t want to let me go? I finally manage to say, turning my head. – The Dybbuk. It’s the Dybbuk we feed. If it’s chosen you, it’ll find you again! You can always go cry into the boss’s skirts, haha! the more agitated one almost spits at me, his face jutting out in the warm light, his features drawn tight by some invisible strain. The old man, already a few paces off, calls to him in a paternal tone: – Come on, Yanes, you’ll scare the daylights out of this poor fellow. The wavering lights fade into clay-gray mist. I find myself alone once more, amid carefully aligned stelae, with one stubborn idea in mind: waking up. After a moment of eternity, I finally rise with a soft hiss. A sweep of my gaze lets me take in some twenty yards, where I make out a tangle of tombstones merged into the night. I curse myself for not having made use of one of the two fellows’ lanterns; and despite a careful look, I cannot see them. A curtain of trees a little farther off, its shadowed rim standing out against the sky, seems to mark the cemetery’s boundary. A little path of pale gravel stretches before me, in one direction toward the tree line, in the other toward the thickening mist at the heart of this resting ground.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">With some hesitation I make the decision to:</span> <div id="selection"> [[Flee this place as fast as I can->c_1_r_2_1]] <<if $a is 1>> [[Follow the gravedigger’s directions ->c_1_r_2_2]] <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>><<set $dy to 1>><<set $yan to 1>><<silently>><<smLoss D4>><</silently>>
<div id="texte">I take the little white-gravel path behind me. Its straight course allows me to make my way through an entire block of tombs arranged in an elongated quadrangular order. I head toward the wall of shadow formed by the nearest trees, hoping to find the boundary of this place. From time to time my attention falls at random upon the most ornamented stelae, and in their singularity I observe a marked difference from those of my Catholic inheritance. The choice of script, the interlacing of Kabbalistic signs, the nature of the symbols, such as the Seal of Solomon formed by a six-pointed star or the nine- and seven-branched candelabra, and the remarkable characters of the Hebrew language all indicate that this cemetery belongs to the Jewish faith. Disregarding the darkness, though carefully measuring each step, I at last reach the edge of the coveted vegetation, where the path ends in a disc-shaped esplanade, at the center of which stands a granite basin. To my great surprise, there is no enclosure of any kind; only a slight, neatly trimmed embankment seems to circumscribe the perimeter of this resting ground. A flat expanse of anthracite gray spreads uniformly behind the trees. Silence reigns supreme.</div> <<nobr>><div id="continuer">[[Cross the curtain of trees ->c_1_r_2_1_1]]</div> <<set $jui to 1>><</nobr>>
<div id="texte">This bewildering scene possesses my whole being for an indefinable length of time, the time required for some form of acceptance. Gathering my wits, I reach the conclusion that I am presently plunged into a deep coma, the direct consequence of yesterday’s faintness, far more serious than I had imagined. In any case, the rather peculiar form of dream I am now experiencing leaves me few alternatives. Either I cut it short, for instance by throwing myself into that unfathomable void; or I find some symbolic form of exit capable of urging my mind awake; or I pass the time, my awakening in the real world then depending on the good will of a competent physician. These thoughts begin to relieve me somewhat, and to impress their authenticity firmly upon myself, I pinch myself with my nails until I draw blood. Nothing doing: the pain is as tangible and incisive as every ordeal already recorded by my body. Indeed, the tears left by the brambles, radiating through my legs, call me back to order, and the idea of leaping into the void already tempts me rather less.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I decide to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<link "Follow the cemetery boundary in search of a way out">><<goto "c_1_r_2_1_1_1">><</link>> <<if $a is 1>> <<link "Find the cemetery keeper">><<goto "c_1_r_2_1_1_2">><</link>> <</if>> <<link "Leap into the void to escape this place">><<goto "c_1_r_2_1_1_3">><<set $b1 to 1>><<smLoss D4>><</link>> </div> </div><</nobr>>
<div id="texte">I spot a shrub offering a handhold along the embankment, take a running start, and in one stride clutch at one of its branches. I pull and haul myself up onto the edge, one leg still trailing behind; I pitch forward, catching myself on my free knee and my hands to keep from slipping. I then set about crossing the thicket, paying little heed to the wear inflicted on my sorry attire. The brambles hook into the cloth as though to hold me back, and at times carve my flesh as I cut my path. I cannot help smiling when I glimpse the open space beyond the curtain formed by the clustered young conifers. I quicken my pace and at last break past the edge with a firm step, when my breath stops dead... My eyes widen and my mouth draws taut with strain like a bow ready to loose its cry; my hands search for any hold, my body twists and fights its own momentum, I skid, scramble, and manage to throw my whole weight back; my spine against a sturdy trunk, my arms flung behind me, I freeze. [img[data/media/img/poisson_front.jpg]] The spectacle unfolding before my eyes defies even the oldest myths, whose obsolescence could not withstand the apprehension of the world through the prism of the most enlightened minds. Even the most unbridled imagination could not have engendered such a syncretism of credibility, belief, dreams, and nightmares, in this vision my senses transcribe with a pernicious exactitude, as only madness can produce. The earthen platform ends there, a few strides before me, cleanly torn away, so that its surface, bearing all the scenery I have just struggled to cross, seems to form an islet floating in the monochrome of an ashen-gray void. Other scattered masses hover at varying distances, true fragments of a known earth whose crust has been dislocated, each one furnished with both natural and artificial reliefs, with portions of countryside and towns of varying extent. The dimensions of the whole are dizzying, and this apparently spherical space proves to encompass the very fragment on which I stand. And, as though to mottle the composition of this grandiose tableau, I discern a phantasmagoric ballet animated by celestial creatures: tortuous monsters of diaphanous, luminescent flesh, gliding through the air as through a sea. My mind bends beneath every conjecture while, with my back to the night, I stand upon the threshold of dawn.</div> <div id="continuer">[[Hallucinate->c_1_r_2_1_0]]</div><<set $b to 1>>
<div id="texte">Rather than cross back through the wild scrub, and given my lack of landmarks, I choose to follow the torn edge, arbitrarily taking to my left. I walk that way along a sort of rural strip of land, high with grass, about six feet wide. After a few minutes, I accept the idea that the cut plateau must be circular, and that if I continue I may well end up falling back on my steps. Eventually, the strip drops down in a slope toward a section of asphalt road, itself torn away on my right and continuing to the left. On the other side of the road, nothing, the void... I decide to take this route. The cut is now less regular and follows the relatively winding course of the road. I make out a wrought-iron fence piercing through a thicket and running along the roadside in the direction I am walking. Night still reigns within the islet, and the gray cast by infinite space greatly aids my progress. Soon afterward, I glimpse the archway of an open gate in the enclosure, giving access to a small, paved courtyard. On the semicircle formed by the entrance vault, as though chiseled into metallic lace, are inscribed the words “Baker Street Cemetery.” The courtyard gleams carmine in the light cast by the ruddy glow of the windows in a building standing at its center.</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_1_r_3]]</div> <<set $bak to 1>><<set $d to 1>>
<div id="texte">I set about retracing my steps back to the slope. As soon as I move away from the edge, I enter once more the dominion of an eternal night. I have little difficulty finding the trace left by my first passage, and when I reach the mound, I let myself slide down the far side in a crouch. Then I return to the little transverse path to make my way through the block of graves stretching across some fifty yards.</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_1_r_2_2_1]]</div>
<div id="texte">I move closer to the edge, testing the firmness of the ground with my foot, still undecided. It is indeed the void that opens beneath me, spread there into infinity. I bend my knees and sweep my hands through the grass in search of a relatively heavy object. My fingers close on a branch, which I release nonchalantly, my arm extended above the abyss. It falls... simply, whirling with a gravity entirely normal in every respect. I can no longer make it out. I straighten, finish convincing myself of the nature of this dream, and swallow. //It cannot be otherwise//, I tell myself, //or my mind has no place left in this madness//. I take a running start and jump as far as I can to put distance between myself and the fringe of asphalt. A liberating howl bursts from my throat as I begin a vertiginous fall. Very quickly I pass beyond the prodigious thickness of the earthen monolith; the sensation of air dragging over me is warm and clasps my whole being as though to sustain it. As my senses encompass the entirety of this singular experience, I notice with horror one of the opalescent creatures corkscrewing in my direction. It dives lower as if to intercept my fall, undulating along its full length. None of my movements can avert the inevitable confrontation between its gaping maw and my dislocated body. My cry ends in the snap of its sculptural, iridescent jaws, reptilian in character. Pain sets all my flesh ablaze as light consumes my retina, when a dull impact hurls me backward. – Hey! Can’t you watch where you’re going! an implacable male voice thunders, already moving away...</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_1_j_1]]</div> <<smLoss D4>><<if $def1 is 0>><<set $def1 to 1>><</if>>
<div id="texte">I take the little white-gravel path behind me. Its straight course allows me to make my way through an entire block of graves arranged in an elongated quadrangular order. From time to time my attention falls at random upon the most ornamented stelae, and in their singularity I observe a marked difference from those of my Catholic inheritance. The choice of script, the interlace of cabalistic signs, the nature of the symbols, such as the Seal of Solomon formed by a six-pointed star or the nine and seven-branched candelabra, and the remarkable characters of the Hebrew language all indicate that this cemetery belongs to the Jewish faith.</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_1_r_2_2_1]]</div> <<set $jui to 1>>
<div id="texte">At the end of this cluster, a low wall, opened to let the path through, carefully marks the separation from a broader path running perpendicular to it. I cross it and look left and right along the main alley. The cemetery is immense, and each direction loses itself in a mixture of mist and deep darkness. At my level, I notice that every parcel is also bounded by a low wall, on which a sign bears white lettering on a black ground. Curious, I turn back to grasp the nature of the block containing the grave from which I emerged. The sign, set in a metal frame and protected by a pane of glass, reads “Polonnoye” in Roman type. I remain perplexed for a moment at this accumulation of signs. To my knowledge, I have no Jewish roots, and the term Polonnoye means nothing to me. To my knowledge... I think, for if there is one parent of whom I know nothing, it is my father, whom I never knew, and of whom my mother never wished to speak. I resume walking and turn right along the central path, following the blocks’ decreasing numbers in order to draw closer to the entrance. I pass a dozen or so parcels on either side before reaching a new crossroads. They bear family names, or else belong to lodges; the largest are crossed by three or four private paths and possess a vault in addition to the low wall. The path continues ahead and divides on my left to follow the shape of an enormous rock lodged in an earthen bed scattered with open flowers. I press straight on, pass the rock, and find myself before a wrought-iron fence composed of bars with chiseled points. The way passes through this fence beneath an arched opening.</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_1_r_2_2_1_1]]</div><<set $pol to 1>>
<div id="texte">I pass through the arcade, where the path gives up its gravel and takes on paving stones. I pass a group of three slumbering buildings on my right and turn my attention to a carmine glow coming from a house some fifty yards farther on. As I draw nearer, the path curves around a large courtyard whose dampness glitters beneath the ruddy-lit windows of the building standing at its center. It is a three-story house with the air of a pavilion dating from the previous century, its façade moldings adorned with numerous leaf and spearhead motifs; the hooded casings of the frosted-glass openings are richly worked. The closed curtains delicately soften the light; its vermilion glow casts the fleeting shadows of the bars in streaks across each of the sealed ground-floor windows. The front steps are bathed in red by a streetlamp fixed above a relatively austere door. Were it not for its incongruous presence at the entrance to the cemetery, I would wager without hesitation that this house displays, outwardly, all the trappings of a brothel.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I settle on:</span> <div id="selection"> [[Try to get in ->c_1_r_3_1]] [[Walk around the building ->c_1_r_2_2_1_1_1]] </div> </div><</nobr>>
<div id="texte">I circle the building by taking to the right. The courtyard is broad and extends toward the rear to join an open gate in the enclosure, closed off by pointed bars. A small commemorative monument, set off to the side near me, stands between the building and the gate; on the dark marble an epitaph is engraved: //1st U.S. Infantry Division. 1917–1918// Below it follows a list of some hundred names arranged in two columns. On the semicircle formed by the vault of the gate, <<if $bak is 1>>I easily recognize the characters from the entrance to West Roxbury Cemetery.<<else>>I manage to decipher, chiseled into metallic lace, the reversed characters “yretemeC teertS rekaB”—Baker Street Cemetery.<</if>> The house has no other exit and turns its back on the entrance to the cemetery. Beyond the fence, a sheet of luminous gray mist borders a wet asphalt road and swallows the horizon.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">At this moment I wish to:</span> <div id="selection"> [[Try to get into the house ->c_1_r_3_1]] <<if $b is 1>> [[Draw closer to the edge of the world ->c_1_r_2_2_1_1_1_2]] <<else>> [[Leave this place and return home ->c_1_r_2_2_1_1_1_1]] <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>><<set $bak to 1>><<set $d to 1>>
<div id="texte">As I cross the wrought-iron arcade with a firm stride, the clouds vanish in an instant to give way to a celestial auroral light and... the void. My breath stops dead... My eyes widen and my mouth draws taut with strain like a bow ready to loose its cry; my body twists and resists its own momentum, I skid, scramble, and find myself on all fours at the edge of the sidewalk. [img[data/media/img/poisson_front.jpg]] The spectacle unfolding before my eyes defies even the oldest myths, whose outworn certainties could not survive the world as apprehended through the prism of the most enlightened minds. Even the most unbridled imagination could not have engendered such a syncretism of credibility, belief, dreams, and nightmares, in this vision my senses transcribe with a pernicious exactitude, as only madness can produce. The scene ends there, a few strides away, cleanly torn all along the road passing before me, like a model reaching the edge of a table, surrounded by the monochrome of an ashen-gray void. Other scattered masses hover in that void at varying distances, true fragments of a known earth whose crust has been dislocated, each one furnished with both natural and artificial reliefs, with portions of countryside and towns of varying extent. The dimensions of the whole are dizzying, and this apparently spherical space proves to encompass the very fragment on which I stand. And, as though to mottle the composition of this grandiose tableau, I discern a phantasmagoric ballet animated by celestial creatures: tortuous monsters of diaphanous, luminescent flesh, gliding through the air as through a sea. My mind bends beneath every conjecture while, with my back to the night, I stand upon the threshold of dawn.</div> <div id="continuer">[[Hallucinate->c_1_r_2_2_1_1_1_1_0]]</div><<set $b to 1>><<smLoss D4>>
<div id="texte">This bewildering scene possesses my whole being for an indefinable length of time, the time required for some form of acceptance. Gathering my wits, I reach the conclusion that I am presently plunged into a deep coma, the direct consequence of yesterday’s faintness, far more serious than I had imagined. In any case, the rather peculiar form of dream I am now experiencing leaves me with few alternatives. Either I cut it short, for instance by throwing myself into that unfathomable void, a symbolic form of exit capable of urging my mind awake, or I pass the time, my awakening in the real world then depending on the good offices of a capable physician. These thoughts allow me to put matters in perspective and consider this captivity from a new angle, pushing back the dull despair that is tightening around me little by little.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I have no other choice but to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<link "Leap into the void to escape this place maudit">><<goto "c_1_r_2_2_1_1_1_1_1">><<set $b1 to 1>><</link>> <<link "Head back to the house">><<goto "c_1_r_3_1">><</link>> </div> </div> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">I cross, with slow, almost hesitant steps, the road shining with dampness. I move closer to the edge, testing the firmness of the ground with my foot. It is indeed the void that opens beneath me, spread there into infinity. I bend my knees and run my hand over the rough ground. My fingers close on a stone, which I release nonchalantly, my arm extended above the abyss. It falls and quickly vanishes into the gray wash. I straighten, finish convincing myself of the nature of this dream, and swallow. //It cannot be otherwise//, I tell myself, //or my mind has no place left in this madness//. I take a running start and jump as far as I can to distance myself from the fringe of asphalt. A liberating howl bursts from my throat as I begin a vertiginous fall. Very quickly I pass beyond the prodigious thickness of the earthen monolith; the sensation of air dragging over me is warm and clasps my whole being as though to sustain it. As my senses encompass the entirety of this singular experience, I notice with horror one of those opalescent creatures corkscrewing in my direction. It dives lower as if to intercept my fall, undulating along its full length. None of my movements can avert the inevitable confrontation between its gaping maw and my dislocated body. My cry ends in the snap of its sculptural, iridescent jaws, reptilian in character. Pain sets all my flesh ablaze as light consumes my retina, when a dull impact hurls me backward. – Hey! Can’t you watch where you’re going! an implacable male voice thunders, already moving away...</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_1_j_1]]</div> <<smLoss D4>><<if $def1 is 0>><<set $def1 to 1>><</if>>
<div id="texte">I cross the wrought-iron arcade; the clouds vanish in an instant to give way to a celestial auroral light, and it is almost without surprise that I discover the void. The scene ends there, a few strides away, cleanly torn all along the road passing before me like an unfinished model. The hope of finding another way out, whatever it might be, gives way to an intense feeling of isolation in this place that holds me prisoner.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I have no other choice but to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<link "Leap into that unfathomable void">><<goto "c_1_r_2_2_1_1_1_1_1">><<set $b1 to 1>><</link>> [[Head back to the house ->c_1_r_3_1]] </div> </div><</nobr>>
<div id="texte">It is a three-story house with the air of a pavilion dating from the previous century, its façade moldings adorned with numerous leaf and spearhead motifs; the hooded casings of the frosted-glass openings are richly worked. The closed curtains delicately soften the light; its vermilion glow casts the fleeting shadows of the bars in streaks across each of the sealed ground-floor windows. The front steps are bathed in red by a streetlamp fixed above a relatively austere door. Were it not for its incongruous presence at the entrance to the cemetery, I would wager without hesitation that this house displays, outwardly, all the trappings of a brothel. </div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_1_r_3_1]]</div>
<div id="texte">I approach, climb the few steps to the threshold of the entrance, grip the door knocker by the ring threaded through the nostrils of a satyr, and strike hard three times. After a few moments, an ornate peephole at face height, fitted with a sliding panel, opens. It is copper-meshed and just wide enough to frame a familiar gaze, made up with mascara-dark lashes and eyelids shaded in reddish violet, outlined in kohl. – How may I help you, sir? I recognize the woman’s voice at once. – Mo... Mother? – As you wish; I am certain that each of our hostesses will be delighted to attend to you, sir. The peephole snaps shut, and the door opens to reveal the proud bearing of a young, fresh-faced woman dressed in a taffeta-and-lace gown with its train gathered up, its complementary pastel hues harmonizing with the exhalation of a potpourri scented with flowers and incense. My mother, for it is indeed my mother, at an age at which we had not yet met, inclines her torso slightly and invites me in with a gesture of her arm: – Welcome to the Bagrovyy, sir.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I make up my mind:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $a is 1>> [[To go in ->c_1_r_3_1_1]] <<else>> [[To go in ->c_1_r_3_1_2]] <</if>> <<if $b is 0>> [[To leave this place as fast as I can->c_1_r_3_1_2_3]] <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>> <<set $mer to 1>><<set $bag to 1>>
<div id="texte">This dreamlike masquerade leaves me dumbstruck; nevertheless, I pass into the vestibule, heavy with hangings and Renaissance-style paintings. She closes the door behind me and resumes in the same honeyed tone: – There is a cloakroom at your disposal to your left. Amassia, Igal, and Gaddiel will see to your every comfort. – It... it is something else that... ah... that brings me to this place, Mo... madam. While searching for my words, I finally recover a feigned assurance and turn back toward her. I wish to meet the person responsible for the cemetery. Does he reside here? – The master does not wish to be disturbed. What grounds do you have for this request? – Well... I... his workers tried to bury me alive, after all! – You are one of the mutinous dead... she says pensively. – A... one of the mutinous dead? Oh! Is this going to start all over again? I am alive! A-LIVE! Do you understand? A living man who is undoubtedly dreaming, so... – Yes, yes. Of course, she cuts me off. I shall inform him. She leads me into the adjoining room on our right, passing through a curtain of red brocade embroidered with gold thread, which leads to a large parlor in rococo style, scattered with exotic elements; a raffia palm is potted in the far corner and spreads its fronds across part of the wall, spilling over a screen with an ebony frame and embossed leather panels. The remaining walls support a large oval mirror in a gilt frame, a canvas depicting a nymph languorously sprawled on satin sheets, and three-branched copper candlesticks giving off a soft, insinuating light. Against the screen, seated around a small pedestal table lit by a fringed lampshade, two young women are smoking through cigarette holders while fixing me with an accusatory stare. A third rises abruptly from a circular sofa divided in two by a backrest at the center of the room, comes to meet me, and delicately takes my hand and says, in a gentle voice broken by a clipped accent: – Sir, if you please, do make yourself uncomfortable. – Keep him waiting a few moments, my mother intervenes coldly. He is one of the mutinous dead and wishes to meet the master. The beautiful woman releases my hand at once while the madam addresses me: – Whom shall I announce? – Mr. Maximilien Cornwell, and if I may ask, with whom do I have the honor? – Miss Connellan. – Alanna Connellan, I presume... – It would seem, she says mockingly, that my reputation precedes me once again! She pivots sharply and returns to the vestibule with a hurried step. Connellan was her maiden name, before she bound herself out of necessity to my stepfather, John Cornwell; and I knew nothing of her life before that marriage. Even the mere evocation of my origin gives rise to a painful muteness I cannot face. Still... none of that has the slightest importance in this world engendered by the caprices of my chastened mind.</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_1_r_3_1_1_1]]</div><<set $sis to 1>>
<div id="texte">The company of these three lovely flowers, whom I take to be barely of age, causes me a great deal of embarrassment. They never stop staring at me with the smiles of delicate predators, a malignant flame flickering in their trembling pupils, hardly inviting conversation. Their fine pale hair frames charming little alabaster faces, whose delicately drawn features express a sinister air, like certain porcelain dolls set in a shop window; and I cannot suppress a shiver of anguish at the thought of seeing them come to life under some malevolent force. Their animal charisma, each gesture imbued with maturity, belies their troublingly youthful appearance and uncanny sameness. I try to fix my attention on the mud coating my shoes, whose thin film is beginning to crack, embarrassed and unsure what posture to adopt. Fortunately, the wait is brief and, just as I am about to break, awkwardly, this now unbearable silence, my mother reappears in the doorway to invite me to follow her: – Master Kovaleski is ready to receive you. Come.</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_1_r_3_2]]</div><<bg "data/media/img/backgrounds/bagrovyy.jpg" 20 15 20>>
<div id="texte">This dreamlike masquerade leaves me dumbstruck; nevertheless, I pass into the vestibule, heavy with hangings and Renaissance-style paintings. She closes the door behind me and resumes in the same honeyed tone: – There is a cloakroom at your disposal to your left. Amassia, Igal, and Gaddiel will see to your every comfort. – I... very well, Mo... madam. May I know with whom I have the honor? – Miss Connellan, at your service. – Alanna Connellan, I presume... – Sir, you flatter my ego, she says, stepping ahead of me. It would seem my reputation precedes me once again! Connellan was her maiden name, before she bound herself, out of necessity, to my stepfather, John Cornwell; I knew nothing of her life before that marriage. Even the mere evocation of my origin gives rise to a painful muteness I cannot face. Still... none of that has the slightest importance in this world engendered by the caprices of my chastened mind. I follow her, lost like a fledgling newly fallen from the nest. She leads me into the adjoining room to our right, passing through a curtain of red brocade embroidered with gold thread, which leads to a large parlor in rococo style, scattered with exotic elements; a raffia palm is potted in the far corner and spreads its fronds across part of the wall, spilling over a screen with an ebony frame and embossed leather panels. The remaining walls hold a large oval mirror in a gilt frame, a canvas depicting a nymph languorously sprawled on satin sheets, and three-branched copper candlesticks giving off a suave light. Against the screen, seated around a small pedestal table lit by a fringed lampshade, two young women are smoking through cigarette holders while fixing me with an accusatory stare. A third rises abruptly from a circular sofa divided in two by a backrest at the center of the room, comes to meet me, and delicately takes my hand while saying, in a gentle voice broken by a clipped accent: – Sir, if you please, do make yourself uncomfortable. Her gaze presses the point with a lascivious air. – Amassia, my mother resumes, please grant the gentleman the pleasures befitting his rank. – Very well, madam. Then, to me: – Sir. She bows politely, pivots, and prepares to disappear into the vestibule with an imperious step.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">What manner to adopt?</span> <div id="selection"> [[Accept the hospitality of the place ->c_1_r_3_1_2_1]] [[My patience has limits! ->c_1_r_3_1_2_2]] <<if $b is 0>> [[Flee->c_1_r_3_1_2_3]] <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>><<set $sis to 1>>
<div id="texte">Had I been able to foresee, in any form whatsoever, the turn events were about to take in this setting so conducive to relaxation, I certainly would never have crossed the threshold of that house to live through the Dantesque scene of my own demise. The company of these three lovely flowers, whom I take to be barely of age, first causes me a great deal of embarrassment. They never stop staring at me with the smiles of delicate predators, a malignant flame flickering in their trembling pupils, hardly inviting conversation. Their fine pale hair frames charming little alabaster faces, whose delicately drawn features express a sinister air, like certain porcelain dolls set in a shop window, before which I could never suppress a shiver of anguish at the thought of seeing them come to life under some malevolent force. Their animal charisma, each gesture imbued with maturity, belies their troublingly youthful appearance and uncanny sameness. Amassia, still holding my hand, draws me toward the sofa at the center of the room. I then try to break through that layer of pack ice, which infuses even her fingers with a macabre coldness, by means of a simple question: – With whom do I have the honor, young ladies? – We are the Zemaria sisters, Amassia answers me in a monotone, those for whom your existence comes to an end, sir. The torrent of my thoughts pours out all at once in a cascade: //Oooh no, here we go again! What do they want with me? Why are they staring at me like that? Will this nightmare never cease?// The younger one crushes her cigarette in the ashtray set on the pedestal table and begins a kind of languid psalmody, grotesque in its discordance with the moment we are sharing: – Chosen of the drowned, beyond the tides, awaken the hearts where the damned abide. Let them feed upon the fruits of their seed. And when the age of torpor reaches its height, of all their descendants you shall be butcher and shepherd. One sacrificed scion, for three defiled spirits... And all three take it up together, gathering around me in the serpentine manner of the three harpies from Bram Stoker’s “Dracula,” repeating with nagging insistence: – One sacrificed scion, for three defiled spirits... I can no longer repress my thoughts: – Young ladies, be reasonable! Cease this funereal chant at once; it is more than I can bear! – One sacrificed scion, for three defiled spirits... they are chanting now. One sacrificed scion, for three defiled spirits... They advance toward me in small steps, heads lowered, their tense gazes plunging into mine. I step back as my voice fades: – Young ladies... Suddenly, they catch fire. Great flames lick across their crackling dresses, their skin blisters, and their hair vanishes with a hiss into dense smoke, thick with an unbearable stench. – One sacrificed scion, for three defiled spirits... they go on psalmodizing, as though no longer able to stop, despite the intensity of the furnace. Granting me no reprieve, this true auto-da-fé unleashes a ravenous blaze that spreads with dazzling speed. As I turn around, I realize, with utter stupefaction, the scale of the disaster already consuming the entire edifice. By reflex, I cross the flaming curtain that separates me from the vestibule, my arms raised before me to shield my face, only to find myself surrounded on every side. The voices of the harpies are lost in the dreadful roar of the conflagration. Every pore of my skin sweats under the violence of the heat; I suffocate, and my vision blurs. My legs give way, and my knees strike the floor hard. The acrid furnace presses down upon my whole being. My hands clamped over my face, I shake my head, weeping and screaming all at once, beaten down by hell, my soul saturated with anguish. Then a dull impact hurls me backward. – Hey! Can’t you watch where you’re going! an implacable male voice thunders, already moving away…</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_1_j_1]]</div> <<nobr>> <<smLoss D6>> <<set $sis to 1>><<set $sis_v to 1>><<bg "data/media/img/backgrounds/bagrovyy.jpg" 20 60 20>><</nobr>>
<div id="texte">– Madam, allow me to express my dismay. When I knocked on this door, I had no intention of... oh! And enough of all this posturing! She freezes in mid-stride, turns her head in profile, and pretends to look in my direction: – I beg your pardon? – It is true, after all! I am swimming in delirium! They tried to bury me alive! And... And there is this... – Bury you alive? – Yes. Two men dug a grave in which they... – I see. Mutinous dead ones have no place here. – I am not one of those... mutinous dead ones, as you call them. I... I am not dead. None of this is real. You, my mother, this... brothel, the thing beneath the ground, and... – May I ask who you are? – I... Cornwell, Maximilien Cornwell, but that has no importance! I am dreaming, yes! Dreaming... I must be in some sort of coma, what do I know? – //That is not dead which can eternal lie//, Mr. Cornwell. Do not trouble yourself... she tells me with a mocking smile. I shall announce you to the master. – To the master? What master? – The one who presides over this place. Please wait. She pivots sharply and returns to the vestibule with a hurried step, while I remain there, dumbstruck and dazed by this unexpected reversal.</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_1_r_3_1_1_1]]</div>
<div id="texte">A latent madness oozes from this house, and I do not have the courage to confront it. Nothing allows me to envisage the course of events with any certainty, and yet my instinct already perceives the unspeakable turpitude this place has in store for me. When at last I leave the front steps in the reddish glow of this seat of Sheol, the sharp pain pulsing in my stomach expresses all the visceral anguish that grips me, to the point that I can breathe only in jolts. Panting, I circle the building, naturally making for the cemetery exit. I hurry across the broad courtyard stretching toward the rear to reach an open gate in an enclosure closed off by wrought-iron bars, pass a small commemorative monument, and cross the vault that has separated me for so long from the outside world. Hell is now behind me. I cast a glance backward, making sure that none of those demons is pursuing me, and realize that the shroud of darkness surrounding the cemetery has now swallowed everything. Before me, a sheet of luminous gray mist borders a wet asphalt road and traces the horizon in the background. I take a few steps, trying to regain my breath, when the thick mist suddenly vanishes to give way to a celestial auroral light and... the void. My eyes widen and my mouth draws taut with strain like a bow ready to loose its cry; my body twists and resists its own momentum, I skid, scramble, and find myself on all fours at the edge of the sidewalk. [img[data/media/img/poisson_front.jpg]] The spectacle unfolding before my eyes defies even the oldest myths, whose outworn certainties could not survive the world as apprehended through the prism of the most enlightened minds. Even the most unbridled imagination could not have engendered such a syncretism of credibility, belief, dreams, and nightmares, in this vision my senses transcribe with a pernicious exactitude, as only madness can produce. The scene ends there, a few strides away, cleanly torn all along the road passing before me, like a model reaching the edge of a table, surrounded by the monochrome of an ashen-gray void. Other scattered masses hover in that void at varying distances, true fragments of a known earth whose crust has been dislocated, each one furnished with both natural and artificial reliefs, with portions of countryside and towns of varying extent. The dimensions of the whole are dizzying, and this apparently spherical space proves to encompass the very fragment on which I stand. And, as though to mottle the composition of this grandiose tableau, I discern a phantasmagoric ballet animated by celestial creatures: tortuous monsters of diaphanous, luminescent flesh, gliding through the air as through a sea. My mind bends beneath every conjecture while, with my back to the night, I stand upon the threshold of dawn.</div> <div id="continuer">[[Hallucinate->c_1_r_3_1_2_3_0]]</div><<smLoss D8>>
<div id="texte">This staggering scene annihilates there and then the cushioned idea of my return home, along with every hope that might have been bound to it. At that instant, only the conviction that I am living through the worst of my nightmares completes my helplessness before this succession of absurd events, this spiral of unreason into which my thoughts are swallowed. All this must end now. I break into a frantic run toward the edge of the abyss and jump as far as I can to distance myself from the fringe of asphalt. A liberating howl bursts from my throat as I begin this vertiginous fall. Very quickly I pass beyond the prodigious thickness of this earthen monolith; the sensation of air dragging over me is warm and clasps my whole being as though to sustain it. As my senses encompass the entirety of this singular experience, I notice with horror one of the opalescent creatures corkscrewing in my direction. It dives lower as if to intercept my fall, undulating along its full length. None of my movements can avert the inevitable confrontation between its gaping maw and my dislocated body. My cry ends in the snap of its sculptural, iridescent jaws, reptilian in character. Pain sets all my flesh ablaze as light consumes my retina, when a dull impact hurls me backward. – Hey! Can’t you watch where you’re going! an implacable male voice thunders, already moving away...</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_1_j_1]]</div><<set $b1 to 1>><<if $def1 is 0>><<set $def1 to 1>><</if>>
<div id="texte">We climb the stairs. Alanna removes a thin cord marking the division of the landing, takes care to hook it back behind us, then proceeds down the corridor on the right. – Why do you burden that man with the title of master? I ask. – He is responsible for administering your dreams, she replies curtly. A heavy, humid heat, enough to make the woodwork sweat, now envelops the place. – Administering my dreams... I repeat under my breath. Do you mean my unconscious? I recently read that... – In no sense, she cuts in. She knocks at one of the doors, opens it, and announces me while respectfully signaling for me to enter. I step into an austere room whose only furnishings consist of a bookcase covering the rear wall behind a desk at which an elderly man stands. The door closes softly behind me. – Mr. Cornwell... says the imposing man thoughtfully as he straightens. <div style="width:200px;float:left; padding: 0 40px 0 0;">[img[data/media/img/portraits/alinovitch.jpg]]</div>He wears a black three-piece suit, the jacket drawn straight, into which a dark striped tie disappears, while the white pocket square heightens the contrasts of the ensemble. His gaunt face, its wrinkles emphasizing a firm jaw, bears the marks of hard labor, and broad, protruding cheekbones deepen the hollow in which two little smoky pearls sit sunk, gleaming with a sinister light. A fringe of graying hair rings his bare skull, punctuated by thick eyebrows that complete the severity of his expression. Faced with the inertia gripping me before this presence at once oppressive and familiar, he resumes in a cavernous voice: – What brings you to my office, Mr. Cornwell? – May I know to whom I have the honor and displeasure? The man smiles. – Alinovitch Kovaleski, slave and master. – To tell the truth, I do not really know what I am doing here. I believe I... – Should you not be resting in your grave at this hour, Mr. Cornwell? The cynical way he takes his time drawing out my name as he pronounces it begins to exasperate me. – In no sense! I am not dead! At most I am asleep, and you have no... – We shall verify the register at once, Mr. Cornwell. – Verify, verify, there is nothing to verify! I am telling you that... – Being deceased, your name should be stipulated in the register. – Oh, naturally it will appear there, in your register, since everything here is... – Your first name, if you please. – Stop this joke! This is sheer delirium... – Compose yourself, Mr. Cornwell. Your attitude advances us nowhere. The tone he uses, authoritative and paternal, suddenly cuts short my vehement ardor and gives way to a rampart of reason dependent upon the recent experiences I have stored away. – Very well, very well. After all, was it not Sigmund Freud who wrote that every successful dream is a fulfillment of the wish to sleep? – Much better! //If you wish to endure life, be ready to accept death//, he adds with a mocking air. – Yes, yes, quite right... He takes a thick volume bound in brown leather from one of the shelves and lays it on the desk. – Your first name, Mr. Cornwell. – Maximilien. The book, with the look of a grimoire, is stamped with a strange sign representing a starred pentagram, with an oval shaped like an eye at its center, its pupil a flame. Kovaleski opens it to a double page arranged in the form of a listing and lets his crooked finger glide along as he spells out my name. – Cornwell, Cornwell, Cornwell Maximilien. Ha, here we are. Your name is listed. – Well, of course! – Born April 22, 1905, extinguished September 7, 1926. You should be in your grave, Mr. Cornwell. – What if I refuse? – In its frustration, the Dybbuk will provide itself with every soul you come into contact with. – Oh, really? The Dybbuk... and what might that be? – That which desires to assimilate your vital essence. – Hahaha! What a convoluted nightmare! Where on earth do I come up with all this? I shall still have to consult a psychotherapist when I wake, because really, I am outdoing myself, would you not say? He smiles at me again, as though, conscious of the mask of irony I am wearing, he delights in the torment gripping me. – Well then, as administrator, you must know how I can extract myself from this land of dreams... quite diverting, for all that. – Simply cross the threshold of this door in full consciousness. – Very well, in full consciousness, I shall be pleased to return to the common world. With that, I bid you... farewell forever, Mr....? – Kovaleski. – My good Mr. Kovaleski, sarcastic scoffer, haha! – In full consciousness, you now bear responsibility for three deaths... Suddenly the environment seems to dislocate, my sight blurs, and a mounting nausea seizes me as, one by one, my sensory bearings fade away.</div><div id="continuer">[[Lose consciousness->c_1_j_1_1]]</div> <<set $kov to 1>><<set $dy to 1>><<set $d1 to 1>><<timed 17s>><<audio "maximilien_dark" play volume 0.3>><</timed>><<bg "data/media/img/backgrounds/alino_bag.jpg" 30 30 30>>
<div id="texte">The void... My consciousness is torn from its nothingness, like a newborn wrenched violently from its mother’s womb...</div> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_2_r_0]]</div> <<audio ":playing" fadeout>><<audio "reve" play>><<silently>> <<set $meurtre to 2>> <<set $vj to 0>><<set $reve to 1>><<set $dream to 2>><<set $act += 5>> <<if $victime1 is "James Wright">><<set $vc += 1>><</if>> <<if $victime1 is "Ervin Templeton">><<set $vc += 1>><</if>> <<if $victime2 is "Anton Redfield">><<set $vc += 1>><</if>> <</silently>>
<div id="texte"> A foghorn sounds lazily in the distance, muffled by a torrential downpour. I shiver, soaked to the skin, wading through the puddles of the newborn day along this wharf lost in the fog. [img[data/media/img/east_boston.jpg]] Above that vaporous ocean, the rain-scored skyscrapers of downtown Boston tell me where I am. I find myself at the East Boston docks, more than an hour’s walk from my lodgings... Naturally, I have no idea how my steps brought me this far, and still less why—//reason itself, I fear, is slipping from me//—and whatever else I may go on to surmise, it now seems clear that I am truly the victim of somnambulism, for I have no memory except fragments of that recurring dream. Cursing my condition and this precarious situation, I quicken my pace toward the first decent shelter where I might wait out this morning downpour.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">After which I choose to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $tele isnot "done" and $tele gte 0 and $tele lt $day>> [[Return home->c_2_j_1_2]] <<else>> [[Return home->appart_j_2]] <</if>> </div> </div> <<set $day to 2>><<set $reve to 0>><<set $vj to 1>><<set $v to 0>><<set $posx to 2666>><<set $posy to 1480>><<audio "jour" play>><<saltWake>> <<if $cible00 is 1>><<set $police to 1>><</if>> <<script>>Save.slots.save(1, "Day2")<</script>> <<audio ":playing" fadeout>><</nobr>>
<div id="texte"> As I enter my room, I discover a message slipped under the door, my mother’s reply to the questions I had telegraphed the previous day.</div> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->appart_j_2]]</div> <<set _telefx to setup.telegram.applyReveal(State.variables)>><<invGain "telegramme_alanna">> <<set $v to 0>><<set $vj to 1>> <<set $posx to 2863>> <<set $posy to 1968>>
<div id="texte">The sensation of soft ground in which I am sinking. An icy dampness soaks my clothes, trickles down, and seeps through the pores of my skin. My heart races...</div><<if $cible02 is 100>><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_2_r_0_1]]</div><<else>><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_2_r_1]]</div><</if>>
<div id="texte">Above me I make out a shaft of blurred light, before which a shadow is moving. It goes still, and suddenly my flesh is lashed by some coarse matter spreading over part of my body. I flail violently, trying to brace myself against that soft ground into which my hands sink up to the wrists. The impulse driving me bursts free in powerful screams: – Aaaah! Nooo! Stop! My cries rend the silence, broken only by the crackle of the drizzle and the steady rhythm of shovelfuls falling one after another. – Nooo! Please! I don’t want to die! At last I struggle upright, slipping more than once before coming to rest against one of the oozing walls. Reaching upward for some hypothetical hold, I then clearly make out a silhouette looming over this gulf, fixed against the backlit glow of a lantern, his mechanical movements punctuated by rough salvos of earth flung down at me. Terror seizes my whole being, crushes my throat, warping the sound of my words. – What do you want with me, for God’s sake? He answers in a man’s voice, nervous and broken: – Shut your mouth, mutinous one! he snaps, continuing his work...</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I react with:</span> <div id="selection"> [[Outburst->c_2_r_0_1_1]][[Silence->c_2_r_0_1_2]][[Skepticism->c_2_r_0_1_3]] </div> </div><</nobr>><<silently>><<smLoss D3>><</silently>>
<div id="texte">– Devil take it! Do you truly think I will let this happen without resisting? – I said shut your mouth! he snaps back. The violence of this man gnaws at me to the quick; in a sudden flare of excitement, I give in to the provocation: – You are wasting your time, fool. You will never manage to bury me from up there. You shall have to come down and finish me off yourself! As though to punctuate my sentence, I bend and seize a full handful of loose earth, which in my rush I make ready to hurl at him. Startled by the pressure sifting between my fingers, I fling my hand open and find there a writhing mass of worms, which I cast away at once with a scream: <<if $kov neq 0 and $sm >= 75>> – I want to see Kovaleski at once or I shall no longer answer for myself! – You know the boss, mutinous one?! Calm down. I don’t want trouble. I’ll get you out. He quickly vanishes from my line of sight, grumbling. <<elseif $kov neq 0 and $sm < 75>> – I am going to get out of this hole and split your belly open with your pickaxe! – Ha! I’d like to see that, mutinous one! – And when I’m done, I’ll drag your guts all the way to Kovaleski and make him a necklace of them! I spit, my rage hardening into true hatred. – All right, all right, calm down. I don’t want trouble with the boss. I’ll get you out. He quickly vanishes from my line of sight, grumbling.<<smLoss D3>><</if>> <<if $kov is 0 and $sm >= 75>> – Aaaah! Get me out of this hole at once, or I shall no longer answer for myself! – Now listen close, mutinous one, he says. He’s coming for you. Can’t you hear Him? Thrash about all you like, it won’t change a thing. – Him? You believe that frightens me? Whatever it is, I shall be ready for it—and for you as well! – Haha! You’re a funny guy, mutinous one! Picking a fight with the Dybbuk! It’ll carry you off like old Ervin, you’ll see! Go on then. I’m leaving you to your fate. We’ll see if you’re still so cocky when the time comes! He plants his shovel in the mound of earth and vanishes from my line of sight, grumbling. I go on shouting for a while; then, in the isolation of the night, I finally quiet myself and take silent stock of my situation.<<if $erv is 0>><<set $erv to 1>><</if>><<if $dy is 0>><<set $dy to 1>><</if>> <<elseif $kov is 0 and $sm < 75>> – I’m going to get out of this damned hole and split your belly open with your pickaxe! – Ha! I’d like to see that, mutinous one! – I’m going to get out of this hole and split your belly open with your pickaxe... I repeat in a whisper as I draw myself against the wall opposite him.<</if>></div><<if $kov neq 0>><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_2_r_0_1_1_1]]</div><</if>><<if $kov is 0 and $sm >= 75>><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_2_r_1_3_1]]</div><</if>><<if $kov is 0 and $sm < 75>><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_2_r_0_1_1_2]]</div><</if>>
<div id="texte">Only the faint, subtle glow of the moon, strained through the clouded sky, manages to cut a perfect rectangle into the cavity where I wait. The minutes seem to last for hours, but I am certain he will return. The fine rain finishes stripping me bare; my nose runs, and I sniffle between each shudder of my trapped body. The ground shifts in a constant quiver, and little by little I make out what seems to be a low roar rising from the center of the excavation, swelling as the earth begins to tremble. I draw myself a little tighter against one of the walls. Good God, where has he gone? The roar grows clearer. I can now hear something like a mingling of many sepulchral voices which, in unison, evoke in profane chant the gurgling of some chthonic entity. I am paralyzed, daring to breathe only in ragged bursts. It rises faster now toward this tomb that holds me captive, and that torpid sound gradually sinks me into a pleasant apathy, to which I surrender with a kind of rapture. – So, don’t want out anymore? The gravedigger’s voice tears me from my reverie. Lifting my head toward the silhouette, I glimpse a ladder resting on the floor of that putrid lair. A mass of worms carpets the trembling ground and keeps swelling, as though spewed up from the bowels of the earth; my legs are covered in them. I rush to seize a rung. My feet slip, and I pull with all my strength to haul myself up. I climb quickly and manage to wrench myself out of the hole. By instinct, I clutch the top of the ladder and drag it backward in a frantic run. When at last it lies on the surface, I cover another two or three yards and collapse full-length, gulping air in great draughts. At once the tremors subside and the roar fades, while the burier, standing over the gulf, observes the darkness with detachment. – Looks like HE didn’t want to let you go! he says at last. I remain silent, panting and stunned, incapable of forming a coherent sentence, so thoroughly has unreason overwhelmed common sense. I keep staring at him in amazement at the edge of the grave as he gathers his tools, takes up his lantern, and sets off behind me along a gravel path bordered by tombs.</div> <div id="continuer">[[Follow him->c_2_r_0_1_1_1_0]]</div><<smLoss D3>><<timed 5s>><<audio "oogr" play>><</timed>>
<div id="texte"><<if $dy neq 0>>– Th... that was the Dybbuk, wasn’t it? I finally manage to say, turning my head. – Yes, that’s it! If HE’s chosen you, HE’ll find you again! You can always go cry into the boss’s skirts, haha! he spits at me, his face jutting out in the warm light, his features drawn tight by some invisible strain. – But... but why would he have chosen me? Why... – Let go of me. I’ve got other business, and I still have to see to the three little ones. – The three little ones! I howl, losing all control. Good God, no! They... they’re here? I... I have to... – Now, now, he cuts me off sharply. You don’t have to do anything. Shut up and leave me be! – That is absolutely out of the question! I retort, instinctively throwing myself at his shovel. <<if $sm >= 75>>He drops his whole clutter of tools at once and the struggle is brief. No sooner have I seized the handle than his foot drives hard into my groin; the lightning bolt of pain forces me down, groaning, into collapse. Helpless, I can barely make out the wavering lantern fading into clay-gray mist. After a moment of eternity, I finally rise with a soft hiss. A sweep of my gaze lets me take in some twenty yards, where I make out a tangle of tombstones merged into the night. A curtain of trees a little farther off, its shadowed rim standing out against the sky, seems to mark the cemetery’s boundary. A little path of pale gravel stretches before me, in one direction toward the tree line, in the other toward the thickening mist at the heart of this resting ground.<<else>>My rage becomes a visceral hatred, and the images of what I am about to inflict upon him galvanize me to the point of madness. In that instant, my thoughts take flesh: I hurl myself forward to fall upon my prey! The man has no time to react before I crash down on him, one powerful hand crushing his throat, the other seizing at the same time the handle of his cherished tool. The pickaxe swings in an arc from back to front and pierces his stomach with a terrible hiss. His bulging eyes search for light, and it is darkness I offer him as I wrench the metal upward into his lungs. I stand there for a long while, towering over the broken body, breathing deeply. When at last I grasp the extent of what I have done, I collapse onto my side, sobbing with all my flayed soul.<<smLoss D6>> After a moment of eternity, I finally rise with a soft hiss. A sweep of my gaze lets me take in some twenty yards, where I make out a tangle of tombstones merged into the night. A curtain of trees a little farther off, its shadowed rim standing out against the sky, seems to mark the cemetery’s boundary. A little path of pale gravel stretches before me, in one direction toward the tree line, in the other toward the thickening mist at the heart of this resting ground.<</if>> <<else>>– Wh... who didn’t... didn’t want to let me go? I finally manage to say, turning my head. – The Dybbuk. It’s the Dybbuk we feed. If he’s chosen you, he’ll find you again! You can always go cry into the boss’s skirts, haha! he spits at me, his face jutting out in the warm light, his features drawn tight by some invisible strain. – But... but why would he have chosen me? Why... – Let go of me. I’ve got other business, and I still have to see to the three little ones. – The three little ones! I howl, losing all control. Good God, no! They... they’re here? I... I have to... – Now, now, he cuts me off sharply. You don’t have to do anything. Shut up and leave me be! – That is absolutely out of the question! I retort, instinctively throwing myself at his shovel. <<if $sm >= 75>>He drops his whole clutter of tools at once and the struggle is brief. No sooner have I seized the handle than his foot drives hard into my groin; the lightning bolt of pain forces me down, groaning, into collapse. Helpless, I can barely make out the man’s wavering lantern fading into clay-gray mist. After a moment of eternity, I finally rise with a soft hiss. A sweep of my gaze lets me take in some twenty yards, where I make out a tangle of tombstones merged into the night. A curtain of trees a little farther off, its shadowed rim standing out against the sky, seems to mark the cemetery’s boundary. A little path of pale gravel stretches before me, in one direction toward the tree line, in the other toward the thickening mist at the heart of this resting ground. <<else>>My rage becomes a visceral hatred, and the images of what I am about to inflict upon him galvanize me to the point of madness. In that instant, my thoughts take flesh: I hurl myself forward to fall upon my prey! The man has no time to react before I crash down on him, one powerful hand crushing his throat, the other seizing at the same time the handle of his cherished tool. The pickaxe swings in an arc from back to front and pierces his stomach with a terrible hiss. His bulging eyes search for light, and it is darkness I offer him as I wrench the metal upward into his lungs. I stand there for a long while, towering over the broken body, breathing deeply. When at last I grasp the extent of what I have done, I collapse onto my side, sobbing with all my flayed soul.<<silently>><<smLoss D6>><</silently>> After a moment of eternity, I finally rise with a soft hiss. A sweep of my gaze lets me take in some twenty yards, where I make out a tangle of tombstones merged into the night. A curtain of trees a little farther off, its shadowed rim standing out against the sky, seems to mark the cemetery’s boundary. A little path of pale gravel stretches before me, in one direction toward the tree line, in the other toward the thickening mist at the heart of this resting ground.<<set $dy to 1>><</if>><</if>></div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">With no little confidence I make the decision to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $b is 1>>[[Flee this dream as fast as I can->c_2_r_4]] <<else>>[[Flee this place as fast as I can->c_2_r_2_1]] <</if>> <<if $a is 1>>[[Follow the gravedigger’s directions->c_2_r_2_2]] <<else>>[[Look for the cemetery entrance->c_2_r_2_2]] <</if>> <<if $bag neq 0 and $mer neq 0 and ($kov neq 0 or $sis neq 0)>>[[Make my way to the Bagrovyy->c_2_r_3_0]]<</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>>
<div id="texte">My rage becomes a visceral hatred, and the images of what I am about to inflict upon him galvanize me to the point of madness. In that instant, my thoughts take flesh: I hurl myself forward to fall upon my prey! The man has no time to react before I crash down on him, one powerful hand crushing his throat, the other seizing at the same time the handle of his cherished tool. The pickaxe swings in an arc from back to front and pierces his stomach with a terrible hiss. His bulging eyes search for light, and it is darkness I offer him as I wrench the metal upward into his lungs. I stand there for a long while, towering over the broken body, breathing deeply. When at last I grasp the extent of what I have done, I collapse onto my side, sobbing with all my flayed soul. After a moment of eternity, I finally rise with a soft hiss. A sweep of my gaze lets me take in some twenty yards, where I make out a tangle of tombstones merged into the night. A curtain of trees a little farther off, its shadowed rim standing out against the sky, seems to mark the cemetery’s boundary. A little path of pale gravel stretches before me, in one direction toward the tree line, in the other toward the thickening mist at the heart of this resting ground.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">Feverishly I make the decision to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $b is 1>>[[Flee this dream as fast as I can->c_2_r_4]] <<else>>[[Flee this place as fast as I can->c_2_r_2_1]] <</if>> <<if $a is 1>>[[Follow the gravedigger’s directions->c_2_r_2_2]] <<else>>[[Look for the cemetery entrance->c_2_r_2_2]] <</if>> <<if $bag neq 0 and $mer neq 0 and ($kov neq 0 or $sis neq 0)>>[[Make my way to the Bagrovyy->c_2_r_3_0]]<</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>><<silently>><<smLoss D6>><</silently>>
<div id="texte">Only the faint, subtle glow of the moon, strained through the clouded sky, manages to cut a perfect rectangle into the cavity where I stand. I draw myself against the wall opposite the man and do not move. While thoughts spin through my muddled mind, I search for some way out of this predicament when his voice rebukes me: – You’d better lie down, mutinous one! He plants his tool atop a mound of earth, his gaze piercing the darkness of my lair. – Only a damn mutinous dead one could cause this much trouble... I still do not move, waiting for the course of events to offer me an opportunity. – You know what, he says, I’ve got better things to do. I’m leaving you to your fate. HE’ll come and pick you sooner or later, and then the job will be easier. The irrational words of this man stir in me a hideous confusion ready to burst forth in a stream of frantic exclamations and angry protests. But my reason, by sheer force, succeeds in repressing the boiling of those tumultuous feelings. Without a word I draw myself into the shadow of a corner at the back, my hands clutching fistfuls of the soft, muddy walls. – Damn mutinous dead, he adds as he walks away...</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_2_r_1_3_1]]</div>
<div id="texte">– You can plainly see I am not dead! – I said shut your mouth! he snaps. – This is absurd! I am moving, I am alive! ALIVE! – Yeah, well, stop moving. I can’t bury you! It’s a dream, I tell myself, it must be a dream. And yet the coolness of the night, the streaming drizzle, the feel of touch itself, of mud, of my clothes clinging to my skin, all seem to point otherwise. – I am certain you are mistaken. My name is Maximilien Cornwell, and... – I can’t be mistaken, he cuts in, and you’re not the first one to rebel here. – What?! B... but... but I... I’m not the first? – No. So lie down and accept your fate before I lose patience. – Indeed not! I reply. Surely you do not imagine I shall meekly submit to the fate you have in store for me! – Only a damned mutinous dead one could cause this much trouble, he mutters to himself. – I am ALIVE, not dead. If a dead man rebels, then he is not dead. Full stop. Has that never crossed your mind? – You don’t amuse me, mutinous one, and I’ve got better things to do. I’m leaving you to your fate. We’ll see if you’re still so clever when HE comes to fetch you! He plants his shovel in the mound of earth and vanishes from my line of sight, grumbling. I go on raving for a while; then, in the isolation of the night, I finally accept my situation in silence.</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_2_r_1_3_1]]</div>
<div id="texte">Above me, I make out a shaft of blurred light, before which shadows dance. I am sliding slowly, inexorably, into the soft ground giving way beneath my weight. My flesh sinks into that damp, clinging earth; every movement tightens its hold, as though the grave itself were trying to swallow me. An acrid, metallic smell rises, mingled with the dull thud of shovelfuls striking the ground. I flail furiously, my legs churning in that dense mud that seems to drain my strength. My hands try to catch at the slippery walls, but each time they meet only that viscous matter sliding beneath my fingers. My breath shortens, and I scream in a voice torn raw: – No! No! Let me out! My cries drown in the muffled shock of the shovelfuls adding to my torment. – Stop! I don’t want to die here! With one last desperate surge, I manage to straighten, my trembling legs fighting to free themselves from the soil’s embrace. Raising my eyes, I make out two silhouettes leaning over the edge. My mind reels. – Why are you doing this? A voice rasping with weariness echoes in the wet air: – It’s our job, mister. The other silhouette adds, in a strangely cheerful voice: – Dirt’s good for the skin! So enjoy it! For an instant my breath locks, and these words slip from my clenched jaw: “This is madness...” The splashes of mud keep coming…</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I conduct myself with:</span> <div id="selection"> [[Outburst->c_2_r_1_2]] [[Silence->c_2_r_1_3]] [[Skepticism->c_2_r_1_1]] </div> </div><</nobr>><<silently>><<smLoss D3>><</silently>>
<div id="texte">– You can see plainly I’m not dead! – That ain’t really our problem, mister... – This cannot be happening. So you bury the living too, do you? The other man resumes in a dry tone: – We fill occupied holes. That’s all. It’s a dream, I tell myself, it has to be a dream... The old voice interrupts my thought: – Well... can we get back to it, mister? There are other customers waiting, you know... – Nooo! I am certain you are mistaken! – Mutinous dead protest! the old gravedigger resumes, bursting into laughter. Guess that’s just the way of things... – Wh... dead what? – Come on, we’ve got a job to finish. – A job...? In Heaven’s name, where am I? – At Baker Street Cemetery. <<if $bak neq 0>> – Baker Street... in West Roxbury? B... but... I have no business here! <<else>> – B... but... but... I have no business in a cemetery! <</if>> – Yep, I can see you’re not going to let this happen... One of the gravediggers, adjusting his hat, mutters: – Besides, they ought to think about widening the paths here... It’s getting tight with all these people. This nonchalance drives me to the breaking point; I have nothing left to lose: – I shall never let this happen! Even if it kills me! – Pfff... all right, all right, all right... Don’t move, we’ll fetch the ladder, he says, disappointed. “Don’t move”... Do these scoundrels possess even an ounce of reason? They vanish from my field of vision while I hear his companion walking away: <<if $victime1 is "Ervin Templeton">>– Poor Ervin, this time you’re done for...<<else>>– You’ll see, this business is going to come back on us...<</if>></div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_2_r_2]]</div> <<if $bak is 0>><<set $bak to 1>><</if>>
<div id="texte">– Devil take it! Stop toying with me! – But mister, there’s no call to get worked up. We’re only doing our job. – I’ll show you what I think of your job! Do you think I’m going to let this happen without resisting? The other man answers me in a dry, nervous tone: – Trouble is, the dead don’t usually talk back! – Well, I’m talking back, aren’t I? That means life still animates me! – So what? That proves nothing. All we can see is that you’re in the grave! The indolence of these men gnaws at me to the quick; in a sudden flare of excitement, I give in to the senseless provocation. – This is too much! You are wasting your time, fools. You will never manage to bury me from up there; you shall have to come down and finish me off yourselves! As though to punctuate my words, I bend and seize a full handful of loose earth, which in my rush I make ready to hurl at them. Startled by the pressure sifting between my fingers, I fling my hand open and find there a writhing mass of worms, which I cast away at once with a scream: <<if $kov is 1>>– Shiiit! I want to see Alinovitch Kovaleski, or I shall no longer answer for myself! The man turns to his companion. – Well, I’ll be damned! The mutinous one knows the boss! Very well, don’t move, mister, we’ll fetch something to get you out of there. They quickly disappear from my view while I hear the second call out as he walks away: – This time, we ought to avoid a heap of trouble!<<else>>– Aaaah! Get me out of this hole at once, or I shall no longer answer for myself! The man turns to his companion. – Another mutinous dead one. The boss ain’t going to like that... Very well, mister, we’ll fetch the ladder. – A mutinous d...?! I couldn’t care less! You gentlemen are going to be in serious trouble! I shall report this to the proper authorities! I want to see your boss. Where is he? – At the Bagrovyy. – At the what?! – At the Ba-gro-vyy, he answers with emphasis. – Bring him here! – He never comes out of the Bagrovyy, mister. – And where is that? – Over there. You’ll find him at the end of the main path, all the way off to the far right, he says, pointing the way. – Then get me out of here. I must explain myself to him! – Very well, mister... – And first of all, who is your boss? Already they have vanished from my line of sight while I keep straining to rail at them. The dry-voiced one laughs as he recedes: – The one who pays in carousing! <<set $a to 1>><<if $bag is 0>><<set $bag to 1>><<set $s to 1>><</if>><</if>></div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_2_r_2]]</div>
<div id="texte">Only the faint, subtle glow of the nocturnal orb through the clouded sky manages to score the cavity in which I stand, a perfect rectangle. I draw myself in against the wall opposite the two taciturn-looking men. – Well... can we get back to it, mister? says the old voice. Receiving no answer from me, the man resumes his work, sending down shovelful after shovelful at a steady pace. I do not move. While thoughts spin through my muddled mind, I search for some way out of this predicament when the voice rebukes me: – Well... you’d maybe better lie down, mister, because otherwise this ain’t going to do... The fellow plants his tool atop a mound of earth and turns to his companion: – What do you think, Yanes? This ain’t going to do, is it? I still do not move, waiting for the course of events to offer me an opportunity. – He’s a mutinous dead one, Ervin, the other replies in his pinched voice. He’s going to do nothing but cause trouble for us. – Yep. HE doesn’t much care for it when they’re still moving. We’ll wait a while and see... Then, his gaze piercing the darkness of my lair: Hey, mister! We’re leaving you for now, and if HE hasn’t picked you by the time we come back, do try to be reasonable and accept your fate. The irrational words of these men stir in me a hideous confusion ready to burst forth in a stream of frantic exclamations and angry protests; but my reason, by sheer force, succeeds in repressing the boiling of those tumultuous feelings. Without a word, I draw myself into the shadow of a corner at the back, my hands clutching fistfuls of the soft, muddy walls. – At least, he adds as he walks away, this one doesn’t make any noise...</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_2_r_1_3_1]]</div> <<if $erv is 0>><<set $erv to 1>><</if>><<if $yan is 0>><<set $yan to 1>><</if>><<if $yan is 2>><<set $yan to 3>><</if>>
<div id="texte"><<if $cible02 is 100>>The<<else>>My silent self-denial has the advantage of buying me precious time. Even so, the<</if>> possibilities open to me for escaping this hell are pitifully few... I seize one of the thicker clumps of roots and try to haul myself upward, to catch hold of the edge lined with thin grass. I cannot get high enough to grab hold of anything; my fingers slip on the wet grass, and at last the jutting roots give way. I fall backward and sprawl in the muck. Prostrate there beneath a fine rain that finishes stripping me bare, I sniff without fail between each shudder of my captive body. It is then that I perceive something like a low rumble rising from the center of the excavation, swelling as the earth begins to tremble. I straighten where I am, alert, my heart pounding. The sound, now clearer, becomes a roar, an amalgam of many sepulchral voices which, in unison, evoke in impious chant the gargling of a chthonic entity. //If HE hasn’t picked you by the time we come back...// I am paralyzed and no longer dare to breathe except in jolts. It rises faster and faster toward this grave that holds me captive, and the sluggish modulation gradually plunges me into a pleasant apathy, to which I surrender with intoxicated abandon. The entire world hums sweetly. Serene, I take the trouble to lie down, waiting for the Charon who will carry me beyond my torments. A mass of worms carpeting the trembling ground swells, as though cast up from the entrails of the earth, sliding and creeping beneath my body to caress it in waves... Then, violently, a heavy object strikes my skull and tears me from my reverie. I lurch up onto my knees, my hands sunk fast in the boiling earth. A shovel lies before me; the shovel planted earlier by one of my buriers must have worked itself loose under the repeated tremors. My mind surges all at once, as though torpedoed by a straight draught of brandy: the consciousness of danger, the instinct for survival. I seize the handle, rise, and brace myself on both legs, fiercely rooted to the ground. Pivoting from the hips, I drive the head of the tool with one sharp, clean blow into the cut halfway up the wall. I shall have only a single attempt; the softness of the earth will not bear my weight on more than one support. The bellowing reaches its paroxysm, concentrating within itself the damned souls of every hell. I spring forward, drive my leap off my leading foot, throw the force of my momentum onto the wooden handle, and immediately carry through to sprawl part of my chest across the rim. I push with all my strength on my forearms and haul myself up in jerks to bring my lower limbs after me. At last I manage to wrench myself out of that hole; I cover another two or three yards and collapse full-length, gulping air in great draughts. As after the breaking of a wave, the tremors calm and the uproar gradually fades. After a moment of eternity, I finally rise with a soft hiss. A sweep of my gaze lets me take in some twenty yards, where I make out a tangle of tombstones merged into the night. A curtain of trees a little farther off, its shadowed rim standing out against the sky, seems to mark the cemetery’s boundary. A little path of pale gravel stretches before me, in one direction toward the tree line, in the other toward the thickening mist at the heart of this resting ground.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">With confidence I make the decision to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $b is 1>>[[Flee this dream as fast as I can->c_2_r_4]] <<else>>[[Flee this place as fast as I can->c_2_r_2_1]] <</if>> <<if $bag neq 0 and $mer neq 0 and ($kov neq 0 or $sis neq 0)>>[[Make my way to the Bagrovyy->c_2_r_3_0]] <<elseif $a is 1>>[[Follow the gravedigger’s directions->c_2_r_2_2]] <<else>>[[Look for the cemetery entrance->c_2_r_2_2]] <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>><<silently>><<smLoss D4>><</silently>><<timed 20s>><<audio "oogr" play>><</timed>>
<div id="texte">Only the faint, diffuse glow of the nocturnal orb, muted by cloud cover, weakly cuts into the rectangle where I wait. The minutes stretch on, the rain freezes me, and I sniffle between each shiver of my captive body. The ground trembles. A low rumble rises from the center of the excavation, swelling as the earth vibrates. I curl in against the wall. //Good God, where have they gone to fetch that ladder?// The roar grows distinct. A chorus of cavernous voices rises. I no longer dare to breathe. The vibration climbs toward me, hypnotic, and little by little wraps me in a gentle intoxication. I slip away... – Well now, mister! Don’t you want to come out anymore? The voice <<if $erv neq 0>>of Ervin<<else>>of the gravedigger<</if>> tears me from my reverie. Raising my head, I glimpse a silhouette and, behind it, a ladder resting on the floor of that putrid lair. The ground crawls. A mass of worms, as though expelled from the entrails of the earth, spreads outward — my legs are covered in them. I spring forward, seize a rung; my feet slip. I haul myself up, panting, and climb without looking back. Once outside, by reflex, I wrench the ladder free and drag it after me in a disorderly motion. Two or three yards are enough before I collapse flat on my stomach, breathless. All at once, the tremors cease. The roar recedes. The two gravediggers, impassive, still stare into the gulf with detachment. – Heh, looks like it didn’t want to let you go, mister, <<if $erv neq 0>>Ervin<<else>>the older one<</if>> says. I remain silent, panting and stunned, incapable of forming a coherent sentence, so thoroughly has unreason overwhelmed common sense. – Well now, it’s not like we got nothing else to do... See you around, mister! I keep staring at them in amazement at the edge of the grave as they gather their tools, take up their lanterns, and set off behind me along a path of gravel bordered by tombs. <<if $dy neq 0>>– Th... that was the Dybbuk, wasn’t it? I finally manage to say, turning my head. – Yes, that’s it! If he’s chosen you, he’ll find you again! You can always go cry into your mother’s skirts, haha! the more agitated one spits at me, his face jutting out in the warm light, his features drawn tight by some invisible strain. – But... but why would he have chosen me? Why... <<if $erv neq 0>>Ervin<<else>>The old man<</if>>, already a few paces off, calls back to me: – Ah, well, my good fellow, only the boss would know that! Come on, Yanes, we’ve still got to take care of the three little ones. – The three little ones! I scream, losing all control. My God, no! They... they’re here? I... I have to... – Tut-tut, the sharp man cuts me off. You don’t have to do anything at all. You shut up and leave us be! – That is entirely out of the question! I retort, throwing myself by instinct onto his shovel. He drops his jumble of tools all at once to engage in a brief struggle. I have barely seized the handle when an abrupt blow to the back of my skull makes me stagger, punctuated by Yanes’s well-placed fist in my stomach, which finishes putting me on the ground. Helpless, I barely perceive the wavering lights of the two men fading into the clay-gray mist. I rise with a soft hiss. My gaze takes in some twenty yards of funerary tangles drowned in the night. Farther on, a curtain of trees stands out against the sky. A gravel path stretches ahead, in one direction toward the wooded edge, in the other toward a dense mist at the heart of the cemetery. <<else>>– Wh... what didn’t... didn’t want to let me go? I finally manage to say, turning my head. – The Dybbuk. It’s the Dybbuk we feed. If he’s chosen you, he’ll find you again! You can always go cry into the boss’s skirts, haha! the more agitated one spits at me, his face jutting out in the warm light, his features drawn tight by some invisible strain. <<if $erv neq 0>>Ervin<<else>>The old man<</if>>, already a few paces off, calls to him in a paternal tone: – Come on, Yanes, you’ll scare the daylights out of this poor fellow, and besides, we’ve still got to take care of the three little ones. – The three little ones! I scream, losing all control. My God, no! They... they’re here? I... I have to... – Tut-tut, the sharp man cuts me off. You don’t have to do anything at all. You shut up and leave us be! – That is entirely out of the question! I retort, throwing myself by instinct onto his shovel. He drops his jumble of tools all at once to engage in a brief struggle. I have barely seized the handle when an abrupt blow to the back of my skull makes me stagger, punctuated by Yanes’s well-placed fist in my stomach, which finishes putting me on the ground. Helpless, I barely perceive the wavering lights of the two men fading into the clay-gray mist. I rise with a soft hiss. My gaze takes in some twenty yards of funerary tangles drowned in the night. Farther on, a curtain of trees stands out against the sky. A gravel path stretches ahead, in one direction toward the wooded edge, in the other toward a dense mist at the heart of the cemetery.<<set $dy to 1>><</if>></div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">With no little confidence, I decide to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $b is 1>>[[Flee this dream as fast as I can->c_2_r_4]] <<else>>[[Flee this place as fast as I can->c_2_r_2_1]] <</if>> <<if $bag neq 0 and $mer neq 0 and ($kov neq 0 or $sis neq 0)>>[[Make my way to the Bagrovyy->c_2_r_3_0]] <<elseif $a is 1>> [[Follow the gravedigger’s directions->c_2_r_2_2]] <<else>> [[Look for the cemetery entrance->c_2_r_2_2]] <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>><<if $yan is 0>><<set $yan to 1>><</if>><<if $yan is 2>><<set $yan to 3>><</if>><<silently>><<smLoss D4>><<timed 6s>><<audio "oogr" play volume 0.6>><</timed>><</silently>>
<div id="texte">I take the little white-gravel path behind me. Its straight course has me follow a block of graves laid out in an elongated grid. I make for the wall of shadow formed by the trees, hoping to find the boundary of this place. The path ends in a disc-shaped esplanade, at the center of which stands a granite basin. To my great surprise, there is no enclosure of any kind; only a slight, neatly trimmed embankment seems to circumscribe the perimeter of this resting ground. A flat expanse of anthracite gray spreads uniformly behind the trees. Silence reigns supreme.</div> <div id="continuer">[[Cross the curtain of trees->c_2_r_2_1_1]]</div>
<div id="texte">I spot a shrub offering a handhold along the embankment, take a running start, and in one stride clutch at one of its branches. I pull and haul myself up onto the edge, one leg still trailing behind, then pitch forward, catching myself on my free knee and my hands to keep from slipping. I then set about crossing the thicket, paying little heed to the wear inflicted on my sorry attire. The brambles hook into the cloth as though to hold me back, and at times carve my flesh as I cut my path. I cannot help smiling when I glimpse the open space beyond the curtain formed by the clustered young conifers. I quicken my pace and at last break past the edge with a firm step, when my breath stops dead... My eyes widen and my mouth draws taut with strain like a bow ready to loose its cry; my hands search for any hold, my body twists and fights its own momentum, I skid, scramble, and manage to throw my whole weight back; with my spine against a sturdy trunk, and freeze there, my arms flung behind me. [img[data/media/img/poisson_front.jpg]] The spectacle unfolding before my eyes defies even the oldest myths, whose obsolescence could not withstand the apprehension of the world through the prism of the most enlightened minds. Even the most unbridled imagination could not have engendered such a syncretism of credibility, belief, dreams, and nightmares, in this vision my senses transcribe with a pernicious exactitude, as only madness can produce. The earthen platform ends there, a few strides before me, cleanly torn away, so that its surface, bearing all the scenery I have just struggled to cross, seems to form an islet floating in the monochrome of an ashen-gray void. Other scattered masses hover at varying distances, true fragments of a known earth whose crust has been dislocated; each one furnished with both natural and artificial reliefs, with portions of countryside and towns of varying extent. The dimensions of the whole are dizzying, and this apparently spherical space proves to encompass the very fragment on which I stand. And, as though to mottle the composition of this grandiose tableau, I discern a phantasmagoric ballet animated by celestial creatures: tortuous monsters of diaphanous, luminescent flesh, gliding through the air as through a sea. My mind bends beneath every conjecture while, with my back to the night, I stand upon the threshold of dawn.</div> <div id="continuer">[[Hallucinate->c_2_r_2_1_1_0]]</div><<set $b to 1>><<smLoss D4>>
<div id="texte">This bewildering scene possesses my whole being for an indefinable length of time, the time required for some form of acceptance. In any case, the rather peculiar form of dream I am now experiencing leaves me with few alternatives. Either I cut it short, for instance by throwing myself into that unfathomable void; or I find some symbolic form of exit capable of urging my mind awake; or I pass the time, my awakening in the real world then depending on the good will of a capable physician. These thoughts begin to relieve me somewhat, and to impress their authenticity firmly upon myself, I pinch myself with my nails until I draw blood. Nothing doing: the pain is as tangible and incisive as every ordeal already recorded by my body. Indeed, the tears left by the brambles, radiating through my legs, call me back to order, and the idea of leaping into the void already tempts me rather less.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I decide to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $d is 1>> <<link "Make my way to the cemetery entrance">><<goto "c_2_r_2_1_2_2_3">><</link>> <<else>> <<link "Follow the cemetery boundary in search of a way out">><<goto "c_2_r_2_1_1_1">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $a is 1 and $d is 0>> <<link "Find the cemetery keeper">><<goto "c_2_r_2_1_1_2">><</link>> <</if>> <<link "Leap into the void to escape this place">><<goto "c_2_r_2_1_1_3">><<set $b1 to 1>><</link>> </div> </div><</nobr>>
<div id="texte">Rather than cross back through the wild scrub, and given my lack of landmarks, I choose to follow the torn edge, arbitrarily taking to my left. I walk that way along a sort of rural strip of land, high with grass, about six feet wide. After a few minutes, I accept the idea that the cut plateau must be circular, and that if I continue I may well end up falling back on my steps. Eventually, the strip drops down in a slope toward a section of asphalt road, itself torn away on my right and continuing to the left. On the other side of the road, nothing: the void... I decide to take this route. The cut is now less regular and follows the relatively winding course of the road. I make out a wrought-iron fence emerging suddenly from a wild thicket and running along the roadside in the direction I am walking. Night still reigns within the islet, and the gray cast by infinite space greatly aids my progress. Soon afterward, I glimpse the archway of an open gate in the enclosure, giving access to a small, paved courtyard. On the semicircle formed by the entrance vault, as though chiseled into metallic lace, are inscribed the words “Baker Street Cemetery.” The courtyard gleams carmine in the light cast by the ruddy glow of the windows in a building standing at its center.</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_2_r_3]]</div> <<if $bak is 0>><<set $bak to 1>><</if>><<set $d to 1>>
<div id="texte">I set about retracing my steps back to the slope. As soon as I move away from the edge, I enter once more the dominion of an eternal night. I have little difficulty finding the trace left by my first passage, and when I reach the mound, I let myself slide down the far side in a crouch. Then I return to the little transverse path to make my way through the block of graves stretching across some fifty yards.</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_2_r_2_2_1]]</div>
<div id="texte">I move closer to the edge, testing the firmness of the ground with my foot, still undecided. It is indeed the void that opens beneath me, spread there into infinity. I bend my knees and sweep my hands through the grass in search of a relatively heavy object. My fingers close on a branch, which I release nonchalantly, my arm extended above the abyss. It falls... simply, whirling with a gravity entirely normal in every respect. I can no longer make it out. I straighten, finish convincing myself of the nature of this dream, and swallow. //It cannot be otherwise//, I tell myself, //or my mind has no place left in this madness.// I take a running start and jump as far as I can to put distance between myself and the fringe of asphalt. A liberating howl bursts from my throat as I begin a vertiginous fall. Very quickly I pass beyond the prodigious thickness of the earthen monolith; the sensation of air dragging over me is warm and clasps my whole being as though to sustain it. As my senses encompass the entirety of this singular experience, I notice with horror one of the opalescent creatures corkscrewing in my direction. It dives lower as if to intercept my fall, undulating along its full length. None of my movements can avert the inevitable confrontation between its gaping maw and my dislocated body. My cry ends in the snap of its sculptural, iridescent jaws, reptilian in character. Pain sets all my flesh ablaze as light consumes my retina, when the sound of a foghorn tears me from this waking nightmare.</div><<nobr>> <<if $j is 1>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->not_3]]</div> <<else>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_2_j_1]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>><<set $day to 2>><<smLoss D4>><<if $def1 is 0>><<set $def1 to 1>><</if>>
<div id="texte"><<if $d is 0>>Despite my still fevered mind, I imagine I may find refuge among the buildings I had glimpsed earlier in the distance.<</if>> I slide down onto the shining road and take the direction that follows the wrought-iron fence on my left. Night still reigns within the islet, and the gray cast by infinite space greatly aids my progress. Soon afterward, I glimpse the archway of an open gate in the enclosure, giving access to a small, paved courtyard. On the semicircle formed by the entrance vault, as though chiseled into metallic lace, are inscribed the words “Baker Street Cemetery.” The courtyard gleams carmine, the color cast by the ruddy glow of the windows in a building standing at its center.</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_2_r_3]]</div> <<set $d to 1>><<if $bak is 0>><<set $bak to 1>><</if>>
<div id="texte">I take the little white-gravel path behind me. Its straight course allows me to make my way through an entire block of graves arranged in an elongated quadrangular order.</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_2_r_2_2_1]]</div>
<div id="texte">At the end of this cluster, a low wall, opened to allow the path through, marks the transition to a larger way running perpendicular to it. I cross it and look left, then right. The cemetery stretches out immeasurably, each direction sinking into a mixture of mist and darkness. <<if $pol is 0>>At my level, I notice that every parcel is also bounded by a low wall, surmounted by a black sign with white lettering. Curious, I turn back to identify the block from which I emerged. The sign, protected by a pane of glass, reads “Polonnoye” in Roman type. I remain perplexed for a moment. I know of no Jewish ancestry of mine, still less any connection to some Polonnoye whose very existence is unknown to me. //To my knowledge...// I think, for if there is one figure who remains for me a gulf of silence, it is my father, whom I never knew, and of whom my mother never wished to speak.<</if>> I resume walking to the right of the central path, following the decreasing numbering of the blocks in order to draw closer to the entrance. I pass several parcels: families, lodges, larger enclosures. Farther on, the path divides to skirt a massive rock set with flowers. I remain on the main axis, pass the stone spur, and at last emerge before a wrought-iron fence, where the way passes through the gate beneath an archway.</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_2_r_2_2_1_1]]</div> <<if $pol is 0>><<set $pol to 1>><</if>>
<div id="texte">I pass through the arcade, where the path gives up its gravel for paving stones. Three slumbering buildings glide past on my right, but farther on a carmine glow catches my eye. The path curves toward a damp courtyard whose reflections answer the blazing windows of a solitary house. A pavilion from the previous century, three stories high, it displays heavy moldings of leaves and spearheads. Its frosted panes, ringed with richly worked casings, seep a purple halo that the closed curtains barely smother; bars cast wavering streaks across the ground. The front steps, entirely bathed in the red of a streetlamp fixed above a severe door, complete the vision. Were it not for its incongruous position at the edge of a cemetery, I would have thought I saw the elegant façade of a brothel.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I decide on:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $bag neq 0 and $mer neq 0 and ($kov neq 0 or $sis neq 0) and $victime2 neq "Jessica Mendhil" and $cible08 neq 100>> [[Try to get in->c_2_r_5]] <<else>> [[Try to get in->c_2_r_3_1]] <</if>> [[Walk around the building ->c_2_r_2_2_1_1_1]] </div> </div><</nobr>>
<div id="texte">I circle the building to the right. The courtyard broadens toward an open gate, ringed with pointed bars. Between the house and this way out stands a small monument; on its dark marble is written the epitaph: //1st U.S. Infantry Division. 1917–1918//, followed by two columns of names. On the vault of the gate, <<if $bak > 1>>I recognize the characters from the entrance to West Roxbury Cemetery.<<else>>I decipher the reversed inscription “yretemeC teertS rekaB”—Baker Street Cemetery.<</if>> The house offers no other exit and turns its back on the cemetery. Behind the gate, an almost phosphorescent gray mist glides over the drenched asphalt and swallows the road.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">At this moment I wish to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $bag neq 0 and $mer neq 0 and ($kov neq 0 or $sis neq 0)>> [[Try to get into the house->c_2_r_5]] <<else>> [[Try to get into the house->c_2_r_3_1]] <</if>> <<if $b is 1>> [[Draw closer to the edge of the world ->c_2_r_2_2_1_1_1_2]] <<else>> [[Leave this place and return home ->c_2_r_2_2_1_1_1_1]] <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>><<if $bak is 0>><<set $bak to 1>><</if>><<set $d to 1>>
<div id="texte">As I cross the wrought-iron arcade with a firm stride, the clouds suddenly dissipate, letting fall a dawn light and... the void. My breath stops. My eyes widen, my mouth draws taut like a bow ready to loose its cry; my body rears back, skids, then crashes onto all fours at the edge of the sidewalk. [img[data/media/img/poisson_front.jpg]] The spectacle defies every myth, even the most ancient, and in a single stroke ruins the pride of enlightened minds. No imagination could engender such a fusion of beliefs, reminiscences, and terrors: my senses impose this vision with a venomous exactitude, such as only madness knows how to weave. The world breaks off a few steps away, the road splitting cleanly like a model touching the edge of a table, ringed by an ashen-gray void. Farther off, other masses float in that abyss: fragments of dislocated earth, mingling hills, countryside, and sections of towns. The whole, immeasurable, forms an enclosed space that envelops the parcel on which I stand. And there, piercing the ether, unfolds a procession of celestial creatures, diaphanous monsters with lactescent glimmers, gliding through the air as through a deep sea. My mind reels beneath the avalanche of conjectures, while at the threshold of dawn, I turn my back to the night.</div> <div id="continuer">[[Hallucinate->c_2_r_2_2_1_1_1_1_0]]</div><<set $b to 1>><<smLoss D4>>
<div id="texte">This devouring vision holds me for a span impossible to measure, the time of an acceptance torn from me. Whatever it may be, this singular form of dream grants me scarcely any way out: either I end it, by throwing myself into this abyss, a symbolic gesture that might hasten my awakening, or else I wait, suspended upon the knowledge of some physician in the true world. These thoughts, strangely lucid, help me draw breath again and consider my captivity in a less somber light, relegating for a moment the dull despair that already seeks to engulf me.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I have no other choice but to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<link "Leap into the void to escape this place maudit">><<goto "c_2_r_2_2_1_1_1_1_1">><<set $b1 to 1>><</link>> <<if $bag neq 0 and $mer neq 0 and ($kov neq 0 or $sis neq 0)>> [[Head back to the house->c_2_r_5]] <<else>> [[Head back to the house->c_2_r_3_1]] <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>>
<div id="texte">I cross the road shining with dampness at a slow, almost hesitant pace. At the edge of the void, I test the ground with my foot: the void, naked, stretches as far as the eye can see. I crouch, brush the asphalt, seize a stone, and let it fall with a weary gesture; it vanishes at once into the gray wash. I straighten, swallow, and finish persuading myself that this is nothing but a dream. //It cannot be otherwise//, I murmur, //or my mind has no place left in this madness//. I take a running start and leap far from the edge. A cry passes through me as I sink into a vertiginous fall. Very quickly I leave behind the thickness of the earthen monolith; the warm air wraps around me like an invisible palm. My senses draw taut and suddenly an opalescent creature corkscrews toward me, undulating to intercept my course. No movement can turn aside the inevitable: its reptilian maw comes down, swallowing my dislocated body. Pain sets my flesh ablaze, brightness sets fire to my retina, when a foghorn sounds and tears me from this waking nightmare.</div><<nobr>> <<if $j is 1>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->not_3]]</div> <<else>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_2_j_1]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>><<set $day to 2>><<if $def1 is 0>><<set $def1 to 1>><</if>><<smLoss D4>>
<div id="texte">I cross the wrought-iron arcade; the clouds vanish in a breath, letting fall a dawn light, and the void asserts itself. A few strides away, the world is torn open: the road stops short, like the frayed edge of an abandoned model. All hope of a way out vanishes, replaced by a compact solitude; this place holds me fast, and no horizon answers.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I have no other choice but to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<link "Leap into that unfathomable void">><<goto "c_2_r_2_2_1_1_1_1_1">><<set $b1 to 1>><</link>> <<if and $bag neq 0 and $mer neq 0 and ($kov neq 0 or $sis neq 0)>> [[Head back to the house->c_2_r_5]] <<else>> [[Head back to the house->c_2_r_3_1]] <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>>
<div id="texte">It is a three-story house, a pavilion from the previous century, its façade heavy with sculpted leaves and spearheads, lifted by hooded casings that frame panes of frosted glass. Drawn curtains soften the inner glow, and the vermilion red cuts the shadows of the bars sealing the ground-floor windows into streaks. The front steps are steeped in the bloody halo of a streetlamp fixed above an austere door. <<if $bag is 0 and $mer is 0>>Were it not for its position at the edge of the cemetery, I would easily have taken it for the well-kept façade of a brothel.<</if>></div><<if $bag neq 0 and $mer neq 0 and ($kov neq 0 or $sis neq 0)>><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_2_r_5]]</div><<else>><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_2_r_3_1]]</div><</if>>
<div id="texte">I take the white-gravel path; its straight course carries me alongside an elongated grid of graves. At the end of the block, a low wall opened to the path marks the junction with a broader way. I turn right, pass several parcels, then reach a crossing where the path bends left to skirt a vast rock set in a flowered bed. I continue straight on: beyond the rock, a wrought-iron fence rises, its bars ending in chiseled points. The way passes through the gate beneath an archway. On the other side, the path gives up its gravel for paving stones. Three buildings slumber to my right; farther on, some fifty yards away, a house catches my eye. As I draw nearer, I see the path open into a wide courtyard, its dampness throwing back the ruddy glow of the central building’s windows.</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_2_r_3]]</div>
<div id="texte">I approach, climb the few steps, grasp the door knocker by the ring threaded through a satyr’s nostrils, and strike hard twice. After a few moments, a curving peephole at face height, fitted as a sliding hatch, opens. It is screened with copper mesh and just wide enough to frame a familiar gaze, lashes painted with mascara, lids brushed with violet shadow and rimmed with kohl. – What may I do for you, sir? I recognize the woman’s voice at once. – Mo... Mother? – As you please; I am certain each of our hostesses would take delight in pampering you, sir. – B... but no, there is... The peephole snaps shut, and the door opens to reveal the proud bearing of a young, fresh woman, dressed in a taffeta-and-lace gown with a gathered train, its complementary pastel colors mingling with the exhalation of a potpourri scented with flowers and incense. My mother, for it is indeed my mother, at an age when we have not yet met, inclines her torso slightly and invites me in with a gesture of her arm: – Welcome to the Bagrovyy, sir.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I take a side::</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $a is 1>> [[To go in ->c_2_r_3_1_1]] <<else>> [[To go in ->c_2_r_3_1_2]] <</if>> <<if $b is 0>> [[To leave this place as fast as I can->c_2_r_3_1_2_3]] <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>><<if $bag is 0>><<set $bag to 1>><</if>><<set $mer to 1>>
<div id="texte">This dreamlike masquerade leaves me dumbfounded. I nevertheless enter the vestibule, thick with hangings and paintings in the Renaissance manner. My mother closes the door behind me and resumes in the same honeyed tone: – There is a cloakroom at your disposal to your left. Amassia, Igal, and Gaddiel will see to your comfort. – Th... that is not quite what... ah... what brings me here, Mo... Madam. Searching for my words, I finally recover a semblance of assurance and turn back to her. I wish to meet the man in charge of the cemetery. Does he reside here? – The master does not wish to be disturbed. What is the legitimacy of your request? – Well... I... his workers tried to bury me alive, after all! – You are one of the mutinous dead... she says thoughtfully. – One... one of the mutinous dead? Oh! This is not going to start again! I am alive! A-LIVE! Do you understand? A living man who is dreaming, no doubt, so... – Yes, yes. Of course, she cuts in. I shall inform him. She leads me into the adjoining room on our right, through a fall of red brocade embroidered with gold thread, opening into a large rococo parlor dotted with exotic elements; a raffia palm sits potted in the far corner and covers part of the wall with its fronds, spilling over an ebony-framed screen with an embossed leather front; the remaining walls support a large mirror drawn into an oval by a gilded frame; a canvas showing a nymph languorously sprawled on satin sheets; a suave light emanates from three-branched copper candelabra. Against the screen, seated around a small pedestal table lit by a fringed lampshade, two young women smoke through cigarette holders while fixing me with accusatory stares. A third rises abruptly from a circular sofa, divided in two by a backrest, at the center of the room, comes toward me, and delicately takes my hand while saying in a soft voice with a broken accent: – Sir, if you would be so kind, make yourself uncomfortable. – Keep him waiting a few moments, my mother interjects coldly. He is one of the mutinous dead and wishes to meet the master. The beauty at once releases my hand while the matron addresses me: – Whom shall I announce? – Mr. Maximilien Cornwell, and, if I may: to whom do I have the honor? – Miss Connellan. – Alanna Connellan, I presume... – It would seem, she says with a mocking edge, that my reputation precedes me once again! She pivots sharply and returns to the vestibule with hurried steps. Connellan was her maiden name, before she bound herself by necessity to my stepfather, John Cornwell; and I know nothing of her life before that marriage. The mere evocation of my origin gives rise to a painful muteness I cannot confront. Well... none of that has the slightest importance in this world begotten by the whims of my stricken mind.</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_2_r_3_1_1_1]]</div><<set $sis to 1>><<run setup.arcBg.stop()>>
<div id="texte">The company of these three lovely flowers, whom I take to be barely of age, causes me a great deal of embarrassment. They never stop staring at me with the smiles of delicate predators, a malignant flame flickering in their trembling pupils, hardly inviting conversation. Their fine pale hair frames charming little alabaster faces, whose delicately drawn features express a sinister air, like certain porcelain dolls set in a shop window; and I cannot suppress a shiver of anguish at the thought of seeing them come to life under some malevolent force. Their animal charisma, each gesture imbued with maturity, belies their troublingly youthful appearance and uncanny sameness. I try to fix my attention on the mud coating my shoes, whose thin film is beginning to crack, embarrassed and unsure what posture to adopt. Fortunately, the wait is brief and, just as I am about to break, awkwardly, this now unbearable silence, my mother reappears in the doorway to invite me to follow her: – Master Kovaleski is ready to receive you. Come.</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_2_r_3_2]]</div><<bg "data/media/img/backgrounds/bagrovyy.jpg" 20 15 20>>
<div id="texte">This dreamlike masquerade leaves me dumbstruck; nevertheless, I pass into the vestibule, heavy with hangings and Renaissance-style paintings. She closes the door behind me and resumes in the same honeyed tone: – There is a cloakroom at your disposal to your left. Amassia, Igal, and Gaddiel will see to your every comfort. – I... very well, Mo... madam. May I know with whom I have the honor? – Miss Connellan, at your service. – Alanna Connellan, I presume... – Sir, you flatter my ego, she says, stepping ahead of me. It would seem my reputation precedes me once again! Connellan was her maiden name, before she bound herself, out of necessity, to my stepfather, John Cornwell; I knew nothing of her life before that marriage. Even the mere evocation of my origin gives rise to a painful muteness I cannot face. Still... none of that has the slightest importance in this world engendered by the caprices of my chastened mind. I follow her, lost like a fledgling newly fallen from the nest. She leads me into the adjoining room to our right, passing through a curtain of red brocade embroidered with gold thread, which leads to a large parlor in rococo style, scattered with exotic elements; a raffia palm is potted in the far corner and spreads its fronds across part of the wall, spilling over a screen with an ebony frame and embossed leather panels. The remaining walls hold a large oval mirror in a gilt frame, a canvas depicting a nymph languorously sprawled on satin sheets, and three-branched copper candlesticks giving off a suave light. Against the screen, seated around a small pedestal table lit by a fringed lampshade, two young women are smoking through cigarette holders while fixing me with an accusatory stare. A third rises abruptly from a circular sofa divided in two by a backrest at the center of the room, comes to meet me, and delicately takes my hand while saying, in a gentle voice broken by a clipped accent: – Sir, if you please, do make yourself uncomfortable. Her gaze presses the point with a lascivious air. – Amassia, my mother resumes, please grant the gentleman the pleasures befitting his rank. – Very well, madam. Then, to me: – Sir. She bows politely, pivots, and prepares to disappear into the vestibule with an imperious step.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">What manner to adopt?</span> <div id="selection"> [[Accept the hospitality of the place ->c_2_r_3_1_2_1]] [[My patience has limits! ->c_2_r_3_1_2_2]] <<if $b is 0>> [[Flee->c_2_r_3_1_2_3]] <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>><<set $sis to 1>><<run setup.arcBg.stop()>><<bg "data/media/img/backgrounds/bagrovyy.jpg" 30 30 30>><<timed 30s>><</timed>>
<div id="texte"> Had I been able to foresee, in any form whatsoever, the turn events were about to take in this setting so conducive to relaxation, I certainly would never have crossed the threshold of that house to live through the Dantesque scene of my own demise. The company of these three lovely flowers, whom I take to be barely of age, first causes me a great deal of embarrassment. They never stop staring at me with the smiles of delicate predators, a malignant flame flickering in their trembling pupils, hardly inviting conversation. Their fine pale hair frames charming little alabaster faces, whose delicately drawn features express a sinister air, like certain porcelain dolls set in a shop window, before which I could never suppress a shiver of anguish at the thought of seeing them come to life under some malevolent force. Their animal charisma, each gesture imbued with maturity, belies their troublingly youthful appearance and uncanny sameness. Amassia, still holding my hand, draws me toward the sofa at the center of the room. I then try to break through that layer of pack ice, which infuses even her fingers with a macabre coldness, by means of a simple question: – With whom do I have the honor, young ladies? – We are the Zemaria sisters, Amassia answers me in a monotone, those for whom your existence comes to an end, sir. The torrent of my thoughts pours out all at once in a cascade: //Oooh no, here we go again! What do they want with me? Why are they staring at me like that? Will this nightmare never cease?// The younger one crushes her cigarette in the ashtray set on the pedestal table and begins a kind of languid psalmody, grotesque in its discordance with the moment we are sharing: – Chosen of the drowned, beyond the tides, awaken the hearts where the damned abide. Let them feed upon the fruits of their seed. And when the age of torpor reaches its height, of all their descendants you shall be butcher and shepherd. One sacrificed scion, for three defiled spirits... And all three take it up together, gathering around me in the serpentine manner of the three harpies from Bram Stoker’s “Dracula,” repeating with nagging insistence: – One sacrificed scion, for three defiled spirits... I can no longer repress my thoughts: – Young ladies, be reasonable! Cease this funereal chant at once; it is more than I can bear! – One sacrificed scion, for three defiled spirits... they are chanting now. One sacrificed scion, for three defiled spirits... They advance toward me in small steps, heads lowered, their tense gazes plunging into mine. I step back as my voice fades: – Young ladies... Suddenly, they catch fire. Great flames lick across their crackling dresses, their skin blisters, and their hair vanishes with a hiss into dense smoke, thick with an unbearable stench. – One sacrificed scion, for three defiled spirits... they go on psalmodizing, as though no longer able to stop, despite the intensity of the furnace. Granting me no reprieve, this true auto-da-fé unleashes a ravenous blaze that spreads with dazzling speed. As I turn around, I realize, with utter stupefaction, the scale of the disaster already consuming the entire edifice. By reflex, I cross the flaming curtain that separates me from the vestibule, my arms raised before me to shield my face, only to find myself surrounded on every side. The voices of the harpies are lost in the dreadful roar of the conflagration. Every pore of my skin sweats under the violence of the heat; I suffocate, and my vision blurs. My legs give way, and my knees strike the floor hard. The acrid furnace presses down upon my whole being. My hands clamped over my face, I shake my head, weeping and screaming all at once, beaten down by hell. The sound of a foghorn tears me from this waking nightmare.</div> <<nobr>> <<if $j is 1>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->not_3]]</div> <<else>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_2_j_1]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>><<set $day to 2>><<smLoss D6>><<bg "data/media/img/backgrounds/bagrovyy.jpg" 30 30 30>>
<div id="texte">– Madam, allow me to express my dismay. When I knocked on this door, I had no intention of... oh! And enough of all this posturing! She freezes in mid-stride, turns her head in profile, and pretends to look in my direction: – I beg your pardon? – It is true, after all! I am swimming in delirium! They tried to bury me alive! And... And there is this... – Bury you alive? – Yes. Two men dug a grave in which they... – I see. Mutinous dead ones have no place here. – I am not one of those... mutinous dead ones, as you call them. I... I am not dead. None of this is real. You, my mother, this... brothel, the thing beneath the ground, and... – May I ask who you are? – I... Cornwell, Maximilien Cornwell, but that has no importance! I am dreaming, yes! Dreaming... I must be in some sort of coma, what do I know? – //That is not dead which can eternal lie//, Mr. Cornwell. Do not trouble yourself... she tells me with a mocking smile. I shall announce you to the master. – To the master? What master? – The one who presides over this place. Please wait. She pivots sharply and returns to the vestibule with a hurried step, while I remain there, dumbstruck and dazed by this unexpected reversal.</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_2_r_3_1_1_1]]</div>
<div id="texte">A latent madness oozes from this house, and I do not have the courage to confront it. Nothing allows me to envisage the course of events with any certainty, and yet my instinct already perceives the unspeakable turpitude this place has in store for me. When at last I leave the front steps in the reddish glow of this seat of Sheol, the sharp pain pulsing in my stomach expresses all the visceral anguish that grips me, to the point that I can breathe only in jolts. Panting, I circle the building, naturally making for the cemetery exit. I hurry across the broad courtyard stretching toward the rear to reach an open gate in an enclosure closed off by wrought-iron bars, pass a small commemorative monument, and cross the vault that has separated me for so long from the outside world. Hell is now behind me. I cast a glance backward, making sure that none of those demons is pursuing me, and realize that the shroud of darkness surrounding the cemetery has now swallowed everything. Before me, a sheet of luminous gray mist borders a wet asphalt road and traces the horizon in the background. I take a few steps, trying to regain my breath, when the thick mist suddenly vanishes to give way to a celestial auroral light and... the void. My eyes widen and my mouth draws taut with strain like a bow ready to loose its cry; my body twists and resists its own momentum, I skid, scramble, and find myself on all fours at the edge of the sidewalk. [img[data/media/img/poisson_front.jpg]] The spectacle unfolding before my eyes defies even the oldest myths, whose outworn certainties could not survive the world as apprehended through the prism of the most enlightened minds. Even the most unbridled imagination could not have engendered such a syncretism of credibility, belief, dreams, and nightmares, in this vision my senses transcribe with a pernicious exactitude, as only madness can produce. The scene ends there, a few strides away, cleanly torn all along the road passing before me, like a model reaching the edge of a table, surrounded by the monochrome of an ashen-gray void. Other scattered masses hover in that void at varying distances, true fragments of a known earth whose crust has been dislocated, each one furnished with both natural and artificial reliefs, with portions of countryside and towns of varying extent. The dimensions of the whole are dizzying, and this apparently spherical space proves to encompass the very fragment on which I stand. And, as though to mottle the composition of this grandiose tableau, I discern a phantasmagoric ballet animated by celestial creatures: tortuous monsters of diaphanous, luminescent flesh, gliding through the air as through a sea. My mind bends beneath every conjecture while, with my back to the night, I stand upon the threshold of dawn.</div> <div id="continuer">[[Hallucinate->c_2_r_3_1_2_3_0]]</div><<smLoss D8>>
<div id="texte">This staggering scene annihilates there and then the cushioned idea of my return home, along with every hope that might have been bound to it. At that instant, only the conviction that I am living through the worst of my nightmares completes my helplessness before this succession of absurd events, this spiral of unreason into which my thoughts are swallowed. All this must end now. I break into a frantic run toward the edge of the abyss and jump as far as I can to distance myself from the fringe of asphalt. A liberating howl bursts from my throat as I begin this vertiginous fall. Very quickly I pass beyond the prodigious thickness of this earthen monolith; the sensation of air dragging over me is warm and clasps my whole being as though to sustain it. As my senses encompass the entirety of this singular experience, I notice with horror one of the opalescent creatures corkscrewing in my direction. It dives lower as if to intercept my fall, undulating along its full length. None of my movements can avert the inevitable confrontation between its gaping maw and my body, wracked by convulsions. My cry ends in the snap of its sculptural, iridescent jaws, reptilian in character. Pain sets all my flesh ablaze as light consumes my retina, until the sound of a foghorn tears me from this waking nightmare.</div> <<nobr>> <<if $j is 1>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->not_3]]</div> <<else>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_2_j_1]]</div> <</if>> <<set $day to 2>><<set $b1 to 1>><<if $def1 is 0>><<set $def1 to 1>><</if>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">We climb the stairs. Alanna removes a thin cord marking the division of the landing, takes care to hook it back behind us, then proceeds down the corridor on the right. – Why do you burden that man with the title of master? I ask. – He is responsible for administering your dreams, she replies curtly. A heavy, humid heat, enough to make the woodwork sweat, now envelops the place. – Administering my dreams... I repeat under my breath. Do you mean my unconscious? I recently read that... – In no sense, she cuts in. She knocks at one of the doors, opens it, and announces me while respectfully signaling for me to enter. I step into an austere room whose only furnishings consist of a bookcase covering the rear wall behind a desk at which an elderly man stands. The door closes softly behind me. – Mr. Cornwell... says the imposing man thoughtfully as he straightens. <div style="width:200px;float:left; padding: 0 40px 0 0;">[img[data/media/img/portraits/alinovitch.jpg]]</div>He wears a black three-piece suit, the jacket drawn straight, into which a dark striped tie disappears, while the white pocket square heightens the contrasts of the ensemble. His gaunt face, its wrinkles emphasizing a firm jaw, bears the marks of hard labor, and broad, protruding cheekbones deepen the hollow in which two little smoky pearls sit sunk, gleaming with a sinister light. A fringe of graying hair rings his bare skull, punctuated by thick eyebrows that complete the severity of his expression. Faced with the inertia gripping me before this presence at once oppressive and familiar, he resumes in a cavernous voice: – What brings you to my office, Mr. Cornwell? – May I know to whom I have the honor and displeasure? The man smiles. – Alinovitch Kovaleski, slave and master. – To tell the truth, I do not really know what I am doing here. I believe I... – Should you not be resting in your grave at this hour, Mr. Cornwell? The cynical way he takes his time drawing out my name as he pronounces it begins to exasperate me. – In no sense! I am not dead! At most I am asleep, and you have no... – We shall verify the register at once, Mr. Cornwell. – Verify, verify, there is nothing to verify! I am telling you that... – Being deceased, your name should be stipulated in the register. – Oh, naturally it will appear there, in your register, since everything here is... – Your first name, if you please. – Stop this joke! This is sheer delirium... – Compose yourself, Mr. Cornwell. Your attitude advances us nowhere. The tone he uses, authoritative and paternal, suddenly cuts short my vehement ardor and gives way to a rampart of reason dependent upon the recent experiences I have stored away. – Very well, very well. After all, was it not Sigmund Freud who wrote that every successful dream is a fulfillment of the wish to sleep? – Much better! //If you wish to endure life, be ready to accept death//, he adds with a mocking air. – Yes, yes, quite right... He takes a thick volume bound in brown leather from one of the shelves and lays it on the desk. – Your first name, Mr. Cornwell. – Maximilien. The book, with the look of a grimoire, is stamped with a strange sign representing a starred pentagram, with an oval shaped like an eye at its center, its pupil a flame. Kovaleski opens it to a double page arranged in the form of a listing and lets his crooked finger glide along as he spells out my name. – Cornwell, Cornwell, Cornwell Maximilien. Ha, here we are. Your name is listed. – Well, of course! – Born April 22, 1905, extinguished September 7, 1926. You should be in your grave, Mr. Cornwell. – What if I refuse? – In its frustration, the Dybbuk will provide itself with every soul you come into contact with. – Oh, really? The Dybbuk... and what might that be? – That which desires to assimilate your vital essence. – Hahaha! What a convoluted nightmare! Where on earth do I come up with all this? I shall still have to consult a psychotherapist when I wake, because really, I am outdoing myself, would you not say? He smiles at me again, as though, conscious of the mask of irony I am wearing, he delights in the torment gripping me. – Well then, as administrator, you must know how I can extract myself from this land of dreams... quite diverting, for all that. – Simply cross the threshold of this door in full consciousness. – Very well, in full consciousness, I shall be pleased to return to the common world. With that, I bid you... farewell forever, Mr....? – Kovaleski. – My good Mr. Kovaleski, sarcastic scoffer, haha! – In full consciousness, you now bear responsibility for three deaths... Suddenly the environment seems to dislocate, my sight blurs, and a mounting nausea seizes me as, one by one, my sensory bearings fade away.</div><<nobr>> <<if $j is 1>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->not_3]]</div> <<else>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_2_j_1]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>> <<set $day to 2>><<set $kov to 1>><<set $d1 to 1>><<if $dy is 0>><<set $dy to 1>><</if>><<timed 17s>><<audio "maximilien_dark" play volume 0.3>><</timed>><<bg "data/media/img/backgrounds/alino_bag.jpg" 30 60 30>>
<div id="texte">My mother’s presence, and the accusatory note in her voice, instinctively draw me down the metal stairs. A storm is raging outside, and I am hurled violently from one bulkhead to the other. After crossing another gangway, I step into a vast cabin tangled with exposed beams, where I discover the three young women. Two of them are bustling around a water-filled barrel set there before them. They are pressing down on a bundle of cloth to keep it submerged, chanting impious words as part of an incantation: – One sacrificed scion, for three defiled spirits, they repeat tirelessly. The water boils, and circular jets begin spattering more and more violently. The eldest of the three sisters stands a little apart, watching the scene. In her hands she holds a thick book open; from her wrist hangs, at the end of a taut little chain, a small oval locket held ajar. One half reveals the yellowed portrait of a hard-featured old man, while the other, dark and embossed with indistinct patterns, seems to drink the light rather than reflect it. As their litany rises, the jewel begins to tap faintly against the leather of her sleeve, as though silently answering the call. At my approach, she turns toward me, one finger pressed to her lips in a summons to silence. At that very instant, with a mournful groan, the hull begins to creak, pinched and constricted by an invisible pressure, mingled with the cries of newborn babies. – What is happening, Amassia? I cannot help asking her. It is the youngest who calls out to me, her arms still buried in the flooded vat, her face drawn tight with hatred. – Cursed be you, and all your line! she cries to me. The Dybbuk shall drag you down into its lair and devour you. Bear witness to its work, and to the burden that is yours, ounce by ounce of hatred, until extinction! Her words are spat out like venom from the most virulent of serpents. The pressure on the hull increases until bolts and nuts begin to burst free one by one. Water jets in lively streams through every crack. I am forced to take cover from the sprays while the sisters exult in chorus, the water already up to their waists. I struggle mightily to force my way toward the stair, driving with my legs and thrashing through the flood. No sooner do I reach its threshold than the hatch gives way, and a torrent of foam comes pouring through to sweep me off. I fight with all my strength, trying to seize some hold, my throat flooding. I choke, thrash again, but it is already too late; crushed against the ceiling, I can no longer draw breath. My lungs catch fire in a panicked gurgle, and I sink into nothingness.</div><<nobr>> <div id="continuer"> <<if $j is 1>> [[Drown myself->not_3]] <<else>> [[Drown myself->c_2_j_1]] <</if>> </div> <<set $day to 2>><<smLoss D4>><<set $sis_n to 1>><<set $hist += 1>><<if $dy is 0>><<set $dy to 1>><</if>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">I follow the narrow path of white gravel. Its straight course carries me through an entire block of graves laid out in an elongated rectangle. At last I reach the edge of the vegetation, where the path ends in a circular clearing with a granite basin at its center. I spot a shrub offering a handhold along the embankment, take a running start, and in a single stride catch hold of one of its branches. I pull myself up onto the edge, one leg still trailing behind; pitching forward, I brace myself on my free knee and both hands to keep from slipping. I continue along a strip of rough, grassy ground some six feet wide, bordered on my right by a screen of clustered young conifers. The earthen platform ends a few strides ahead, cleanly torn away, so that its surface appears to form an island floating in the monochrome of an ashen-gray void. Other scattered masses hover at varying distances: true fragments of a familiar earth whose crust has been torn apart, each bearing natural and man-made features, stretches of countryside, and towns of varying size. And as though to mottle the composition of this grand tableau, I make out a phantasmagoric ballet of celestial creatures: twisting monsters of diaphanous, luminescent flesh, gliding through the air as though through a sea. I draw closer to the edge, testing the firmness of the ground with my foot, then take a running start and leap as far as I can to put distance between myself and the fringe of asphalt. A liberating howl tears from my throat as I plunge into a vertiginous fall. Almost at once I pass beyond the prodigious thickness of the earthen monolith; the warm rush of air envelops my whole body as though to bear me up. As my senses absorb the full strangeness of the experience, I see with horror one of the opalescent creatures corkscrewing toward me. It dives beneath me as if to intercept my fall, undulating along its entire length. Nothing I do can avert the inevitable collision between its gaping maw and my flailing body. My cry ends in the snap of its sculptural, iridescent reptilian jaws. Pain sets every inch of my flesh ablaze as light consumes my retina—then the blast of a foghorn tears me from the waking nightmare.</div> <<nobr>> <<if $j is 1>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->not_3]]</div> <<else>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_2_j_1]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>> <<set $day to 2>><<smLoss D4>><<if $def1 is 0>><<set $def1 to 1>><</if>>
<div id="texte">I approach, climb the few steps to the threshold, grasp the door knocker by the ring threaded through the satyr’s nostrils, and strike it hard twice. After a few moments, an ornately shaped sliding hatch opens at eye level. Copper mesh covers the opening, which is just wide enough to frame a familiar gaze beneath mascara-darkened lashes, eyelids brushed with deep violet shadow and outlined in kohl. – What can I do for you, sir? she asks. – Good evening, Alanna. – I do not recall knowing you, sir. Should I? – Not yet, unfortunately. I pause before stating my request.</div> <<nobr>> <div class="dialogue"> <div id="dial_port"> [img[data/media/img/portraits/alanna.jpg]] </div> <div id="dial_choise"> <<if $sis neq 0>> [[– I wish to meet Amassia, Igal and Gaddiel->c_2_r_5_1]] <</if>> <<if $kov neq 0>> [[– I wish to meet Alinovitch Kovaleski->c_2_r_5_2]] <<elseif $s is 1>> [[– I demand to see your employer->c_2_r_5_2]] <</if>> </div> </div> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">The hatch slams shut behind me with a hiss, and the wheel spins to seal the panel, its grating admitting no more than a thread of pale moonlight from outside. The space I enter is lined with metal and timber, trapping a heavy, humid heat. The gangway stretching before me pitches from side to side as I plant my feet more firmly to keep my balance. Alanna stands rigidly upright and gestures for me to descend into the ship’s hold: – Welcome aboard the Fairburn, sir. We will dock at Harbor tomorrow morning. Tonight you will witness His awakening, she tells me wearily. – Well... I begin, then clear my throat as though to summon some semblance of assurance. I do not remember boarding any ship. The Fairburn, you say? Where did we sail from? – Rotterdam, sir. We set sail on the evening of April 3 and have been under way for more than two months. They have borne the fruit of the Master’s seed, and now return it to Him for the glory of His manifestation. Go on, sir, she insists, indicating the stairs. – Wait, wait, I stammer. I cannot make head or tail of your ravings. You mean the Zemaria sisters? – Daughters of Orane, she replies. Move along now.</div><div id="continuer">[[Go down->c_2_r_3_5_1_1]]</div><<set $fair to 1>><<bg "data/media/img/backgrounds/fairburn.jpg" 20 30 20>><<timed 3s>><<audio "cale01" play volume 0.6>><</timed>>
<div id="texte">The hatch slams shut behind me with a hiss, and the wheel spins to seal the panel, its grating admitting no more than a thread of pale moonlight from outside. The space I enter is lined with metal and timber, trapping a heavy, humid heat. The gangway stretching before me pitches from side to side as I plant my feet more firmly to keep my balance. Alanna stands rigidly upright and gestures for me to climb toward the deck: Welcome aboard the Fairburn, sir. We will dock at Harbor tomorrow morning. I clear my throat as though to summon some semblance of assurance. – I do not remember boarding any ship. The Fairburn, you say? Where did we sail from? – Rotterdam, sir. We set sail on the evening of April 3 and have been under way for more than two months. The Master awaits the birth of the fruit of His seed, for the glory of His manifestation. Go on, sir, she insists, indicating the stairs. – Wait, wait, I stammer. I cannot make head or tail of your ravings. This Master—do you mean <<if $kov neq 0>>Kovaleski?<<else>>your employer?<</if>> – Master and Slave Alinovitch Kovaleski, she answers. Move along now.</div> <div id="continuer">[[Go up->c_2_r_5_2_1]]</div> <<set $fair to 1>><<if $kov is 0>><<set $kov to 1>><</if>><<bg "data/media/img/backgrounds/fairburn.jpg" 20 30 20>><<timed 3s>><<audio "cale01" play volume 0.6>><</timed>>
<div id="all"><div id="texte">My mother’s presence, coupled with her vindictive tone, naturally compels me to climb the metal stairs at the end of the gangway. After leading me through a succession of hatches, she respectfully ushers me into the captain’s cabin, then withdraws on soundless feet. I enter an austere room whose only furnishings are a bookcase covering the rear wall and a desk before it, where an elderly man sits. The hatch closes softly behind me. The man lets out a mirthless laugh, baring every tooth in a broad smile: – Maximilien, you mutinous dead... is good corn not meant to flourish in the plot of earth set aside for it? – There can be no mutiny without the proper manure, I retort. – Make your little jokes while you still have the wit for them, Mr. Cornwell. Go on. Try now—without your organ, he says, throwing back his head in laughter.</div> <div class="dialogue"><div id="dial_port">[img[data/media/img/portraits/alinovitch.jpg]]</div><div id="dial_choise"><<link "– ?????">><</link>> <<link "– ?????">><</link>> <<link "– ?????">><</link>></div></div></div> <<timed 40s>> <<replace "#all">><div id="all"><div id="texte">– Try... to find meaning... Are you still quite at ease, Mr. Cornwell?</div><<smLoss D4>><<script>>UIBar.stow();<</script>> <div class="dialogue"><div id="dial_port">[img[data/media/img/portraits/alinovitch.jpg]]</div><div id="dial_choise"><<link "– !!!!!">><</link>> <<link "– !!!!!">><</link>> <<link "– !!!!!">><</link>></div></div></div><</replace>> <</timed>> <<timed 48s>> <<replace "#all">><div id="all"><div id="texte">– Can you hear me? Can you still see me? Your mind is His world. You belong to Him!</div> <div class="dialogue"><div id="dial_port">[img[data/media/img/portraits/alinovitch_lisse.jpg]]</div><div id="dial_choise"><<link "– ...">><</link>> <<link "– ...">><</link>> <<link "– ...">><</link>></div></div></div><</replace>> <</timed>> <<timed 56s>> <<replace "#all">><div id="all"><div id="texte">– Too late for me, too late for you. He is waking. Now go! Go and feed His earth!</div><<smLoss D4>> <div class="dialogue"><div id="dial_port">[img[data/media/img/portraits/alinovitch_lisse.jpg]]</div></div></div><</replace>> <</timed>> <<timed 66s>> <<script>>UIBar.unstow();<</script>> <<if $j is 1>> <<goto "not_3">> <<else>> <<goto "c_2_j_1">> <</if>> <</timed>><<set $d1 to 1>><<set $day to 2>><<set $vj to 1>>
<div id="texte">The void... From its conceit my confidence is sown, like a stillborn child drawn from the very center of its flesh, senselessly...</div> <<nobr>> <<set _coreDef to 0>> <<if $def1 is 1>><<set _coreDef += 1>><</if>> <<if $def2 is 1>><<set _coreDef += 1>><</if>> <<if $def3 is 1>><<set _coreDef += 1>><</if>> <<if $def4 is 1>><<set _coreDef += 1>><</if>> <<set $meurtre to 3>><<set $vj to 0>><<set $act += 5>><<set $reve to 1>><<set $dream to 3>> <<if $victime2 is "James Wright">><<set $vc += 1>><</if>> <<if $victime2 is "Ervin Templeton">><<set $vc += 1>><</if>> <<if $victime3 is "Anton Redfield">><<set $vc += 1>><</if>> <<if $victime3 is "Jessica Mendhil" and $z is 0>><<set $vc += 1>><</if>> <<if setup.salt.sleepActive() and $oval is 3 and $ecri is 1 and _coreDef isnot 4>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_3_rso_1]]</div> <<elseif setup.salt.sleepActive() and $oval < 2 and _coreDef isnot 4>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_3_rs_1]]</div> <<else>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_3_r_0]]</div> <<if $victime2 is "Jessica Mendhil" and $meurtre is 2>><<set $jess to 100>> <</if>> <</if>> <<audio ":playing" fadeout>><<audio "reve" play>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">I awaken languorously among countless graves, lying upon the loose earth of a burial plot. For a moment I am confused, until I realize that I have not escaped my dream, and fear grips me at the thought that I may be trapped within it, perhaps forever... Yet the atmosphere is altogether different. The clear daylight and its natural brightness are somehow reassuring; birds hold forth in the treetops, and here and there I begin to make out a few people walking the paths. [img[data/media/img/frise_cimetiere2.jpg]] <<if $cim <= 2>> As I sit up, I feel a strange tingling climb the length of my spine. It comes with a light, icy breeze that sends a few dead leaves capering between my legs. It is as though the shadow of a presence has closed around me, seeping into my flesh through every pore. The grave on which I have been lying consists merely of a square of freshly turned earth and a rounded-corner headstone. On the granite plaque I read the inscription: “Amassia Zemaria. 1859–1926,” and immediately to its right, “Gaddiel Zemaria. 1862–1926” and “Igal Zemaria. 1866–1926.” I remain prostrate there for several moments, enthralled by the whispering air and seized by an insidious desire to become one with this place. At last I join the main path running through the center of the burial ground, letting my gaze drift briefly across the tangle of graves fading into the morning mist. Although the reception building is not yet open, the entrance gate bearing the name //Baker Street// already allows the earliest visitors to pay their respects to their ancestors. <<smLoss D3>><<if $sis <= 1>><<set $sis to 2>><<set $hist += 1>><</if>><<set $dial_off_3 to 2>><<set $h to 1>><<else>>This time I truly am at Baker Street Cemetery. I join the main path running through the center of the burial ground, letting my gaze drift briefly across the tangle of graves fading into the morning mist. Once again I have covered a considerable distance during the night, farther still than on the previous occasions—//at this rate, I shall wake up in Greenland next time.// Although the reception building is not yet open, the entrance gate already allows the earliest visitors to pay their respects to their ancestors.<</if>></div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">Now I decide:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $cim < 3>> [[To wait for the office to open->cim_2]] <</if>> <<if $erv is 0>> [[To address the presence I sense ->cim_3_1_1]] <</if>> <<if $tele isnot "done" and $tele gte 0 and $tele lt $day>> <<link "De Return home">><<goto "c_3_j_1_2">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <<else>> <<link "De Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> </div> </div><<if $cim <= 1>><<set $cim to 2>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><<set $day to 3>><<set $reve to 0>><<set $bloc to 1>><<set $vj to 1>><<saltWake>><<set $v to 0>><<set $posx to 885>><<set $posy to 3413>><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><<audio "jour" play>><<script>>Save.slots.save(2, "Day3")<</script>> <<if $convoc is 2 and $police is 1>><<set $vc += 1>><<set $convoc to 100>><</if>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte"> As I enter my room, I discover a message slipped under the door, my mother’s reply to the questions I had telegraphed the previous day.</div> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->appart_j_3]]</div> <<set _telefx to setup.telegram.applyReveal(State.variables)>><<invGain "telegramme_alanna">> <<set $posx to 2863>> <<set $posy to 1968>><<set $vj to 1>>
<div id="texte" class="melange">The soisntaen of sfot gournd in wcihh I am siknnig. An icy dpnasems sokas my clthoes, terilkcs dwon, and sepes tgohruh the proes of my sikn. My herat raecs...</div><div id="continuer">[[Cnotinue->c_3_r_1]]</div>
<div id="texte" class="melange">My thoughts overlap, struggling to preserve their lucidity. None of this makes any sense. I am losing my footing...</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec" class="melange">I conudct melsyf wtih:</span> <div id="selection"> [[Slincee->c_3_r_1_3]][[Stkicepism->c_3_r_1_1]][[Ouurtsbt->c_3_r_1_2]] </div> </div><<echoesTxt "c_1_r_1_0">><</nobr>>
<div id="texte" class="melange">It is a dream, I tell myself. It must be a dream.</div><div id="continuer">[[Ctonniue->c_3_r_2]]</div><<echoesTxt "c_2_r_1_1">>
<div id="texte" class="melange">– Devil take it! Stop toying with me!</div><div id="continuer">[[Cointnue->c_3_r_2]]</div><<echoesTxt "c_2_r_1_2">><<set $s to 1>>
<div id="texte" class="melange">My reason, by sheer force, succeeds in repressing the boiling of those tumultuous feelings.</div><div id="continuer">[[Cnitonue->c_3_r_1_3_1]]</div><<echoesTxt "c_2_r_1_3">>
<div id="texte" class="melange">After a moment of eternity.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec" class="melange">I mkae the diiscoen to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $b is 1>>[[Flee this dream as fast as I can->c_3_r_4]] <<else>>[[Flee this place as fast as I can->c_3_r_2_1_1]] <</if>> <<if $a is 1>>[[Floolw the gievgdaergr's dincrtioes->c_3_r_2_2]] <<else>>[[Look for the ceetmery ecantrne->c_3_r_2_2]] <</if>> </div> </div> <<smLoss D4>><<echoesTxt "c_2_r_1_3_1">> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte" class="melange">After a moment of eternity.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec" class="melange">I mkae the doiscein to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $b is 1>>[[Flee this dream as fast as I can->c_3_r_4]] <<else>>[[Flee this place as fast as I can->c_3_r_2_1_1]] <</if>> <<if $a is 1>>[[Fololw the ggievedgarr's dreitnoics->c_3_r_2_2]] <<else>>[[Look for the ceertmey eratcnne->c_3_r_2_2]] <</if>> </div> </div> <<smLoss D4>><<audio "oogr" play>><<echoesTxt "c_2_r_2">> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">I spot a shrub offering a handhold along the embankment, take a running start, and in one stride clutch at one of its branches. I pull and haul myself up onto the edge, one leg still trailing behind; I pitch forward, catching myself on my free knee and my hands to keep from slipping. I then set about crossing the thicket, paying little heed to the wear inflicted on my sorry attire. The brambles hook into the cloth as though to hold me back, and at times carve my flesh as I cut my path. I cannot help smiling when I glimpse the open space beyond the curtain formed by the clustered young conifers. I quicken my pace and at last break past the edge with a firm step, when my breath stops dead... My eyes widen and my mouth draws taut with strain like a bow ready to loose its cry; my hands search for any hold, my body twists and fights its own momentum, I skid, scramble, and manage to throw my whole weight back; with my spine against a sturdy trunk, and freeze there, my arms flung behind me. [img[data/media/img/poisson_front.jpg]] The spectacle unfolding before my eyes defies even the oldest myths, whose obsolescence could not withstand the apprehension of the world through the prism of the most enlightened minds. Even the most unbridled imagination could not have engendered such a syncretism of credibility, belief, dreams, and nightmares, in this vision my senses transcribe with a pernicious exactitude, as only madness can produce. The earthen platform ends there, a few strides before me, cleanly torn away, so that its surface, bearing all the scenery I have just struggled to cross, seems to form an islet floating in the monochrome of an ashen-gray void. Other scattered masses hover at varying distances, true fragments of a known earth whose crust has been dislocated, each one furnished with both natural and artificial reliefs, with portions of countryside and towns of varying extent. The dimensions of the whole are dizzying, and this apparently spherical space proves to encompass the very fragment on which I stand. And, as though to mottle the composition of this grandiose tableau, I discern a phantasmagoric ballet animated by celestial creatures: tortuous monsters of diaphanous, luminescent flesh, gliding through the air as through a sea. My mind bends beneath every conjecture while, with my back to the night, I stand upon the threshold of dawn.</div> <div id="continuer">[[Hallucinate->c_3_r_2_1_1_0]]</div><<set $b to 1>><<smLoss D4>>
<div id="texte">This bewildering scene possesses my whole being for an indefinable length of time, the time required for some form of acceptance. In any case, the rather peculiar form of dream I am now experiencing leaves me with few alternatives. Either I cut it short, for instance by throwing myself into that unfathomable void; or I find some symbolic form of exit capable of urging my mind awake; or I pass the time, my awakening in the real world then depending on the good will of a capable physician. These thoughts begin to relieve me somewhat, and to impress their authenticity firmly upon myself, I pinch myself with my nails until I draw blood. Nothing doing: the pain is as tangible and incisive as every ordeal already recorded by my body. Indeed, the tears left by the brambles, radiating through my legs, call me back to order, and the idea of leaping into the void already tempts me rather less.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">Only one choice:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $d is 1>> <<link "Mkae my way to the ceetmrey etarnnce">><<goto "c_3_r_2_1_2_2_3">><</link>> <<else>> <<link "Foollw the cmerteey bnrudoay in secrah of a way out">><<goto "c_3_r_2_1_1_1">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $a is 1 and $d is 0>> <<link "Fnid the ceetmrey kpeeer">><<goto "c_3_r_2_1_1_2">><</link>> <</if>> <<link "Leap into the void to escape this place">><<goto "c_3_r_2_1_1_3">><<set $b1 to 1>><</link>> </div> </div><</nobr>>
<div id="texte" class="melange">Rteahr tahn csros bcak tougrhh the wlid srcub, and gvien my lcak of lrdaanmks, I chosoe to fololw the tron egde, aritbrarliy tkiang to my lfet. I wlak taht way anolg a srot of ruarl sirtp of lnad, hgih wtih garss, auobt six feet wdie. Aetfr a few meiutns, I apccet the ieda taht the cut ptaealu msut be cralcuir, and taht if I cnuointe I may wlel end up flnialg bcak on my septs. Elutnvelay, the sritp dpors dwon in a solpe taword a stioecn of aapshlt raod, istlef tron aawy on my rhigt and cutnnionig to the lfet. On the ohetr sdie of the raod, notinhg: the viod... I ddceie to tkae tihs rutoe. The cut is now lses raluegr and fwlolos the reteillvay wdinnig cousre of the raod. I mkae out a whrgout-iorn fcene erngeimg sduenldy form a wlid tkeciht and rnnunig anolg the ridsaode in the diceitorn I am wakinlg. Ngiht sitll reings wthiin the ielst, and the gary csat by iifinnte sapce gertlay adis my prgsroes. Soon atfwrraed, I gipmlse the ahrwcay of an oepn gtae in the eusncolre, ginivg acecss to a slaml, peavd ctyorruad. On the scelicrmie foermd by the ecrannte vluat, as tgohuh cislheed itno mleialtc lcae, are iesirncbd the wdros “Beakr Serett Ceermety.” The cratuyord galems crimnae in the lihgt csat by the rdduy golw of the wonwdis in a bnluidig snatding at its ceetnr.</div><div id="continuer">[[Cnitnuoe->c_3_r_3]]</div> <<set $d to 1>>
<div id="texte">Once more, I enter the dominion of an eternal night.</div><div id="continuer">[[Cuontine->c_3_r_2_2_1]]</div>
<div id="texte">I move closer to the edge, testing the firmness of the ground with my foot, still undecided. It is indeed the void that opens beneath me, spread there into infinity. I bend my knees and sweep my hands through the grass in search of a relatively heavy object. My fingers close on a branch, which I release nonchalantly, my arm extended above the abyss. It falls... simply, whirling with a gravity entirely normal in every respect. I can no longer make it out. I straighten, finish convincing myself of the nature of this dream, and swallow. //It cannot be otherwise//, I tell myself, //or my mind has no place left in this madness//. I take a running start and leap as far as I can to put distance between myself and the fringe of asphalt. A liberating howl tears from my throat as I plunge into a vertiginous fall. Almost at once I pass beyond the prodigious thickness of the earthen monolith; the warm rush of air envelops my whole body as though to bear me up. As my senses absorb the full strangeness of the experience, I see with horror one of the opalescent creatures corkscrewing toward me. It dives beneath me as if to intercept my fall, undulating along its entire length. Nothing I do can avert the inevitable collision between its gaping maw and my flailing body. My cry ends in the snap of its sculptural, iridescent reptilian jaws. Pain sets every inch of my flesh ablaze as light consumes my retina—then the blast of a foghorn tears me from the waking nightmare.</div><<nobr>> <div id="continuer"> <<if $j is 1>> [[Continue->not_3]] <<elseif $victime2 is "Jessica Mendhil" and $cible08 is 100>> [[Continue->jess_10]] <<else>> [[Continue->c_3_j_1]] <</if>> </div> <<set $day to 3>><<smLoss D4>><<if $def1 is 0>><<set $def1 to 1>><</if>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte" class="melange">I tkae the ltitle whtie-gvrael ptah benihd me. Its stragiht cuorse awllos me to mkae my way trhough an ernite bclok of gvears agreanrd in an enatgleod qalnaagurdur oedrr.</div><div id="continuer">[[Cinotnue->c_3_r_2_2_1]]</div><<echoesTxt "c_2_r_2_2">>
<div id="texte" class="melange">Scattered with open flowers.</div><div id="continuer">[[Ctonniue->c_3_r_2_2_1_1]]</div><<echoesTxt "c_2_r_2_2_1">>
<div id="texte" class="melange">With leaves and spearheads.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec" class="melange">I want to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $bag neq 0 and $mer neq 0 and ($kov neq 0 or $sis neq 0) and $victime2 neq "Jessica Mendhil" and $cible08 neq 100>> [[Try to eetnr->c_3_r_5]] <<else>> [[Try to etner->c_3_r_3_1]] <</if>> [[Walk around the building ->c_3_r_2_2_1_1_1]] </div> </div><<echoesTxt "c_2_r_2_2_1_1">><</nobr>>
<div id="texte">I circle the building by taking to the right. The courtyard is broad and extends toward the rear to join an open gate in the enclosure, closed off by pointed bars. A small commemorative monument, set off to the side near me, stands between the building and the gate; on the dark marble an epitaph is engraved: “//1st U.S. Infantry Division. 1917–1918//” There follows a list of some hundred names arranged in two columns. On the semicircle formed by the vault of the gate, <<if $bak > 1>>I easily recognize the characters from the entrance to West Roxbury Cemetery.<<else>>I manage to decipher, chiseled into metallic lace, the reversed characters “yretemeC teertS rekaB”—Baker Street Cemetery.<</if>> The house has no other exit and turns its back on the entrance to the cemetery. Beyond the fence, a wet asphalt road disappears into the near horizon beneath a sheet of luminous gray mist.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">At this moment I wish to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $bag neq 0 and $mer neq 0 and ($kov neq 0 or $sis neq 0) and $victime2 neq "Jessica Mendhil" and $cible08 neq 100>> [[Try to get itno the huose->c_3_r_5]] <<else>> [[Try to get itno the huose->c_3_r_3_1]] <</if>> <<if $b is 1>> [[Draw closer to the edge of the world ->c_3_r_2_2_1_1_1_2]] <<else>> [[Leave this place and return home ->c_3_r_2_2_1_1_1_1]] <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>><<if $bak is 0>><<set $bak to 1>><</if>>
<div id="texte">As I cross the wrought-iron arcade with a firm stride, the clouds vanish in an instant to give way to a celestial auroral light and... the void. My breath stops dead... My eyes widen and my mouth draws taut with strain like a bow ready to loose its cry; my body twists and resists its own momentum, I skid, flail for balance, and end up on all fours at the edge of the sidewalk. [img[data/media/img/poisson_front.jpg]] The spectacle unfolding before my eyes defies even the oldest myths, whose outworn certainties could not survive the world as apprehended through the prism of the most enlightened minds. Even the most unbridled imagination could not have engendered such a syncretism of credibility, belief, dreams, and nightmares, in this vision my senses transcribe with a pernicious exactitude, as only madness can produce. The scene ends there, a few strides away, cleanly torn all along the road passing before me, like a model reaching the edge of a table, surrounded by the monochrome of an ashen-gray void. Other scattered masses hover in that void at varying distances, true fragments of a known earth whose crust has been dislocated, each one furnished with both natural and artificial reliefs, with portions of countryside and towns of varying extent. The dimensions of the whole are dizzying, and this apparently spherical space proves to encompass the very fragment on which I stand. And, as though to mottle the composition of this grandiose tableau, I discern a phantasmagoric ballet animated by celestial creatures: tortuous monsters of diaphanous, luminescent flesh, gliding through the air as through a sea. My mind bends beneath every conjecture while, with my back to the night, I stand upon the threshold of dawn.</div> <div id="continuer">[[Hallucinate->c_3_r_2_2_1_1_1_1_0]]</div> <<set $b to 1>><<smLoss D4>>
<div id="texte">This bewildering scene possesses my whole being for an indefinable length of time, long enough for some form of acceptance. In any case, the rather peculiar form of dream I am now experiencing leaves me with few alternatives. Either I cut it short, for instance by throwing myself into that unfathomable void, a symbolic form of exit capable of urging my mind awake, or I pass the time, my awakening in the real world then depending on the good offices of a capable physician. These thoughts allow me to put matters in perspective and consider this captivity from a new angle, pushing back the dull despair that is tightening around me little by little.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I have no other choice but to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<link "Leap into the void to escape this place maudit">><<goto "c_3_r_2_2_1_1_1_1_1">><<set $b1 to 1>><</link>> <<if $bag neq 0 and $mer neq 0 and ($kov neq 0 or $sis neq 0) and $victime2 neq "Jessica Mendhil" and $cible08 neq 100>> <<link "Haed bcak to the hsoue">><<goto "c_3_r_5">><</link>> <<else>> <<link "Haed bcak to the hsoue">><<goto "c_3_r_3_1">><</link>> <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>>
<div id="texte">I make my way across the road in slow, hesitant steps, its surface gleaming with damp.. I move closer to the edge, testing the firmness of the ground with my foot. It is indeed the void that opens beneath me, spread there into infinity. I bend my knees and run my hand over the rough ground. My fingers close on a stone, which I release nonchalantly, my arm extended above the abyss. It falls and quickly vanishes into the gray wash. I straighten, finish convincing myself of the nature of this dream, and swallow. //It cannot be otherwise//, I tell myself, //or my mind has no place left in this madness//. I take a running start and leap as far as I can to put distance between myself and the fringe of asphalt. A liberating howl tears from my throat as I plunge into a vertiginous fall. Almost at once I pass beyond the prodigious thickness of the earthen monolith; the warm rush of air envelops my whole body as though to bear me up. As my senses absorb the full strangeness of the experience, I see with horror one of the opalescent creatures corkscrewing toward me. It dives beneath me as if to intercept my fall, undulating along its entire length. Nothing I do can avert the inevitable collision between its gaping maw and my flailing body. My cry ends in the snap of its sculptural, iridescent reptilian jaws. Pain sets every inch of my flesh ablaze as light consumes my retina. Then, the blast of a foghorn tears me from the waking nightmare.</div><<nobr>> <<if $j is 1>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->not_3]]</div> <<elseif $victime2 is "Jessica Mendhil" and $cible08 is 100>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->jess_10]]</div> <<else>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_3_j_1]]</div> <</if>> <<smLoss D4>><<set $day to 3>><<if $def1 is 0>><<set $def1 to 1>><</if>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">I cross the wrought-iron arcade; the clouds vanish in an instant to give way to a celestial auroral light, and it is almost without surprise that I discover the void. The scene ends there, a few strides away, cleanly torn all along the road passing before me like an unfinished model. The hope of finding another way out, whatever it might be, gives way to an intense feeling of isolation in this place that holds me prisoner.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I have no other choice but to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<link "Leap into that unfathomable void">><<goto "c_3_r_2_2_1_1_1_1_1">><<set $b1 to 1>><</link>> <<if $bag neq 0 and $mer neq 0 and ($kov neq 0 or $sis neq 0) and $victime2 neq "Jessica Mendhil" and $cible08 neq 100>> [[Haed bcak to the huose->c_3_r_5]] <<else>> [[Haed bcak to the huose->c_3_r_3_1]] <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>>
<div id="texte">With leaf and spearhead motifs.</div><<if $bag neq 0 and $mer neq 0 and ($kov neq 0 or $sis neq 0) and $victime2 neq "Jessica Mendhil" and $cible08 neq 100>><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_3_r_5]]</div><<else>><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_3_r_3_1]]</div><</if>>
<<if $victime2 neq "Jessica Mendhil" and $cible08 neq 100>><div id="texte">I approach, climb the few steps to the entrance, grasp the door knocker by the ring threaded through a satyr’s nostrils, and strike hard three times. The door opens of its own accord onto a vestibule richly hung with draperies and Renaissance-style paintings. I cross the threshold cautiously.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">Two ways out lie open to me:</span> <div id="selection"> [[Climb the stairs->c_3_r_3_2]] [[Cross the curtain wall to the right->c_3_r_3_1_2]] </div> </div><</nobr>> <<else>> <div id="texte">I approach, climb the few steps to the entrance, grasp the door knocker by the ring threaded through a satyr’s nostrils, and strike hard three times. The door flies open with a tremendous crash and astonishing violence!</div> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->jess_10]] </div><<set $day to 3>> <</if>><<audio "woosh" play>>
<div id="texte">I pass through a curtain of red brocade embroidered with gold thread and enter a large rococo parlor dotted with exotic touches. A raffia palm stands in a pot in the far corner, its fronds spreading across part of the wall and spilling over an ebony-framed screen faced with embossed leather. The remaining walls hold a large oval mirror in a gilded frame, a painting of a nymph languorously sprawled across satin sheets, and three-branched copper candelabra casting a soft light. Around a circular sofa divided by a central backrest, three young female figures dance and whirl to the sinister music of a gramophone at the far end of the room. They have no faces. Like mannequins in a shop window, their hairless heads are smooth and polished, expressionless and empty of meaning. The atmosphere chills my blood as female voices intone ominous words over the music’s haunting rhythm: “Chosen of the drowned, beyond the tides, awaken the hearts of the damned. Let them feed upon the fruits of their spawn. And when the age of torpor reaches its height, of all their descendants you shall be executioner and shepherd. One sacrificed scion, for three defiled spirits...”</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">What manner to adopt?</span> <div id="selection"> [[Switch off the gramophone->c_3_r_3_1_2_1]] [[Leave the room and go upstairs->c_3_r_3_2]] <<if $b is 0>> [[Flee the house->c_3_r_3_1_2_3]] <</if>> </div> </div> <<smLoss D3>><<bg "data/media/img/backgrounds/bagrovyy.jpg" 20 30 20>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">Hell breaks loose the moment I gently lift the tonearm from the record. The figures begin spinning frantically as they burst into flame. Great tongues of fire race up their crackling dresses; their skin blisters and sizzles amid thick smoke and an unbearable stench. The ghastly auto-da-fe unleashes a ravenous blaze that spreads so rapidly it cuts off every possible escape. I stare in horror as the disaster engulfs the entire building. Without thinking, I hurl myself through the first wall of flame and force my way past the incandescent curtain separating me from the vestibule, my arms crossed before my face, only to find myself surrounded on all sides. Sweat pours from every pore beneath the crushing heat; I choke, and my vision blurs. My legs buckle beneath me, bringing me to my knees. My soul overwhelmed by anguish and the acrid furnace closing around my whole body, I cover my face, shake my head, and weep and scream at once, broken by the inferno.</div> <<nobr>> <<if $j is 1>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->not_3]]</div> <<elseif $victime2 is "Jessica Mendhil" and $cible08 is 100>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->jess_10]]</div> <<else>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_3_j_1]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>><<silently>><<smLoss D4>><</silently>> <<set $day to 3>>
<div id="texte">A latent madness seeps from the walls, and I lack the courage to confront it. Nothing allows me to foresee what may come next with any certainty, yet instinct already senses the unspeakable depravity the place has in store for me. When at last I leave the front steps, bathed in the crimson glow of this seat of Sheol, the sharp pain pulsing in my stomach betrays the visceral anguish gripping me so tightly that I can breathe only in spasms. Panting, I circle the building and make for the cemetery exit. I hurry across the broad courtyard stretching toward the rear, reach an open gate in an enclosure of pointed wrought-iron bars, pass a small commemorative monument, and cross the archway that has kept me from the outside world for so long. Hell lies behind me now. I glance back to make certain none of its demons are pursuing me and realize that the pall of darkness enveloping the cemetery has swallowed everything. Ahead, a bank of luminous gray mist borders a wet asphalt road and forms the distant horizon. I take a few steps, struggling to catch my breath, when the dense fog suddenly vanishes, giving way to a celestial auroral light and... the void. My eyes widen and my mouth draws taut with strain like a bow ready to loose its cry. My body twists against its own momentum; I skid, flail for balance, and end up on all fours at the edge of the sidewalk. [img[data/media/img/poisson_front.jpg]] The spectacle unfolding before my eyes defies even the oldest myths, whose outworn certainties could not survive the world as apprehended through the prism of the most enlightened minds. Even the wildest imagination could never have conceived such a fusion of the credible and the believed, of dreams and nightmares, in a vision my senses render with the pernicious precision only madness can produce. The scene ends a few strides ahead, cleanly torn away along the road before me, like a model reaching the edge of a table and surrounded by the monochrome of an ashen-gray void. Other scattered masses hover at varying distances: true fragments of a familiar earth whose crust has been torn apart, each bearing natural and man-made features, stretches of countryside, and towns of varying size. The scale of it all is dizzying, and this apparently spherical expanse seems to contain the very fragment on which I stand. And as though to mottle the composition of this grand tableau, I make out a phantasmagoric ballet of celestial creatures: writhing monsters of diaphanous, luminescent flesh, gliding through the air as through a sea. My mind buckles beneath every conjecture as, with my back to the night, I stand upon the threshold of dawn.</div> <div id="continuer">[[Hallucinate->c_3_r_3_1_2_3_0]]</div><<smLoss D8>>
<div id="texte">This staggering sight shatters the comforting prospect of returning home, along with every hope bound up in it. At that moment, the conviction that I am living through the worst of my nightmares while fully awake completes my helplessness before this succession of absurd events, drawing my thoughts into a spiral of unreason. It must end now. I break into a frantic run toward the edge of the abyss and leap as far as I can to put distance between myself and the fringe of asphalt. A liberating howl tears from my throat as I plunge into a vertiginous fall. Almost at once I pass beyond the prodigious thickness of the earthen monolith; the warm rush of air envelops my whole body. As my senses absorb the full strangeness of the experience, I see with horror one of the opalescent creatures corkscrewing toward me. It dives beneath me as if to intercept my fall, undulating along its entire length. Nothing I do can avert the inevitable collision between its gaping maw and my convulsing, flailing body. My cry ends in the snap of its sculptural, iridescent reptilian jaws. Pain sets every inch of my flesh ablaze as light consumes my retina. Then, the blast of a foghorn tears me from the waking nightmare.</div> <<nobr>> <<if $j is 1>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->not_3]]</div> <<elseif $victime2 is "Jessica Mendhil" and $cible08 is 100>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->jess_10]]</div> <<else>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_3_j_1]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>> <<set $day to 3>><<set $b1 to 1>><<if $def1 is 0>><<set $def1 to 1>><</if>>
<div id="texte">I climb the stairs to the upper floor. There, I step over a thin cord marking off the landing, then enter the corridor on the right. A heavy, humid heat now envelops the place, making the woodwork sweat. Eight doors line the corridor, all massive and identical in appearance. One of them creaks open, spilling a soft, wavering light across the threshold. After trying in vain to open one of the neighboring doors, I finally resign myself to accepting the invitation. I enter an austere room furnished only with a bookcase covering the rear wall and a desk at which a faceless man sits. The door closes softly behind me. <div style="width:200px;float:left; padding: 0 40px 0 0;">[img[data/media/img/portraits/alinovitch_lisse.jpg]]</div>He wears a black three-piece suit, its jacket buttoned neatly over a dark striped tie, while a white pocket square heightens the contrast. His smooth face ends in a strong, clean-cut jaw. He takes a thick volume bound in brown leather from one of the shelves and lays it on the desk. The grimoire-like book is stamped with a strange emblem: a star-shaped pentagram enclosing an eye-shaped oval whose pupil is a flame. The uncanny figure opens it to a two-page spread laid out like a register and mechanically runs one hooked finger down to the bottom of the page. Then the puppet slowly opens a desk drawer, takes out a Colt .38 automatic, and sets it before me. I have never handled a firearm, and I pick up the pistol awkwardly, with considerable apprehension. The figure waits, motionless. //Good God, what does it expect of me? To put a bullet through my head? Is that it? To bring this damned nightmare to an end?// Taking advantage of that oppressive presence’s immobility, I turn the register around and scan it quickly until I reach the line where my name appears in bold: [img[data/media/img/registre_reve_ENG.jpg]] There can be no further doubt: I am fundamentally bound to these names, all of them now familiar, all gathered to perform in this dreamlike masquerade, all actors upon this absurd stage. Deep down, I know that only one choice remains if I am to free myself from this chimera.</div><<if $kov is 0>><<set $kov to 1>><</if>> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I draw a deep breath and:</span> <div id="selection"> [[I take my own life->c_3_r_3_2_1]] [[I shoot the puppet in the head->c_3_r_3_2_2]] </div> </div><</nobr>><<set $d1 to 1>><<timed 17s>><<audio "maximilien_dark" play volume 0.3>><</timed>><<bg "data/media/img/backgrounds/alino_bag2.jpg" 30 40 30>>
<div id="texte">With a trembling hand, I press the barrel of the pistol to my temple. The instinctive gesture convinces me that this is the surest way to bring the dream to an end, to shock my mind awake, however violent the means. The puppet nods. The act is symbolic, yet I cannot confine my thoughts to the mere ending of this fiction. What if it is THE End? Anguish closes around my throat, and I swallow painfully. I steady my mind, apply the slightest pressure to the trigger, draw one more breath, and...</div> <center><<set _coreDef to 0>><<if $def1 is 1>><<set _coreDef += 1>><</if>><<if $def2 is 1>><<set _coreDef += 1>><</if>><<if $def3 is 1>><<set _coreDef += 1>><</if>><<if $def4 is 1>><<set _coreDef += 1>><</if>><<button "SHOOT">><<if _coreDef is 4>><<goto "final">><<else>><<goto "fin_reve">><</if>><<audio "bang" play>><</button>> </center>
<div id="texte">With a trembling hand, I aim the pistol at him. He does not react. I pull the trigger, and his head bursts like a ball of papier-mâché. I barely have time to grasp the full significance of that symbolic act before the world around me literally begins to break apart. My vision blurs, and mounting nausea seizes me as, one by one, my sensory bearings fade away.</div> <<nobr>> <<if $j is 1>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->not_3]]</div> <<elseif $victime2 is "Jessica Mendhil" and $cible08 is 100>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->jess_10]]</div> <<else>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_3_j_1]]</div> <</if>><<timed 3s>><<audio "bang" play>><</timed>><<set $day to 3>><<smGain D4>><</nobr>>
<div id="texte">My mother’s presence, and the accusatory note in her voice, instinctively draw me down the metal stairs. A storm is raging outside, and I am hurled violently from one bulkhead to the other. After crossing another gangway, I step into a vast cabin tangled with exposed beams, where I discover the three young women. Two of them are bustling around a water-filled barrel set there before them. They are pressing down on a bundle of cloth to keep it submerged, chanting impious words as part of an incantation: – One sacrificed scion, for three defiled spirits, they repeat tirelessly. The water boils, and circular jets begin spattering more and more violently. The eldest of the three sisters stands a little apart, watching the scene. In her hands she holds a thick book open; from her wrist hangs, at the end of a taut little chain, a small oval locket held ajar. One half reveals the yellowed portrait of a hard-featured old man, while the other, dark and embossed with indistinct patterns, seems to drink the light rather than reflect it. As their litany rises, the jewel begins to tap faintly against the leather of her sleeve, as though silently answering the call. At my approach, she turns toward me, one finger pressed to her lips in a summons to silence. At that very instant, with a mournful groan, the hull begins to creak, pinched and constricted by an invisible pressure, mingled with the cries of newborn babies. – What is happening, Amassia? I cannot help asking her. It is the youngest who calls out to me, her arms still buried in the flooded vat, her face drawn tight with hatred. – Cursed be you, and all your line! she cries to me. The Dybbuk shall drag you down into its lair and devour you. Bear witness to its work, and to the burden that is yours, ounce by ounce of hatred, until extinction! Her words are spat out like venom from the most virulent of serpents. The pressure on the hull increases until bolts and nuts begin to burst free one by one. Water jets in lively streams through every crack. I am forced to take cover from the sprays while the sisters exult in chorus, the water already up to their waists. I struggle mightily to force my way toward the stair, driving with my legs and thrashing through the flood. No sooner do I reach its threshold than the hatch gives way, and a torrent of foam comes pouring through to sweep me off. I fight with all my strength, trying to seize some hold, my throat flooding. I choke, thrash again, but it is already too late; crushed against the ceiling, I can no longer draw breath. My lungs catch fire in a panicked gurgle, and I sink into nothingness.</div><<nobr>> <div id="continuer"> <<if $j is 1>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->not_3]]</div> <<elseif $victime2 is "Jessica Mendhil" and $cible08 is 100>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->jess_10]]</div> <<else>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_3_j_1]]</div> <</if>> </div> <<set $day to 3>><<smLoss D4>><<set $sis_n to 1>><<set $hist += 1>><<if $dy is 0>><<set $dy to 1>><</if>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">I take the narrow white-gravel path behind me. Its straight course leads me through an entire block of graves laid out in an elongated rectangle. At last I reach the edge of the vegetation, where the path ends in a circular clearing with a granite basin at its center. I spot a shrub offering a handhold along the embankment, take a running start, and in one stride catch hold of one of its branches. I pull myself up onto the edge, one leg trailing behind, then pitch forward and brace myself on my free knee and both hands to keep from slipping. I continue along a strip of rough, grassy ground about six feet wide, bordered on my right by a screen of clustered young conifers. The earthen platform ends a few strides ahead, cleanly torn away, its surface seeming to form an island adrift in the monochrome of an ashen-gray void. Other scattered masses hover at varying distances: fragments of a familiar earth whose crust has been wrenched apart, each bearing natural and man-made features, stretches of countryside, and towns of varying size. As though to mottle the composition of this grand tableau, I discern a phantasmagoric ballet of celestial creatures—writhing monsters of diaphanous, luminescent flesh gliding through the air as through a sea. I move closer to the edge, testing the firmness of the ground with my foot, then take a running start and leap as far as I can to put distance between myself and the fringe of asphalt. A liberating howl tears from my throat as I plunge into a vertiginous fall. I quickly pass beyond the prodigious depth of the earthen monolith; the warm rush of air envelops my whole body as though to sustain me. As my senses take in the full strangeness of the experience, I notice with horror one of the opalescent creatures corkscrewing toward me. It dives lower as if to intercept my fall, undulating along its entire length. Nothing I do can avert the inevitable collision between its gaping maw and my flailing body. My cry ends in the snap of its sculptural, iridescent reptilian jaws. Pain sets all my flesh ablaze as light consumes my retina, until the blast of a foghorn tears me from the waking nightmare.</div> <<nobr>> <<if $j is 1>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->not_3]]</div> <<elseif $victime2 is "Jessica Mendhil" and $cible08 is 100>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->jess_10]]</div> <<else>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_3_j_1]]</div> <</if>> <<set $day to 3>> <<smLoss D4>><<if $def1 is 0>><<set $def1 to 1>><</if>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">I approach, climb the few steps to the threshold, grasp the door knocker by the ring threaded through the satyr’s nostrils, and strike it hard twice. After a few moments, an ornately shaped sliding hatch opens at eye level. Copper mesh covers the opening, which is just wide enough to frame a familiar gaze beneath mascara-darkened lashes, eyelids brushed with deep violet shadow and outlined in kohl. – What can I do for you, sir? she asks. – Good evening, Alanna. – I do not recall knowing you, sir. Should I? – Not yet, unfortunately. I pause before explaining what I have come to ask.</div> <<nobr>> <div class="dialogue"> <div id="dial_port"> [img[data/media/img/portraits/alanna.jpg]] </div> <div id="dial_choise"> <<if $sis neq 0>> [[– I wish to meet Amassia, Igal and Gaddiel->c_3_r_5_1]] <</if>> <<if $kov neq 0>> [[– I wish to meet Alinovitch Kovaleski->c_3_r_5_2]] <<elseif $s is 1>> [[– I demand to see your employer->c_3_r_5_2]] <</if>> </div> </div><<audio "woosh" play>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">The hatch slams shut behind me with a hiss, and the wheel spins to seal the panel, its grating admitting no more than a thread of pale moonlight from outside. The space I enter is lined with metal and timber, trapping a heavy, humid heat. The gangway stretching before me sways from side to side as I plant my feet more firmly to keep my balance. Alanna stands rigidly upright and gestures for me to descend into the ship’s hold: – Welcome aboard the Fairburn, sir. We will dock at Harbor tomorrow morning. Tonight you will witness His awakening, she tells me in a weary tone. – Well... I begin. I clear my throat, as though to give myself some semblance of assurance. I do not remember boarding any ship. The Fairburn, you say? Where have we come from? – Rotterdam, sir. We sailed on the evening of April 3 and have been under way for more than two months. They have borne the fruits of the Master’s seed and now return them to Him for the glory of His manifestation. Go on, sir, she insists, indicating the stairs. – Wait, wait, I stammer. I cannot make head or tail of your ravings. You mean the Zemaria sisters? – Daughters of Orane, she replies. Move along now.</div><div id="continuer">[[Go down->c_3_r_3_5_1_1]]</div><<set $fair to 1>><<bg "data/media/img/backgrounds/fairburn.jpg" 20 30 20>><<timed 3s>><<audio "cale01" play volume 0.6>><</timed>>
<div id="texte">The hatch slams shut behind me with a hiss, and the wheel spins to seal the panel, its grating admitting no more than a thread of pale moonlight from outside. The space I enter is lined with metal and timber, trapping a heavy, humid heat. The gangway stretching before me sways from side to side as I plant my feet more firmly to keep my balance. Alanna stands rigidly upright and gestures for me to climb toward the deck: – Welcome aboard the Fairburn, sir. We will dock at Harbor tomorrow morning. I clear my throat, as though to give myself some semblance of assurance. – I do not remember boarding any ship. The Fairburn, you say? Where have we come from? – Rotterdam, sir. We sailed on the evening of April 3 and have been under way for more than two months. The Master awaits the birth of the fruits of His seed, for the glory of His manifestation. Go on, sir, she insists, indicating the stairs. – Wait, wait, I stammer. I cannot make head or tail of your ravings. When you say “the Master,” do you mean <<if $kov neq 0>>Kovaleski?<<else>>your employer?<</if>> – Master and Slave Alinovitch Kovaleski, she answers. Move along now.</div> <div id="continuer">[[Go up->c_3_r_5_2_1]]</div> <<set $fair to 1>><<if $kov is 0>><<set $kov to 1>><</if>>
<div id="all"><div id="texte">My mother’s presence, coupled with her vindictive tone, naturally drives me up the metal stairs at the end of the gangway. After passing through a succession of hatches, she respectfully ushers me into the captain’s cabin, then withdraws on soundless feet. I enter an austere room furnished only with a bookcase covering the rear wall and a desk at which an elderly man is seated. The hatch closes softly behind me. The man lets out an unpleasant laugh, baring every tooth in a grin: – Maximilien, you mutinous one... Is good corn not meant to flourish in the plot of earth set aside for it? – There is no mutiny without the manure it deserves, I retort. – Make your little witticisms while you still have them, Mr. Cornwell. Go on. Try now, without your organ, he says, roaring with laughter.</div> <div class="dialogue"><div id="dial_port">[img[data/media/img/portraits/alinovitch.jpg]]</div><div id="dial_choise"><<link "– ?????">><</link>> <<link "– ?????">><</link>> <<link "– ?????">><</link>></div></div></div> <<timed 40s>> <<replace "#all">><div id="all"><div id="texte">– Try... to find meaning... Are you still quite at ease, Mr. Cornwell?</div><<smLoss D4>><<script>>UIBar.stow();<</script>> <div class="dialogue"><div id="dial_port">[img[data/media/img/portraits/alinovitch.jpg]]</div><div id="dial_choise"><<link "– !!!!!">><</link>> <<link "– !!!!!">><</link>> <<link "– !!!!!">><</link>></div></div></div><</replace>> <</timed>> <<timed 48s>> <<replace "#all">><div id="all"><div id="texte">– Can you hear me? Can you still see me? Your mind is His world. You belong to Him!</div> <div class="dialogue"><div id="dial_port">[img[data/media/img/portraits/alinovitch_lisse.jpg]]</div><div id="dial_choise"><<link "– ...">><</link>> <<link "– ...">><</link>> <<link "– ...">><</link>></div></div></div><</replace>> <</timed>> <<timed 56s>> <<replace "#all">><div id="all"><div id="texte">– Too late for me, too late for you. He is waking. Now go! Go and feed His earth!</div><<smLoss D4>> <div class="dialogue"><div id="dial_port">[img[data/media/img/portraits/alinovitch_lisse.jpg]]</div></div></div><</replace>> <</timed>> <<timed 66s>> <<script>>UIBar.unstow();<</script>> <<if $j is 1>> <<goto "not_3">> <<elseif $victime2 is "Jessica Mendhil" and $cible08 is 100>> <<goto "jess_10">> <<else>> <<goto "c_3_j_1">> <</if>> <</timed>><<set $d1 to 1>><<set $day to 3>><<set $vj to 1>>
<div id="texte"> The sensation of soft ground in which I am sinking. An icy dampness soaks my clothes, trickles down, and seeps through the pores of my skin. My heart races...</div><div id="continuer">[[Ctinonue->c_3_rs_1_1]]</div>
<div id="texte">I struggle upright, slipping several times before coming to rest against a seeping wall. Only the faint glow of the moon, strained through the cloudy sky, manages to carve a perfect rectangle into the hollow where I stand. The ways out of this quagmire are pitifully few... I seize one of the thicker clumps of roots and try to haul myself high enough to catch the edge, where a thin fringe of grass grows. I cannot reach any purchase. My fingers slip on the wet grass, and at last the jutting roots give way. I fall backward and sprawl in the muck. Prostrate beneath a fine rain that finishes stripping me bare, I sniff involuntarily between each shudder of my captive body. Then I perceive what seems to be a low rumble rising from the center of the excavation, swelling as the earth begins to tremble. I push myself upright at once, alert, my heart pounding. The sound grows clearer and becomes a bellowing: an amalgam of many sepulchral voices which, in impious unison, evoke the gargling of a chthonic entity. I am paralyzed, daring to breathe only in ragged bursts. It rises faster and faster toward the grave that holds me captive, and its torpid modulation gradually sinks me into a pleasant apathy, to which I surrender with intoxicated abandon. The whole world hums sweetly. Serene, I take the trouble to lie down and await the Charon who will carry me beyond my torments. A mass of worms carpeting the trembling ground swells as though cast up from the bowels of the earth, sliding and creeping beneath my body to caress it in waves... All my flesh suddenly begins to boil, as though a thousand volcanoes were erupting through the pores of my skin. I writhe in the earth, screaming under the assault of an agony beyond words...</div> <<if $cible08 is 100 >>Visions of carnage, slaughter, and destruction force themselves upon my mind amid this infernal torment. I scream again, no longer in pain but in rage, consumed by an unquenchable thirst for blood. I lurch upright, eyes wide; I see red and hurl myself at her. <div id="continuer">[[Attack->jess_10]]</div><<set $day to 3>> <<else>><div id="continuer"><<link "Awaken">><<goto "appart_j_3">><<set $day += 1>><<set $vj to 1>><<set $victime2 to 0>><</link>></div><</if>><<timed 20s>><<audio "oogr" play>><</timed>>
<div style="max-width:300px; margin:0 auto">[img[data/media/img/vision.gif]]</div> <<nobr>> <<set $cumail to 0>><<set $puzz_c to 1>><<set $puzz_u to 1>><<set $puzz_m to 1>><<set $puzz_a to 1>><<set $puzz_i to 1>><<set $puzz_l to 1>> <div id="continuer" style="font-size:140%"> <div id="i" class="lettres_cum"> <<button "Ï">> <<if $puzz_i is 1>> <<set $puzz_m to 2>><<set $puzz_a to 2>><<set $puzz_l to 2>><<set $puzz_u to 2>><<set $puzz_c to 2>> <<replace ".1">>Ï<</replace>> <<replace "#i">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_i is 2>> <<set $puzz_m to 3>><<set $puzz_a to 3>><<set $puzz_l to 3>><<set $puzz_u to 3>><<set $puzz_c to 3>> <<replace ".2">>Ï<</replace>> <<replace "#i">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_i is 3>> <<set $puzz_m to 4>><<set $puzz_a to 4>><<set $puzz_l to 4>><<set $puzz_u to 4>><<set $puzz_c to 4>> <<replace ".3">>Ï<</replace>> <<replace "#i">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_i is 4>> <<set $puzz_m to 5>><<set $puzz_a to 5>><<set $puzz_l to 5>><<set $puzz_u to 5>><<set $puzz_c to 5>> <<replace ".4">>Ï<</replace>> <<replace "#i">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_i is 5>> <<set $cumail += 1>><<set $puzz_m to 6>><<set $puzz_a to 6>><<set $puzz_l to 6>><<set $puzz_u to 6>><<set $puzz_c to 6>> <<replace ".5">>Ï<</replace>> <<replace "#i">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_i is 6>> <<replace ".6">>Ï<</replace>> <<replace "#i">><</replace>> <<if $cumail neq 6>><<goto "c_3_j_1">><<audio "infernale" fadeout>><</if>> <</if>> <</button>> </div> <div id="m" class="lettres_cum"> <<button "M">> <<if $puzz_m is 1>> <<set $puzz_i to 2>><<set $puzz_a to 2>><<set $puzz_l to 2>><<set $puzz_u to 2>><<set $puzz_c to 2>> <<replace ".1">>M<</replace>> <<replace "#m">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_m is 2>> <<set $puzz_i to 3>><<set $puzz_a to 3>><<set $puzz_l to 3>><<set $puzz_u to 3>><<set $puzz_c to 3>> <<replace ".2">>M<</replace>> <<replace "#m">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_m is 3>> <<set $cumail += 1>><<set $puzz_i to 4>><<set $puzz_a to 4>><<set $puzz_l to 4>><<set $puzz_u to 4>><<set $puzz_c to 4>> <<replace ".3">>M<</replace>> <<replace "#m">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_m is 4>> <<set $puzz_i to 5>><<set $puzz_a to 5>><<set $puzz_l to 5>><<set $puzz_u to 5>><<set $puzz_c to 5>> <<replace ".4">>M<</replace>> <<replace "#m">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_m is 5>> <<set $puzz_i to 6>><<set $puzz_a to 6>><<set $puzz_l to 6>><<set $puzz_u to 6>><<set $puzz_c to 6>> <<replace ".5">>M<</replace>> <<replace "#m">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_m is 6>> <<replace ".6">>M<</replace>> <<replace "#m">><</replace>> <<if $cumail neq 6>><<goto "c_3_j_1">><<audio "infernale" fadeout>><</if>> <</if>> <</button>> </div> <div id="a" class="lettres_cum"> <<button "A">> <<if $puzz_a is 1>> <<set $puzz_i to 2>><<set $puzz_m to 2>><<set $puzz_l to 2>><<set $puzz_u to 2>><<set $puzz_c to 2>> <<replace ".1">>A<</replace>> <<replace "#a">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_a is 2>> <<set $puzz_i to 3>><<set $puzz_m to 3>><<set $puzz_l to 3>><<set $puzz_u to 3>><<set $puzz_c to 3>> <<replace ".2">>A<</replace>> <<replace "#a">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_a is 3>> <<set $puzz_m to 4>><<set $puzz_i to 4>><<set $puzz_l to 4>><<set $puzz_u to 4>><<set $puzz_c to 4>> <<replace ".3">>A<</replace>> <<replace "#a">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_a is 4>> <<set $cumail += 1>><<set $puzz_i to 5>><<set $puzz_m to 5>><<set $puzz_l to 5>><<set $puzz_u to 5>><<set $puzz_c to 5>> <<replace ".4">>A<</replace>> <<replace "#a">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_a is 5>> <<set $puzz_i to 6>><<set $puzz_m to 6>><<set $puzz_l to 6>><<set $puzz_u to 6>><<set $puzz_c to 6>> <<replace ".5">>A<</replace>> <<replace "#a">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_a is 6>> <<replace ".6">>A<</replace>> <<replace "#a">><</replace>> <<if $cumail neq 6>><<goto "c_3_j_1">><<audio "infernale" fadeout>><</if>> <</if>> <</button>> </div> <div id="l" class="lettres_cum"> <<button "L">> <<if $puzz_l is 1>> <<set $puzz_i to 2>><<set $puzz_m to 2>><<set $puzz_a to 2>><<set $puzz_u to 2>><<set $puzz_c to 2>> <<replace ".1">>L<</replace>> <<replace "#l">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_l is 2>> <<set $puzz_i to 3>><<set $puzz_m to 3>><<set $puzz_a to 3>><<set $puzz_u to 3>><<set $puzz_c to 3>> <<replace ".2">>L<</replace>> <<replace "#l">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_l is 3>> <<set $puzz_m to 4>><<set $puzz_i to 4>><<set $puzz_a to 4>><<set $puzz_u to 4>><<set $puzz_c to 4>> <<replace ".3">>L<</replace>> <<replace "#l">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_l is 4>> <<set $puzz_i to 5>><<set $puzz_m to 5>><<set $puzz_a to 5>><<set $puzz_u to 5>><<set $puzz_c to 5>> <<replace ".4">>L<</replace>> <<replace "#l">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_l is 5>> <<set $puzz_i to 6>><<set $puzz_m to 6>><<set $puzz_a to 6>><<set $puzz_u to 6>><<set $puzz_c to 6>> <<replace ".5">>L<</replace>> <<replace "#l">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_l is 6>> <<set $cumail += 1>> <<replace ".6">>L<</replace>> <<replace "#l">><</replace>> <<if $cumail is 6>> <<replace ".soluce">><<link "CUMAÏL">><<goto "cumail">><<set $mid2_nom to 4>><<smGain D10>><</link>><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $cumail neq>><<goto "c_3_j_1">><<audio "infernale" fadeout>><</if>> <</if>> <</button>> </div> <div id="u" class="lettres_cum"> <<button "U">> <<if $puzz_u is 1>> <<set $puzz_i to 2>><<set $puzz_m to 2>><<set $puzz_a to 2>><<set $puzz_l to 2>><<set $puzz_c to 2>> <<replace ".1">>U<</replace>> <<replace "#u">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_u is 2>> <<set $cumail += 1>><<set $puzz_i to 3>><<set $puzz_m to 3>><<set $puzz_a to 3>><<set $puzz_l to 3>><<set $puzz_c to 3>> <<replace ".2">>U<</replace>> <<replace "#u">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_u is 3>> <<set $puzz_m to 4>><<set $puzz_i to 4>><<set $puzz_a to 4>><<set $puzz_l to 4>><<set $puzz_c to 4>> <<replace ".3">>U<</replace>> <<replace "#u">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_u is 4>> <<set $puzz_i to 5>><<set $puzz_m to 5>><<set $puzz_a to 5>><<set $puzz_l to 5>><<set $puzz_c to 5>> <<replace ".4">>U<</replace>> <<replace "#u">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_u is 5>> <<set $puzz_i to 6>><<set $puzz_m to 6>><<set $puzz_a to 6>><<set $puzz_l to 6>><<set $puzz_c to 6>> <<replace ".5">>U<</replace>> <<replace "#u">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_u is 6>> <<replace ".6">>U<</replace>> <<replace "#u">><</replace>> <<if $cumail neq 6>><<goto "c_3_j_1">><<audio "infernale" fadeout>><</if>> <</if>> <</button>> </div> <div id="c" class="lettres_cum"> <<button "C">> <<if $puzz_c is 1>> <<set $cumail += 1>><<set $puzz_i to 2>><<set $puzz_m to 2>><<set $puzz_a to 2>><<set $puzz_l to 2>><<set $puzz_u to 2>> <<replace ".1">>C<</replace>> <<replace "#c">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_c is 2>> <<set $puzz_i to 3>><<set $puzz_m to 3>><<set $puzz_a to 3>><<set $puzz_l to 3>><<set $puzz_u to 3>> <<replace ".2">>C<</replace>> <<replace "#c">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_c is 3>> <<set $puzz_i to 4>><<set $puzz_m to 4>><<set $puzz_a to 4>><<set $puzz_l to 4>><<set $puzz_u to 4>> <<replace ".3">>C<</replace>> <<replace "#c">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_c is 4>> <<set $puzz_i to 5>><<set $puzz_m to 5>><<set $puzz_a to 5>><<set $puzz_l to 5>><<set $puzz_u to 5>> <<replace ".4">>C<</replace>> <<replace "#c">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_c is 5>> <<set $puzz_i to 6>><<set $puzz_m to 6>><<set $puzz_a to 6>><<set $puzz_l to 6>><<set $puzz_u to 6>> <<replace ".5">>C<</replace>> <<replace "#c">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_c is 6>> <<replace ".6">>C<</replace>> <<replace "#c">><</replace>> <<if $cumail neq 6>><<goto "c_3_j_1">><<audio "infernale" fadeout>><</if>> <</if>> <</button>> </div> </div> <div id="continuer" class="soluce" style="font-size:140%"> <span id="ecrit_cum" class="1"></span><span id="ecrit_cum" class="2"></span><span id="ecrit_cum" class="3"></span><span id="ecrit_cum" class="4"></span><span id="ecrit_cum" class="5"></span><span id="ecrit_cum" class="6"></span></div> <<set $victime2 to 0>><<set $cible08 to 0>> <div id="continuer"><<link "Start over">><<goto "c_3_rso_1">><<smLoss D10>><</link>></div><<audio "infernale" play>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">The void... From its conceit my confidence is sown, like a stillborn child drawn from the very center of its flesh, senselessly...</div> <<nobr>> <<if setup.salt.sleepActive()>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_3_t_rs_1]]</div> <<else>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_3_t_0]]</div> <<if $victime2 is "Jessica Mendhil" and $meurtre is 2>><<set $jess to 100>> <</if>> <</if>> <<audio "reve" play>><<silently>><<set $vj to 0>><<set $act += 5>><<set $reve to 1>><<set $dream to 3>><</silently>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte"><span class="melange">The soisntaen of sfot gournd in wcihh I am siknnig. An icy dpnasems sokas my clthoes, terilkcs dwon, and sepes tgohruh the proes of my sikn. </span>Her heart races...—Telma—.</div><div id="continuer">[[Cnoitnue->c_3_t_1]]</div>
<div id="texte" class="melange">My thoughts overlap; I struggle to keep them lucid. None of this makes any sense. I want to help her...</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec" class="melange">As though I had a choice.</span> <div id="selection"> [[Continue->c_3_t_2]] </div> </div><</nobr>>
<div id="texte" class="melange">I perceive the emanation of her innocent soul. It fouls my world.</div><div id="continuer">[[I do not wish to continue->c_3_t_3]]</div>
<div id="texte" class="melange">I perceive a thousand echoes, each with a thousand legs, pouring like a twisting river into a bottomless well of resentment and hatred.</div><div id="continuer">[[I will not->c_3_t_4]]</div>
<div id="texte" class="melange">Vitality visage veering vision vitality viscera virginal vitality victim visitation violation vitality virtuoso vice viral vitality virile visible virtual vitality void vitality void vitality void vitality void vitality void vitality void vitality void vitality void vitality void vitality void vitality void vitality void...</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec" class="melange">— Telma —</span> <div id="selection"> <<link "I wish to sleep">><<goto "telma_1">><<silently>><<if $day is 1>><<set $day to 2>><<elseif $day is 2>><<set $day to 3>><<elseif $day is 3>><<set $day to 4>><</if>><</silently>><</link>> <<link "I wish to wake">><<goto "telma_2">><<silently>><<if $day is 1>><<set $day to 2>><<elseif $day is 2>><<set $day to 3>><<elseif $day is 3>><<set $day to 4>><</if>><</silently>><</link>> </div> </div><</nobr>>
<div id="texte"><span class="melange">The soisntaen of sfot gournd in wcihh I am siknnig.</span> —no, no—the feel of soft ground—that is it—sinking beneath me. <span class="melange"> An icy dpnasems sokas my clthoes,</span> —soaking, the dampness is soaking through my clothes— <span class="melange">terilkcs dwon, and sepes tgohruh the proes of my sikn.</span> —there is no dampness—Someone is shaking me—let go of me!—My heart races...</div><div id="continuer">[[Conitnue->c_3_t_rs_2]]</div>
<center><div id="max"></div></center> <div id="continuer" class="switch"></div> <<nobr>> <<timed 2s>><<shaketarget "#max" 0.2s>><</timed>> <<timed 4s>><<shaketarget "#max" 0.3s>><</timed>> <<timed 6s>><<shaketarget "#max" 0.5s>><</timed>> <<timed 1s>> <<replace "#max">> <span style="font-size:10%">M a x</span> <</replace>> <</timed>> <<timed 2s>> <<replace "#max">> <span style="font-size:60%">Max</span> <</replace>> <</timed>> <<timed 3s>> <<replace "#max">> <span style="font-size:100%">M a x</span> <</replace>> <</timed>> <<timed 4s>> <<replace "#max">> <span style="font-size:150%">Max</span> <</replace>> <</timed>> <<timed 5s>> <<replace "#max">> <span style="font-size:210%">M a x</span> <</replace>> <</timed>> <<timed 6s>> <<replace "#max">> <span style="font-size:300%">Mr. Cornwell!</span> <</replace>> <<timed 1s>> <<goto "telma_3">> <<silently>><<if $day is 1>><<set $day to 2>><<elseif $day is 2>><<set $day to 3>><<elseif $day is 3>><<set $day to 4>><</if>><</silently>> <</timed>> <</timed>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">The void...</div> <<nobr>> <<set _coreDef to 0>> <<if $def1 is 1>><<set _coreDef += 1>><</if>> <<if $def2 is 1>><<set _coreDef += 1>><</if>> <<if $def3 is 1>><<set _coreDef += 1>><</if>> <<if $def4 is 1>><<set _coreDef += 1>><</if>> <<set $meurtre to 4>><<set $vj to 0>><<set $act += 5>><<set $reve to 1>><<set $dream to 4>> <<if $victime3 is "James Wright">><<set $vc += 1>><</if>> <<if $victime3 is "Ervin Templeton">><<set $vc += 1>><</if>> <<if $victime4 is "Anton Redfield">><<set $vc += 1>><</if>> <<if $victime3 is "Jessica Mendhil" and $z is 0>><<set $vc += 1>><</if>> <<if setup.salt.sleepActive() and $oval is 3 and $ecri is 1 and _coreDef isnot 4>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_4_rso_1]]</div> <<elseif setup.salt.sleepActive() and $oval < 2 and _coreDef isnot 4>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_4_rs_1]]</div> <<else>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_4_r_0]]</div> <<if $victime2 is "Jessica Mendhil" and $meurtre is 2>><<set $jess to 100>> <</if>> <</if>> <<audio ":playing" fadeout>><<audio "reve" play>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">September 7... 8... 9... 10... 11, 1926. A Saturday in Boston. I know my name is Max, Maximilien Cornwell; I know I am twenty-one years old and that I have just awakened on the floor of my room. The dreams have returned, stronger, more intense than ever. “Ticktock, ticktock,” drones that damned clock. My soul trickles out its final drops, like a clepsydra reaching the end of its count.</div> <<nobr>> <div id="continuer"> <<if $tele isnot "done" and $tele gte 0 and $tele lt $day>> <<link "Rise">><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><<goto "c_4_j_1_2">><</link>> <<else>> <<link "Rise">><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><<goto "appart_j_4">><</link>> <</if>> </div> <<set $day to 4>><<set $reve to 0>><<set $vj to 1>><<saltWake>><<set $v to 0>><<set $posx to 2863>><<set $posy to 1968>> <<audio ":playing" fadeout>><<audio "jour" play>> <<script>>Save.slots.save(3, "Day4")<</script>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte"> As I enter my room, I discover a message slipped under the door, my mother’s reply to the questions I had telegraphed the previous day.</div> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->appart_j_4]]</div> <<set _telefx to setup.telegram.applyReveal(State.variables)>><<invGain "telegramme_alanna">><<set $posx to 2863>><<set $posy to 1968>><<set $vj to 1>>
<div id="texte">The sensation of<span class="flou"> soft ground in which I am sinking. An icy dampness soaks my clothes, trickles down, and seeps through the pores of my skin. </span>My heart<span class="flou"> races...</span></div><<if $cible02 is 100>><div id="continuer"><span class="flou">[[You continue->c_4_r_0_1]]</span></div><<else>><div id="continuer"><span class="flou">[[You continue->c_4_r_1]]</span></div><</if>>
<div id="texte"><span class="flou">Above me I make out a shaft of blurred light, before which </span>a shadow<span class="flou"> </span>is<span class="flou"> moving. It goes still, and suddenly my flesh is </span>lashed<span class="flou"> </span>by<span class="flou"> some coarse matter spreading over part of my body. I flail violently, trying to brace myself against that soft ground into which my hands sink up to the wrists. </span>The impulse<span class="flou"> driving me bursts free in powerful screams: – Aaaah! Nooo! Stop! My cries rend the silence, broken only by the crackle of the drizzle and the steady rhythm of shovelfuls falling one after another. – Nooo! Please! I don’t want to die! At last I struggle upright, </span>slipping<span class="flou"> more than once before coming to rest against one of the oozing walls. Reaching upward for some hypothetical hold, I then clearly make out a silhouette looming </span>over<span class="flou"> </span>this gulf<span class="flou">, fixed against the backlit glow </span>of<span class="flou"> a lantern, his mechanical movements punctuated by rough salvos of earth flung down at me. </span>Terror<span class="flou"> seizes my whole being</span>, crushes<span class="flou"> my throat, warping the sound of my words. – What do you want with me, for </span>God<span class="flou">’s sake? He answers </span>in a<span class="flou"> man’s </span>voice<span class="flou">, nervous and </span>broken<span class="flou">: – Shut your mouth, mutinous one! he snaps, continuing his work...</span></div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">Now:</span> <div id="selection"> [[Seek me->c_4_r_0_1_3]] <span class="flou">[[Shut up->c_4_r_0_1_2]]</span> [[Devour his entrails->c_4_r_0_1_1]] </div> </div><</nobr>><<silently>><<smLoss D3>><</silently>>
<div id="texte"><span class="flou">– Devil take it! Do </span>you<span class="flou"> </span>truly<span class="flou"> </span>think<span class="flou"> I will let this happen without </span>resisting<span class="flou">? – I said shut your mouth! he snaps back. The violence of this man gnaws at me to the quick; in a sudden flare of excitement, I give in to </span>the provocation<span class="flou">: – You are wasting your time, fool. You will never manage to bury me from up there. You shall have to come down </span>and<span class="flou"> finish me off yourself! As though to punctuate </span>my sentence<span class="flou">, I bend and seize a full handful of loose earth, which in my rush I make ready to hurl at him. Startled by the pressure sifting between my fingers, I fling my hand open and </span>find<span class="flou"> there a writhing mass of worms, which I cast away </span>at once<span class="flou"> with a scream: – I am going to get out of this hole and split </span>your<span class="flou"> belly open with your pickaxe! – Ha! I’d like to see that, mutinous one! – And when I’m done, I’ll drag your guts all the way to Kovaleski and make him a necklace of them! I spit, my </span>rage<span class="flou"> hardening into true hatred. – I’m going to get out of this hole and split your belly open with your pickaxe... I repeat in a whisper as I draw myself against the wall opposite him.</span></div><div id="continuer" class="flou">[[Yes, open his gut with his own pickaxe->c_4_r_0_1_1_2]]</div>
<div id="texte">My<span class="flou"> rage becomes a visceral </span>hatred<span class="flou">, and the images of what I am about to inflict upon him </span>galvanize<span class="flou"> me to the point of </span>madness<span class="flou">. In that instant, my thoughts take flesh: I hurl myself forward to fall upon my prey! The man has no time to react before I crash down on him, one powerful hand </span>crush<span class="flou">ing </span>his<span class="flou"> throat, the other seizing at the same time the handle of his cherished tool. The pickaxe swings in an arc from back to front and pierces his stomach with a terrible hiss. His bulging eyes search for </span>light<span class="flou">, </span>and<span class="flou"> </span>it<span class="flou"> </span>is<span class="flou"> </span>darkness<span class="flou"> I offer him as I wrench the metal upward into his lungs. I stand there </span>for<span class="flou"> a long while, towering over the broken body, breathing deeply. When at last I grasp the extent of what I have done, I collapse onto my side, sobbing with all my flayed soul. After a moment of </span>eternity<span class="flou">, I finally rise with a soft hiss. A sweep of my gaze lets me take in some twenty yards, where I make out a tangle of tombstones merged into the night. A curtain of trees a little farther off, its shadowed rim standing out against the sky, seems to mark the cemetery’s boundary. A little path of pale gravel stretches before me, in one direction toward the tree line, in the other toward the thickening mist at the heart of this resting ground.</span></div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">Sated now, you will:</span> <div id="selection"> <span class="flou"><<link "Get out of my domain">><<goto "c_4_r_4">><<set $b1 to 1>><</link>></span> [[Lose yourself->c_4_r_2_2]] </div> </div><</nobr>> <<nobr>> <<silently>> <<smLoss D6>> <</silently>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">Only<span class="flou"> the faint, subtle glow of the moon, strained through the clouded sky, manages to cut a perfect rectangle into the cavity where I stand. I draw myself against the wall opposite the man and do not move. While </span>thoughts<span class="flou"> spin through my </span>muddled<span class="flou"> mind, I search for some way out </span>of<span class="flou"> this predicament when his voice rebukes me: – You’d better lie down, mutinous one! He plants his tool atop a mound of earth, his gaze piercing the </span>darkness<span class="flou"> of my lair. – Only a damn mutinous dead one could cause this much trouble... I still do not move, waiting for the course of events to offer me an opportunity. – You know what, he says, I’ve </span>got<span class="flou"> better things to do. I’m leaving you to </span>your<span class="flou"> fate. He’ll come and pick you sooner or later, and then the job will be easier. The </span>irrational<span class="flou"> words of this man stir in me a hideous </span>confusion<span class="flou"> ready to burst forth in a stream of frantic exclamations and angry protests. But my reason, by sheer force, succeeds in repressing the boiling of those tumultuous feelings. Without a word I draw myself into the shadow of a corner at the back, my hands clutching fistfuls of the soft, muddy walls. – Damn mutinous dead, he adds as he walks away...</span></div><div id="continuer">[[Wait yet->c_4_r_1_3_1]]</div>
<div id="texte"><span class="flou">– You can plainly see </span>I am<span class="flou"> not dead! – I said shut your mouth! he snaps. – This is absurd! I am moving, I am alive! ALIVE! – Yeah, well, stop moving. I can’t bury you! It’s a dream, I tell myself, it must be a dream. And yet the coolness of </span>your night<span class="flou">, the streaming drizzle, the feel of touch itself, of mud, of my clothes clinging to my skin, all seem to point otherwise. – </span>I am<span class="flou"> certain you are mistaken. My name is Maximilien Cornwell, and... – I can’t be mistaken, he cuts in, and you’re not the first one to rebel here. – What?! B... but... but I... I’m not the first? – No. So lie down and accept </span>your fate<span class="flou"> before I lose patience. – Indeed not! I reply. Surely you do not imagine I shall meekly submit to the fate you have in store for me! – Only a damned mutinous dead one could cause this much trouble, he mutters to himself. – I am ALIVE, not dead. If a dead man rebels, then he is not dead. Full stop. Has that never crossed your mind? – You don’t amuse me, mutinous one, </span>and<span class="flou"> I’ve got better things to do. I’m leaving you to your fate. We’ll see if you’re still so clever when </span>I come to fetch you!<span class="flou"> He plants his shovel in the mound of earth and vanishes from my line of sight, grumbling. I go on raving for a while; then, in the isolation of the night, I finally accept my situation in silence.</span></div><div id="continuer">[[Seek further->c_4_r_1_3_1]]</div>
<div id="texte"><span class="flou">I flail violently, trying to brace myself against that soft ground into which my hands sink up to the wrists. </span>My<span class="flou"> </span>impulse<span class="flou"> driving me </span>bursts free<span class="flou"> in powerful screams: – Aaaah! Nooo! Stop! My cries rend the silence, broken only </span>by<span class="flou"> </span>the<span class="flou"> crackle of the drizzle and the steady </span>rhythm<span class="flou"> of shovelfuls falling one after another. – Nooo! I beg you! I don’t want to die! </span>At<span class="flou"> </span>last<span class="flou"> I struggle upright, </span>slipping<span class="flou"> more than once before coming to rest </span>against<span class="flou"> one of the clammy walls. Reaching upward for some hypothetical hold, I then clearly make out two figures looming above this gulf, fixed against the backlit glow of a lantern. They seem to be watching me. Terror seizes my whole being, crushes my throat, warping the sound of my words. – What do </span>you<span class="flou"> want with me?! One of them answers in a man’s voice, worn and quavering: – We’ve got to bury you, mister! The words repeat themselves, one after another, methodically, </span>through<span class="flou"> my stricken mind—//We’ve-got-to-bury-you-mister//—and in </span>the<span class="flou"> face of so much casualness, so much natural ease, my cerebral frenzy reaches its height. By reflex I retort: – But why? – Well... our job is to bury the </span>dead<span class="flou">, mister. Of course... My thoughts overlap, struggling to preserve their lucidity. None of this makes any sense. I am losing my footing...</span></div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">Now:</span> <div id="selection"> [[Seek me->c_4_r_1_1]] <span class="flou">[[Shut up->c_4_r_1_3]]</span> [[I exasperate you ->c_4_r_1_2]] </div> </div><</nobr>><<silently>><<smLoss D3>><</silently>>
<div id="texte"><span class="flou">– You can plainly see </span>I am<span class="flou"> not dead! – Ah, but we don’t know that, mister! – That’s absurd! I am speaking to you! I am moving, I am alive! The other man cuts in, his tone drier, more nervous: – So what? That proves nothing. All we can see is that you’re in the grave! It’s </span>a dream<span class="flou">, I tell myself, it must be a dream. And yet the coolness of the night, the streaming drizzle, the feel of mud, of my clothes clinging to my skin, all seem to point otherwise. </span>The old voice<span class="flou"> interrupts my train </span>of<span class="flou"> thought: – Well... can we get back to it, mister? – Nooo! I am certain you are mistaken! – Oh, mister, </span>the<span class="flou"> old gravedigger cuts in with a laugh, we can’t be </span>mistaken<span class="flou">, and you’re not the </span>first<span class="flou"> one to put up a fuss here. – What?! B... but... – but I... – I’m not the first? – Ooooh no, but it doesn’t happen quite as often as people think. – Not as often...? In Heaven’s name, where am I? – At Baker Street Cemetery. <<if $bak neq 0>>– Baker Street... in West Roxbury? B... but... – I have no business here!<<else>>– B... but... – but... – I have no business in a cemetery!<</if>> – Yep, I can see you’re not going to go quietly... The indolence of these men, </span>reflected<span class="flou"> </span>in<span class="flou"> our exchange, suddenly gives me a fresh surge of confidence. In this situation, at the very least, I have nothing to lose. – Indeed not! I reply. Surely you do not imagine I shall meekly submit to </span>the fate<span class="flou"> you have </span>in store for<span class="flou"> me! – All right then, we’ll go fetch the ladder and get </span>you<span class="flou"> out, he says, almost disappointed. Don’t move! //Don’t move... Do these louts possess even the slightest notion of reason?// They vanish from my sight while I hear one of the pair remark as he walks away: – You’ll see, this business is going to come back on us...</span></div><div id="continuer">[[Seek further->c_4_r_2]]</div><<if $bak is 0>><<set $bak to 1>><</if>>
<div id="texte"><span class="flou">– Devil take it! </span>Stop toying with me<span class="flou">! – But mister, </span>there’s<span class="flou"> </span>no<span class="flou"> call to get worked up. We’re only doing our job. – I’ll show you what I think of your job! Do you think I’m going to let this happen without resisting? The other man </span>answer<span class="flou">s me in a dry, nervous tone: – Trouble is, </span>the dead<span class="flou"> don’t usually talk back! – Well, I’m talking back, aren’t I? That means I’m </span>still<span class="flou"> alive! – So what? That proves nothing. All we can see is that you’re in the grave! The indolence of these men gnaws at me to the quick; in a sudden flare of excitement, I give in to the </span>senseless<span class="flou"> provocation: – This is too much! You are wasting your time, fools. You will </span>never<span class="flou"> manage to bury me from up there. You shall have to come down and finish me off yourselves! As though to punctuate my words, I bend and </span>seize<span class="flou"> a full handful of loose earth, which in my rush I make ready to hurl at them. Startled by </span>the pressure<span class="flou"> sifting between my fingers, I fling my hand open and find there a writhing mass </span>of<span class="flou"> worms, which I cast away at once with a scream: – Aaaah! Get me out of this hole at once or I shall no longer answer for </span>my<span class="flou">self! He turns to his companion. – Another mutinous dead one. The boss ain’t going to like that... Very well, mister, we’ll fetch the ladder. – A mutinous d...?! I couldn’t care less! You gentlemen are going to be in serious </span>trouble<span class="flou">! I shall report this to the proper authorities! </span>I want<span class="flou"> to see the man in charge. Where is he? – At the Bagrovyy. – At the what?! – At the Ba-gro-vyy, he answers with emphasis. – Bring him here! – He never comes out of the Bagrovyy, mister. – And where is that? – Over there. You’ll find him at </span>the end<span class="flou"> </span>of<span class="flou"> the main path, all </span>the way<span class="flou"> off to the far right, he says, pointing the way. – Then get me out of here. I must speak with him! – Very well, mister... – And first of all, who is your boss? Already they have vanished from my line of sight while I go on straining to harangue them. The dry-voiced one laughs as he recedes: – The one who pays in carousing! </span></div><<set $a to 1>><<if $bag is 0>><<set $bag to 1>><</if>><div id="continuer"><span class="flou">[[You wait->c_4_r_2]]</span></div><<set $s to 1>>
<div id="texte"><span class="flou">Only </span>the<span class="flou"> </span>faint<span class="flou"> </span>glow<span class="flou"> </span>of<span class="flou"> </span>the<span class="flou"> moon through the clouded sky manages to score the cavity in which I stand, a perfect rectangle. I draw myself in against the wall opposite the two taciturn-looking </span>men<span class="flou">. – Well... can we get back to it, mister? says the old voice. </span>Receiving<span class="flou"> </span>no<span class="flou"> </span>answer<span class="flou"> from me, the man resumes his work, sending down shovelful after shovelful at a steady pace. I do not move. While thoughts </span>spin<span class="flou"> </span>through<span class="flou"> </span>my<span class="flou"> muddled mind, I search for some way out of this predicament when the </span>voice<span class="flou"> rebukes me: – Well... you’d maybe better lie down, mister, because otherwise this ain’t going to do... The fellow plants his tool atop a mound of earth and turns to his companion: – What do you think, Yanes? This ain’t going to do, is it? </span>I<span class="flou"> still do not move, waiting for the course of events to </span>offer<span class="flou"> me an opportunity. – He’s a mutinous dead one, Ervin, the other replies in his pinched voice. He’s going to do nothing but cause </span>trouble<span class="flou"> for us. – Yep. He doesn’t much care for it </span>when<span class="flou"> they’re still moving. We’ll wait a while and see... Then his gaze pierces </span>the<span class="flou"> </span>darkness<span class="flou"> </span>of<span class="flou"> </span>my<span class="flou"> </span>lair<span class="flou">: – Hey, mister! We’re leaving you for now, and if he hasn’t </span>picked<span class="flou"> you by the time we come back, do try to be reasonable and accept </span>your<span class="flou"> </span>fate<span class="flou">. The irrational words of these men stir </span>in<span class="flou"> me </span>a<span class="flou"> hideous confusion ready to burst forth in a </span>stream<span class="flou"> </span>of<span class="flou"> </span>frantic<span class="flou"> exclamations and angry </span>protests<span class="flou">. But my reason, by sheer force, succeeds in repressing the boiling of those tumultuous feelings. Without a word I draw myself into the shadow of a corner at the back, my hands clutching fistfuls of the soft, muddy walls. – At least, he adds as he walks away, this one doesn’t make any noise...</span></div><div id="continuer">[[Wait yet->c_4_r_1_3_1]]</div><<if $yan is 0>><<set $yan to 1>><</if>><<if $yan is 2>><<set $yan to 3>><</if>>
<div id="texte"><span class="flou">The possibilities open to me </span>for<span class="flou"> escaping this hell are pitifully few... I seize one of the thicker clumps of roots and try to haul myself upward, to catch hold of the edge lined with thin grass. I cannot get high enough to grab hold of anything; my fingers slip on the wet grass, and at last the jutting roots give way. I fall backward and sprawl in the muck. Prostrate there beneath a fine rain that finishes stripping me bare, I sniff without fail between </span>each shudder of your captive body<span class="flou">. It is then that I perceive something like a low rumble rising from the center of the excavation, swelling as the earth begins to tremble. I straighten where I am, alert, my heart pounding. The sound, now clearer, becomes a roar, an amalgam of many sepulchral voices which, in unison, evoke in impious chant the gargling of a chthonic entity. //If HE hasn’t picked you by the time we come back...// I am paralyzed and no longer dare to breathe except in jolts. It rises faster and faster toward this grave that holds me captive, and the sluggish modulation gradually plunges me into a pleasant apathy, to which I surrender with intoxicated abandon. The entire world hums sweetly. Serene, I take the trouble to lie down, waiting for the Charon who will carry me beyond my torments. A mass of worms carpeting the trembling ground swells, as though cast up from the entrails of the earth, sliding and </span>creeping beneath<span class="flou"> my body to caress it in waves... Then, violently, a heavy object strikes my skull and tears me from my reverie. I lurch up onto my knees, my hands sunk fast in the boiling earth. A shovel lies before me; the shovel planted earlier by one of my buriers must have worked itself loose under the repeated tremors. My mind surges all at once, as though torpedoed by a straight draught of brandy: the consciousness of danger, the instinct for survival. I seize the handle, rise, and brace myself on both legs, fiercely rooted to the ground. Pivoting from the hips, I drive the head of the tool with one sharp, clean blow into the cut halfway up the wall. I shall have only a single attempt; the softness of the earth will not bear my weight on more than one support. The bellowing reaches </span>the paroxysm<span class="flou"> concentrating within itself the damned souls </span>of every hell<span class="flou">. I spring forward, drive my leap off my leading foot, throw the force of my momentum onto the wooden handle, and immediately carry through to sprawl part of my chest across the rim. I push with all my strength on my forearms and haul myself up in jerks to bring my lower limbs after me. At last I manage to wrench myself out of that hole; I cover another two or three yards and collapse full-length, gulping air in great draughts. As after the breaking of a wave, the tremors calm and the uproar gradually fades. After a moment of eternity, I finally rise with a soft hiss. A sweep of my gaze lets me take in some twenty yards, where I make out a tangle of tombstones merged into </span>the night<span class="flou">. A curtain of trees a little farther off, </span>its shadowed<span class="flou"> </span>rim<span class="flou"> standing out against the sky, seems to mark the cemetery’s boundary. A little path of pale gravel </span>stretches before<span class="flou"> </span>you,<span class="flou"> in one direction toward the tree line, in the other toward the thickening mist </span>at the heart of this resting ground.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">You make the decision to:</span> <div id="selection"> <span class="flou"><<link "Get out of my domain">><<goto "c_4_r_4">><<set $b1 to 1>><</link>></span> [[Lose yourself->c_4_r_2_2]] </div> </div><</nobr>> <<nobr>> <<silently>> <<smLoss D4>> <</silently>> <<timed 20s>><<audio "oogr" play>><</timed>><</nobr>>
<div id="texte"><span class="flou">Only the faint, diffuse glow of the nocturnal orb, muted by cloud cover, weakly cuts into the rectangle where I wait. The minutes stretch on, the rain freezes me, and I sniffle between </span>each shiver of your captive body<span class="flou">. The ground trembles. A low rumble rises from the center of the excavation, </span>swelling<span class="flou"> as the earth vibrates. I curl in against the wall. //Good God, where have they gone to fetch that ladder?// The roar grows distinct. A chorus of </span>cavernous voices<span class="flou"> rises. I no longer dare to breathe. The vibration climbs toward me, hypnotic, and little by little </span>wraps you in a gentle intoxication<span class="flou">. I slip away... – Well now, mister! Don’t you want to come out anymore? The voice <<if $erv neq 0>>of Ervin<<else>>of the gravedigger<</if>> tears me from </span>my reverie<span class="flou">. Raising my head, I glimpse a silhouette and, behind it, a ladder resting on the floor of that putrid lair. The ground crawls. A mass of worms, as though expelled from the entrails of the earth, spreads outward — my legs are covered in them. I spring forward, seize a rung; my feet slip. I haul myself up, panting, and climb without looking back. Once outside, by reflex, I wrench the ladder free and drag it after me in a disorderly motion. Two or three yards are enough before I collapse flat on my stomach, breathless. All at once, the tremors cease. The roar recedes. The two gravediggers, impassive, still </span>stares into the gulf with detachment<span class="flou">. – Heh, looks like it didn’t want to let you go, mister, <<if $erv neq 0>>Ervin<<else>>the older one<</if>> says. I remain silent, panting and stunned, incapable of forming a coherent sentence, so thoroughly has </span>unreason<span class="flou"> overwhelmed common sense. – Well now, it’s not like we got nothing else to do... See you around, mister! I keep staring at them in amazement at the edge of the grave as they gather their tools, take up their lanterns, and set off behind me along a path of gravel bordered by tombs. </span><<if $dy neq 0>><span class="flou">– Th... that was the Dybbuk, wasn’t it? I finally manage to say, turning my head. – Yes, that’s it! If he’s chosen you, he’ll find you again! You can always go cry into your mother’s skirts, haha! the more agitated one spits at me, his face jutting out in the warm light, his features drawn tight by some invisible strain. – But... but why would he have chosen me? Why... <<if $erv neq 0>>Ervin<<else>>The old man<</if>>, already a few paces off, calls back to me: – Ah, well, my good fellow, only the boss would know that! Come on, Yanes, we’ve still got to take care of the three little ones. – The three little ones! I scream, losing all control. My God, no! They... they’re here? I... I have to... – Tut-tut, the sharp man cuts me off. You don’t have to do anything at all. You shut up and leave us be! – That is entirely out of the question! I retort, throwing myself by instinct onto his shovel. He drops his jumble of tools all at once to engage in a brief struggle. I have barely seized the handle when an abrupt blow to the back of my skull makes me stagger, punctuated by Yanes’s well-placed fist in my stomach, which finishes putting me on the ground. Helpless, I barely perceive the wavering lights of the two men fading into the clay-gray mist. I rise with a soft hiss. My gaze takes in some twenty yards of funerary tangles </span>drowned in the night<span class="flou">. Farther on, a curtain of trees stands out against the sky. A gravel path stretches ahead, in one direction toward the wooded edge, in the other toward a dense mist </span>at the heart of the cemetery<span class="flou">. </span><<else>><span class="flou">– Wh... what didn’t... didn’t want to let me go? I finally manage to say, turning my head. – The Dybbuk. It’s the Dybbuk we feed. If he’s chosen you, he’ll find you again! You can always go cry into the boss’s skirts, haha! the more agitated one spits at me, his face jutting out in the warm light, his features drawn tight by some invisible strain. <<if $erv neq 0>>Ervin<<else>>The old man<</if>>, already a few paces off, calls to him in a paternal tone: – Come on, Yanes, you’ll scare the daylights out of this poor fellow, and besides, we’ve still got to take care of the three little ones. – The three little ones! I scream, losing all control. My God, no! They... they’re here? I... I have to... – Tut-tut, the sharp man cuts me off. You don’t have to do anything at all. You shut up and leave us be! – That is entirely out of the question! I retort, throwing myself by instinct onto his shovel. He drops his jumble of tools all at once to engage in a brief struggle. I have barely seized the handle when an abrupt blow to the back of my skull makes me stagger, punctuated by Yanes’s well-placed fist in my stomach, which finishes putting me on the ground. Helpless, I barely perceive the wavering lights of the two men fading into the clay-gray mist. I rise with a soft hiss. My gaze takes in some twenty yards of funerary tangles </span>drowned in the night<span class="flou">. Farther on, a curtain of trees stands out against the sky. A gravel path stretches ahead, in one direction toward the wooded edge, in the other toward a dense mist </span>at the heart of the cemetery<span class="flou">. </span><<if $oval neq 3>><<set $dy to 1>><</if>><</if>></div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">You make the decision to:</span> <div id="selection"> <span class="flou"><<link "Get out of my domain">><<goto "c_4_r_4">><<set $b1 to 1>><</link>></span> [[Lose yourself->c_4_r_2_2]] </div> </div><</nobr>> <<nobr>> <<if $yan is 0>><<set $yan to 1>><</if>><<if $yan is 2>><<set $yan to 3>><</if>> <<smLoss D4>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte"><span class="flou">I take the little white-gravel path behind me. Its straight course allows me to make my way through an entire block of graves arranged in an elongated quadrangular order.</span></div><div id="continuer">[[Lose yourself ->c_4_r_2_2_1]]</div>
<div id="texte"><span class="flou">At the end of </span>this cluster<span class="flou">, a low wall, opened to allow the path through, </span>marks<span class="flou"> the transition to a larger way running perpendicular to it. I cross it and look left, then right. The cemetery stretches out immeasurably, each direction sinking into a mixture of mist and darkness. I resume walking to the right of the central path, following the decreasing numbering of the blocks in order to draw closer to the entrance. I pass several parcels: </span>your family<span class="flou">, lodges, larger enclosures. Farther on, the path divides to skirt a massive rock set </span>with<span class="flou"> flowers. I remain on the main axis, pass the stone spur, and at last emerge before </span>a wrought-iron fence<span class="flou">, where the way passes through the gate beneath an archway.</span></div><div id="continuer">[[Carry on->c_4_r_2_2_1_1]]</div>
<div id="texte"><span class="flou">I </span>Pass<span class="flou"> </span>through<span class="flou"> </span>the<span class="flou"> arcade, where the path gives up its gravel for paving stones. Three slumbering buildings glide past on my right, but farther on a </span>carmine<span class="flou"> </span>glow<span class="flou"> catches my eye. The path curves </span>toward<span class="flou"> a damp courtyard whose reflections answer </span>the<span class="flou"> blazing windows of a solitary house. A pavilion from the previous century, </span>three<span class="flou"> stories high, it displays heavy moldings of leaves and spearheads. Its frosted panes, ringed with richly worked casings, seep a purple halo that the closed curtains barely smother; bars cast </span>wavering<span class="flou"> </span>streaks<span class="flou"> across the ground. The front steps, </span>entirely bathed in the red<span class="flou"> of a streetlamp fixed above a severe door, complete the vision. Were it not for its incongruous position at the edge of a cemetery, I would have thought I saw the elegant façade of a brothel.</span></div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">You will:</span> <div id="selection"> [[Be Mine->c_4_r_3_1]] [[Lose yourself->c_4_r_2_2_1_1_1]] </div> </div><</nobr>>
<div id="texte"><span class="flou">I circle the building to the right. The courtyard broadens toward </span>The open gate<span class="flou">, </span>ringed<span class="flou"> </span>with<span class="flou"> pointed bars. Between the house and this way out stands a small monument; on its </span>dark<span class="flou"> marble is written the epitaph: //1st U.S. Infantry Division. 1917–1918//, followed by two columns of </span>names<span class="flou">. On the vault of the gate, <<if $bak > 1>>I recognize the characters from the entrance to West Roxbury Cemetery.<<else>>I decipher the reversed inscription “yretemeC teertS rekaB”—Baker Street Cemetery.<</if>> The house </span>offers<span class="flou"> </span>no other exit<span class="flou"> and turns its back on the cemetery. Behind the gate, an almost phosphorescent gray mist glides over the drenched asphalt and swallows the road.</span></div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">You burn to:</span> <div id="selection"> [[Offer me your soul->c_4_r_3_1]] [[Embrace madness->c_4_r_2_2_1_1_1_1]] </div> </div><</nobr>><<if $bak is 0>><<set $bak to 1>><</if>>
<div id="texte"><span class="flou">As I cross </span>The<span class="flou"> wrought-iron arcade with a firm stride, the clouds suddenly dissipate, letting fall a dawn light and... the </span>void<span class="flou">. My breath stops. My eyes widen, my mouth </span>draws<span class="flou"> </span>taut<span class="flou"> like a bow </span>ready<span class="flou"> </span>to<span class="flou"> loose its cry; my body rears back, skids, then crashes onto all fours at the edge of the sidewalk. The spectacle defies every myth, even the most ancient, and in a single stroke ruins the pride of enlightened minds. No imagination could </span>engender<span class="flou"> such </span>a<span class="flou"> fusion of beliefs, reminiscences, and terrors: my senses impose this vision with a </span>venomous<span class="flou"> exactitude, such as only </span>madness<span class="flou"> knows how to weave. The world breaks off a few steps away, the road splitting cleanly like a model touching the edge of a table, ringed by an </span>ashen-gray<span class="flou"> void. Farther off, other masses float in that abyss: fragments of dislocated earth, mingling hills, countryside, and sections of towns. The whole, immeasurable, forms an enclosed space that </span>envelops<span class="flou"> the parcel on which I stand. And there, piercing the ether, unfolds a procession of celestial creatures, diaphanous monsters with lactescent glimmers, gliding through the air as through a deep sea. </span>your<span class="flou"> </span>mind<span class="flou"> reels </span>beneath<span class="flou"> </span>the<span class="flou"> avalanche of conjectures, while at the </span>threshold<span class="flou"> </span>of<span class="flou"> dawn, I turn my back to </span>the<span class="flou"> </span>night<span class="flou">.</span></div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">You have no other choice but to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<link "Get out of my domain">><<goto "c_4_r_2_2_1_1_1_1_1">><<set $b1 to 1>><</link>> <<link "Be Mine">><<goto "c_4_r_3_1">><</link>> </div> </div><</nobr>><<silently>><<smLoss D4>><<set $b to 1>><</silently>>
<div id="texte"><span class="flou">I </span>Cross<span class="flou"> </span>the<span class="flou"> road shining with dampness at a slow, almost hesitant pace. At the edge of the </span>void<span class="flou">, I test the ground with my foot: the void, naked, stretches </span>as<span class="flou"> </span>far<span class="flou"> </span>as<span class="flou"> </span>the<span class="flou"> eye can see. I crouch, brush the asphalt, seize a stone, and let it fall with a weary gesture; it vanishes at once into the </span>gray<span class="flou"> wash. I straighten, swallow, and </span>finish<span class="flou"> persuading myself that </span>this<span class="flou"> is nothing but a </span>dream<span class="flou">. </span>//<span class="flou">It cannot be otherwise</span>//<span class="flou">, I murmur, </span>//<span class="flou">or </span>your mind<span class="flou"> has no place left </span>in this madness//<span class="flou">. I take a running start and leap far from the edge. A cry </span>passes<span class="flou"> through me as I sink into a vertiginous fall. Very quickly I leave behind the thickness of the earthen monolith; the warm air wraps around me like an invisible palm. My senses draw taut and suddenly an opalescent creature corkscrews toward me, undulating to intercept </span>my<span class="flou"> course. No movement can turn aside the </span>inevitable<span class="flou">: its reptilian maw comes down, swallowing my dislocated body. Pain sets my flesh ablaze, brightness sets fire to my retina, when a foghorn sounds and tears me from this waking </span>nightmare<span class="flou">.</span></div><<nobr>> <<if $j is 1>> <div id="continuer">[[Wake up->not_3]]</div> <<elseif $victime3 is "Jessica Mendhil" and $cible08 is 100>> <div id="continuer">[[Wake up->jess_10]]</div> <<else>> <div id="continuer">[[Wake up->c_4_j_1]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>> <<set $day to 4>> <<smLoss D4>><<if $def1 is 0>><<set $def1 to 1>><</if>>
<<if $victime3 is "Jessica Mendhil" and $cible08 is 100>><div id="texte"><span class="flou">I approach, climb the few steps to </span>the entrance<span class="flou">, grasp the door knocker by the ring threaded through a satyr’s nostrils, and strike hard three times. The door </span>opens<span class="flou"> of its own accord onto a vestibule richly hung with draperies and Renaissance-style paintings. I </span>cross the threshold<span class="flou"> cautiously.</span></div> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->jess_10]]</div><<set $day to 4>> <<else>><div id="texte"><span class="flou">I approach, climb the few steps to </span>the entrance<span class="flou">, grasp the door knocker by the ring threaded through a satyr’s nostrils, and strike hard three times. The door </span>flies open with<span class="flou"> a tremendous crash and astonishing </span>violence<span class="flou">!</span></div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">Draw near and:</span> <div id="selection"> <span class="flou">[[Come to me->c_4_r_3_2]]</span> <span class="flou">[[Dance for me->c_4_r_3_1_2]]</span> </div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>
<div id="texte"><span class="flou">I pass through a curtain of red brocade embroidered with gold thread and </span>Enter<span class="flou"> a large rococo parlor dotted with exotic touches. A raffia palm stands in a pot in </span>the<span class="flou"> far corner, its fronds spreading across part of the wall and spilling over an ebony-framed screen faced with embossed leather. The remaining walls hold a large </span>oval<span class="flou"> </span>mirror<span class="flou"> in a gilded frame, a painting of a nymph languorously sprawled across satin sheets, and three-branched copper candelabra casting a soft light. Around a circular sofa divided by a central backrest, </span>three<span class="flou"> young female figures dance and whirl to the sinister music of a gramophone at the far end of the room. They have no faces. Like mannequins in a shop window, their hairless heads are smooth and polished, expressionless and empty of meaning. The atmosphere chills my blood as female voices intone ominous words over the music’s haunting rhythm: “Chosen of the drowned, beyond the tides, awaken the </span>hearts<span class="flou"> of the </span>damned<span class="flou">. Let them feed upon the fruits of their spawn. And when the age of torpor </span>reach<span class="flou">es its height, of all </span>their<span class="flou"> </span>descendants<span class="flou"> you shall be executioner and shepherd. One </span>sacrificed<span class="flou"> scion, for three defiled spirits...”</span></div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">Now:</span> <div id="selection"> <span class="flou">[[You get out!->c_4_r_3_1_2_1]]</span> <span class="flou">[[Come to me!->c_4_r_3_2]]</span> <<silently>><<smLoss D3>><</silently>> </div> </div> <<smLoss D3>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">Hell<span class="flou"> breaks loose the moment I gently lift the tonearm from the record. The figures begin spinning </span>frantically<span class="flou"> as they </span>burst into flame<span class="flou">. Great tongues of fire race up their crackling dresses; their skin blisters and sizzles amid thick smoke and an unbearable stench. The ghastly auto-da-fe unleashes a </span>ravenous<span class="flou"> blaze that spreads so rapidly it cuts off every possible </span>escape<span class="flou">. I stare in horror </span>as<span class="flou"> the disaster engulfs the entire building. Without thinking, </span>I hurl myself<span class="flou"> through the first wall of flame and force my way past the incandescent curtain separating me from the vestibule, my arms crossed before my face, only to find myself surrounded </span>on<span class="flou"> all sides. Sweat pours from every pore beneath the crushing heat; I choke, and my vision blurs. My legs buckle beneath me, bringing me to my knees. </span>your soul<span class="flou"> overwhelmed by anguish and the acrid furnace closing around my whole body, I cover my face, shake my head, and weep and scream at once, broken by the inferno.</span></div> <<nobr>> <<if $j is 1>> <div id="continuer">[[Wake up->not_3]]</div> <<elseif $victime3 is "Jessica Mendhil" and $cible08 is 100>> <div id="continuer">[[Wake up->jess_10]]</div> <<else>> <div id="continuer">[[Wake up->c_4_j_1]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>> <<set $day to 4>><<silently>><<smLoss D4>><</silently>>
<div id="texte">I<span class="flou"> climb the stairs to the upper floor. There, I step over a thin cord </span>mark<span class="flou">ing off </span>the<span class="flou"> landing, then enter the corridor on the right. A heavy, humid heat now envelops the place, making the woodwork sweat. Eight doors line the corridor, all massive and identical in appearance. One of them creaks open, spilling a soft, </span>wavering<span class="flou"> light across the </span>threshold<span class="flou">. After trying in vain to open one of the neighboring doors, I finally resign myself to accepting the invitation. I enter an austere room furnished only with a bookcase covering the rear wall and a desk at which a faceless man sits. The door closes softly behind me. </span><div style="width:200px;float:left; padding: 0 40px 0 0;">[img[data/media/img/portraits/alinovitch_lisse.jpg]]</div>He wears<span class="flou"> </span>a<span class="flou"> black three-piece suit, its jacket buttoned neatly over a </span>dark<span class="flou"> striped tie, while a white pocket square heightens the contrast. His smooth </span>face<span class="flou"> ends in a strong, clean-cut jaw. He takes a thick volume </span>bound<span class="flou"> in brown leather from one of the shelves and lays it on the desk. The grimoire-like book is stamped with a strange emblem: a star-shaped pentagram enclosing an eye-shaped oval whose pupil is a flame. The uncanny figure opens it </span>to<span class="flou"> a two-page spread laid out like a register and mechanically runs one hooked finger down to the bottom of the page. Then the puppet slowly opens a desk drawer, takes out a Colt .38 automatic, and sets it before me. I have never handled a firearm, and I pick up the pistol awkwardly, with considerable apprehension. The figure waits, motionless. </span>//<span class="flou">Good God, what does it expect of me? To put a bullet through my head? Is that it? To bring this damned nightmare to an end?</span>//<span class="flou"> Taking advantage of that oppressive presence’s immobility, I turn the register around and scan it quickly until I reach the line where </span>my name<span class="flou"> appears in bold: [img[data/media/img/registre_reve_ENG.jpg]] There can be no further doubt: I am fundamentally bound to these names, all of them now familiar, all gathered to perform in this dreamlike masquerade, all actors upon this absurd stage. Deep down, I know that only one choice remains if I am to free myself from this chimera.</span></div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">Take up the gun and:</span> <div id="selection"> <span class="flou">[[Take your own life->c_4_r_3_2_1]]</span> [[Avenge yourself->c_4_r_3_2_2]] </div> </div><</nobr>><<if $kov is 0>><<set $kov to 1>><</if>><<if $sis is 0>><<set $sis to 1>><</if>><<set $d1 to 1>><<timed 17s>><<audio "maximilien_dark" play volume 0.3>><</timed>>
<div id="texte"><span class="flou">With a trembling hand, I press the barrel of the pistol to my temple. The instinctive gesture convinces me that this is the surest way to bring the dream to an end, to shock </span>my mind<span class="flou"> awake, however violent the means. The puppet </span>nods<span class="flou">. The act is symbolic, yet I cannot confine my thoughts to the mere ending of this fiction. What if it is THE End? Anguish closes around my throat, and I swallow painfully. I steady my mind, apply the slightest </span>press<span class="flou">ure to </span>the trigger<span class="flou">, draw one more breath, and...</span></div> <center><<set _coreDef to 0>><<if $def1 is 1>><<set _coreDef += 1>><</if>><<if $def2 is 1>><<set _coreDef += 1>><</if>><<if $def3 is 1>><<set _coreDef += 1>><</if>><<if $def4 is 1>><<set _coreDef += 1>><</if>><<button "SHOOT">><<if _coreDef is 4>><<goto "final">><<else>><<goto "fin_reve">><</if>><<audio "bang" play>><</button>> </center>
<div id="texte"><span class="flou">With a trembling hand, I aim the pistol at him. He does not react. I </span>Pull<span class="flou"> </span>the trigger<span class="flou">, and his head bursts like a ball of papier-mâché. I barely have time to grasp the full significance of </span>that symbolic act<span class="flou"> before the world around me </span>literally<span class="flou"> begins to break apart. My vision blurs, and mounting nausea </span>seizes me<span class="flou"> as, one by one, my sensory bearings fade away.</span></div> <<nobr>> <<if $j is 1>> <div id="continuer">[[Wake up->not_3]]</div> <<elseif $victime3 is "Jessica Mendhil" and $cible08 is 100>> <div id="continuer">[[Wake up->jess_10]]</div> <<else>> <div id="continuer">[[Wake up->c_4_j_1]]</div> <</if>> <<set $day to 4>><<timed 3s>><<audio "bang" play>><</timed>><<smGain D4>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte"><span class="flou">I take the narrow white-gravel path behind me. Its straight course leads me through an entire block of graves laid out in an elongated rectangle. At last I reach the edge of the vegetation, where </span>The path<span class="flou"> </span>ends<span class="flou"> in a circular clearing with a granite basin at its center. I spot a shrub offering a handhold along the embankment, take a running start, and in one stride catch hold of one of its branches. I pull myself up onto the edge, one leg trailing behind, then pitch forward and brace myself on my free knee and both hands to keep from slipping. I continue along a strip of rough, grassy ground about six feet wide, bordered on my right by a screen of clustered young conifers. The earthen platform ends a few strides ahead, cleanly torn away, its surface seeming to form an island adrift in the monochrome of an ashen-gray void. Other scattered masses hover at varying distances: fragments of a familiar earth whose crust has been wrenched apart, each bearing natural and man-made features, stretches of countryside, and towns of varying size. As though to mottle the composition of this grand tableau, I discern a phantasmagoric ballet of celestial creatures—writhing monsters of diaphanous, luminescent flesh gliding through the air as through a sea. I move closer to the edge, testing the firmness of the ground with my foot, then take a running start and leap as far as I can to put distance between myself and the fringe of asphalt. A liberating howl tears from my throat as I plunge into a vertiginous fall. I quickly pass beyond the prodigious depth of the earthen monolith; the warm rush of air </span>envelops my whole body<span class="flou"> as though to sustain me. As my senses take in the full strangeness of the experience, I notice </span>with horror<span class="flou"> one of the opalescent creatures corkscrewing toward me. It dives lower as if to intercept my fall, undulating along its entire length. Nothing I do can avert the </span>inevitable collision<span class="flou"> between its gaping maw and my flailing body. My cry ends in the snap of its sculptural, iridescent reptilian jaws. Pain sets all my flesh ablaze as light consumes my retina, until the blast of a foghorn tears me from the waking nightmare.</span></div> <<nobr>> <<if $j is 1>> <div id="continuer">[[Wake up->not_3]]</div> <<elseif $victime3 is "Jessica Mendhil" and $cible08 is 100>> <div id="continuer">[[Wake up->jess_10]]</div> <<else>> <div id="continuer">[[Wake up->c_4_j_1]]</div> <</if>> <<set $day to 4>> <<smLoss D4>><<if $def1 is 0>><<set $def1 to 1>><</if>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">The void... Your consciousness is torn from its nothingness, like a newborn wrenched violently from its mother’s womb...</div><<nobr>> <<if $sel_ext["pits_1"] is 1 and $oval neq 3>> <div id="continuer">[[Draw near->c_4_rps_1]]</div> <<elseif $sel_ext["pits_1"] is 1 and $oval is 3>> <div id="continuer">[[Draw near->c_4_rpso_1]]</div> <<else>> <div id="continuer">[[Draw near->c_4_rp_0]]</div> <</if>> <<audio ":playing" stop>><<audio "reve" play>><<silently>> <<set $meurtre to 4>><<set $victime3 to 0>><<set $cible08 to 0>> <<set $vj to 0>><<set $reve to 1>><<set $dream to 4>><</silently>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">The sensation <span class="flou">of soft ground in which I mire you. A dampness </span>cold as ice<span class="flou"> soaks your clothes, trickles down, and seeps through the pores </span>of<span class="flou"> your skin. </span>Your heart<span class="flou"> races...</span></div><div id="continuer"><span class="flou">[[Feel it->c_4_rp_1]]</span></div>
<div id="texte">The possibilities open to me for escaping this mire are pitifully few... Prostrate there beneath a fine rain that finishes stripping you bare, I sniff involuntarily between each shudder of your captive body. It is then that I perceive something like a low rumble rising from the center of the excavation, swelling as the earth begins to tremble. I draw you upright, alert, your heart pounding. The sound, now clearer, becomes a bellow, an amalgam of many sepulchral voices which, in unison, evoke in impious chant the gargling of a chthonic entity. All your flesh suddenly begins to boil, as though a thousand volcanoes were erupting through the pores of your skin. I make you writhe where you lie sprawled in the earth, shrieking with nameless agony. Visions of carnage, slaughter, and destruction force themselves upon your mind amid your infernal torment. I scream again, no longer in pain but in rage, consumed by my unquenchable thirst for blood.</div> <div id="continuer">[[You are Mine->pits_2]]</div><<timed 10s>><<audio "oogr" play>><</timed>>
<div id="texte">I pass through the arcade, where the path gives up its gravel and takes on paving stones. I pass a group of three slumbering buildings on my right and turn my attention to a carmine glow coming from a house some fifty yards farther on. As I draw nearer, the path curves around a large courtyard whose dampness glitters beneath the ruddy-lit windows of the building standing at its center.</div><div id="continuer">[[Come closer still->pits_2_2]]</div><<set $reve to 1>><<audio "phase01" play loop>>
<div id="texte">I finally struggle upright, slipping more than once before coming to rest against one of the clammy walls. Reaching out for some hypothetical hold, I then clearly make out a figure looming over this gulf, silhouetted against lantern light, his mechanical movements harshly punctuated by shovelfuls of earth cast down upon you. Terror seizes your whole being, crushes your throat, warping the sound of your words. – What do you want with me?! He answers you in a nervous, staccato voice: “Shut your trap, mutinous one!” as he keeps at his work...</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">Can you even react?</span> <div id="selection"> [[Bear witness->pits_2_2_1]][[of your inescapable->pits_2_2_1]][[downfall->pits_2_2_1]] </div> </div><</nobr>><<set $reve to 1>><<silently>><<smLoss D3>><</silently>><<audio "phase02" stop>><<audio "phase01" play loop>>
<div id="texte">The spectacle unfolding before my eyes defies even the oldest myths, whose outworn certainties could not survive the world as apprehended through the prism of the most enlightened minds. Even the most unbridled imagination could not have engendered such a syncretism of credibility, belief, dreams, and nightmares, in this vision my senses transcribe with a pernicious exactitude, as only madness can produce. Enveloped by all its monstrous magnificence, my mind compelled to deify its presence, I greet its manifestation with supplications as it presents itself before me: the Dybbuk, the Master of my dreams, the Heart of my torments. Its indescribable, unspeakable form overwhelms my every sense...</div> <div id="continuer">[[Now die->pits_2_2_1_1]]</div> <<silently>><<if $dy is 0>><<set $dy to 1>><</if>><<smLoss D10>><</silently>><<set $reve to 1>><<audio "phase04" play loop>>
<div id="texte">I struggle upright, slipping more than once before coming to rest against a clammy wall. Only the faint glow of the moon through the clouded sky manages to score the cavity in which I stand, a perfect rectangle. The possibilities open to me for escaping this hell are pitifully few... I seize one of the thicker clumps of roots and try to haul myself upward, to catch hold of the edge lined with thin grass. I cannot get high enough to grab hold of anything. My fingers slip on the wet grass, and at last the jutting roots give way. I fall backward and sprawl in the muck. Prostrate there beneath a fine rain that finishes stripping me bare, I sniff involuntarily between each shudder of my captive body. It is then that I perceive something like a dull rumbling rising from the center of the excavation, swelling as the earth begins to tremble. I straighten where I am, alert, my heart pounding. The sound, now clearer, becomes a bellowing, an amalgam of many sepulchral voices which, in unison, evoke in impious chant the gargling of a chthonic entity. I am paralyzed and no longer dare to breathe except in jolts. It rises faster and faster toward this grave that holds me captive, and the sluggish modulation gradually plunges me into a pleasant apathy, to which I surrender with intoxicated abandon. The entire world hums sweetly. Serene, I take the trouble to lie down, waiting for the Charon who will carry me beyond my torments. A mass of worms carpeting the trembling ground swells, as though cast up from the entrails of the earth, sliding and creeping beneath my body to caress me in waves... All my flesh suddenly begins to boil, as though a thousand volcanoes were erupting through the pores of my skin. I writhe, sprawled in the earth, shrieking with nameless agony. Visions of carnage, slaughter, and destruction force themselves upon my mind amid this infernal torment. I scream again, no longer in pain but in rage, consumed by an unquenchable thirst for blood. I surrender to oblivion.</div> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->pits_2]]</div><<timed 10s>><<audio "oogr" play>><</timed>>
<div style="max-width:300px; margin:0 auto">[img[data/media/img/vision.gif]]</div> <<nobr>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->pits_2]]</div> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte"> The sensation of soft ground in which I am sinking. An icy dampness soaks my clothes, trickles down, and seeps through the pores of my skin. My heart races...</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_4_rs_1_1]]</div>
<div id="texte">I struggle upright, slipping more than once before coming to rest against a clammy wall. Only the faint glow of the moon through the clouded sky manages to score the cavity in which I stand, a perfect rectangle. The possibilities open to me for escaping this hell are pitifully few... I seize one of the thicker clumps of roots and try to haul myself upward, to catch hold of the edge lined with thin grass. I cannot get high enough to grab hold of anything. My fingers slip on the wet grass, and at last the jutting roots give way. I fall backward and sprawl in the muck. Prostrate there beneath a fine rain that finishes stripping me bare, I sniff involuntarily between each shudder of my captive body. It is then that I perceive something like a dull rumbling rising from the center of the excavation, swelling as the earth begins to tremble. I straighten where I am, alert, my heart pounding. The sound, now clearer, becomes a bellowing, an amalgam of many sepulchral voices which, in unison, evoke in impious chant the gargling of a chthonic entity. I am paralyzed and no longer dare to breathe except in jolts. It rises faster and faster toward this grave that holds me captive, and the sluggish modulation gradually plunges me into a pleasant apathy, to which I surrender with intoxicated abandon. The entire world hums sweetly. Serene, I take the trouble to lie down, waiting for the Charon who will carry me beyond my torments. A mass of worms carpeting the trembling ground swells, as though cast up from the entrails of the earth, sliding and creeping beneath my body to caress it in waves... All my flesh suddenly begins to boil, as though a thousand volcanoes were erupting through the pores of my skin. I writhe, sprawled in the earth, shrieking with nameless agony...</div> <<if $cible08 is 100 and $meurtre is 3>>Visions of carnage, slaughter, and destruction force themselves upon my mind amid this infernal torment. I scream again, no longer in pain but in rage, consumed by an unquenchable thirst for blood. I spring upright, eyes wide. I see red and lunge at her... <div id="continuer">[[Attack->jess_10]]</div><<set $day to 4>> <<else>><div id="continuer"><<link "Awaken">><<goto "appart_j_4">><<set $day += 1>><<set $vj to 1>><<set $victime3 to 0>><</link>></div><</if>><<timed 20s>><<audio "oogr" play>><</timed>>
<div style="max-width:300px; margin:0 auto">[img[data/media/img/vision.gif]]</div> <<nobr>> <<set $cumail to 0>><<set $puzz_c to 1>><<set $puzz_u to 1>><<set $puzz_m to 1>><<set $puzz_a to 1>><<set $puzz_i to 1>><<set $puzz_l to 1>> <div id="continuer" style="font-size:140%"> <div id="i" class="lettres_cum"> <<button "Ï">> <<if $puzz_i is 1>> <<set $puzz_m to 2>><<set $puzz_a to 2>><<set $puzz_l to 2>><<set $puzz_u to 2>><<set $puzz_c to 2>> <<replace ".1">>Ï<</replace>> <<replace "#i">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_i is 2>> <<set $puzz_m to 3>><<set $puzz_a to 3>><<set $puzz_l to 3>><<set $puzz_u to 3>><<set $puzz_c to 3>> <<replace ".2">>Ï<</replace>> <<replace "#i">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_i is 3>> <<set $puzz_m to 4>><<set $puzz_a to 4>><<set $puzz_l to 4>><<set $puzz_u to 4>><<set $puzz_c to 4>> <<replace ".3">>Ï<</replace>> <<replace "#i">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_i is 4>> <<set $puzz_m to 5>><<set $puzz_a to 5>><<set $puzz_l to 5>><<set $puzz_u to 5>><<set $puzz_c to 5>> <<replace ".4">>Ï<</replace>> <<replace "#i">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_i is 5>> <<set $cumail += 1>><<set $puzz_m to 6>><<set $puzz_a to 6>><<set $puzz_l to 6>><<set $puzz_u to 6>><<set $puzz_c to 6>> <<replace ".5">>Ï<</replace>> <<replace "#i">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_i is 6>> <<replace ".6">>Ï<</replace>> <<replace "#i">><</replace>> <<if $cumail neq 6>><<goto "c_4_j_1">><<audio "infernale" fadeout>><</if>> <</if>> <</button>> </div> <div id="m" class="lettres_cum"> <<button "M">> <<if $puzz_m is 1>> <<set $puzz_i to 2>><<set $puzz_a to 2>><<set $puzz_l to 2>><<set $puzz_u to 2>><<set $puzz_c to 2>> <<replace ".1">>M<</replace>> <<replace "#m">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_m is 2>> <<set $puzz_i to 3>><<set $puzz_a to 3>><<set $puzz_l to 3>><<set $puzz_u to 3>><<set $puzz_c to 3>> <<replace ".2">>M<</replace>> <<replace "#m">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_m is 3>> <<set $cumail += 1>><<set $puzz_i to 4>><<set $puzz_a to 4>><<set $puzz_l to 4>><<set $puzz_u to 4>><<set $puzz_c to 4>> <<replace ".3">>M<</replace>> <<replace "#m">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_m is 4>> <<set $puzz_i to 5>><<set $puzz_a to 5>><<set $puzz_l to 5>><<set $puzz_u to 5>><<set $puzz_c to 5>> <<replace ".4">>M<</replace>> <<replace "#m">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_m is 5>> <<set $puzz_i to 6>><<set $puzz_a to 6>><<set $puzz_l to 6>><<set $puzz_u to 6>><<set $puzz_c to 6>> <<replace ".5">>M<</replace>> <<replace "#m">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_m is 6>> <<replace ".6">>M<</replace>> <<replace "#m">><</replace>> <<if $cumail neq 6>><<goto "c_4_j_1">><<audio "infernale" fadeout>><</if>> <</if>> <</button>> </div> <div id="a" class="lettres_cum"> <<button "A">> <<if $puzz_a is 1>> <<set $puzz_i to 2>><<set $puzz_m to 2>><<set $puzz_l to 2>><<set $puzz_u to 2>><<set $puzz_c to 2>> <<replace ".1">>A<</replace>> <<replace "#a">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_a is 2>> <<set $puzz_i to 3>><<set $puzz_m to 3>><<set $puzz_l to 3>><<set $puzz_u to 3>><<set $puzz_c to 3>> <<replace ".2">>A<</replace>> <<replace "#a">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_a is 3>> <<set $puzz_m to 4>><<set $puzz_i to 4>><<set $puzz_l to 4>><<set $puzz_u to 4>><<set $puzz_c to 4>> <<replace ".3">>A<</replace>> <<replace "#a">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_a is 4>> <<set $cumail += 1>><<set $puzz_i to 5>><<set $puzz_m to 5>><<set $puzz_l to 5>><<set $puzz_u to 5>><<set $puzz_c to 5>> <<replace ".4">>A<</replace>> <<replace "#a">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_a is 5>> <<set $puzz_i to 6>><<set $puzz_m to 6>><<set $puzz_l to 6>><<set $puzz_u to 6>><<set $puzz_c to 6>> <<replace ".5">>A<</replace>> <<replace "#a">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_a is 6>> <<replace ".6">>A<</replace>> <<replace "#a">><</replace>> <<if $cumail neq 6>><<goto "c_4_j_1">><<audio "infernale" fadeout>><</if>> <</if>> <</button>> </div> <div id="l" class="lettres_cum"> <<button "L">> <<if $puzz_l is 1>> <<set $puzz_i to 2>><<set $puzz_m to 2>><<set $puzz_a to 2>><<set $puzz_u to 2>><<set $puzz_c to 2>> <<replace ".1">>L<</replace>> <<replace "#l">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_l is 2>> <<set $puzz_i to 3>><<set $puzz_m to 3>><<set $puzz_a to 3>><<set $puzz_u to 3>><<set $puzz_c to 3>> <<replace ".2">>L<</replace>> <<replace "#l">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_l is 3>> <<set $puzz_m to 4>><<set $puzz_i to 4>><<set $puzz_a to 4>><<set $puzz_u to 4>><<set $puzz_c to 4>> <<replace ".3">>L<</replace>> <<replace "#l">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_l is 4>> <<set $puzz_i to 5>><<set $puzz_m to 5>><<set $puzz_a to 5>><<set $puzz_u to 5>><<set $puzz_c to 5>> <<replace ".4">>L<</replace>> <<replace "#l">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_l is 5>> <<set $puzz_i to 6>><<set $puzz_m to 6>><<set $puzz_a to 6>><<set $puzz_u to 6>><<set $puzz_c to 6>> <<replace ".5">>L<</replace>> <<replace "#l">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_l is 6>> <<set $cumail += 1>> <<replace ".6">>L<</replace>> <<replace "#l">><</replace>> <<if $cumail is 6>> <<replace ".soluce">><<link "CUMAÏL">><<goto "cumail">><<set $mid2_nom to 4>><<smGain D10>><</link>><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $cumail neq 6>><<goto "c_4_j_1">><<audio "infernale" fadeout>><</if>> <</if>> <</button>> </div> <div id="u" class="lettres_cum"> <<button "U">> <<if $puzz_u is 1>> <<set $puzz_i to 2>><<set $puzz_m to 2>><<set $puzz_a to 2>><<set $puzz_l to 2>><<set $puzz_c to 2>> <<replace ".1">>U<</replace>> <<replace "#u">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_u is 2>> <<set $cumail += 1>><<set $puzz_i to 3>><<set $puzz_m to 3>><<set $puzz_a to 3>><<set $puzz_l to 3>><<set $puzz_c to 3>> <<replace ".2">>U<</replace>> <<replace "#u">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_u is 3>> <<set $puzz_m to 4>><<set $puzz_i to 4>><<set $puzz_a to 4>><<set $puzz_l to 4>><<set $puzz_c to 4>> <<replace ".3">>U<</replace>> <<replace "#u">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_u is 4>> <<set $puzz_i to 5>><<set $puzz_m to 5>><<set $puzz_a to 5>><<set $puzz_l to 5>><<set $puzz_c to 5>> <<replace ".4">>U<</replace>> <<replace "#u">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_u is 5>> <<set $puzz_i to 6>><<set $puzz_m to 6>><<set $puzz_a to 6>><<set $puzz_l to 6>><<set $puzz_c to 6>> <<replace ".5">>U<</replace>> <<replace "#u">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_u is 6>> <<replace ".6">>U<</replace>> <<replace "#u">><</replace>> <<if $cumail neq 6>><<goto "c_4_j_1">><<audio "infernale" fadeout>><</if>> <</if>> <</button>> </div> <div id="c" class="lettres_cum"> <<button "C">> <<if $puzz_c is 1>> <<set $cumail += 1>><<set $puzz_i to 2>><<set $puzz_m to 2>><<set $puzz_a to 2>><<set $puzz_l to 2>><<set $puzz_u to 2>> <<replace ".1">>C<</replace>> <<replace "#c">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_c is 2>> <<set $puzz_i to 3>><<set $puzz_m to 3>><<set $puzz_a to 3>><<set $puzz_l to 3>><<set $puzz_u to 3>> <<replace ".2">>C<</replace>> <<replace "#c">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_c is 3>> <<set $puzz_i to 4>><<set $puzz_m to 4>><<set $puzz_a to 4>><<set $puzz_l to 4>><<set $puzz_u to 4>> <<replace ".3">>C<</replace>> <<replace "#c">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_c is 4>> <<set $puzz_i to 5>><<set $puzz_m to 5>><<set $puzz_a to 5>><<set $puzz_l to 5>><<set $puzz_u to 5>> <<replace ".4">>C<</replace>> <<replace "#c">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_c is 5>> <<set $puzz_i to 6>><<set $puzz_m to 6>><<set $puzz_a to 6>><<set $puzz_l to 6>><<set $puzz_u to 6>> <<replace ".5">>C<</replace>> <<replace "#c">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_c is 6>> <<replace ".6">>C<</replace>> <<replace "#c">><</replace>> <<if $cumail neq 6>><<goto "c_4_j_1">><<audio "infernale" fadeout>><</if>> <</if>> <</button>> </div> </div> <div id="continuer" class="soluce" style="font-size:140%"> <span id="ecrit_cum" class="1"></span><span id="ecrit_cum" class="2"></span><span id="ecrit_cum" class="3"></span><span id="ecrit_cum" class="4"></span><span id="ecrit_cum" class="5"></span><span id="ecrit_cum" class="6"></span></div> <<set $victime3 to 0>><<set $cible08 to 0>> <div id="continuer"><<link "Start over">><<goto "c_4_rso_1">><<smLoss D10>><</link>></div><<audio "infernale" play>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">The void... From its conceit my confidence is sown, like a stillborn child drawn from the very center of its flesh, senselessly...</div> <<nobr>> <<if setup.salt.sleepActive()>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_4_t_rs_1]]</div> <<else>> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_4_t_0]]</div> <<if $victime3 is "Jessica Mendhil" and $meurtre is 3>><<set $jess to 100>> <</if>> <</if>> <<audio "reve" play>><<silently>><<set $vj to 0>><<set $act += 5>><<set $reve to 1>><<set $dream to 4>><</silently>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte"><span class="melange">The soisntaen of sfot gournd in wcihh I am siknnig. An icy dpnasems sokas my clthoes, terilkcs dwon, and sepes tgohruh the proes of my sikn. </span>Her heart races...—Telma—.</div><div id="continuer">[[Cnotnieur->c_4_t_1]]</div>
<div id="texte" class="melange">My thoughts overlap; I struggle to keep them lucid. None of this makes any sense. I want to help her...</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec" class="melange">As though I had a choice.</span> <div id="selection"> [[Continue->c_4_t_2]] </div> </div><</nobr>>
<div id="texte" class="melange">I perceive the emanation of her innocent soul. It fouls my world.</div><div id="continuer">[[I do not wish to continue->c_4_t_3]]</div>
<div id="texte" class="melange">I perceive a thousand echoes, each with a thousand legs, pouring like a twisting river into a bottomless well of resentment and hatred.</div><div id="continuer">[[I will not->c_4_t_4]]</div>
<div id="texte" class="melange">Vitality visage veering vision vitality viscera virginal vitality victim visitation violation vitality virtuoso vice viral vitality virile visible virtual vitality void vitality void vitality void vitality void vitality void vitality void vitality void vitality void vitality void vitality void vitality void vitality void...</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec" class="melange">— Telma —</span> <div id="selection"> <<link "I wish to sleep">><<goto "telma_1">><<silently>><<if $day is 1>><<set $day to 2>><<elseif $day is 2>><<set $day to 3>><<elseif $day is 3>><<set $day to 4>><</if>><</silently>><</link>> <<link "I wish to wake">><<goto "telma_2">><<silently>><<if $day is 1>><<set $day to 2>><<elseif $day is 2>><<set $day to 3>><<elseif $day is 3>><<set $day to 4>><</if>><</silently>><</link>> </div> </div><</nobr>>
<div id="texte"><span class="melange">Teh sneaotsin of sotf gournd in wihch I am sniknig</span> — no, no — the sensation of soft ground — that’s it — in which I am sinking. <span class="melange">An iyc dpanmess skaos my colthes,</span> — soaks, this dampness soaks my clothes — <span class="melange">trcikels dwon and sepes thourgh teh proes of my skin.</span> — there is no dampness — Someone is shaking me — Let go of me! — My heart races...</div><div id="continuer">[[Cnotnieur->c_4_t_rs_2]]</div>
<center><div id="max"></div></center> <div id="continuer" class="switch"></div> <<nobr>> <<timed 2s>><<shaketarget "#max" 0.2s>><</timed>> <<timed 4s>><<shaketarget "#max" 0.3s>><</timed>> <<timed 6s>><<shaketarget "#max" 0.5s>><</timed>> <<timed 1s>> <<replace "#max">> <span style="font-size:10%">M a x</span> <</replace>> <</timed>> <<timed 2s>> <<replace "#max">> <span style="font-size:60%">Max</span> <</replace>> <</timed>> <<timed 3s>> <<replace "#max">> <span style="font-size:100%">M a x</span> <</replace>> <</timed>> <<timed 4s>> <<replace "#max">> <span style="font-size:150%">Max</span> <</replace>> <</timed>> <<timed 5s>> <<replace "#max">> <span style="font-size:210%">M a x</span> <</replace>> <</timed>> <<timed 6s>> <<replace "#max">> <span style="font-size:300%">Mr. Cornwell!</span> <</replace>> <<timed 1s>> <<goto "telma_3">> <<silently>><<if $day is 1>><<set $day to 2>><<elseif $day is 2>><<set $day to 3>><<elseif $day is 3>><<set $day to 4>><</if>><</silently>> <</timed>> <</timed>> <</nobr>>
<<nobr>> <center><video id="horloge_vid" autoplay><source src="data/media/vids/horloge_final.mp4" type="video/mp4" /></video></center> <<timed 15s>> <<if setup.salt.sleepActive() and $oval is 3 and $ecri is 1>> <<goto "c_5_rso_1">> <<else>> <<goto "c_5_r_0">> <</if>> <</timed>> <<silently>> <<set $meurtre to 5>><<set $vj to 0>><<set $reve to 1>><<set $dream to 5>><<smLoss D10>> <</silently>> <<audio ":all" stop>> <<timed 2.5s>><<audio "tictac" play>><</timed>> <<timed 12s>><<audio "dong" play>><</timed>> <</nobr>>
<div class="songe"><span></span></div><div id="typocu"></div> <<nobr>> <div id="continuer" class="switch"></div> <<timed 1s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Now let yourself go.</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;typocu.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 150);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 8s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Here your story ends.</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;typocu.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 120);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 12s>> <<replace ".switch">> <<if ($def1 is 0 or $def2 is 0) and ($n is 0 and $y is 0) and $exor < 2 and ($livre isnot 6 or $jess_rit is 0)>> @@.beauty_link;<<link "– Why?">><<goto "c_5_r_5">><</link>>@@ <<else>> @@.beauty_link;<<link "– Why?">><<goto "c_5_r_0_1">><</link>>@@ <</if>> <</replace>> <</timed>> <<script>> $(document).ready(function(){ var mots = ['Cumaïl', 'Okran', 'Nat', 'Naguial', 'Ash', 'Orth', 'Aôrt', 'Nugash', 'Vatgh']; clearInterval(window._songeFinalTimer); window._songeFinalTimer = setInterval(function() { var fsize = Math.floor(Math.random() * 5); var lspace = Math.floor(Math.random() * 5); var opac = Math.random(); var y = Math.floor(Math.random() * 101) + 1; var x = Math.floor(Math.random() * 101) + 1; $(".songe").css({ 'font-size' : fsize + "em", 'top' : y + "vh", 'left' : x + "vw", 'letter-spacing' : lspace + "em", 'opacity' : opac, }); var mot = mots[Math.floor(Math.random()*mots.length)]; $(".songe span").replaceWith('<span>'+mot+'</span>'); }, 1000); }); <</script>> <<audio "incant" play loop>> <</nobr>>
<div class="songe"><span></span></div><div id="typocu"></div> <<nobr>> <div id="continuer" class="switch"></div> <<timed 1s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Everything is always,</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;typocu.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 150);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 5s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>a simple matter of choice.</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;typocu.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 150);}());<</script>> <<replace ".switch">> <<timed 7s>> @@.beauty_link; <<if $def1 is 1 and $def2 is 1>> <<link "The Departed Embrace">><<goto "c_5_r_1">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $n is 1 or $y is 1>> <<link "The Geometry of the Arcana">><<goto "c_5_r_2">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $exor >= 2>> <<link "The Way of the Midrashim">><<goto "c_5_r_3">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $livre is 6 and $jess_rit is 1>> <<link "The Echoes of Zs S'àh">><<goto "c_5_r_4">><</link>> <</if>> @@ <</timed>> <</replace>> <</timed>> <<if $b1 is 1>> <<elseif $y is 1 or $n is 1>><<audio "infernale" play volume 0.5>> <<elseif $exor is 2>><<audio "mamar_exor" play volume 0.5>> <<elseif $livre is 6>><<audio "ereth" play volume 0.5>><</if>> <<script>> $(document).ready(function(){ var mots = ['Cumaïl', 'Okran', 'Nat', 'Naguial', 'Ash', 'Orth', 'Aôrt', 'Nugash', 'Vatgh']; clearInterval(window._songeFinalTimer); window._songeFinalTimer = setInterval(function() { var fsize = Math.floor(Math.random() * 5); var lspace = Math.floor(Math.random() * 5); var opac = Math.random(); var y = Math.floor(Math.random() * 101) + 1; var x = Math.floor(Math.random() * 101) + 1; $(".songe").css({ 'font-size' : fsize + "em", 'top' : y + "vh", 'left' : x + "vw", 'letter-spacing' : lspace + "em", 'opacity' : opac, }); var mot = mots[Math.floor(Math.random()*mots.length)]; $(".songe span").replaceWith('<span>'+mot+'</span>'); }, 1000); }); <</script>> <</nobr>>
<div class="songe"><span></span></div><div id="typocu">Departed Embrace</div> <<nobr>> <div id="continuer" class="switch"></div> <<timed 4s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>The boundary of dreams you have crossed,</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 10s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>by wishing for your own death.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 17s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>What you took for a dream was touching upon your reality.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<if $def3 is 0>> <<timed 24s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Whence I come, you knew not how to read.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 31s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Ethereal sustenance, now you are Mine for all eternity.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,120);}());<</script>> <<replace ".switch">> <<timed 8s>> @@.beauty_link;<<link "– thank you.">><<goto "epilogue_7">><<audio "incant" fadeout>><</link>>@@ <</timed>> <</replace>> <</timed>> <<elseif $def4 is 0>> <<timed 24s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>The origin of what haunts you, in your blood you had recognized.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 31s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>That you bore My traces unknowing, that you never recognized.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 38s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Ethereal sustenance, now you are Mine for all eternity.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,120);}());<</script>> <<replace ".switch">> <<timed 8s>> @@.beauty_link;<<link "– thank you.">><<goto "epilogue_7">><<audio "incant" fadeout>><</link>>@@ <</timed>> <</replace>> <</timed>> <<else>> <<timed 24s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>The origin of what haunts you, in your blood you had recognized.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 31s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>That you bore My traces, that you had known.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<if $oval is 3>> <<timed 38s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>The den of My gestation, you had found and held.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<elseif $oval is 2>> <<timed 38s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>The den of My gestation, you had found,</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 44s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>but you knew not how to bind it to yourself before crossing.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<else>> <<timed 38s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Where I slumber, you never came to seek.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <</if>> <<if not setup.salt.sleepActive()>> <<if $oval is 2>> <<timed 51s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>From Me you did not shield yourself.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<else>> <<timed 45s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>From Me you did not shield yourself.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $oval is 2 and not setup.salt.sleepActive()>> <<timed 58s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Ethereal sustenance, now you are Mine for all eternity.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,120);}());<</script>> <<replace ".switch">> <<timed 8s>> @@.beauty_link;<<link "– thank you.">><<goto "epilogue_7">><<audio "incant" fadeout>><</link>>@@ <</timed>> <</replace>> <</timed>> <<elseif setup.salt.sleepActive()>> <<timed 45s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Ethereal sustenance, now you are Mine for all eternity.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,120);}());<</script>> <<replace ".switch">> <<timed 8s>> @@.beauty_link;<<link "– thank you.">><<goto "epilogue_7">><<audio "incant" fadeout>><</link>>@@ <</timed>> <</replace>> <</timed>> <<else>> <<timed 52s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Ethereal sustenance, now you are Mine for all eternity.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,120);}());<</script>> <<replace ".switch">> <<timed 8s>> @@.beauty_link;<<link "– thank you.">><<goto "epilogue_7">><<audio "incant" fadeout>><</link>>@@ <</timed>> <</replace>> <</timed>> <</if>> <</if>> <<script>> $(document).ready(function(){ var mots = ['Cumaïl', 'Okran', 'Nat', 'Naguial', 'Ash', 'Orth', 'Aôrt', 'Nugash', 'Vatgh']; clearInterval(window._songeFinalTimer); window._songeFinalTimer = setInterval(function() { var fsize = Math.floor(Math.random() * 5); var lspace = Math.floor(Math.random() * 5); var opac = Math.random(); var y = Math.floor(Math.random() * 101) + 1; var x = Math.floor(Math.random() * 101) + 1; $(".songe").css({ 'font-size' : fsize + "em", 'top' : y + "vh", 'left' : x + "vw", 'letter-spacing' : lspace + "em", 'opacity' : opac, }); var mot = mots[Math.floor(Math.random()*mots.length)]; $(".songe span").replaceWith('<span>'+mot+'</span>'); }, 1000); }); <</script>> <</nobr>>
<div class="songe"><span></span></div><div id="typocu">The Geometry of the Arcana</div> <<nobr>> <div id="continuer" class="switch"></div> <<if $ecri is 1>> <<timed 4s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>The geometry of My arcana you managed to decipher.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<elseif $n is 1 and $y is 1>> <<timed 4s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>The signs multiplied without ever intersecting.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<elseif $n is 1>> <<timed 4s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>To your own dreams you awoke,</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 10s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>yet My arcana remained unknown to you.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<else>> <<timed 4s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>My hidden arcana you uncovered,</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 10s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>without taking time to rest.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <</if>> <<if $mid2_nom >= 3>> <<timed 17s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Who I am, you had known.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<else>> <<timed 17s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>What My name is, you never knew.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <</if>> <<if $oval is 3>> <<timed 24s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>The lair of My gestation, you had found and held.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<elseif $oval is 2>> <<timed 24s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>The lair of My gestation, you had found,</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 30s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>but you knew not how to bind it to yourself before crossing.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<else>> <<timed 24s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Where I slumber, you never came to seek.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <</if>> <<if not setup.salt.sleepActive()>> <<if $oval is 2>> <<timed 37s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>From Me you did not shield yourself.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<else>> <<timed 31s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>From Me you did not shield yourself.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $oval is 2 and not setup.salt.sleepActive()>> <<timed 44s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Ethereal sustenance, now you are Mine for all eternity.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,120);}());<</script>> <<replace ".switch">> <<timed 8s>> @@.beauty_link;<<link "– thank you.">><<goto "epilogue_7">><<audio "incant" fadeout>><</link>>@@ <</timed>> <</replace>> <</timed>> <<elseif setup.salt.sleepActive()>> <<timed 37s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Ethereal sustenance, now you are Mine for all eternity.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,120);}());<</script>> <<replace ".switch">> <<timed 8s>> @@.beauty_link;<<link "– thank you.">><<goto "epilogue_7">><<audio "incant" fadeout>><</link>>@@ <</timed>> <</replace>> <</timed>> <<else>> <<timed 38s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Ethereal sustenance, now you are Mine for all eternity.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,120);}());<</script>> <<replace ".switch">> <<timed 8s>> @@.beauty_link;<<link "– thank you.">><<goto "epilogue_7">><<audio "incant" fadeout>><</link>>@@ <</timed>> <</replace>> <</timed>> <</if>> <<script>> $(document).ready(function(){ var mots = ['Cumaïl', 'Okran', 'Nat', 'Naguial', 'Ash', 'Orth', 'Aôrt', 'Nugash', 'Vatgh']; clearInterval(window._songeFinalTimer); window._songeFinalTimer = setInterval(function() { var fsize = Math.floor(Math.random() * 5); var lspace = Math.floor(Math.random() * 5); var opac = Math.random(); var y = Math.floor(Math.random() * 101) + 1; var x = Math.floor(Math.random() * 101) + 1; $(".songe").css({ 'font-size' : fsize + "em", 'top' : y + "vh", 'left' : x + "vw", 'letter-spacing' : lspace + "em", 'opacity' : opac, }); var mot = mots[Math.floor(Math.random()*mots.length)]; $(".songe span").replaceWith('<span>'+mot+'</span>'); }, 1000); }); <</script>> <</nobr>>
<div class="songe"><span></span></div><div id="typocu">The Way of the Midrashim</div> <<nobr>> <div id="continuer" class="switch"></div> <<timed 4s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>The way of the sacred, you sought to walk.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 11s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>A man of Faith held out his hand to you.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<if $rit2 isnot 1>> <<timed 18s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>What I am, you did not know.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 25s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Ethereal sustenance, now you are Mine for all eternity.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,120);}());<</script>> <<replace ".switch">> <<timed 8s>> @@.beauty_link;<<link "– thank you.">><<goto "epilogue_7">><<audio "incant" fadeout>><</link>>@@ <</timed>> <</replace>> <</timed>> <<elseif $rit3 isnot 0>> <<timed 18s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>My nature, you had seen through.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 25s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>But where I lie, you could not read.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 32s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Ethereal sustenance, now you are Mine for all eternity.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,120);}());<</script>> <<replace ".switch">> <<timed 8s>> @@.beauty_link;<<link "– thank you.">><<goto "epilogue_7">><<audio "incant" fadeout>><</link>>@@ <</timed>> <</replace>> <</timed>> <<elseif $oval < 2 and $ritnom isnot "cumaïl">> <<timed 18s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>The object, you had sensed.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 25s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Neither My name nor My anchoring could you grasp.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 32s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Ethereal sustenance, now you are Mine for all eternity.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,120);}());<</script>> <<replace ".switch">> <<timed 8s>> @@.beauty_link;<<link "– thank you.">><<goto "epilogue_7">><<audio "incant" fadeout>><</link>>@@ <</timed>> <</replace>> <</timed>> <<else>> <<timed 18s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>The way was laid before you.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 25s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>You did not walk it to its end.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 32s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Ethereal sustenance, now you are Mine for all eternity.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,120);}());<</script>> <<replace ".switch">> <<timed 8s>> @@.beauty_link;<<link "– thank you.">><<goto "epilogue_7">><<audio "incant" fadeout>><</link>>@@ <</timed>> <</replace>> <</timed>> <</if>> <<script>> $(document).ready(function(){ var mots = ['Cumaïl', 'Okran', 'Nat', 'Naguial', 'Ash', 'Orth', 'Aôrt', 'Nugash', 'Vatgh']; clearInterval(window._songeFinalTimer); window._songeFinalTimer = setInterval(function() { var fsize = Math.floor(Math.random() * 5); var lspace = Math.floor(Math.random() * 5); var opac = Math.random(); var y = Math.floor(Math.random() * 101) + 1; var x = Math.floor(Math.random() * 101) + 1; $(".songe").css({ 'font-size' : fsize + "em", 'top' : y + "vh", 'left' : x + "vw", 'letter-spacing' : lspace + "em", 'opacity' : opac, }); var mot = mots[Math.floor(Math.random()*mots.length)]; $(".songe span").replaceWith('<span>'+mot+'</span>'); }, 1000); }); <</script>> <</nobr>>
<div class="songe"><span></span></div><div id="typocu">The Echoes of Zs S'àh</div> <<nobr>> <div id="continuer" class="switch"></div> <<timed 4s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Along the dark paths of Kabbalah,</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 11s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>the origin of My conjunction you have found.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<if $t isnot 1>> <<timed 18s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>The channel through which I course, you never saw through.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 25s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Ethereal sustenance, now you are Mine for all eternity.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,120);}());<</script>> <<replace ".switch">> <<timed 8s>> @@.beauty_link;<<link "– thank you.">><<goto "epilogue_7">><<audio "incant" fadeout>><</link>>@@ <</timed>> <</replace>> <</timed>> <<elseif $kov isnot 2>> <<timed 18s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>The nature of the passage, you had seen through.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 25s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Where your blood leads, you did not trace.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 32s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Ethereal sustenance, now you are Mine for all eternity.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,120);}());<</script>> <<replace ".switch">> <<timed 8s>> @@.beauty_link;<<link "– thank you.">><<goto "epilogue_7">><<audio "incant" fadeout>><</link>>@@ <</timed>> <</replace>> <</timed>> <<elseif $sm > 45>> <<timed 18s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Your lineage, you had recognized.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 25s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>But the world was not yet broken enough within you for the threshold to open.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 32s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Ethereal sustenance, now you are Mine for all eternity.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,120);}());<</script>> <<replace ".switch">> <<timed 8s>> @@.beauty_link;<<link "– thank you.">><<goto "epilogue_7">><<audio "incant" fadeout>><</link>>@@ <</timed>> <</replace>> <</timed>> <<else>> <<timed 18s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>The passage stood open.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 25s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>No body of your lineage came forth.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 32s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Ethereal sustenance, now you are Mine for all eternity.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,120);}());<</script>> <<replace ".switch">> <<timed 8s>> @@.beauty_link;<<link "– thank you.">><<goto "epilogue_7">><<audio "incant" fadeout>><</link>>@@ <</timed>> <</replace>> <</timed>> <</if>> <<script>> $(document).ready(function(){ var mots = ['Cumaïl', 'Okran', 'Nat', 'Naguial', 'Ash', 'Orth', 'Aôrt', 'Nugash', 'Vatgh']; clearInterval(window._songeFinalTimer); window._songeFinalTimer = setInterval(function() { var fsize = Math.floor(Math.random() * 5); var lspace = Math.floor(Math.random() * 5); var opac = Math.random(); var y = Math.floor(Math.random() * 101) + 1; var x = Math.floor(Math.random() * 101) + 1; $(".songe").css({ 'font-size' : fsize + "em", 'top' : y + "vh", 'left' : x + "vw", 'letter-spacing' : lspace + "em", 'opacity' : opac, }); var mot = mots[Math.floor(Math.random()*mots.length)]; $(".songe span").replaceWith('<span>'+mot+'</span>'); }, 1000); }); <</script>> <</nobr>>
<div style="max-width:300px; margin:0 auto">[img[data/media/img/vision.gif]]</div> <<nobr>> <<set $cumail to 0>><<set $puzz_c to 1>><<set $puzz_u to 1>><<set $puzz_m to 1>><<set $puzz_a to 1>><<set $puzz_i to 1>><<set $puzz_l to 1>> <div id="continuer" style="font-size:140%"> <div id="i" class="lettres_cum"> <<button "Ï">> <<if $puzz_i is 1>> <<set $puzz_m to 2>><<set $puzz_a to 2>><<set $puzz_l to 2>><<set $puzz_u to 2>><<set $puzz_c to 2>> <<replace ".1">>Ï<</replace>> <<replace "#i">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_i is 2>> <<set $puzz_m to 3>><<set $puzz_a to 3>><<set $puzz_l to 3>><<set $puzz_u to 3>><<set $puzz_c to 3>> <<replace ".2">>Ï<</replace>> <<replace "#i">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_i is 3>> <<set $puzz_m to 4>><<set $puzz_a to 4>><<set $puzz_l to 4>><<set $puzz_u to 4>><<set $puzz_c to 4>> <<replace ".3">>Ï<</replace>> <<replace "#i">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_i is 4>> <<set $puzz_m to 5>><<set $puzz_a to 5>><<set $puzz_l to 5>><<set $puzz_u to 5>><<set $puzz_c to 5>> <<replace ".4">>Ï<</replace>> <<replace "#i">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_i is 5>> <<set $cumail += 1>><<set $puzz_m to 6>><<set $puzz_a to 6>><<set $puzz_l to 6>><<set $puzz_u to 6>><<set $puzz_c to 6>> <<replace ".5">>Ï<</replace>> <<replace "#i">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_i is 6>> <<replace ".6">>Ï<</replace>> <<replace "#i">><</replace>> <<if $cumail neq 6>><<goto "epilogue_7">><<audio "infernale" fadeout>><</if>> <</if>> <</button>> </div> <div id="m" class="lettres_cum"> <<button "M">> <<if $puzz_m is 1>> <<set $puzz_i to 2>><<set $puzz_a to 2>><<set $puzz_l to 2>><<set $puzz_u to 2>><<set $puzz_c to 2>> <<replace ".1">>M<</replace>> <<replace "#m">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_m is 2>> <<set $puzz_i to 3>><<set $puzz_a to 3>><<set $puzz_l to 3>><<set $puzz_u to 3>><<set $puzz_c to 3>> <<replace ".2">>M<</replace>> <<replace "#m">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_m is 3>> <<set $cumail += 1>><<set $puzz_i to 4>><<set $puzz_a to 4>><<set $puzz_l to 4>><<set $puzz_u to 4>><<set $puzz_c to 4>> <<replace ".3">>M<</replace>> <<replace "#m">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_m is 4>> <<set $puzz_i to 5>><<set $puzz_a to 5>><<set $puzz_l to 5>><<set $puzz_u to 5>><<set $puzz_c to 5>> <<replace ".4">>M<</replace>> <<replace "#m">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_m is 5>> <<set $puzz_i to 6>><<set $puzz_a to 6>><<set $puzz_l to 6>><<set $puzz_u to 6>><<set $puzz_c to 6>> <<replace ".5">>M<</replace>> <<replace "#m">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_m is 6>> <<replace ".6">>M<</replace>> <<replace "#m">><</replace>> <<if $cumail neq 6>><<goto "epilogue_7">><<audio "infernale" fadeout>><</if>> <</if>> <</button>> </div> <div id="a" class="lettres_cum"> <<button "A">> <<if $puzz_a is 1>> <<set $puzz_i to 2>><<set $puzz_m to 2>><<set $puzz_l to 2>><<set $puzz_u to 2>><<set $puzz_c to 2>> <<replace ".1">>A<</replace>> <<replace "#a">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_a is 2>> <<set $puzz_i to 3>><<set $puzz_m to 3>><<set $puzz_l to 3>><<set $puzz_u to 3>><<set $puzz_c to 3>> <<replace ".2">>A<</replace>> <<replace "#a">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_a is 3>> <<set $puzz_m to 4>><<set $puzz_i to 4>><<set $puzz_l to 4>><<set $puzz_u to 4>><<set $puzz_c to 4>> <<replace ".3">>A<</replace>> <<replace "#a">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_a is 4>> <<set $cumail += 1>><<set $puzz_i to 5>><<set $puzz_m to 5>><<set $puzz_l to 5>><<set $puzz_u to 5>><<set $puzz_c to 5>> <<replace ".4">>A<</replace>> <<replace "#a">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_a is 5>> <<set $puzz_i to 6>><<set $puzz_m to 6>><<set $puzz_l to 6>><<set $puzz_u to 6>><<set $puzz_c to 6>> <<replace ".5">>A<</replace>> <<replace "#a">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_a is 6>> <<replace ".6">>A<</replace>> <<replace "#a">><</replace>> <<if $cumail neq 6>><<goto "epilogue_7">><<audio "infernale" fadeout>><</if>> <</if>> <</button>> </div> <div id="l" class="lettres_cum"> <<button "L">> <<if $puzz_l is 1>> <<set $puzz_i to 2>><<set $puzz_m to 2>><<set $puzz_a to 2>><<set $puzz_u to 2>><<set $puzz_c to 2>> <<replace ".1">>L<</replace>> <<replace "#l">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_l is 2>> <<set $puzz_i to 3>><<set $puzz_m to 3>><<set $puzz_a to 3>><<set $puzz_u to 3>><<set $puzz_c to 3>> <<replace ".2">>L<</replace>> <<replace "#l">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_l is 3>> <<set $puzz_m to 4>><<set $puzz_i to 4>><<set $puzz_a to 4>><<set $puzz_u to 4>><<set $puzz_c to 4>> <<replace ".3">>L<</replace>> <<replace "#l">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_l is 4>> <<set $puzz_i to 5>><<set $puzz_m to 5>><<set $puzz_a to 5>><<set $puzz_u to 5>><<set $puzz_c to 5>> <<replace ".4">>L<</replace>> <<replace "#l">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_l is 5>> <<set $puzz_i to 6>><<set $puzz_m to 6>><<set $puzz_a to 6>><<set $puzz_u to 6>><<set $puzz_c to 6>> <<replace ".5">>L<</replace>> <<replace "#l">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_l is 6>> <<set $cumail += 1>> <<replace ".6">>L<</replace>> <<replace "#l">><</replace>> <<if $cumail is 6>> <<replace ".soluce">><<link "CUMAÏL">><<goto "cumail">><<set $mid2_nom to 4>><<smGain D10>><</link>><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $cumail neq 6>><<goto "epilogue_7">><<audio "infernale" fadeout>><</if>> <</if>> <</button>> </div> <div id="u" class="lettres_cum"> <<button "U">> <<if $puzz_u is 1>> <<set $puzz_i to 2>><<set $puzz_m to 2>><<set $puzz_a to 2>><<set $puzz_l to 2>><<set $puzz_c to 2>> <<replace ".1">>U<</replace>> <<replace "#u">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_u is 2>> <<set $cumail += 1>><<set $puzz_i to 3>><<set $puzz_m to 3>><<set $puzz_a to 3>><<set $puzz_l to 3>><<set $puzz_c to 3>> <<replace ".2">>U<</replace>> <<replace "#u">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_u is 3>> <<set $puzz_m to 4>><<set $puzz_i to 4>><<set $puzz_a to 4>><<set $puzz_l to 4>><<set $puzz_c to 4>> <<replace ".3">>U<</replace>> <<replace "#u">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_u is 4>> <<set $puzz_i to 5>><<set $puzz_m to 5>><<set $puzz_a to 5>><<set $puzz_l to 5>><<set $puzz_c to 5>> <<replace ".4">>U<</replace>> <<replace "#u">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_u is 5>> <<set $puzz_i to 6>><<set $puzz_m to 6>><<set $puzz_a to 6>><<set $puzz_l to 6>><<set $puzz_c to 6>> <<replace ".5">>U<</replace>> <<replace "#u">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_u is 6>> <<replace ".6">>U<</replace>> <<replace "#u">><</replace>> <<if $cumail neq 6>><<goto "epilogue_7">><<audio "infernale" fadeout>><</if>> <</if>> <</button>> </div> <div id="c" class="lettres_cum"> <<button "C">> <<if $puzz_c is 1>> <<set $cumail += 1>><<set $puzz_i to 2>><<set $puzz_m to 2>><<set $puzz_a to 2>><<set $puzz_l to 2>><<set $puzz_u to 2>> <<replace ".1">>C<</replace>> <<replace "#c">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_c is 2>> <<set $puzz_i to 3>><<set $puzz_m to 3>><<set $puzz_a to 3>><<set $puzz_l to 3>><<set $puzz_u to 3>> <<replace ".2">>C<</replace>> <<replace "#c">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_c is 3>> <<set $puzz_i to 4>><<set $puzz_m to 4>><<set $puzz_a to 4>><<set $puzz_l to 4>><<set $puzz_u to 4>> <<replace ".3">>C<</replace>> <<replace "#c">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_c is 4>> <<set $puzz_i to 5>><<set $puzz_m to 5>><<set $puzz_a to 5>><<set $puzz_l to 5>><<set $puzz_u to 5>> <<replace ".4">>C<</replace>> <<replace "#c">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_c is 5>> <<set $puzz_i to 6>><<set $puzz_m to 6>><<set $puzz_a to 6>><<set $puzz_l to 6>><<set $puzz_u to 6>> <<replace ".5">>C<</replace>> <<replace "#c">><</replace>> <</if>> <<if $puzz_c is 6>> <<replace ".6">>C<</replace>> <<replace "#c">><</replace>> <<if $cumail neq 6>><<goto "epilogue_7">><<audio "infernale" fadeout>><</if>> <</if>> <</button>> </div> </div> <div id="continuer" class="soluce" style="font-size:140%"> <span id="ecrit_cum" class="1"></span><span id="ecrit_cum" class="2"></span><span id="ecrit_cum" class="3"></span><span id="ecrit_cum" class="4"></span><span id="ecrit_cum" class="5"></span><span id="ecrit_cum" class="6"></span></div> <<set $victime3 to 0>><<set $cible08 to 0>> <<set $n to 1>><<set $y to 1>><<audio "infernale" play volume 0.6>> <div id="continuer"><<link "Start over">><<goto "c_5_rso_1">><<smLoss D10>><</link>></div> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">There is indeed a //Baker Street// cemetery in Boston. Incredulous, I check the coded notation in the register several times before finding the corresponding site on the city maps. It is a Jewish cemetery, located at 776 //Baker Street// in the //West Roxbury// neighborhood. On the map, the cemetery itself is divided into many parcels, each representing family lines, names that seem exotic to me, or references to countries. [img[data/media/img/plan_cimbak.jpg]]</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">Armed with this, I wish to:</span> <div id="selection"> @@#link_2;<<link "Make my way to the cemetery">><<goto "cim_1">><</link>>@@ <<if $day is 1>> [[Return home ->appart_j_1]] <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> [[Return home ->appart_j_2]] <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> [[Return home ->appart_j_3]] <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> [[Return home ->appart_j_4]] <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>><<set $bak to 2>><<set $cim to 1>>
<div id="texte">No one in the city hall departments can tell me anything about the origin of Polonnoye. However, it is not difficult to find the term in one of the cemeteries, the only one in Boston with a parcel bearing that name. It is a Jewish cemetery, located at 776 Baker Street in the West Roxbury neighborhood, bearing the same name as the street on which it stands. The coded notation in the register refers to a map divided into many parcels on one of the city maps, each representing family lines, names that seem exotic to me, or references to countries; one of them does indeed display Polonnoye.</div> [img[data/media/img/plan_cimbak.jpg]] <<nobr>><<set $act -= 1>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">Armed with this, I wish to:</span> <div id="selection"> @@#link_2;<<link "Make my way to the cemetery">><<goto "cim_1">><</link>>@@ <<if $day is 1>> [[Return home ->appart_j_1]] <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> [[Return home ->appart_j_2]] <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> [[Return home ->appart_j_3]] <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> [[Return home ->appart_j_4]] <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>><<set $pol to 2>><<set $cim to 1>>
<<nobr>> <<if setup.cp.unlocked(1)>> @@#day1on; <<link '<img src="data/media/graph/day1.png" alt="Day 1">' >><<run setup.cp.confirmLoad(1)>><</link>> @@ <<else>> <div id="day1off"><img src="data/media/graph/day1.png" alt="Day 1"></div> <</if>> <<if setup.cp.unlocked(2)>> @@#day2on; <<link '<img src="data/media/graph/day2.png" alt="Day 2">' >><<run setup.cp.confirmLoad(2)>><</link>> @@ <<else>> <div id="day2off"><img src="data/media/graph/day2.png" alt="Day 2"></div> <</if>> <<if setup.cp.unlocked(3)>> @@#day3on; <<link '<img src="data/media/graph/day3.png" alt="Day 3">' >><<run setup.cp.confirmLoad(3)>><</link>> @@ <<else>> <div id="day3off"><img src="data/media/graph/day3.png" alt="Day 3"></div> <</if>> <<if setup.cp.unlocked(4)>> @@#day4on; <<link '<img src="data/media/graph/day4.png" alt="Day 4">' >><<run setup.cp.confirmLoad(4)>><</link>> @@ <<else>> <div id="day4off"><img src="data/media/graph/day4.png" alt="Day 4"></div> <</if>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">The streetcar network runs from downtown to nearly all the outlying neighborhoods, chiefly serving those closest at hand. Such is not the case with West Roxbury, far to the south of Boston; I must take a commuter train to get there in a little over an hour, and almost as long again to make my way on foot along the asphalt road that leads to the cemetery, passing through a stretch of forest spreading northward like mold over the peel of an orange. I regret not having shown more initiative and taken a cab, whatever the cost. I am therefore obliged to make the most of this strip of nature lining both sides of the road, wrapped in shimmering colors that mingle with the sounds of the luxuriant life hidden within it. After several miles, the vegetation is enclosed by a high fence of wrought-iron bars, which I follow on my left, and in the background I glimpse granite stelae budding into view as I advance. The fence leads me to the cemetery entrance, marked by a lacework vault of metal in which the lettering is formed in empty space: “Baker Street Cemetery.”</div><div id="continuer"><<set $act -= 2>> <<nobr>> <<if $d is 0 and $mer is 0>> <<link "Continue">> <<goto "cim_1_1">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $d is 1 and $mer is 0>> <<link "Continue">> <<goto "cim_1_2">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $d is 1 and $mer neq 0>> <<link "Continue">> <<goto "cim_1_3">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $d is 0 and $mer neq 0>> <<link "Continue">> <<goto "cim_1_4">> <</link>> <</if>> <<set $bloc to 1>> <</nobr>></div>
<div id="texte"><<if $day is 4>>Baker Street Cemetery, at night, dark and cool, laid like a shroud over this dream-haunted scene. The taxi drops me at the end of the street of the same name without questioning me. I make my way along the asphalt, drunk on the sounds of the surrounding wildlife and hemmed in by forest on either side. I am not really there, or rather I am there without being there. What I am preparing to do tonight is a faint inflection in the clamor of my dreams. The gate is closed. I make out a few lights in one of the buildings set back from the path, surely the watchman... The moon is nearly full and the sky is clear. A fine late-summer night. There is a flaw in the wrought-iron gate through which I slip. I let my intuition guide me through the tangle of upright gravestones. I know this place now, after all. Even so, I find a decrepit shed containing the tools required for my grim task, which I drag to the grave I seek. Everything seems so simple, so obvious... A silhouette draped in shadows stands behind the stele engraved with the name Igal Zemaria; it is waiting for me. Its carnivorous smile gleams in the moonlight, and its outstretched arms, ending in curved talons, open wide to welcome me. [img[data/media/img/ogre_cim.jpg]] “Tick-tock, tick-tock,” my soul trickles out its final drops, like a clepsydra at the end of its countdown. I know in that instant that I have come too late. The clock has come full circle, and he, the Ogre, is here to carry me away. His gaze pierces my soul, a foul yet familiar gaze, <<if $yan is 0>>that of the gravedigger’s dried-up acolyte.<</if>><<if $yan is 1 or $yan is 3>>that of Yanes, that gravedigger from my dream, that hateful acolyte.<</if>> <<if _echoOK>><<include "echo_entry">><</if>> <<if !_echoOK>> <<if $ecri is 1>> <<goto "cim_10_1">> <<else>> I am paralyzed, I... I do not want to suffer. My God, please, do not let me suffer. Without the slightest sound, the slightest word, the hulking mass comes crashing down on me like a torrent of blades. The pain is sharp, far too sharp, and my screams overwhelm that pallid night. <div id="continuer"><<link "Die">><<goto "fin_reve">><</link>></div> <</if>> <</if>> <<else>>Baker Street Cemetery, at night, dark and cool, laid like a shroud over this dream-haunted scene. The taxi drops me at the end of the street of the same name without questioning me. I make my way along the asphalt, drunk on the sounds of the surrounding wildlife, and hemmed in by forest on either side. I am not really there, or rather I am there without being there. What I am preparing to do tonight is a faint inflection in the clamor of my dreams. The gate is closed. I make out a few lights in one of the buildings set back from the path, surely the watchman... The moon is nearly full and the sky is clear. A fine late-summer night. There is a flaw in the wrought-iron gate through which I slip. I let my intuition guide me through the tangle of upright gravestones. I know this place now, after all. Even so, I find a decrepit shed containing the tools required for my grim task, which I drag to the grave I seek. Everything seems so simple, so obvious... I could not say how long I have been digging. With each shovelful, my mind strays a little deeper into the repressed emotions of a visceral hatred, drawing from them an animal, superhuman strength. At last I touch the coffin and manage to bite into the wood, when I stop dead... The caretaker is prowling not far away, the light of his lantern wavering through the nocturnal maze, no doubt drawn by the sounds of my sinister activity. <<if $sm < 65>>– Who’s there? I hear him shout. When I give no answer, he comes closer, attempting to circle around me. – I saw you! Come out now! I slip between two graves just as he reaches Igal’s stele. I make out the expression on his face, where fear and disgust mingle. I know in that instant that all is lost, unless... I emerge furtively and rush at him. If only he would let it happen. If only his heavy build did not stand in the way of my assault. But he fights; with all his strength, he clings to his miserable life, and with one well-placed blow of the shovel I take it from him... without an ounce of guilt, like an animal. I complete my task and find the medallion, in which the portrait of an old man has been set. I have nothing more to do here, nothing more...<<smLoss D6>><<set $m to 1>><<else>> I know how to make myself discreet, slipping between two graves, where I wait in silence. The first glimmers of dawn appear, and once the watchman’s rounds are over, I finally break into the coffin. An odor of decomposition makes me nauseous; the remains are still fresh and give off a burnt stench. The gleam emitted by the medallion around the corpse’s neck embodies, all by itself, the full success of my undertaking—My apologies, Igal, rest in peace—I take hold of it and leave as quickly as possible, leaving the grave as it is. It is already too late, or else too early, depending...<</if>><</if>></div> <<nobr>> <div id="continuer"> <<if $day is 1>> <<if $tele isnot "done" and $tele gte 0 and $tele lt $day>> <<link "Head home">><<goto "c_2_j_1_2">><<set $day += 1>><<set $vj to 1>><<set $act to 3>><<audio "jour" play>><</link>> <<else>> <<link "Head home">><<goto "appart_j_2">><<set $day += 1>><<set $vj to 1>><<set $act to 3>><<audio "jour" play>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $victime1 is "James Wright">> <<set $cible01 to 0>><<set $victime1 to 0>><<set $vc -= 1>> <</if>> <<if $victime1 is "Ervin Templeton">> <<set $cible02 to 0>><<set $victime1 to 0>><<set $vc -= 1>> <</if>> <<if $victime1 is "Telma Krieger">> <<set $cible05 to 0>><<set $victime1 to 0>> <</if>> <<if $victime1 is "Yiggael">> <<set $cible07 to 0>><<set $victime1 to 0>><<set $vc -= 1>> <</if>> <<if $victime1 is "Jessica Mendhil">> <<set $cible08 to 0>><<set $victime1 to 0>> <</if>> <<set $meurtre to 2>><<set $oval to 2>><<invGain "pendentif">> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<if $tele isnot "done" and $tele gte 0 and $tele lt $day>> <<link "Head home">><<goto "c_3_j_1_2">><<set $day += 1>><<set $vj to 1>><<set $act to 3>><<audio "jour" play>><</link>> <<else>> <<link "Head home">><<goto "appart_j_3">><<set $day += 1>><<set $vj to 1>><<set $act to 3>><<audio "jour" play>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $victime2 is "James Wright">> <<set $cible01 to 0>><<set $victime2 to 0>><<set $vc -= 1>> <</if>> <<if $victime2 is "Ervin Templeton">> <<set $cible02 to 0>><<set $victime2 to 0>><<set $vc -= 1>> <</if>> <<if $victime2 is "Telma Krieger">> <<set $cible05 to 0>><<set $victime2 to 0>> <</if>> <<if $victime2 is "Yiggael">> <<set $cible07 to 0>><<set $victime2 to 0>><<set $vc -= 1>> <</if>> <<if $victime2 is "Jessica Mendhil">> <<set $cible08 to 0>><<set $victime2 to 0>> <</if>> <<set $meurtre to 3>><<set $oval to 2>><<invGain "pendentif">> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<if $tele isnot "done" and $tele gte 0 and $tele lt $day>> <<link "Head home">><<goto "c_4_j_1_2">><<set $day += 1>><<set $vj to 1>><<set $act to 3>><<audio "jour" play>><</link>> <<else>> <<link "Head home">><<goto "appart_j_4">><<set $day += 1>><<set $vj to 1>><<set $act to 3>><<audio "jour" play>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $victime3 is "James Wright">> <<set $cible01 to 0>><<set $victime3 to 0>><<set $vc -= 1>> <</if>> <<if $victime3 is "Ervin Templeton">> <<set $cible02 to 0>><<set $victime3 to 0>><<set $vc -= 1>> <</if>> <<if $victime3 is "Telma Krieger">> <<set $cible05 to 0>><<set $victime3 to 0>> <</if>> <<if $victime3 is "Yiggael">> <<set $cible07 to 0>><<set $victime3 to 0>><<set $vc -= 1>> <</if>> <<if $victime3 is "Jessica Mendhil">> <<set $cible08 to 0>><<set $victime3 to 0>> <</if>> <<set $meurtre to 4>><<set $oval to 2>><<invGain "pendentif">> <</if>> <<smLoss D4>><<set $bloc to 1>> </div> <<if $day is 1>> <<script>>Save.slots.save(1, "Day2")<</script>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<script>>Save.slots.save(2, "Day3")<</script>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<script>>Save.slots.save(3, "Day4")<</script>> <</if>> <<set $mid2_hantise += 1>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">[img[data/media/img/cimetiere.jpg]]</div><<set $act -= 2>> <<nobr>> <div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I wish to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $g is 0 and $cim < 3>> [[Make my way to the cemetery office ->cim_2]] <<elseif $i is 0 and $cim < 3>> [[Return to the cemetery office ->cim_2_0]] <<elseif $cim is 3>> [[Make my way to the cemetery office ->cim_2_0_1]] <</if>> <<if $dial_off_3 is 1>> [[Visit the Zemaria grave ->cim_6]] <<elseif $pol neq 0 and $h is 0>> [[Find my grave again ->cim_3]] <<else>> [[Visit the cemetery ->cim_4]] <</if>> <<if $dial_off_2 is 1>> [[Find Ervin the gravedigger ->cim_5]] <</if>> <<if $uni neq 2 and $act >= 2 and $day neq 4>> @@#link_2;<<link "Sit through the rest of my lectures">><<goto "univ_2_1">><<set $cim to 3>><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">><<set $cim to 3>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">><<set $cim to 3>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">><<set $cim to 3>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">><<set $cim to 3>><</link>> <</if>> </div> </div><<set $cim to 4>> <<set $bloc to 1>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">[img[data/media/img/cimetiere.jpg]] The gate, held between two stone posts capped with spheres, opens onto a small oblong courtyard flaring outward to meet a long central avenue that divides the parcels on either side. To my right, I make out a gray marble memorial engraved with several columns of names; to my left, an austere brown-brick building crowned with a flat roof presents itself as the reception building of this peaceful place. The house has two stories, its ground floor displaying on the façade five windows adorned with semicircular transoms that draw in all the outside light to illuminate a vast hall; its entrance faces the expanse of this resting ground, where the graves spread like a dense growth of hair across skin.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I wish to:</span> <div id="selection"> [[Make my way to the cemetery office ->cim_2]] <<if $pol neq 0>> [[Find my grave again ->cim_3]] <<else>> [[Visit the cemetery ->cim_4]] <</if>> </div> </div> <<set $cim to 2>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">[img[data/media/img/cimetiere.jpg]] At the sight of this gate—identical, so naturally present and familiar—a smile naturally forms on my face, clear now with recognition. My arms hanging at my sides, I look beyond it at the cemetery where the graves spread like a dense growth of hair across skin, now certain that I shall find among them the epitaph bearing my name. The entrance opens onto a small oblong courtyard flaring outward to meet a long central avenue that divides the parcels on either side. To my left, an austere brown-brick building crowned with a flat roof presents itself as the office of this peaceful place. The house has two stories, its ground floor displaying on the façade five windows adorned with semicircular transoms that draw in all the outside light to illuminate a vast hall.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I wish to:</span> <div id="selection"> [[Make my way to the cemetery office ->cim_2]] <<if $pol neq 0>> [[Find my grave again ->cim_3]] <<else>> [[Visit the cemetery ->cim_4]] <</if>> </div> </div> <</nobr>><<set $cim to 2>>
<div id="texte">[img[data/media/img/cimetiere.jpg]] At the sight of this gate—identical, so naturally present and familiar—a smile naturally forms on my face, clear now with recognition. My arms hanging at my sides, I look beyond it at the cemetery where the graves spread like a dense growth of hair across skin. The entrance opens onto a small oblong courtyard flaring outward to meet a long central avenue that divides the parcels on either side. To my left, an austere brown-brick building crowned with a flat roof presents itself as the office of this peaceful place. The house, though two stories high, differs in every respect from the one in my dream, the Bagrovyy, which reassures me that my mind has indeed created an amalgam from what it had already seen. The ground floor displays on the façade five windows adorned with semicircular transoms that draw in all the outside light to illuminate a vast hall, and its entrance faces the cemetery.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I wish to:</span> <div id="selection"> [[Make my way to the cemetery office ->cim_2]] <<if $pol neq 0>> [[Find my grave again ->cim_3]] <<else>> [[Visit the cemetery ->cim_4]] <</if>> </div> </div> <</nobr>><<set $cim to 2>>
<div id="texte">[img[data/media/img/cimetiere.jpg]] The gate, held between two stone posts capped with spheres, opens onto a small oblong courtyard flaring outward to meet a long central avenue that divides the parcels on either side. To my right, I make out a gray marble memorial engraved with several columns of names; to my left, an austere brown-brick building crowned with a flat roof presents itself as the office of this peaceful place. The house, though two stories high, differs in every respect from the one in my dream, the Bagrovyy, which reassures me that my mind has indeed created an amalgam from what it had already seen. The ground floor displays on the façade five windows adorned with semicircular transoms that draw in all the outside light to illuminate a vast hall, and its entrance faces the cemetery.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I wish to:</span> <div id="selection"> [[Make my way to the cemetery office ->cim_2]] <<if $pol neq 0>> [[Find my grave again ->cim_3]] <<else>> [[Visit the cemetery ->cim_4]] <</if>> </div> </div> <</nobr>><<set $cim to 2>>
<div id="texte">The door catches as it closes and slams shut with a sharp crack, making the glass across the entire front tremble. A woman dressed in black, holding her child in her arms and seated on one of the chairs lined up to my left, casts me a plaintive look before fixing her gaze once more on some distant point, lost in a vacant stare. Along that whole side, the walls bear an accumulation of photographic prints, a true mosaic of portraits in gradations of gray and sepia; to my right, lecterns hold what look like commemorative plaques engraved with Hebrew lettering, sometimes embellished with bouquets of flowers. A man scarcely older than myself crosses a wood-paneled opening in the rear wall that divides the hall in two and comes toward me. He wears a double-breasted jacket of dark blue and a skullcap of the same color, the kippah, from beneath which an unruly shock of hair spills out. A short, well-kept beard frames his face, with its prominent cheekbones and thin mouth, and he addresses me in a low voice, carefully scraping each syllable: – Shalom, how may I be of service?</div> <<nobr>> <div class="dialogue"> <div id="dial_port"> [img[data/media/img/portraits/acc_cim.jpg]] </div> <div id="dial_choise"> <<if $kov is 1 and $dial_off_1 is 0>> [[– I wish to speak with Alinovitch Kovaleski->cim_2_1]] <</if>> <<if $erv is 1 and $dial_off_2 is 0>> [[– Does a man named Ervin work here?->cim_2_2]] <</if>> <<if $sis is 1 and $dial_off_3 is 0>> [[– Do the names Amassia, Gaddiel and Igal mean anything to you?->cim_2_3]] <</if>> <<if $sis is 0 and $dial_off_4 is 0>> [[– I am looking for a grave under the name Maximilien Cornwell->cim_2_4]] <</if>> <<if $sis is 2 and $dial_off_3 is 0 and $not is 0>> [[– I would like to ask you a few questions about a recent burial in the Polonnoye plot.->cim_2_5]] <</if>> <<if $erv is 2 and $dial_off_3 is 0 and $not < 2 and $not neq 0>> [[– I am trying to reach the notary of the Zemaria sisters.->cim_2_6]] <</if>> [[– Thank you, I... I am waiting for someone.->cim_2_7]] </div> </div> <<set $g to 1>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">I slip into the entrance hall as silently as possible. The woman and her son are no longer there, and I see the young man, occupied with his work, raise his eyes with a stern look. I try to smile with a mixture of sympathy and awkwardness, to convey my embarrassment. <<if $dial_off_1 is 1 and $dial_off_2 is 1>>– I thought we had agreed that you would no longer trouble me with your affair, sir. – Yes, and I am sorry. I have little choice but to turn to you once again. – I am the sorrier of the two, I regret to say, but the answer is no. <<if $sm < 85>><<nobr>><<silently>><<smLoss D4>><</silently>><</nobr>>I rush at him at a run, fists clenched, teeth gritted, a mask of rage spread across my face. The man, surprised and frightened by conduct so utterly unexpected, stands dumbfounded. I seize him by the collar with both hands and, with unsuspected strength, lift him off the floor and pin him against the wall. – Now you are going to listen very carefully to what I ask you, I spit in his face. And you are going to answer me without making trouble! – I... I... I... y-yes… I shake him at arm’s length like a twig. – The recent burial of the Zemaria women in Polonnoye. When did it happen? He looks at me in bewilderment, his eyes wide. – M... mid-August, the... the... the fourteenth, he finally manages. – What do you know about them? – They were three sisters, d... dead in an accidental fire... I... I know nothing else! – I want to contact their relatives! – They... they had none. No one... no one at the funeral. – Someone must have taken care of it. – Yes, it was the Edward Boone firm. They handled everything. Please, calm down now... – I will calm down when I choose to, do you understand? I shout at the top of my lungs. This strange feeling of satisfaction, tinged with the power I exert over him, stimulates me frenetically. – This firm, where is it? – Here, in West Roxbury, on Centre Street, around... 1200, I believe... I release him carelessly under the weight of my furious glare. He collapses in on himself like a half-empty sack of flour. I leave, slamming the door hard behind me.<<set $not to 1>> <<else>> – Please... – Do not insist. Now, kindly leave. You have no further business here. I go away, utterly crestfallen and steeped in the frustration of having failed to impose even the slightest authority. In the courtyard, I kick dismally at the gravel to display my anger before making a new decision.<</if>><</if>> <<if $sis is 2 and $dial_off_3 is 0>>– Forgive me for troubling you again, but I would like to ask you a few questions concerning a recent burial in the parcel of Polonnoye. – I am listening. – Well, it concerns three people from the same family who died this year, the Zemaria women. Does that mean anything to you? – Why yes, unfortunately. I remember it as if it were yesterday. We buried them in mid-August. – Unfortunately? What happened? – From that, I gather you are not a relative. – Certainly not, or rather, yes... Let us say our history is intimately bound up with theirs. The man lowers his gaze, thoughtful. – I dare hope the funeral did honor to their passing, I add. – Very little, in truth. The notary in charge of their testamentary bequest could not help drawing my attention to the absence of relatives. – Which firm was it? – The Edward Boone office. – Under what circumstances did they die? – A tragic accident. A fire broke out one night and carried all three of them off in their sleep. – That is unfortunate indeed... Where might I find the firm that handled their funeral? – Here in West Roxbury. I no longer remember precisely, but along Centre Street. – And... tell me, the parcel of Polonnoye, what does it refer to? – To a small Ukrainian town that suffered pogroms during the Great War. We decided to respect their place of origin. – Well, I thank you very much for your patience and indulgence. I shall leave you to your business. Goodbye.<<set $not to 1>><</if>></div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">Now I make ready to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $dial_off_3 is 1>> [[Visit the Zemaria grave ->cim_6]] <<elseif $pol neq 0 and $h is 0>> [[Find my grave again ->cim_3]] <<else>> [[Visit the cemetery ->cim_4]] <</if>> <<if $dial_off_2 is 1>> [[Find that Ervin ->cim_5]] <</if>> <<if $uni neq 2 and $act >= 2 and $day neq 4>> @@#link_2;<<link "Sit through the rest of my lectures">><<goto "univ_2_1">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>><<set $i to 1>>
<<nobr>> <div class="dialogue"> <div id="dial_port"> [img[data/media/img/portraits/acc_cim.jpg]] </div> <div id="dial_choise"> <<if $kov is 1 and $dial_off_1 is 0>> [[– I wish to speak with Alinovitch Kovaleski ->cim_2_1]] <</if>> <<if $erv is 1 and $dial_off_2 is 0>> [[– Does a man named Ervin work here? ->cim_2_2]] <</if>> <<if $sis is 1 and $dial_off_3 is 0>> [[– Do the names Amassia, Gaddiel and Igal mean anything to you? ->cim_2_3]] <</if>> <<if $sis is 0 and $dial_off_4 is 0>> [[– I am looking for a grave under the name Maximilien Cornwell ->cim_2_4]] <</if>> <<if $sis is 2 and $dial_off_3 is 0 and $not is 0>> [[– I would like to ask you a few questions about a recent burial in the Polonnoye plot. ->cim_2_5]] <</if>> <<if $erv is 2 and $dial_off_3 is 0 and $not < 2 and $not neq 0>> [[– I am trying to reach the notary of the Zemaria sisters. ->cim_2_6]] <</if>> [[– Thank you, I... I am waiting for someone. ->cim_2_7]] </div> </div> <<set $g to 1>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte"><<if $dial_off_2 is 1 and $dial_off_3 is 1>>– If I may say so, you are asking me a great many questions, and unrelated ones at that. Are you some sort of detective? – Hm... in a manner of speaking, yes. I am working on behalf of a person whose identity I cannot reveal. – Listen, I have no wish to be mixed up in these affairs. This is a place of worship. You goyim respect nothing... – I understand, but this is truly important. Please understand that I would proceed differently if I had any choice. With all due respect, please give me a little more of your time. I promise I shall not trouble you again in the future... – I only hope this is not a matter of //lashon hara//. That is a sin, you know. – I... yes, yes... So, do you know this man?<</if>> – Kovaleski, you say? No, I am sorry, I know no one by that name. – Ah... well, please excuse me. I thought he might still work here. Although I was well aware that, if he existed, there was little chance he had any connection with this place, I nevertheless tried to learn more. – That cannot be the case, he answers. My predecessor, Eliram, had been the caretaker here since the cemetery opened six years ago. – Ah, well, I am surprised to learn it is so recent. Some of the graves give the impression that it is much older than that. – Yes, indeed. Baker Street Cemetery was in fact born from the consolidation of parcels once managed independently by various Jewish congregations. Perhaps the man you are trying to contact belonged to one of those groups? – I see. And who is in charge of the present cemetery? – I work on behalf of the association of those congregations, though they have nevertheless retained responsibility for their assigned parcels. <<if $dial_off_2 is 1 and $dial_off_3 is 1>>– Very well, I shall not abuse your patience any longer.<</if>></div> <<nobr>> <div class="dialogue"> <div id="dial_port"> [img[data/media/img/portraits/acc_cim.jpg]] </div> <div id="dial_choise"> <<if $erv is 1 and $dial_off_2 is 0>> [[– Does a man named Ervin work here?->cim_2_2]] <</if>> <<if $sis is 1 and $dial_off_3 is 0>> [[– Do the names Amassia, Gaddiel and Igal mean anything to you?->cim_2_3]] <</if>> <<if $sis is 0 and $dial_off_4 is 0>> [[– Tell me, I am looking for a grave under the name Maximilien Cornwell.->cim_2_4]] <</if>> <<if $sis is 2 and $dial_off_3 is 0 and $not is 0>> [[– I would like to ask you a few questions about a recent burial in the Polonnoye plot.->cim_2_5]] <</if>> <<if $erv is 2 and $dial_off_3 is 0 and $not < 2 and $not neq 0>> [[– I am trying to reach the notary of the Zemaria sisters.->cim_2_6]] <</if>> [[– Thank you, I shall take my leave.->cim_2_7]] </div> </div> <<set $dial_off_1 to 1>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte"><<if $dial_off_1 is 1 and $dial_off_3 is 1>>– If I may say so, you are asking me a great many questions, and unrelated ones at that. Are you some sort of detective? – Hm... in a manner of speaking, yes. I am working on behalf of a person whose identity I cannot reveal. – Listen, I have no wish to be mixed up in these affairs. This is a place of worship. You goyim respect nothing... – I understand, but this is truly important. Please understand that I would proceed differently if I had any choice. With all due respect, please give me a little more of your time. I promise I shall not trouble you again in the future... – I only hope this is not a matter of //lashon hara//. That is a sin, you know. – I... yes, yes... So, this Ervin, is he employed here?<</if>> – The gravedigger? Yes, yes, since the cemetery opened. The answer cut through me, for imaginary though he might have been, he was still the man who had insisted on burying me alive! – And... where may I find him? – He must be busy tending one of the parcels. I could not tell you precisely. Will that be all? The young man makes no effort to hide his impatience, affecting an air of distraction, ready to put an end to our exchange. <<if $dial_off_1 is 1 and $dial_off_3 is 1>>– Very well, I shall not abuse your patience any longer.<</if>></div> <<nobr>> <div class="dialogue"> <div id="dial_port"> [img[data/media/img/portraits/acc_cim.jpg]] </div> <div id="dial_choise"> <<if $kov is 1 and $dial_off_1 is 0>> [[– Very well, I would like to speak with Alinovitch Kovaleski, if you please.->cim_2_1]] <</if>> <<if $sis is 1 and $dial_off_3 is 0>> [[– Do Amassia, Gaddiel and Igal mean anything to you?->cim_2_3]] <</if>> <<if $sis is 0 and $dial_off_4 is 0>> [[– Tell me, I am looking for a grave under the name Maximilien Cornwell.->cim_2_4]] <</if>> <<if $sis is 2 and $dial_off_3 is 0 and $not is 0>> [[– I would like to ask you a few questions about a recent burial in the Polonnoye plot.->cim_2_5]] <</if>> <<if $erv is 2 and $dial_off_3 is 0 and $not < 2 and $not neq 0>> [[– I am trying to reach the notary of the Zemaria sisters.->cim_2_6]] <</if>> [[– Thank you, I shall take my leave.->cim_2_7]] </div> </div> <</nobr>> <<set $dial_off_2 to 1>>
<div id="texte"><<if $dial_off_1 is 1 and $dial_off_2 is 1>>– If I may say so, you are asking me a great many questions, and unrelated ones at that. Are you some sort of detective? – Hm... in a manner of speaking, yes. I am working on behalf of a person whose identity I cannot reveal. – Listen, I have no wish to be mixed up in these affairs. This is a place of worship. You goyim respect nothing... – I understand, but this is truly important. Please understand that I would proceed differently if I had any choice. With all due respect, please give me a little more of your time. I promise I shall not trouble you again in the future... – I only hope this is not a matter of //lashon hara//. That is a sin, you know. – I... yes, yes... These names... do they mean anything to you?<</if>> – I beg your pardon? – Amassia... Igal... and Gaddiel... I say, taking care to articulate each name clearly. <<if $sis_v is 1>>– Why yes, unfortunately. You are speaking of the Zemaria sisters, are you not? – Er... yes, indeed. – I remember it as if it were yesterday. We buried them in mid-August... The images immediately force themselves upon my mind: the faces of those three young women distorted by hatred as they chanted impious words at me, the stifling heat, the fire devouring flesh... – Sir? Sir? Are you all right? – Yes... yes... please continue. – I was only saying that the manner of their death, //has vechalom//, was tragic and cruel. – I suppose you are speaking of the fire? At that very instant, I surprise myself by slipping so naturally from fiction into reality. – A terrible accident, yes... <<else>>– Why yes, unfortunately. I remember it as if it were yesterday. We buried them in mid-August. – Unfortunately? What happened? – From that, I gather you are not a relative. – Certainly not, or rather, yes... Let us say our history is intimately bound up with theirs.<</if>> The man lowers his gaze, thoughtful. – I dare hope the funeral honored their passing, I say. – Very little, in truth. The notary in charge of their testamentary bequest could not help drawing my attention to the absence of relatives. – Which firm was it? – The Edward Boone office. – Where may I find it? – Here in West Roxbury. I no longer remember precisely, but along Centre Street. – Thank you. I should like to pay my respects at their grave. Could you tell me where to find it? – Of course. It is located in the parcel assigned to Polonnoye, halfway along on your right. Consult the framed notice just before taking the central avenue. – In Polonnoye, you say? What is that? – A small Ukrainian town that suffered pogroms during the Great War. We decided to respect their place of origin.<<nobr>><<set $pol to 3>><</nobr>> <<if $dial_off_1 is 1 and $dial_off_2 is 1>>– Very well, I shall not abuse your patience any longer.<</if>></div> <<nobr>> <div class="dialogue"> <div id="dial_port"> [img[data/media/img/portraits/acc_cim.jpg]] </div> <div id="dial_choise"> <<if $kov is 1 and $dial_off_1 is 0>> [[– Very well, I would like to speak with Alinovitch Kovaleski, if you please.->cim_2_1]] <</if>> <<if $erv is 1 and $dial_off_2 is 0>> [[– And does a man named Ervin work here?->cim_2_2]] <</if>> [[– I shall take my leave. All the best, and thank you.->cim_2_7]] </div> </div> <<set $dial_off_3 to 1>><<set $not to 1>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte"><<if $dial_off_1 is 1 and $dial_off_2 is 1>>– If I may say so, you are asking me a great many questions, and unrelated ones at that. Are you some sort of detective? – Hm... in a manner of speaking, yes. I am working on behalf of a person whose identity I cannot reveal. – Listen, I have no wish to be mixed up in these affairs. This is a place of worship. You goyim respect nothing... – I understand, but this is truly important. Please understand that I would proceed differently if I had any choice. With all due respect, please give me a little more of your time. I promise I shall not trouble you again in the future... – I only hope this is not a matter of //lashon hara//. That is a sin, you know. – I... yes, yes... Well? Can you help me all the same?<</if>> – Yes, of course. What was the burial date? – Well, let us say... early this week? – Ah, no, I am sorry. That is recent enough for me to assure you that no one by that name has been entered for burial, sir. <<if $let is 1>>– In that case, could you check last August 23, please? – Very well, sir... Maximilien Cornwell, is that correct? – Yes. – Kindly wait here. I shall return in a few moments. The young man slips lightly into the adjoining room and reappears only five minutes later. – I am sorry, sir. That name does not appear anywhere in the registers for the current year.<</if>> <<if $dial_off_1 is 1 and $dial_off_2 is 1>>– Very well, I shall not abuse your patience any longer.<</if>></div> <<nobr>> <div class="dialogue"> <div id="dial_port"> [img[data/media/img/portraits/acc_cim.jpg]] </div> <div id="dial_choise"> <<if $kov is 1 and $dial_off_1 is 0>> [[– Very well, I would like to speak with Alinovitch Kovaleski, if you please.->cim_2_1]] <</if>> <<if $erv is 1 and $dial_off_2 is 0>> [[– And does a man named Ervin work here?->cim_2_2]] <</if>> [[– Thank you, I shall take my leave.->cim_2_7]] </div> </div> <<set $dial_off_4 to 1>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte"><<if $dial_off_1 is 1 and $dial_off_2 is 1>>– If I may say so, you are asking me a great many questions, and what is more, questions that, to my mind, have no connection at all. Are you some kind of detective? – Hm... in a manner of speaking, yes. I am working on behalf of someone whose identity I cannot reveal. – Listen, I do not wish to be mixed up in such affairs. This is a place of worship. You goyim respect nothing... – I understand, but this is truly important. Please understand that I would proceed differently if I had any choice. With all due respect, please give me a little more of your time. I promise I shall not trouble you again in the future... – I only hope this is not a matter of //lashon hara//. That is a sin, you know. – I... yes, yes... Well? Can you help me all the same?<</if>> – I am listening. – Well, it concerns three people from the same family, who died this year. The Zemarias. Does that mean anything to you? – Boualia, yes, unfortunately. I remember it as though it were yesterday. We buried them in mid-August. – Unfortunately? What happened? – I take it from this that you are not a relative. – Certainly not, or rather, yes... let us say that our stories are intimately linked. The man lowers his gaze, pensive. – I dare hope the funeral honored their passing, I add. – Very little, in truth. The notary in charge of their bequest could not help drawing my attention to the absence of relatives. – Which firm was it? – The Edward Boone office. – Under what circumstances did they die? – A tragic accident. A fire broke out one night and carried all three of them off in their sleep. – That is unfortunate indeed... Where might I find the office that handled their funeral arrangements? – Here in West Roxbury. I no longer remember precisely where, but somewhere along Centre Street. – And tell me, the Polonnoye parcel, what does it refer to? – To a small Ukrainian town that suffered pogroms during the Great War. We made the decision to honor their place of origin.<<nobr>><<set $pol to 3>><</nobr>> <<if $dial_off_1 is 1 and $dial_off_2 is 1>>– Very well. I shall not abuse your patience any longer.<</if>></div> <<nobr>> <div class="dialogue"> <div id="dial_port"> [img[data/media/img/portraits/acc_cim.jpg]] </div> <div id="dial_choise"> <<if $kov is 1 and $dial_off_1 is 0>> [[– Very well, I would like to speak with Alinovitch Kovaleski, if you please.->cim_2_1]] <</if>> <<if $erv is 1 and $dial_off_2 is 0>> [[– And does a man named Ervin work here?->cim_2_2]] <</if>> [[– Thank you, I shall take my leave.->cim_2_7_1]] </div> </div> <<set $not to 1>><<set $dial_off_3 to 1>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">– The Zemaria sisters... yes, I remember them very well, unfortunately. I had occasion to speak with him on the day of the funeral, a charming man, though greatly overworked, no doubt because of the worries caused by his profession. His name is Edward Boone, from the firm of the same name, located here in West Roxbury, along Centre Street. – Thank you very much, Jacob. And tell me, the Polonnoye parcel, what does it refer to? – To a small Ukrainian town that suffered pogroms during the Great War. We made the decision to honor their place of origin.</div> <<nobr>> <div class="dialogue"> <div id="dial_port"> [img[data/media/img/portraits/acc_cim.jpg]] </div> <div id="dial_choise"> <<if $kov is 1 and $dial_off_1 is 0>> [[– Very well, I would like to speak with Alinovitch Kovaleski now.->cim_2_1]] <</if>> [[– Thank you for your patience. I shall take my leave.->cim_2_7_1]] </div> </div> <<set $not to 1>><<set $pol to 3>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">I turn back, greet the lady and her child with a respectful nod, then leave, taking care to close the door quietly behind me.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">Now I wish to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $dial_off_3 is 1>> [[Visit the Zemaria grave ->cim_6]] <<elseif $pol neq 0 and $h is 0>> [[Find my grave again ->cim_3]] <<else>> [[Visit the cemetery ->cim_4]] <</if>> <<if $dial_off_2 is 1>> [[Find Ervin the gravedigger ->cim_5]] <</if>> <<if $uni neq 2 and $act >= 2 and $day neq 4>> @@#link_2;<<link "Sit through the rest of my lectures">><<goto "univ_2_1">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>>
<div id="texte">I turn back, greet the lady and her child with a respectful nod, then leave, taking care to close the door quietly behind me.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">Now I wish to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $dial_off_2 is 1>> [[Find Ervin the gravedigger ->cim_5]] <</if>> <<if $uni neq 2 and $act >= 2 and $day neq 4>> @@#link_2;<<link "Sit through the rest of my lectures">><<goto "univ_2_1">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>>
<div id="texte">I cross the little courtyard, its gravel polished by time, and turn my attention to a panel displaying the layout of the grounds. It seems to differ in certain respects from the map I had consulted in the municipal cadastral records, which must certainly not have been up to date. I take care to locate the //Polonnoye// parcel properly, the one in which they had tried to bury me the previous night, then take the main path running through the cemetery enclosure. Although daylight gives the whole place a new definition, I find myself orienting naturally, with a strange ease, letting my gaze drift fleetingly over the tangle of interwoven graves, punctuated here and there by the dark silhouettes of visitors. <div id="cim_frise" style="--erv-x:56%; --erv-y:30%; --erv-size:92px;"> <img class="cim_frise__bg" src="data/media/img/frise_cim.jpg" alt=""> <<if $erv is 1>> <a class="cim_frise__erv" data-passage="cim_5_1" tabindex="0" role="link" aria-label="Erv"> <img class="cim_frise__erv-img" src="data/media/img/erv_cim.png" alt=""> </a> <</if>> <<if $erv is 0>> <a class="cim_frise__erv" data-passage="cim_5_2" tabindex="0" role="link" aria-label="Erv"> <img class="cim_frise__erv-img" src="data/media/img/erv_cim.png" alt=""> </a> <</if>> </div></div> <div id="texte">After passing, on my left, the great rock lodged in its flowering earthen bed, I walk another fifty yards or so before entering the little white-gravel path that cuts straight through the //Polonnoye// block. I judge that I can place the pit at about the midpoint. I cannot repress a growing distrust, which shows itself in brief, circling glances around me, to make sure I am not being watched as I approach. As far as my attention can reach, I can distinguish nothing to justify my unease, not even the slightest sign of any worksite, however recent it might be...</div><div id="continuer"> <<nobr>> <<if $sis is 0>> [[Continue->cim_3_1]] <<else>> [[Continue->cim_3_2]] <</if>> <<timed 26s>><<audio play volume 0.2>><</timed>><</nobr>></div>
<div id="texte">The graves are arranged with elegance within the constricted space of this newer parcel. All bear witness to recent upkeep, most displaying dates spread over no more than a decade. Yet nothing seems to indicate any connection with my dream of the previous night as I walk the path up and down in search of the slightest clue. I circle a stone basin at the end of the path and begin retracing my steps, pensive and empty-handed, when I feel a strange tingling creep up the length of my spine. The sensation is accompanied by a light, icy breeze that sends a few dead leaves skittering between my legs. It is as though the shadow of a presence were enveloping me, penetrating my flesh through every pore of my skin. The contrast with the gentle warmth of the Indian summer that has settled over the past few days is striking. Instinctively, I fix my attention on three graves set side by side, each consisting simply of a square of still-loose earth adorned with a rounded-corner stela. The breath intensifies, scraping the ground as though to draw every last particle from it, and persists in dragging me in their direction. I move closer and read the inscription engraved on each of the granite plaques: “Amassia Zemaria. 1859–1926,” “Gaddiel Zemaria. 1862–1926,” “Igal Zemaria. 1866–1926.” Same family, same date of death; it means nothing to me... I remain there for a few moments, prostrate, captivated by the whispering of the air and seized by the insidious desire to become one with this place.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">What to do now?</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $g is 0>> [[Make my way to the cemetery office ->cim_2]] <<elseif $i is 0>> [[Return to the cemetery office ->cim_2_0]] <</if>> <<if $dial_off_2 is 1>> [[Find Ervin the gravedigger ->cim_5]] <</if>> <<if $erv <= 1>> [[Address the presence I sense ->cim_3_1_1]] <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>><<smLoss D3>><<if $sis <= 1>><<set $sis to 2>><<set $hist += 1>><</if>><<set $h to 1>><<bg "data/media/img/backgrounds/cimetiere.jpg" 20 60 40>>
<div id="texte">My thoughts crowd together for a moment before I can formulate any words aloud, and then, disregarding convention and listening only to my intuition, I manage to release the first words: – I... I feel that you are there... that //you are// there. I do not know whether it is truly you, I... I saw you in a dream... I perceive no alteration in my surroundings, yet the breeze persists while, only a few yards away, the foliage of the trees remains still. Gathering confidence, I raise my voice a little further: – What do you want from me? Why did you lead me here? I let a few seconds pass. – Why me? A brief gust scatters the leaves all at once around me, then nothing more. The presence vanishes; my perception no longer grasps the slightest fluctuating subtlety in the gentle atmosphere settling once again. <div style="width:200px;float:left;padding-right:15px;">[img[data/media/img/portraits/ervin.jpg]]</div>– Ahem. The clearing of a throat behind me makes me start. – You feel them too, the man resumes. As I turn around like a rusted gear, I already know to whom that voice belongs. I am about to face my gravedigger. He appears against the light, displaying old-fashioned features partly hidden by the shadow cast from his top hat, a scrawny body bundled into a heavy frock coat. He stands with a pronounced sway to his hips, all his weight resting on the handle of a pickaxe, his back bent and his chin resting on the backs of his hands. I draw in a deep lungful of air before I can answer feverishly. – Pardon? I step back two paces. – I said you feel them too, mister. I heard you talking to them. – Er... yes, indeed. But... but do you not recognize me? I step back again.</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->cim_3_1_1_1]]</div> <<set $dial_off_2 to 2>><<set $erv to 2>>
<div id="texte">– No. Why, should I? – I have the feeling we have met before. Maximilien Cornwell. Does that mean nothing to you? – No, no. My machinery’s starting to creak, but I’ve still got my wits about me. If I’d already seen you, I’d remember, mister. He hawks deep in his throat and spits out a thick gob of phlegm, then resumes: – Did you know the sisters? – That is to say... no, not directly. – You looked mighty close to them just now, all the same, he chuckles, amused. – Let us say that circumstances led me here, I say, almost vexed. What do you know about them? – Oh, well, not much. I know them about as well as my other customers, if you see what I mean. But there’s something more here, something you can’t see but you can feel. It hangs over their grave, you know. – Yes, I felt a strange sort of impression. What is it? – Heh, heh, heh, he snickers. I haven’t the faintest damn idea. Maybe it’s them stirring down there, who knows! <<if $dial_off_3 is 1>>– I was told at the office that few relatives were present at the funeral. Did you attend it yourself? – Like every burial, if I may say so. I’m the one who has to fill the whole thing back in, not meaning to offend you, mister. – Can you tell me who was present that day? – Well now, there was old Rabbi Yiggael, sure enough, reciting the “Tziduk Hadin,” and an old lady, though I don’t know who she was, maybe the only person who was ever really close to them while they were alive, who can say, then a newcomer around here, the notary who handled their affairs, I reckon, not a Jew, that one... and I think that was all, mister. – I see. The rabbi, Yiggael, where can I meet him? – Oh, he serves at the Adath Jeshurun temple, in Roxbury. They’ve got a mighty fine synagogue over there.<<set $rab to 1>> <<if $not is 0>>– Thank you. And the notary, do you remember his name? – Well now, that’s not so easy. Let me think... He takes a tobacco pouch from one of his pockets and begins rolling a cigarette in a thick paper. – No, I can’t bring that fellow’s name back to mind. You’d do better asking Jacob at the cemetery office.<</if>> <<else>>– I saw that they died this year. Could you tell me when, please? – Oh, that wasn’t so very long ago! Around mid-August, thereabouts. – Did you attend the funeral? – Like every burial, if I may say so. I’m the one who has to fill the whole thing back in, not meaning to offend you, mister. – Can you tell me who was present that day? – Well now, there was old Rabbi Yiggael, sure enough, reciting the “Tziduk Hadin,” and an old lady, though I don’t know who she was, maybe the only person who was ever really close to them while they were alive, who can say, then a newcomer around here, the notary who handled their affairs, I reckon, not a Jew, that one... and I think that was all, mister. – I see. The rabbi, Yiggael, where can I meet him? – Oh, he serves at the Adath Jeshurun temple, in Roxbury. They’ve got a mighty fine synagogue over there.<<set $rab to 1>> <<if $not is 0>>– Thank you. And the notary, do you remember his name? – Well now, that’s not so easy. Let me think... He takes a tobacco pouch from one of his pockets and begins rolling a cigarette in a thick paper. – No, I can’t bring that fellow’s name back to mind. You’d do better asking Jacob at the cemetery office.<</if>><</if>> – Very well. Thank you again for this salutary intervention, Mister...? – No “Mister” with me, mister. It’s Ervin, same as for everyone. But if I may say so, mister, leave the dead where they are... I can still feel the old man’s penetrating, enigmatic gaze on me as I move away to return to the central path.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">Nothing remains but to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $g is 0>> [[Make my way to the cemetery office ->cim_2]] <<elseif $i is 0>> [[Return to the cemetery office ->cim_2_0]] <</if>> <<if $uni neq 2 and $act >= 2 and $day neq 4>> @@#link_2;<<link "Sit through the rest of my lectures">><<goto "univ_2_1">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>>
<div id="texte">The graves are arranged with elegance within the constricted space of this newer parcel. All bear witness to recent upkeep, most displaying dates spread over no more than a decade. Having arrived approximately at the place where my pit should be, I notice three graves set side by side immediately drawing my attention. Each consists simply of a square of still-loose earth adorned with a polished-edged stela, each bearing the first name of one of the three young hostesses from the nightmarish //Bagrovyy//... At that moment I feel a strange tingling creep up the length of my spine, as though the shadow of a presence were enveloping me, penetrating my flesh through every pore of my skin. The sensation is accompanied by a light, icy breeze that sends a few dead leaves skittering between my legs. The contrast with the gentle warmth of the Indian summer that has settled over the past few days is striking. Folding my arms to rub them, I read the inscriptions engraved on the granite plaques: “Amassia Zemaria. 1859–1926,” “Gaddiel Zemaria. 1862–1926,” “Igal Zemaria. 1866–1926.” Same family, same date of death, and an age far more advanced than my vision had suggested... I remain there for a few moments, prostrate, captivated by the whispering of the air and seized by the insidious desire to become one with this place.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">What to do now?</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $g is 0 and $cim < 4>> [[Make my way to the cemetery office ->cim_2]] <<elseif $i is 0 and $cim < 4>> [[Return to the cemetery office ->cim_2_0]] <<elseif $cim is 4>> [[Make my way to the cemetery office ->cim_2_0_1]] <</if>> <<if $dial_off_2 is 1>> [[Find Ervin the gravedigger ->cim_5]] <</if>> <<if $erv <= 1>> [[Address the presence I sense ->cim_3_1_1]] <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>><<silently>><<smLoss D3>><<if $sis <= 1>><<set $sis to 2>><<set $hist += 1>><</if>><<set $h to 1>><<bg "data/media/img/backgrounds/cimetiere.jpg" 20 60 40>><<timed 15s>><</timed>><</silently>>
<div id="texte">I cross the little courtyard, its gravel polished by time, and turn my attention to a panel displaying the layout of the grounds. It seems to differ in certain respects from the map I had consulted in the municipal cadastral records, which must certainly not have been up to date; I take the main path running through the center of the burial enclosure, letting my steps follow whatever impulse moves me and my gaze drift fleetingly over the tangle of interwoven graves, punctuated here and there by the dark silhouettes of visitors. <div id="cim_frise" style="--erv-x:56%; --erv-y:30%; --erv-size:92px;"> <img class="cim_frise__bg" src="data/media/img/frise_cim.jpg" alt=""> <<if $erv is 1>> <a class="cim_frise__erv" data-passage="cim_5_1" tabindex="0" role="link" aria-label="Erv"> <img class="cim_frise__erv-img" src="data/media/img/erv_cim.png" alt=""> </a> <</if>> <<if $erv is 0>> <a class="cim_frise__erv" data-passage="cim_5_2" tabindex="0" role="link" aria-label="Erv"> <img class="cim_frise__erv-img" src="data/media/img/erv_cim.png" alt=""> </a> <</if>> </div></div> <div id="texte">From time to time my attention falls at random upon the most ornamented stelae, and in their singularity I observe a marked difference from those of my Catholic inheritance. The choice of script, the interlacing of Kabbalistic signs, the nature of the symbols, such as the Seal of Solomon formed by a six-pointed star or the nine- and seven-branched candelabra, and the remarkable characters of the Hebrew language all indicate that this cemetery belongs to the Jewish faith. Despite all the care I devote to finding some detail that might help me orient myself in this interlacing of graves, each one much like the next, after a while I decide that I am wasting my time.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">And so I choose to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $g is 0>> [[Make my way to the cemetery office ->cim_2]] <<elseif $i is 0>> [[Return to the cemetery office ->cim_2_0]] <</if>> <<if $dial_off_2 is 1>> [[Find Ervin the gravedigger ->cim_5]] <</if>> <<if $sis is 2 and $h is 0>> [[Visit the Zemaria grave ->cim_6]] <</if>> <<if $uni neq 2 and $act >= 2 and $day neq 4>> @@#link_2;<<link "Sit through the rest of my lectures">><<goto "univ_2_1">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>>
<div id="texte"><div style="width:200px;float:left;padding-right:15px;">[img[data/media/img/portraits/ervin.jpg]]</div>I thread my way through the cemetery with apprehension, keeping watch for any workers who may be there. I soon spot the man, dressed in his heavy frock coat, digging up a patch of ground with ungainly movements. I move closer so as to catch him in the midst of his work and, once I have come within a few yards of him, draw in a deep lungful of air and call out to him: – Well, Ervin? Digging for your next customer? He turns around, revealing old-fashioned features partly hidden by the shadow cast from his top hat. – Looks that way, mister. Do we know each other? The same hoass timbre, the same intonation... I had not expected such a resemblance. It was indeed him. <<if ($dial_off_3 neq 0 or $sis is 2) and $mer neq 0>>– Er... not exactly. But I have heard of you. – Oh, have you? He hawks deep in his throat and spits out a thick gob of phlegm. – How can I help you, mister? he resumes. – Well, as a matter of fact, it concerns the graves of three sisters named Zemaria. Does that mean anything to you? – Ah, well, yes, I remember that. Sad business... what do you want to know? <<if $dial_off_3 neq 0>>– I was told at the office that few relatives were present at the funeral. Did you attend it yourself? – Like every burial, if I may say so. I’m the one who has to fill the whole thing back in, not meaning to offend you, mister. – Can you tell me who was present that day? – Well now, there was old Rabbi Yiggael, sure enough, reciting the “Tziduk Hadin,” and an old lady, though I don’t know who she was, maybe the only person who was ever really close to them while they were alive, who can say, then a newcomer around here, the notary who handled their affairs, I reckon, not a Jew, that one... and I think that was all, mister. – I see. The rabbi, Yiggael, where can I meet him? – Oh, he serves at the Adath Jeshurun temple, in Roxbury. They’ve got a mighty fine synagogue over there.<<set $rab to 1>> <<if $not is 0>>– Thank you. And the notary, do you remember his name? – Well now, that’s not so easy. Let me think... He takes a tobacco pouch from one of his pockets and begins rolling a cigarette in a thick paper. – No, I can’t bring that fellow’s name back to mind. You’d do better asking Jacob at the cemetery office.<</if>> – Very well, then. Thank you again, Ervin. Good luck with your work. – Yep. He continues watching me for a moment as I move away to return to the central path.<</if>> <<if $dial_off_3 is 0 and $sis is 2>>– I saw that they died this year. Could you tell me when, please? – Oh, that wasn’t so very long ago! Around mid-August, thereabouts. – Did you attend the funeral? – Like every burial, if I may say so. I’m the one who has to fill the whole thing back in, not meaning to offend you, mister. – Can you tell me who was present that day? – Well now, there was old Rabbi Yiggael, sure enough, reciting the “Tziduk Hadin,” and an old lady, though I don’t know who she was, maybe the only person who was ever really close to them while they were alive, who can say, then a newcomer around here, the notary who handled their affairs, I reckon, not a Jew, that one... and I think that was all, mister. – I see. The rabbi, Yiggael, where can I meet him? – Oh, he serves at the Adath Jeshurun temple, in Roxbury. They’ve got a mighty fine synagogue over there. – Very well, then. Thank you again, Ervin. Good luck with your work. – Yep. He continues watching me for a moment as I move away to return to the central path.<<set $rab to 1>><</if>> <<else>>– Certainly. I am Maximilien Cornwell. Does that mean nothing to you? – Ah, well, despite my age, I’ve still got a head that works well enough, I must say. No, no, my good sir. Why? – And can you certify that you did not work here at any point during last night? – Work at night! Well now, that would be all I needed! No, I don’t work nights, and what would I be doing here in the dark? I’d see about as well as inside a hen’s ass! The vulgarity of this individual is the final assault upon my nerves. My hands begin to tremble as I clench my fists, and a rage straight from the unfathomable depths of my being suddenly overwhelms me. – Don’t play innocent, old man! Do you think I am going to let this pass? You tried to bury me in that damned hole last night with your colleague. Bad luck for you: I have found you again. So now you are going to be very good and tell me what I want to know, or I shall split your skull with your own pickaxe! The old man’s face suddenly crumples, yet he continues to stare me down as though trying to gauge how far I might truly go. – Hey now, sonny! You think you scare me? I’ve handled tougher men than you. Don’t go trusting this old carcass too much. – You were warned, old fossil. With one movement I tear the pickaxe from his hands and brandish it one-handed in a simple circular swing, while with the other I shove him violently back. He collapses with all his weight onto the mound of heaped-up earth. – Who is the little whelp now? The other night you told me about a boss,<<if $kov is 1>> his name is Alinovitch Kovaleski,<</if>> and you are going to tell me where to find him, and we shall leave it at that. Understood? He looks at me now in terror, the angle of his brows betraying all the symptoms of submission. – But I don’t know you, I never seen you before, I don’t know what you’re talking about, I swear! Please don’t hurt me! A shrill cry rings out a little farther behind me, that of a woman standing back, her hands pressed to her cheeks, her panicked gaze searching for support. At once I regain control, throw the pickaxe aside, and address her, raising my voice: – Everything is all right, madam. It is over. Just a small disagreement! Her dumbfounded expression says enough; made witness to the scene, she quickly moves away toward the cemetery exit. – As for you, you old coot, I snap, I have my eye on you. Do not ever again think of trying anything of the kind against me. I spit on the ground, crack my neck, then walk away in my turn.<<set $cible02 to 1>><<smLoss D3>><</if>></div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">Nothing remained but to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $dial_off_3 neq 0 and $h is 0>> [[Visit the Zemaria grave ->cim_6]] <<elseif $pol neq 0 and $h is 0>> [[Find my grave again ->cim_3]] <<else>> [[Visit the cemetery ->cim_4]] <</if>> <<if $g is 0>> [[Make my way to the cemetery office ->cim_2]] <<elseif $i is 0>> [[Return to the cemetery office ->cim_2_0]] <</if>> <<if $uni neq 2 and $act >= 2 and $day neq 4>> @@#link_2;<<link "Sit through the rest of my lectures">><<goto "univ_2_1">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>><<set $erv to 2>><<set $dial_off_2 to 2>>
<div id="texte"><div style="width:200px;float:left;padding-right:15px;">[img[data/media/img/portraits/ervin.jpg]]</div>The sight of him strikes me like a blow: there he is, dressed in his heavy frock coat, digging up a patch of ground with ungainly movements, one of my gravediggers... I move closer so as to catch him in the midst of his work and, once I have come within a few yards of him, draw in a deep lungful of air and call out to him: – Well, Ervin? Digging for your next customer? He turns around, revealing old-fashioned features partly hidden by the shadow cast from his top hat. – Looks that way, mister. Do we know each other? The same hoass timbre, the same intonation... I had not expected such a resemblance. It is indeed him. <<if ($dial_off_3 neq 0 or $sis is 2) and $mer neq 0>>– Er... not exactly. But I have heard of you. – Oh, have you? He hawks deep in his throat and spits out a thick gob of phlegm. – How can I help you, mister? he resumes. – Well, as a matter of fact, it concerns the graves of three sisters named Zemaria. Does that mean anything to you? – Ah, well, yes, I remember that. Sad business... what do you want to know? <<if $dial_off_3 neq 0>>– I was told at the office that few relatives were present at the funeral. Did you attend it yourself? – Like every burial, if I may say so. I’m the one who has to fill the whole thing back in, not meaning to offend you, mister. – Can you tell me who was present that day? – Well now, there was old Rabbi Yiggael, sure enough, reciting the “Tziduk Hadin,” and an old lady, though I don’t know who she was, maybe the only person who was ever really close to them while they were alive, who can say, then a newcomer around here, the notary who handled their affairs, I reckon, not a Jew, that one... and I think that was all, mister. – I see. The rabbi, Yiggael, where can I meet him? – Oh, he serves at the Adath Jeshurun temple, in Roxbury. They’ve got a mighty fine synagogue over there.<<set $rab to 1>> <<if $not is 0>>– Thank you. And the notary, do you remember his name? – Well now, that’s not so easy. Let me think... He takes a tobacco pouch from one of his pockets and begins rolling a cigarette in a thick paper. – No, I can’t bring that fellow’s name back to mind. You’d do better asking Jacob at the cemetery office.<</if>> – Very well, then. Thank you again, Ervin. Good luck with your work. – Yep. He continues watching me for a moment as I move away to return to the central path.<</if>> <<if $dial_off_3 is 0 and $sis is 2>>– I saw that they died this year. Could you tell me when, please? – Oh, that wasn’t so very long ago! Around mid-August, thereabouts. – Did you attend the funeral? – Like every burial, if I may say so. I’m the one who has to fill the whole thing back in, not meaning to offend you, mister. – Can you tell me who was present that day? – Well now, there was old Rabbi Yiggael, sure enough, reciting the “Tziduk Hadin,” and an old lady, though I don’t know who she was, maybe the only person who was ever really close to them while they were alive, who can say, then a newcomer around here, the notary who handled their affairs, I reckon, not a Jew, that one... and I think that was all, mister. – I see. The rabbi, Yiggael, where can I meet him? – Oh, he serves at the Adath Jeshurun temple, in Roxbury. They’ve got a mighty fine synagogue over there. – Very well, then. Thank you again, Ervin. Good luck with your work. – Yep. He continues watching me for a moment as I move away to return to the central path.<<set $rab to 1>><</if>> <<else>>– Certainly. I am Maximilien Cornwell. Does that mean nothing to you? – Ah, well, despite my age, I’ve still got a head that works well enough, I must say. No, no, my good sir. Why? – And can you certify that you did not work here at any point during last night? – Work at night! Well now, that would be all I needed! No, I don’t work nights, and what would I be doing here in the dark? I’d see about as well as inside a hen’s ass! The vulgarity of this individual is the final assault upon my nerves. My hands begin to tremble as I clench my fists, and a rage straight from the unfathomable depths of my being suddenly overwhelms me. – Don’t play innocent, old man! Do you think I am going to let this pass? You tried to bury me in that damned hole last night with your colleague. Bad luck for you: I have found you again. So now you are going to be very good and tell me what I want to know, or I shall split your skull with your own pickaxe! The old man’s face suddenly crumples, yet he continues to stare me down as though trying to gauge how far I might truly go. – Hey now, sonny! You think you scare me? I’ve handled tougher men than you. Don’t go trusting this old carcass too much. – You were warned, old fossil. With one movement I tear the pickaxe from his hands and brandish it one-handed in a simple circular swing, while with the other I shove him violently back. He collapses with all his weight onto the mound of heaped-up earth. – Who is the little whelp now? The other night you told me about a boss,<<if $kov is 1>> his name is Alinovitch Kovaleski,<</if>> and you are going to tell me where to find him, and we shall leave it at that. Understood? He looks at me now in terror, the angle of his brows betraying all the symptoms of submission. – But I don’t know you, I never seen you before, I don’t know what you’re talking about, I swear! Please don’t hurt me! A shrill cry rings out a little farther behind me, that of a woman standing back, her hands pressed to her cheeks, her panicked gaze searching for support. At once I regain control, throw the pickaxe aside, and address her, raising my voice: – Everything is all right, madam. It is over. Just a small disagreement! Her dumbfounded expression says enough; made witness to the scene, she quickly moves away toward the cemetery exit. – As for you, you old coot, I snap, I have my eye on you. Do not ever again think of trying anything of the kind against me. I spit on the ground, crack my neck, then walk away in my turn.<<set $cible02 to 1>><<smLoss D3>><</if>></div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">Nothing remained but to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $dial_off_3 neq 0 and $h is 0>> [[Visit the Zemaria grave ->cim_6]] <<elseif $pol neq 0 and $h is 0>> [[Find my grave again ->cim_3]] <<else>> [[Visit the cemetery ->cim_4]] <</if>> <<if $g is 0>> [[Make my way to the cemetery office ->cim_2]] <<elseif $i is 0>> [[Return to the cemetery office ->cim_2_0]] <</if>> <<if $uni neq 2 and $act >= 2 and $day neq 4>> @@#link_2;<<link "Sit through the rest of my lectures">><<goto "univ_2_1">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>><<set $erv to 2>><<set $dial_off_2 to 2>>
<div id="texte"><div style="width:200px;float:left;padding-right:15px;">[img[data/media/img/portraits/ervin.jpg]]</div>The sight of him strikes me like a blow: there he is, dressed in his heavy frock coat, digging up a patch of ground with ungainly movements, my gravedigger... I move closer so as to catch him in the midst of his work and, once I have come within a few yards of him, draw in a deep lungful of air and call out: “Digging for your next customer?” He turns around, revealing old-fashioned features partly hidden by the shadow cast from his top hat. — Looks that way, mister. Do we know each other? The same hoass timbre, the same intonation... I had not expected such a resemblance. It was indeed him. <<if ($dial_off_3 neq 0 or $sis is 2) and $mer neq 0>>– Er... not exactly. But I have heard of you. – Oh, have you? He hawks deep in his throat and spits out a thick gob of phlegm. – How can I help you, mister? he resumes. – Well, as a matter of fact, it concerns the graves of three sisters named Zemaria. Does that mean anything to you? – Ah, well, yes, I remember that. Sad business... what do you want to know? <<if $dial_off_3 neq 0>>– I was told at the office that few relatives were present at the funeral. Did you attend it yourself? – Like every burial, if I may say so. I’m the one who has to fill the whole thing back in, not meaning to offend you, mister. – Can you tell me who was present that day? – Well now, there was old Rabbi Yiggael, sure enough, reciting the “Tziduk Hadin,” and an old lady, though I don’t know who she was, maybe the only person who was ever really close to them while they were alive, who can say, then a newcomer around here, the notary who handled their affairs, I reckon, not a Jew, that one... and I think that was all, mister. – I see. The rabbi, Yiggael, where can I meet him? – Oh, he serves at the Adath Jeshurun temple, in Roxbury. They’ve got a mighty fine synagogue over there.<<set $rab to 1>> <<if $not is 0>>– Thank you. And the notary, do you remember his name? – Well now, that’s not so easy. Let me think... He takes a tobacco pouch from one of his pockets and begins rolling a cigarette in a thick paper. – No, I can’t bring that fellow’s name back to mind. You’d do better asking Jacob at the cemetery office.<</if>> – Very well, then. Thank you again, Ervin. Good luck with your work. – Yep. He continues watching me for a moment as I move away to return to the central path.<</if>> <<if $dial_off_3 is 0 and $sis is 2>>– I saw that they died this year. Could you tell me when, please? – Oh, that wasn’t so very long ago! Around mid-August, thereabouts. – Did you attend the funeral? – Like every burial, if I may say so. I’m the one who has to fill the whole thing back in, not meaning to offend you, mister. – Can you tell me who was present that day? – Well now, there was old Rabbi Yiggael, sure enough, reciting the “Tziduk Hadin,” and an old lady, though I don’t know who she was, maybe the only person who was ever really close to them while they were alive, who can say, then a newcomer around here, the notary who handled their affairs, I reckon, not a Jew, that one... and I think that was all, mister. – I see. The rabbi, Yiggael, where can I meet him? – Oh, he serves at the Adath Jeshurun temple, in Roxbury. They’ve got a mighty fine synagogue over there. – Very well, then. Thank you again, Ervin. Good luck with your work. – Yep. He continues watching me for a moment as I move away to return to the central path.<<set $rab to 1>><</if>> <<else>>– Certainly. I am Maximilien Cornwell. Does that mean nothing to you? – Ah, well, despite my age, I’ve still got a head that works well enough, I must say. No, no, my good sir. Why? – And can you certify that you did not work here at any point during last night? – Work at night! Well now, that would be all I needed! No, I don’t work nights, and what would I be doing here in the dark? I’d see about as well as inside a hen’s ass! The vulgarity of this individual is the final assault upon my nerves. My hands begin to tremble as I clench my fists, and a rage straight from the unfathomable depths of my being suddenly overwhelms me. – Don’t play innocent, old man! Do you think I am going to let this pass? You tried to bury me in that damned hole last night with your colleague. Bad luck for you: I have found you again. So now you are going to be very good and tell me what I want to know, or I shall split your skull with your own pickaxe! The old man’s face suddenly crumples, yet he continues to stare me down as though trying to gauge how far I might truly go. – Hey now, sonny! You think you scare me? I’ve handled tougher men than you. Don’t go trusting this old carcass too much. – You were warned, old fossil. With one movement I tear the pickaxe from his hands and brandish it one-handed in a simple circular swing, while with the other I shove him violently back. He collapses with all his weight onto the mound of heaped-up earth. – Who is the little whelp now? The other night you told me about a boss,<<if $kov is 1>> his name is Alinovitch Kovaleski,<</if>> and you are going to tell me where to find him, and we shall leave it at that. Understood? He looks at me now in terror, the angle of his brows betraying all the symptoms of submission. – But I don’t know you, I never seen you before, I don’t know what you’re talking about, I swear! Please don’t hurt me! A shrill cry rings out a little farther behind me, that of a woman standing back, her hands pressed to her cheeks, her panicked gaze searching for support. At once I regain control, throw the pickaxe aside, and address her, raising my voice: – Everything is all right, madam. It is over. Just a small disagreement! Her dumbfounded expression says enough; made witness to the scene, she quickly moves away toward the cemetery exit. – As for you, you old coot, I snap, I have my eye on you. Do not ever again think of trying anything of the kind against me. I spit on the ground, crack my neck, then walk away in my turn.<<set $cible02 to 1>><<smLoss D3>><</if>></div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">Nothing remained but to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $dial_off_3 neq 0 and $h is 0>> [[Visit the Zemaria grave ->cim_6]] <<elseif $pol neq 0 and $h is 0>> [[Find my grave again->cim_3]] <<else>> [[Visit the cemetery->cim_4]] <</if>> <<if $g is 0>> [[Make my way to the cemetery office->cim_2]] <<elseif $i is 0>> [[Return to the cemetery office->cim_2_0]] <</if>> <<if $uni neq 2 and $act >= 2 and $day neq 4>> @@#link_2;<<link "Sit through the rest of my lectures">><<goto "univ_2_1">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>><<set $erv to 2>><<set $dial_off_2 to 2>>
<div id="texte">Following the directions on the map outside, which shows the site’s topography, I quickly make my way to the //Polonnoye// block. The graves are arranged with elegance and restraint within the tight confines of this new plot. All of them look recent, most bearing dates spanning no more than a decade. When I reach the three burial plots, I feel a strange tingling rise along my spine. The sensation is accompanied by a light, icy breeze that sends a few dead leaves skittering between my legs. It is as though the shadow of a presence were enveloping me, entering my flesh through every pore of my skin. The contrast with the gentle warmth of the Indian summer that has settled in over the past few days is striking. The graves are set side by side, each marked simply by a square of still-soft earth and a stele with rounded corners. That breath of air intensifies, scraping the ground as though to draw out every last particle, and pushes me toward them. I move a little closer and read the inscription engraved on each of the granite plaques: “Amassia Zemaria. 1859–1926,” “Gaddiel Zemaria. 1862–1926,” “Igal Zemaria. 1866–1926.” I remain there for a few moments, rooted to the spot, captivated by the whispering of the air and seized by the insidious desire to become one with this place.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">What to do now?</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $dial_off_2 is 1>> [[Find Ervin the gravedigger ->cim_5]] <</if>> <<if $erv <= 1>> [[Address the presence I sense ->cim_3_1_1]] <</if>> <<if $uni neq 2 and $act >= 2 and $day neq 4>> @@#link_2;<<link "Sit through the rest of my lectures">><<goto "univ_2_1">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">><<if $cim is 2>><<set $cim to 3>><<elseif $cim is 3>><<set $cim to 4>><</if>><</link>> <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>><<silently>><<smLoss D3>><<if $sis <= 1>><<set $sis to 2>><<set $hist += 1>><</if>><<set $dial_off_3 to 2>><<set $h to 1>><<bg "data/media/img/backgrounds/cimetiere.jpg" 30 30 30>><<timed 5s>><</timed>><</silently>>
<<nobr>> <<invSee "convocation_police">> [img[data/media/img/inventaire/convoc_1_ENG.jpg]] <<if $k is 1 and $convoc is 2 and $vj neq 0>> <center> @@#link_1; <<button "Answer this summons">> <<run Dialog.close()>> <<goto "poli_0">> <</button>> @@ </center> <</if>> <</nobr>>
<<nobr>> <style> #ui-dialog-body.popup { background-color: #0f0f13; color:#fff; -webkit-box-shadow: none; -moz-box-shadow: none; box-shadow: none; } </style> <</nobr>> <div class="credits"> <p class="cred_text"> <strong>Concept and Development</strong> <span>Yohan Dupuy</span> <strong>Graphic Design</strong> <span>Nicolas THONNEY / SalOcin - solynk.com</span> <span>Yohan Dupuy</span> <strong>Illustration and Animation</strong> <span>Yohan YöD Dupuy</span> <strong>Sound and Music</strong> <span>Gaëtan Larant / @oekumen_games</span> <span>Nicolas THONNEY / SalOcin - solynk.com</span> <span>Yohan Dupuy</span> <strong>Writing and Storyline</strong> <span>Yohan Dupuy</span> <strong>Translation</strong> <span>Lucia Desogus</span> <strong>Software</strong> <span>Twine 2. / Chris Klimas</span> <span>SugarCube 2. / Thomas M. Edward</span> <strong>Scripts</strong> <span>JQuery user interface</span> <span>JQuery UI Touch Punch / David Furfero</span> <span>Leaflet / Vladimir Agafonkin</span> <span>Shuffle Letters Effect / Martin Angelov</span> <span>Lettering / Dave Rupert</span> <strong>Thanks to</strong> <span>Alain, Amaury, Angeline, Arnaud, Audrey, Benji, Ikal, Jimmy, John, Julien, Florian, Gaëtan, Guillaume, Hannah, Manue, Nico, Pascale, Philippe, Richard, Rosalie, Teuteu, Thomas, Tom, Tony, Val, Virginie and all those driven by a passion for gamebooks...</span> <div id="copyright">Copyright © 2026 Yohan Dupuy<br>- All rights reserved -</div> </p> </div><style>body {background:#17161a}</style>
<div id="texte" class="aura_sang coup">The sequence of letters gradually weaves itself into a pattern, which I grasp intuitively. Then His name insinuates itself into every fissure of my reason, spreading through them like venomous ink: CUMAÏL. At once, something draws me in. I pitch into his domain, the place of his gestation. Trapped in an organic matrix of ruddy hues, I discover, suspended within this placental obscenity, a cyclopean fetus whose slumber convulses the whole expanse with its vile sovereignty. Several umbilical cords radiate from it, stretching into the surrounding limbo like the roots of some blasphemous growth; one of them seems to spring from the very hollow of my navel. With every beat of that infamous heart, I feel my vigor unravel, siphoned away drop by drop by this thing still taking shape. Yet I am not alone in feeding it: other sparks of life, diaphanous and wavering, move to and fro through the junctions of these fleshly bonds, prisoners of the same slow dismemberment.</div> <<nobr>> <<timed 20s>> <div id="schem_cadre"> <div id="shem2" class="schema"> [img[data/media/img/signe2.png]] </div> <div id="shem1" class="schema"> [img[data/media/img/signe1.png]] </div> <div id="shem3" class="schema"> [img[data/media/img/signe3.png]] </div> <div id="shem5" class="schema"> [img[data/media/img/signe5.png]] </div> <div id="shem4" class="schema"> [img[data/media/img/signe4.png]] </div> </div> <</timed>> <</nobr>><<timed 30s>><div id="texte" class="aura_sang"> Whenever I brush against these faint lights, flashes of images tear through me: strange, lightning-bright geometric figures take shape and come apart with the terrible clarity of a thought older than the world. I understand then that one of these configurations, one alone, harbors the ruin of this vile architecture. One alone could bring the whole structure crashing down, sever the bonds, and restore us to freedom… but which one?</div><</timed>> <<nobr>> <<repeat 20s>> <<smLoss D10>> <<if $sm <= 0>> <<stop>> <<goto "folie">> <<else>> <<script>> $('.schema').stop(true, true).hide(); $('#shem2').off('click.cumail') .delay(0).show(0) .on('click.cumail', function () { Engine.play("cumail2"); }) .delay(4000).hide(0); $('#shem1').off('click.cumail') .delay(4000).show(0) .on('click.cumail', function () { Engine.play("cumail1"); }) .delay(4000).hide(0); $('#shem3').off('click.cumail') .delay(8000).show(0) .on('click.cumail', function () { Engine.play("cumail2"); }) .delay(4000).hide(0); $('#shem5').off('click.cumail') .delay(12000).show(0) .on('click.cumail', function () { Engine.play("cumail2"); }) .delay(4000).hide(0); $('#shem4').off('click.cumail') .delay(16000).show(0) .on('click.cumail', function () { Engine.play("cumail2"); }); $('#smprogression').width(State.active.variables['sm'] + '%'); <</script>> <</if>> <</repeat>> <<audio ":playing" fadeout>><<audio "zuulu" play>><<audio "infernale" volume 0.4>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte" class="aura_sang">As Cumaïl, within its lair, gradually absorbs my will until my reason begins to fail, I manage to assemble in my mind the foundational elements of a geometric design charged with tremendous symbolic power. The density of space tears open; the entity’s umbilical branches thicken, then retract. All the souls of its victims converge upon Cumaïl’s heart, now under siege. Little by little, they devour it down to its last particle, then break free from this threshold to another world as evil’s agony slips away into the void.</div> <div id="continuer"><<link "Come to">><<goto "epilogue_6">><<audio "zuulu" fadeout>><</link>></div><<audio "zuulu" volume 0.4>><<audio "infernale" fadeout>>
<div id="texte" class="aura_sang">I strain with all my might to fit this geometry into a perfectly coherent whole, but already my mind is failing, my will bending as Cumaïl’s own grows stronger. My umbilical cord begins to pulse with a malignant aura that poisons every trace of vitality within me. I can struggle no longer, and I feed the evil entity until the last spark of life in me is extinguished...</div> <div id="continuer"><<link "EXPIRY">><<goto "fin_reve">><<audio "zuulu" fadeout>><</link>></div><<audio "infernale" fadeout>>
<<if $day is 0>><span>Tuesday, September 7, 1926</span><</if>><<if $day is 1>><span>Wednesday, September 8, 1926</span><</if>><<if $day is 2>><span>Thursday, September 9, 1926</span><</if>><<if $day is 3>><span>Friday, September 10, 1926</span><</if>><<if $day is 4>><span>Saturday, September 11, 1926</span><</if>>
<<nobr>> <<invSee "dessins_auto">> <style>#ui-dialog-body.map {background: #fff}</style> <div style="max-width:600px"> [img[data/media/img/inventaire/ecrit_auto.png]] </div> <<set $mid2_nom += 1>> <</nobr>>
<div class="epilogues"><p class="epil_text"><div style="max-width: 180px; margin: 0 auto"><img src='data/media/graph/quetes/quet01.png'></div> <center>@@.beauty_link;The Departed Embrace<br><br>- Eviction -@@</center> <span id="texte">I give full expression to my individuality through the prism of my uniqueness. Becoming intuitively aware of my own essence, I condense it into an unalterable, intrinsic inner force. This vital energy suffuses me with all its virtuous qualities, and the dybbuk’s influence disintegrates. There is no longer any place for him within me, nor will there ever be again... Driven beyond the bounds of our world, he now roams freely through the space of the Threshold Fish, lying in wait for another door to open. The hunt is not over. I know my name is Max, Maximilien Cornwell. And at the age of twenty-one, as I am born for a second time, my bouts of vertigo have ceased. A new path takes shape before me. There are other worlds from which supernatural threats spill onto our Earth in countless forms of evil. On that path, I shall be both guardian and guarantor of its safety.</span> <p id="fin">THE END</p> @@.encart-appel;<<link "Maximilien's story isn't over →">><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><<goto "encart_fin">><</link>>@@ </p></div> <<nobr>> <<set $reve to 1>> <<if $sm >= 80>> <<if $succ1 is 0>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ1 to 1>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $victime1 is 0 and $victime2 is 0 and $victime3 is 0 and $victime4 is 0 and $rab < 100>> <<if $succ2 is 0>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ2 to 1>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $quet1 is 0>> <<remember $quet1 to 1>> <</if>> <<if $succ12 is 0 and $livre < 2>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ12 to 1>> <</if>> <<audio "hurle" play>> <</nobr>>
<div class="epilogues"><p class="epil_text"><div style="max-width: 180px; margin: 0 auto"><img src='data/media/graph/quetes/quet01.png'></div> <center>@@.beauty_link;The Departed Embrace<br><br>- Symbiosis -@@</center> <span id="texte">Through the prism of my consciousness, altered at this instant, I absorb the dybbuk’s vital essence without resistance. Our souls unite and merge into one. A renewed energy spreads throughout my being. I can feel it within me, calm and tranquil. The white expanse of my consciousness takes on a multitude of miasmas with exotic flavors. I shall never be the same again. A wholly new force, nourished by the qualities of this entity until now foreign to me, takes possession of my entire being. The boundary between worlds now holds no secrets for me. I know my name is Max, Maximilien Cornwell. And at the age of twenty-one, I part from my body for all eternity. I come from a world threatened with extinction, a world alien to this Earth, and at last I hold the keys that will allow me to save it. I open a portal; the Threshold Fish sings in silence, and I am borne away. My greatest story has yet to be written...</span> <p id="fin">THE END</p> @@.encart-appel;<<link "Maximilien's story isn't over →">><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><<goto "encart_fin">><</link>>@@ </p></div> <<nobr>> <<set $reve to 1>> <<if $sm >= 80>> <<if $succ1 is 0>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ1 to 1>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $victime1 is 0 and $victime2 is 0 and $victime3 is 0 and $victime4 is 0 and $rab < 100>> <<if $succ2 is 0>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ2 to 1>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $succ12 is 0 and $livre < 2>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ12 to 1>> <</if>> <<if $succ13 is 0>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ13 to 1>> <</if>> <<if $quet1 is 0>> <<remember $quet1 to 1>> <</if>> <<audio "drone" play>> <</nobr>>
<div class="epilogues"><p class="epil_text"><div style="max-width: 180px; margin: 0 auto"><img src='data/media/graph/quetes/quet01.png'></div> <center>@@.beauty_link;The Departed Embrace<br><br> - Possession -@@</center> <span id="texte">The presence of the dybbuk surges through every interstice of my being. I offer no resistance to this tide as it overwhelms me in one powerful wave after another. My soul slowly withers, engulfed by an ocean of countless shades of white. In one final spasm, my consciousness exults in the sensation of this strange embrace, then founders and vanishes into eternity. I no longer know my name, my age, or even what I am. I have surrendered my vessel of flesh to an entity from another world, allowing it to revel in its manifestation upon our Earth. The South Boston Ogre, wearing this new face, will continue to breathe his black terror into the hearts of generations to come, carrying with him the name of Maximilien Cornwell...</span> <p id="fin">THE END</p> @@.encart-appel;<<link "Maximilien's story isn't over →">><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><<goto "encart_fin">><</link>>@@ </p></div> <<nobr>> <<set $reve to 1>> <<if $sm >= 80>> <<if $succ1 is 0>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ1 to 1>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $victime1 is 0 and $victime2 is 0 and $victime3 is 0 and $victime4 is 0 and $rab < 100>> <<if $succ2 is 0>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ2 to 1>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $succ12 is 0 and $livre < 2>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ12 to 1>> <</if>> <<if $quet1 is 0>> <<remember $quet1 to 1>> <</if>> <<audio "cumail_epilog" play>> <</nobr>>
<div class="epilogues"><p class="epil_text"><div style="max-width: 180px; margin: 0 auto"><img src='data/media/graph/quetes/quet02.png'></div> <center>@@.beauty_link;The Way of the Midrashim@@</center> <span id="texte">At the end of this ecstatic confrontation, one sharp, deep inhalation swallows every sound around us at once. Yiggael collapses like a puppet whose strings have just been cut. A sovereign silence endures for an indeterminate span. The presence can no longer be felt, erased from the field of my consciousness. I am free. The old man is still breathing when Levy and I bend over him. His eyes are open, but already distant. Over the days that follow, Yiggael declines without complaint, like a flame that has burned too brightly. His body slowly gives way, emptied of what animated it. The strength demanded by the ritual was too great, but incomplete though it was, it endured at the cost of the man who bore it. The funeral takes place a few days later, according to the traditions of his people. Throughout the twelve months that follow, through recitations of the Kaddish and surrounded by the minyan, the soul of the deceased is not celebrated for what it was, but entrusted to that which transcends it. His work no longer belongs to words, but to the traces it leaves in those who remain. I know my name is Max. Maximilien Cornwell. And that at the age of twenty-one, at the cost of a brave man’s life, I managed to thwart the curse laid upon my bloodline. The South Boston Ogre is heard from no more. Yet, <<if $oval >= 2>>though I took care to cast the medallion into the foam of Harbor Bay, <</if>>i can still sometimes feel the faint echo of his breath caressing my spine. Cumaïl slumbers and waits once more. I fear he may one day set his sights on one of my descendants. And every day I dread the palpable rancor with which he will emerge from his torpor.</span> <p id="fin">THE END</p> @@.encart-appel;<<link "Maximilien's story isn't over →">><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><<goto "encart_fin">><</link>>@@ </p></div> <<nobr>> <<set $reve to 1>> <<if $sm >= 80>> <<if $succ1 is 0>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ1 to 1>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $victime1 is 0 and $victime2 is 0 and $victime3 is 0 and $victime4 is 0 and $rab < 100>> <<if $succ2 is 0>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ2 to 1>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $succ12 is 0 and $livre < 2>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ12 to 1>> <</if>> <<if $quet2 is 0>> <<remember $quet2 to 1>> <</if>> <<audio ":all" stop>> <<audio "mamar_prep" play>> <<audio "repo" play>> <</nobr>>
<div class="epilogues"><p class="epil_text"><div style="max-width: 180px; margin: 0 auto"><img src='data/media/graph/quetes/quet03.png'></div> <center>@@.beauty_link;The Echoes of Zs S’àh@@</center> <span id="texte">A light breeze passes through me from within, carrying the bitterness away with it. Cumaïl is gone, and the breach has closed behind him. After testing the very foundations of my being, he finally slipped away like a breath, into another time, another space opened by the Threshold Fish... I managed to make the threshold perceptible without tearing it open, and to encounter the very essence of my haunting without losing myself in it. Blessed be Zs S'àh. A new clarity remains in my mind, and in my heart, a place that is mine again. What I have been through has given me no certainties, only a direction. Light is born as a lucidity willing to accept that it has been fractured. I know my name is Max, Maximilien Cornwell. And at the age of twenty-one, I have regained far more than restorative sleep. My confidence, transfigured by this singular experience, has revealed to me an inner strength I had never suspected. And for the rest of my life, that confidence will never leave me again...</span> <p id="fin">THE END</p> @@.encart-appel;<<link "Maximilien's story isn't over →">><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><<goto "encart_fin">><</link>>@@ </p></div> <<nobr>> <<set $reve to 1>> <<if $sm >= 80>> <<if $succ1 is 0>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ1 to 1>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $victime1 is 0 and $victime2 is 0 and $victime3 is 0 and $victime4 is 0 and $rab < 100>> <<if $succ2 is 0>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ2 to 1>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $succ12 is 0 and $livre < 2>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ12 to 1>> <</if>> <<if $succ15 is 0>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ15 to 1>> <</if>> <<if $quet3 is 0>> <<remember $quet3 to 1>> <</if>> <<audio ":all" stop>> <<audio "repo" play>> <<audio "drone" play>> <</nobr>>
<div class="epilogues"><p class="epil_text"><div style="max-width: 180px; margin: 0 auto"><img src='data/media/graph/quetes/quet04.png'></div> <center>@@.beauty_link;The Geometry of the Arcana@@</center> <span id="texte">I cross the threshold of his domain to catch him at the very end of his maturation. And by grasping the mystical allegory of obscure symbols, I free the souls he feeds upon and turn them against him. Cumaïl is annihilated, and the Ogre vanishes. The door of the Threshold Fish closes, and I emerge from this fertile sleep, freed from the curse, bearing a sense of gratitude: that of the victims as they continue on their way toward the great unknown. I know my name is Max, Maximilien Cornwell. And at the age of twenty-one, I attain the maturity required to enjoy the fruits of a serene existence. This strange lightness in the mere fact of being alive, this sense of walking the path of my life unimpeded, will follow me to the threshold of my death, together with a confidence forever renewed. Far from the torments of a world wracked by all-too-real suffering. Free and happy.</span> <p id="fin">THE END</p> @@.encart-appel;<<link "Maximilien's story isn't over →">><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><<goto "encart_fin">><</link>>@@ </p></div> <<nobr>> <<set $reve to 1>> <<if $sm >= 80>> <<if $succ1 is 0>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ1 to 1>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $victime1 is 0 and $victime2 is 0 and $victime3 is 0 and $victime4 is 0 and $rab < 100>> <<if $succ2 is 0>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ2 to 1>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $succ12 is 0 and $livre < 2>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ12 to 1>> <</if>> <<if $succ16 is 0>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ16 to 1>> <</if>> <<if $quet4 is 0>> <<remember $quet4 to 1>> <</if>> <<audio "hurle" play>> <</nobr>>
<div class="epilogues"><p class="epil_text"><span id="texte">Enveloped in all his monstrous magnificence, my mind constrained by the divinization of his presence, I welcome him with supplications as he manifests before me: the Dybbuk, the Heart of my torments. His indescribable, ineffable appearance overwhelms all my senses and weds itself to me... As my soul plunges inexorably into the abysses, a delectable morsel on which the Master of my dreams feeds, my journey unfolds with cynical clarity: On the final day, I reach the end of my path, the last representative of a cursed bloodline. <<if $z is 0>>The South Boston Ogre will manifest one final time, breathing his black terror into the hearts of generations to come, before vanishing forever and taking the name of Maximilien Cornwell with him...<<else>> The South Boston Ogre will never be heard from again, vanishing forever and taking the name of Maximilien Cornwell with him...<</if>></span> <p id="fin">THE END</p> @@.encart-appel;<<link "Maximilien's story isn't over →">><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><<goto "encart_fin">><</link>>@@ </p></div> <<nobr>> <<if $sm >= 80>> <<if $succ1 is 0>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ1 to 1>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $victime1 is 0 and $victime2 is 0 and $victime3 is 0 and $victime4 is 0 and $rab < 100>> <<if $succ2 is 0>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ2 to 1>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $succ12 is 0 and $jess < 3 and $rab < 2>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ12 to 1>> <</if>> <<set $reve to 1>> <<script>>clearInterval(window._songeFinalTimer);<</script>> <<audio "cumail_epilog" play>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">– Before we go any further, I must insist that the information you provide about the nature of your possession be accurate and precise. This is essential if I am to adapt the texts upon which I will rely in performing the ritual. Furthermore, you must show unwavering faith in the Divine; you will need that strength to free yourself from its hold. Now, are you ready to answer my questions?</div><div id="continuer">[[Begin the preparations for the exorcism ritual->exor_2]]</div> <<nobr>> <div class="dialogue"> <div id="dial_port"> [img[data/media/img/portraits/yiggael.jpg]] </div> <div id="dial_choise"> <<if $o is 0>> <<link "– What can you tell me about the Zemaria?">><<goto "rab_1_3">><<set $jess to 1>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $livre is 1>> <<link "– Is this book written in Hebrew?">><<goto "rab_1_4">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $not is 0>> <<link "– Who is the notary in charge of the Zemaria affairs?">><<goto "rab_1_2">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $jess is 1>> <<link "– Can you tell me more about the Zemarias' neighbor?">><<goto "rab_1_3_1">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $u is 1 and $livre neq 4 and $livre neq 5 and $livre neq 7>> <<link "– I would like to entrust the book to you for study.">><<goto "rab_1_4_1">><</link>> <</if>> </div> </div> <div id="continuer"> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">><</link>> <</if>> </div> <<set $bloc to 1>> <</nobr>>
<<set $rit1 to -1>><<set $rit2 to -1>><<set $rit3 to -1>> <div id="rituel"><div class="rit">– Are you a believer? <<radiobutton "$rit1" 1>><label for="radiobutton-rit1-0"><span></span>Yes</label> <<radiobutton "$rit1" 0>><label for="radiobutton-rit1-1"><span></span>No</label></div><hr><div class="rit">– What is the nature of the Dybbuk? <<radiobutton "$rit2" 1>><label for="radiobutton-rit2-0"><span></span>A demon</label> <<radiobutton "$rit2" 0>><label for="radiobutton-rit2-1"><span></span>The soul of a departed one</label> <<radiobutton "$rit2" 2>><label for="radiobutton-rit2-2"><span></span>I do not know</label></div> <div class="rit">Or else, tell me:</div> <div class="rit">– To what is the Dybbuk bound? <<radiobutton "$rit3" 1>><label for="radiobutton-rit3-0"><span></span>A place</label> <<radiobutton "$rit3" 0>><label for="radiobutton-rit3-1"><span></span>An object</label> <<radiobutton "$rit3" 2>><label for="radiobutton-rit3-2"><span></span>I do not know</label></div> <div id="rituel-alert"></div><<button "Continue">> <<if $rit1 is -1 or $rit2 is -1 or $rit3 is -1>> <<replace "#rituel-alert">><div class="rit" id="texte">Yiggael is plainly waiting for me to answer each of his questions before going any further.</div> <</replace>><<else>> <<set $ritnom to 0>><<set $ritlieu to 0>><<set $ritobj to 0>> <<replace "#rituel">> <<if $rit1 is 0>><div class="rit" id="texte">Yiggael regards me with compassion and explains with great tact that he cannot help me if I cannot cultivate even the faintest spark of faith. In his view, the risks would be far too great. I have no choice but to withdraw, cursing my Cartesian mind and its implacable logic…</div><<set $exorcisme to 1000>><<set $exor to 1000>><<set $rab to 3>> <<elseif $rit2 is 2 and $rit3 is 2>><div class="rit" id="texte">Yiggael’s gaze clouds for a moment. “I understand your hesitation... but I need at least one certainty in order to adapt the texts. Come back when you are sure of one of these answers.”</div><<set $exor to 1>> <<else>> <<if $rit2 is 1>> <div class="rit"> What is the name of the demon? @@#rech_input;<<textbox "$ritnom" "">>@@ </div> <<elseif $rit2 is 0>> <div class="rit"> What is the name of the departed one? @@#rech_input;<<textbox "$ritnom" "">>@@ </div> <</if>> <<if $rit3 is 1>> <div class="rit"> To what place is it bound? @@#rech_input;<<textbox "$ritlieu" "">>@@ </div> <<elseif $rit3 is 0>> <div class="rit"> To what object is it bound? @@#rech_input;<<textbox "$ritobj" "">>@@ </div> <</if>> <<link "Continue">><<if $ritnom neq 0>><<set $ritnom to $ritnom.toString().trim().toLowerCase()>><<if $ritnom is "cumaïl" or $ritnom is "cumail" or $ritnom is "kumaïl" or $ritnom is "kumail">><<set $ritnom to "cumaïl">><</if>><</if>><<if $ritlieu neq 0>><<set $ritlieu to $ritlieu.toString().trim().toLowerCase()>><<if $ritlieu is "bagrovyy" or $ritlieu is "the bagrovyy" or $ritlieu is "bagrovyy cabaret" or $ritlieu is "the bagrovyy cabaret" or $ritlieu is "cabaret bagrovyy">><<set $ritlieu to "bagrovyy">><</if>><</if>><<if $ritobj neq 0>><<set $ritobj to $ritobj.toString().trim().toLowerCase()>><<if $ritobj is "locket" or $ritobj is "the locket" or $ritobj is "oval locket" or $ritobj is "the oval locket" or $ritobj is "medallion" or $ritobj is "the medallion" or $ritobj is "oval medallion" or $ritobj is "the oval medallion" or $ritobj is "pendant" or $ritobj is "the pendant" or $ritobj is "necklace" or $ritobj is "the necklace">><<set $ritobj to "locket">><</if>><</if>><<goto "exor_3">><</link>><</if>><</replace>> <</if>> <</button>> </div> <<nobr>> <div id="continuer"> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Postpone the preparations and leave">> <<goto "appart_j_1">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Postpone the preparations and leave">> <<goto "appart_j_2">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Postpone the preparations and leave">> <<goto "appart_j_3">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Postpone the preparations and leave">> <<goto "appart_j_4">> <</link>> <</if>> </div> <<set $bloc to 1>> <</nobr>>
<<nobr>> <<set $exorcisme to 1000>><<set $exor to 2>> <div id="texte"> <<if ($ritnom is "" or $ritnom is 0) and ($ritlieu is "" or $ritlieu is 0) and ($ritobj is "" or $ritobj is 0)>> After much patient insistence, I still cannot convince Yiggael of the soundness of our undertaking. He feels he has wasted enough time and escorts me to the threshold of the temple to bid me farewell. <<else>> <<if $rit3 is 1>> <<if $ritlieu is "" or $ritlieu is 0>> Yiggael finds the information at his disposal far too muddled to carry out his exorcism ritual. He politely suggests that I approach my problems from a different angle and refrain from wasting any more of his precious time in the future. <<elseif $bag is 3 and $ritlieu is "bagrovyy">> Much to his regret, Yiggael cannot undertake such a journey, as the place lies far beyond his remit. He therefore advises me to seek the assistance of one of his colleagues in Pittsburgh and cordially bids me leave the temple. <<elseif $rit2 is 1 and $ritnom is "cumaïl">> Yiggael confirms that he will make contact with the entity $ritnom and banish it by drawing on the teachings of the //Beth Ha-Midrash//. The ritual can be performed this very evening at the following location: $ritlieu<<set $exorcisme to $day>> <<elseif $rit2 is 1>> My all-too-obvious hesitation, particularly regarding the demon’s name, has permanently cast doubt on the point of this undertaking. <<elseif $rit2 is 0>> Yiggael confirms that he will make contact with the soul of $ritnom and banish it by drawing on the teachings of the //Beth Ha-Midrash//. The ritual can be performed this very evening at the following location: $ritlieu<<set $exorcisme to $day>> <<else>> Yiggael frowns. Without any certainty as to the nature of what is consuming me, he refuses to risk using an unsuitable ritual text. He instructs me to return once I can identify more clearly the evil at work.<<set $exor to 1>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $rit3 is 0>> <<if $ritobj is "" or $ritobj is 0>> Yiggael finds the information at his disposal far too muddled to carry out his exorcism ritual. He politely suggests that I approach my problems from a different angle and refrain from wasting any more of his precious time in the future. <<elseif $ritobj is "locket">> <<if $oval >= 2 and $rit2 is 1 and $ritnom is "cumaïl">> Yiggael lifts his head, almost reassured. “The object, and its name with it... there is a sure hold in that.” The ritual can be performed here in the temple this very evening, with the aid of Rabbi Levy and the teachings of the //Beth Ha-Midrash//.<<set $exorcisme to $day>> <<elseif $rit2 is 1 and $ritnom is "cumaïl">> Yiggael slowly inclines his head. “The object is missing, but the name you bring me suffices on its own: there is a hold in it.” The ritual can be performed here in the temple this very evening, with the aid of Rabbi Levy and the teachings of the //Beth Ha-Midrash//.<<set $exorcisme to $day>> <<elseif $oval >= 2>> Yiggael tells me he may be able to act. The ritual can be performed here in the temple this very evening, with the aid of Rabbi Levy and the teachings of the //Beth Ha-Midrash//.<<set $exorcisme to $day>> <<else>> Yiggael tells me he may be able to act, but insists upon having the object itself. The moment I confess that it is not yet in my possession, he instructs me to meet him again tomorrow evening with the $ritobj in hand, failing which he will answer for nothing that follows.<<set $exorcisme to ($day + 1)>> <</if>> <<else>> Yiggael slowly shakes his head. This object affords him no reliable foothold. He bids me return with the actual artifact, or with the entity’s exact name.<<set $exor to 1>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $rit3 is 2>> <<if $rit2 is 1 and $ritnom is "cumaïl">> Yiggael slowly tilts his head. The name alone, when it is the right one, may suffice: it offers a purchase, a rough edge upon which to focus the imprecations. This very evening, here in the temple, with Levy and the teachings of the //Beth Ha-Midrash//, they will attempt to banish the spawn revealed by that name: Cumaïl.<<set $exorcisme to $day>> <<elseif $rit2 is 0 and $ritnom neq "" and $ritnom neq 0>> Yiggael confirms that he will attempt to call forth the soul of $ritnom here in the temple this evening, with the aid of Rabbi Levy and the teachings of the //Beth Ha-Midrash//.<<set $exorcisme to $day>> <<elseif $ritnom neq "" and $ritnom neq 0>> Yiggael remains silent for a moment. Then he nods, without joy. “So be it. This very evening, here in the temple, with Levy and the teachings of the //Beth Ha-Midrash//, we shall attempt to banish the spawn this name claims to reveal.”<<set $exorcisme to $day>> <<else>> Yiggael presses his lips together. “Without some certainty to anchor me, I cannot risk a blind ritual text. I need its name. Return when you have it.”<<set $exor to 1>> <</if>> <</if>> <</if>> </div> <div id="continuer"> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">><</link>> <</if>> </div> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">Early that evening, I stand before Temple Adath Jeshurun, its twin towers piercing the thick fog stretching across Roxbury. Rabbi Levy receives me and leads me to Yiggael. He is to assist the old man throughout the ceremony. <<if $oval < 2 and $ritobj is "locket" and ($rit2 neq 1 or $ritnom neq "cumaïl")>>But tonight there will be no ceremony. My hopes collapse at once when I learn that the medallion is missing. Yiggael flies into a black rage, muttering about the precious time I have caused him to waste. The care he has put into preparing the ritual, and the energy he has expended since yesterday to carry it out, brook no such lapse. Whatever goodwill he bore me is now gone: he tells me to contact him again next month if my problem persists. Stunned, I am promptly shown out of the temple by Rabbi Levy.<<set $rab to 3>><<set $exorcisme to 1000>><div id="continuer"><<if $day is 1>>[[Return home->appart_n_1]]<</if>> <<if $day is 2>>[[Return home->appart_n_2]]<</if>> <<if $day is 3>>[[Return home->appart_n_3]]<</if>> <<if $day is 4>>[[Return home->appart_n_4]]<</if>> </div> <<else>> Three candelabra dimly illuminate a small study in the temple’s west wing, prepared for the occasion. Various artifacts have been assembled around a simply appointed cot, upon which I decide to lie down. Yiggael takes up a bowl and washes it three times, intoning: “I wash this bowl for the sake of the one who is inhabited, Maximilien Cornwell, son of Alanna Cornwell.” After a series of ritual gestures, he continues: – He is a fruitful bough, a fruitful bough beside a spring, rising above the other boughs along the wall. By the God of your Father, who shall sustain you, and by the Almighty, who shall grant you the blessings of heaven above, the blessings of the abyss beneath, the blessings of the breasts and of the womb. <<if $oval >= 2>> <<if $ritobj is "locket">> Then he places Orane’s medallion in the bowl and sprinkles it with holy water. From far away, I seem to hear an echoing choir of sepulchral voices lamenting in unison. The object suddenly vomits coils of purplish vapor. Rabbi Levy begins to sob, as though struck full force by an ineffable bitterness. <<if $rit2 is 0 or $ritnom neq "cumaïl">>Yiggael closes his eyes and murmurs a brief, almost inaudible prayer, gathering what remains of his strength and clarity: “May He who searches hearts grant me right judgment; let not my mouth outrun the truth, and let my hands act only in keeping with what is revealed to me.” Yiggael breaks off his psalmody. His gaze lingers on the medallion, then rises to meet mine: – Its presence is growing stronger. We have misidentified the entity, and it is exploiting our error to strengthen itself. Fortunately, you have found the point at which it is anchored in the medallion. His voice deepens: – It compels the presence to answer to its bond. With it... I can act. Even against the light.<</if>><</if>><</if>> The old man redoubles his efforts, pouring all the energy he possesses into his imprecations. He trembles in the wavering candlelight, the timbre of his voice altered by the intensity of the moment: – I adjure you, holy angels, who saved Joseph the Righteous from the evil eye upon the Holy Mount, and you, Palti’el, angel of deliverance, release this child from the hold of <<if $ritnom is "cumaïl">>Cumaïl<<else>>this entity<</if>>, for he is of the seed of Joseph, and the Eternal, his God, is with him... <<if ($oval >= 2) or ($rit2 is 1 and $ritnom is "cumaïl")>>My body is seized by convulsions, like a worm writhing on glowing coals. The pain is searing, yet contained. The presence is there, palpable, constrained. I cling to Yiggael’s chanted words, fighting the absurd impulse urging me to seize a red-hot candelabrum. <div id="continuer">[[Continue the rite->exorcisme_1_1]]</div> <<else>>Those piercing words gradually fill me with pain. A strange sensation courses along my spine. A white fog floods my skull and slowly absorbs my consciousness. I dimly hear Yiggael break off his psalmody and cry: – By the Almighty! What spawn of Evil is this? I can grasp it neither by its name nor by the anchor you have given me! Levy! We must reverse the ritual, quickly! Static runs through every line of my consciousness, like a radio unable to find its frequency. A line draws itself across my face, the caricature of a loathsome smile, before the white swallows everything.<<set $exor to 3>><<set $cible07 to 1>><<set $vc += 1>><<set $rab to 3>><<set $reve to 1>><div id="continuer"> <<if $dream is 1>>[[Let go->c_2]]<</if>><<if $dream is 2>>[[Let go->c_3]]<</if>> <<if $dream is 3>>[[Let go->c_4]]<</if>> <<if $dream is 4>>[[Let go->c_5]]<</if>> </div> <</if>><</if>></div>
<div id="texte">$ritlieu, 10:10 p.m... Yiggael is busy making the final preparations on his own. Despite the incongruity of the setting, the space has been arranged like a sanctuary. Three candelabra dimly illuminate the surroundings, and various artifacts have been assembled around a plainly appointed cot, upon which he invites me to lie down. Yiggael takes up a bowl and washes it three times, intoning: “I wash this bowl for the sake of the one who is inhabited, Maximilien Cornwell, son of Alanna Cornwell.” After a series of ritual gestures, he continues: – He is a fruitful bough, a fruitful bough beside a spring, rising above the other boughs along the wall. Through the God of your Father, who shall sustain you, and the Almighty, who shall grant you the blessings of heaven above, the blessings of the deep beneath, the blessings of the breasts and of the womb. Then he places ointments in the bowl and sprinkles it with holy water. From far away, I seem to hear an echoing choir of sepulchral voices lamenting in unison. The vessel suddenly vomits coils of purplish vapor. <<if $rit2 is 0>>Those piercing words gradually fill me with pain. A strange sensation courses along my spine. A white fog gradually fills my skull and languidly absorbs my consciousness. My senses grow dull, and everything recedes into the distance. I dimly hear Yiggael break off his psalmody and cry: – By the Almighty! This is no departed spirit lurking here below! What spawn of evil is this? Maximilien, stay with me. I must consult the Talmud. Meila, Meila, by this place now consecrated, but... but who are you? Oh Lord! Nooo... As though under the influence of a powerful psychotropic drug, I try to raise myself and hear the sound of wet cloth being torn with violent, relentless force. Yiggael collapses, torn to shreds. Before him stands a humanoid figure of exaggerated proportions, its outstretched arms ending in hooked talons, its gaze piercing heart and soul. [img[data/media/img/ogre_cim.jpg]] Too late, I recognize the vile smile of this aberration, <<if $yan is 0>>the smile from my dream, the smile of the gaunt-featured gravedigger who served as the other man’s accomplice.<</if>><<if $yan is 1 or $yan is 3>>the smile of Yanes, the gravedigger from my dream, the hateful accomplice.<</if>><<if $yan is 4>>the smile of Yanes, my brother, in the guise of the gravedigger from my dreams.<</if>> <<if _echoOK>><<include "echo_entry">><</if>><<set $rab to 100>><<if !_echoOK>> The muscular bulk crashes down upon me, and my cry rends the night, marking my death, brief yet so painful... <div id="continuer"><<link "Die">><<goto "fin_reve">><<audio "mamar_exor" fadeout>><</link>></div><</if>><</if>><<if $rit2 is 1>><<if $ritnom is "cumaïl">>Those piercing words gradually fill me with pain. A strange sensation courses along my spine. Yiggael’s voice breaks on a name he brings down like a blade: – Cumaïl… He pauses, seemingly startled himself as the atmosphere thickens. Then, as though correcting the course of the text, he murmurs: – Shema ha-kol, ve-lo ha-makom. He turns toward me, his gaze hardening: – This demon is not bound to this place... Lo ha-makom kofe, ela ha-shem megaleh. May the Name find what is hidden... and may what is hidden answer now! <div id="continuer">[[Continue the rite->epilogue_4]]</div><<else>>Those piercing words gradually fill me with pain. A strange sensation courses along my spine. A white fog gradually fills my skull and languidly absorbs my consciousness. My senses grow dull, and everything recedes into the distance. I dimly hear Yiggael break off his psalmody and cry: – By the Almighty! What spawn of evil is this? It answers none of my incantations. It does not dwell in this place; it seems to come from everywhere! Maximilien! Maximilien Cornwell, stay with me! Static crackles along the whole line of my consciousness, like a radio that can no longer find a station. A line slowly forms across my face, the caricature of a loathsome smile, as the white at last swallows everything...<<timed 48s>><<audio "oogr" play>><</timed>><<set $exor to 3>><<set $cible07 to 1>><<set $rab to 3>><<set $reve to 1>><<if $dream is 1>><div id="continuer">[[Let go->c_2]]</div><</if>><<if $dream is 2>><div id="continuer">[[Let go->c_3]]</div><</if>><<if $dream is 3>><div id="continuer">[[Let go->c_4]]</div><</if>><<if $dream is 4>><div id="continuer"><<link "Let go">><<goto "c_5">><</link>></div><</if>><<set $vc += 1>> <</if>><</if>></div>
<<timed 14s>><<bg "data/media/img/backgrounds/port.jpg" 5 10 20>><<run document.body.classList.add("no-white-bg")>><<replace "#horloge_container">><<nobr>> <div id="spirale" style="opacity:0; transition: opacity 2s linear; margin: 0 auto;"></div> <<run requestAnimationFrame(() => requestAnimationFrame(() => { const el = document.getElementById("spirale"); if (el) el.style.opacity = "1"; }))>> <</nobr>><</replace>><</timed>> <center><div id="horloge_container" style="height: 200px; display: flex; align-items: center; justify-content: center;"><video id="horloge_vid" autoplay><source src="data/media/vids/horloge_final.mp4" type="video/mp4" /></video></div></center> <div id="continuer"> <<switch $day>> <<case 1>>@@.beauty_link;<<link "Early evening">><<goto "appart_n_1">><<audio "cumail_melodie" fadeout>><</link>>@@ <<case 2>>@@.beauty_link;<<link "Early evening">><<goto "appart_n_2">><<audio "cumail_melodie" fadeout>><</link>>@@ <<case 3>>@@.beauty_link;<<link "Early evening">><<goto "appart_n_3">><<audio "cumail_melodie" fadeout>><</link>>@@ <<case 4>>@@.beauty_link;<<link "Early evening">><<goto "appart_n_4">><<audio "cumail_melodie" fadeout>><</link>>@@ <</switch>> </div><<nobr>> <<set $bloc to 1>><<set $act to 0>> <<run Dialog.close()>> <<audio ":playing" fadeout>><<audio "tictac" play>><<audio "cumail_melodie" volume 0 fadein>> <</nobr>>
<div class="c5" id="c5"><h2 id="texte">THE END</h2></div> <<nobr>> <<audio "cumail_fin" play>> <script> $(document).ready(function() { $("#c5 > h2").lettering('words').children("span").lettering().children("span").lettering(); }); </script> <<run setup.arcBg.stop()>><</nobr>> <<timed 8s>><</timed>>
<<timed 8s>><<goto "final_0">><</timed>><<audio "jour" play>><<script>>$("#story").hide();<</script>>
<div id="fin"></div> <div id="continuer" class="switch"></div> <<nobr>> <<timed 0.1s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Maximilien?</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;fin.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 200);}());<</script>> <<replace ".switch">> <<timed 4s>> @@.beauty_link2;<<link "– Yes.">><<goto "final_2">><</link>>@@ <</timed>> <</replace>> <</timed>> <</nobr>>
<div id="fin"></div> <div id="continuer" class="switch"></div> <<nobr>> <<timed 0.1s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Do not leave.</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;fin.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 100);}());<</script>> <<replace ".switch">> <<timed 4s>> @@.beauty_link2;<<link "– Who are you?">><<goto "final_3">><</link>>@@ <</timed>> <</replace>> <</timed>> <</nobr>>
<div id="fin"></div> <div id="continuer" class="switch"></div> <<nobr>> <<timed 0.1s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>YOU</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;fin.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 400);}());<</script>> <<replace ".switch">> <<timed 6s>> @@.beauty_link2;<<link "– Where... where am I?">><<goto "final_4">><</link>>@@ <</timed>> <</replace>> <</timed>> <</nobr>>
<div id="fin"></div> <div id="continuer" class="switch"></div> <<nobr>> <<timed 0.1s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Within you.</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;fin.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 200);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 5s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>HE is here...</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;fin.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 40);}());<</script>> <<replace ".switch">> <<timed 3s>> @@.beauty_link2;<<link "– Who?">><<goto "final_5">><</link>>@@ <</timed>> <</replace>> <</timed>> <</nobr>>
<div id="fin"></div> <div id="continuer" class="switch"></div> <<nobr>> <<timed 0.1s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>The one who gnaws at you.</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;fin.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 5s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>You must face him.</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;fin.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 80);}());<</script>> <<replace ".switch">> <<timed 4s>> @@.beauty_link2;<<link "– How?">><<goto "final_6">><</link>>@@ <</timed>> <</replace>> <</timed>> <</nobr>>
<div id="fin"></div> <div id="continuer" class="switch"></div> <<nobr>> <<timed 0.1s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Listen to Yourself closely.</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;fin.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 120);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 4s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Your mind is weakened by his presence.</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;fin.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 100);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 12s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>HE devours us...</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;fin.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 40);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 16s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Unite Yourself with Me.</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;fin.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 20s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Your thought must become act.</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;fin.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 100);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 26s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Manifest it.</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;fin.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 100);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 30s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Are you ready?</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;fin.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 200);}());<</script>> <<replace ".switch">> <<timed 5s>> @@.beauty_link2;<<link "– YES.">><<goto "final_7">><</link>>@@ <</timed>> <</replace>> <</timed>> <</nobr>>
<<nobr>> <div id="dragpage"> <div id="spirale"></div> <<draggon>> <div id="timebar"> <span id="timeprogress"></span> </div> <span class="aide"></span> </div> <<script>> $(document).ready(function () { var count = State.active.variables.sm * 2; var point = $("#timebar").width() / count; var interval = setInterval(function () { $("#timeprogress").width($("#timeprogress").width() - point); }, 1000); var stopI = setInterval(function () { if ($("#timeprogress").width() <= 0) { clearInterval(interval); clearInterval(stopI); Engine.play("folie"); } }, 1005); }); <</script>> <</nobr>>
<div id="invent_img">[img[data/media/img/inventaire/fleur.png]]</div> <center><<if $fle is 1>><<button "Hold the flower close">><<set $fle to 2>><<smGain D4>><<run Dialog.close()>><</button>><</if>> <<if $fle is 2>><<button "Take comfort">><<set $fle to 3>><<smGain D4>><<run Dialog.close()>><</button>> Telma’s thoughts go with me.<</if>> <<if $fle is 3>><<button "Seek a little more support">><<set $fle to 4>><<smGain D4>><<run Dialog.close()>><</button>> The Lord is my shepherd.<</if>> <<if $fle is 4>>The presence of the evil that grips me grows ever more palpable. It draws nearer, and my faith deserts me.<</if>></center><<invSee "fleur_telma">>
<div class="songe"><span></span></div>The taste of whiteness in which I lose myself. A shiver. Myriads of stars glittering to the rhythm of my torpor. The season of intoxication. Ticktock, ticktock... I reel, a frail skiff traversing limbo for all eternity... <<set $sm to 0>> <<timed 15s>><div class="c5" id="c5"><h2 id="texte">THE END</h2></div><</timed>> <<nobr>> <<script>> $(document).ready(function(){ var mots = ['Cumaïl', 'okran', 'nat', 'naguial', 'ash', 'orth', 'Aôrt', 'Nugash', 'vatgh']; setInterval(function() { var fsize = Math.floor(Math.random() * 5); var lspace = Math.floor(Math.random() * 5); var opac = Math.random(); var y = Math.floor(Math.random() * 101) + 1; var x = Math.floor(Math.random() * 101) + 1; $(".songe").css({ 'font-size' : fsize + "em", 'top' : y + "vh", 'left' : x + "vw", 'letter-spacing' : lspace + "em", 'opacity' : opac, 'color' : "#2e2e2e", '-webkit-animation' : "none", '-moz-animation' : "none", '-ms-animation' : "none", '-o-animation' : "none", }); var mot = mots[Math.floor(Math.random()*mots.length)]; $(".songe span").replaceWith('<span>'+mot+'</span>'); }, 800); }); <</script>> <<audio "tictac" play loop>> <</nobr>>
<div id="lecture"><div id="invent_img">[img[data/media/img/inventaire/jour_gadd.png]]</div> Gaddiel’s diary opens in December 1882, forty-four years ago, as she enters her twenty-first year. In it, with a hand still tentative yet admirably steadfast, she records her thoughts, her sorrows, and the most significant episodes of her life, nearly all of them bound up with the fate of her two sisters. From one page to the next, one can sense her struggling with the language of her adopted country, gradually mastering it over the course of this long confession. <<if $passagename is "appart_j_1" or $passagename is "appart_j_2" or $passagename is "appart_j_3" or $passagename is "appart_j_4" or $passagename is "appart_n_1" or $passagename is "appart_n_2" or $passagename is "appart_n_3" or $passagename is "appart_n_4" or $passagename is "pits_1" or $passagename is "obsq_3" or $passagename is "obsq_3_1" or $passagename is "roch_2">><center><<button "Pore over the diary">></center> <<replace "#lecture">>I select a few passages that stir my curiosity. The most revealing of them mention a pendant that Igal may well still be wearing around her neck in the grave.<<nobr>><<if $oval is 0>><<set $oval to 1>><</if>><<if $gadd is 1>><<set $gadd to 2>><<set $hist += 1>><</if>><<if $rab is 0>><<set $rab to 1>><</if>><<set $mid2_nom += 1>> <<audio ":playing" fadeout>><</nobr>> <div id="gaddiel">''December 11, 1882'' We lite first Hanukia candl. We say Hallel at temple and agane book Esther for Amassia plesure. Igal not at ease and force herself too for Amassia, she say nothing since we arive. Amassia happy and calm, we do this for her, to thank her for get us acepted in good comunity of Adatt Jeshouroun. Then pray, pray agane for our shamed memory. ''December 23, 1882'' We was very sick. At each Hanukia candl lit, Igal in sleep say allways same word with teeth shut tight. koumail. We pray agane, all three, very hard each night. Fast of 10 Tevet will be hard for us not to eat. ''December 27, 1882'' Igal call it agane in night. Same word, agane and agane, that I no dare write more. I know it follow us since ship. Since we call it. ''February 26, 1883'' I spit on all desendants of our tormentor. Igal spend hours stroke our mother necklace. With Amassia we put it in a box, shame on us, with this cursed book we never should open. Igal get angry and break many things. May our dearest father Orane forgive us all this sufring. ''February 28, 1883'' I can sleep now. Thank you, my God. Igal no leave bed and no say word. Amassia take good care of her. It no sing now. Then evil go quiet. ''October 9, 1885'' Igal has found her voice again! Amassia wept with emotion. Her first words were, “Oh, aren’t you beautiful,” in our mother tongue. All it took was a butterfly alighting on her hand... What joy, to be able to speak with our little sister again. ''May 16, 1892'' I met Mrs. Mendhil at the market this morning. She is clairvoyant, and I felt understood by her at once. We spoke for a while about our beliefs. She invited me to her home sometime this week. She lives in the neighboring district, and I shall be delighted to visit her. ''September 7, 1892'' We celebrated the opening of our shop in Roslindale and moved into our new home today. None of it would have been possible without the influence of Rabbi Yiggael, who has always been very fond of Amassia. The workmen labored tirelessly all summer, and the result has surpassed our hopes. Tomorrow morning I shall take a gift to Jessica, who was unable to join us. After all, it was she who advised me to purchase this property. ''September 13, 1892'' Amassia insisted that we leave the box where it was. We should no doubt have listened to her. Igal has seemed different ever since. She sits in silence for long stretches in the dimness of the parlor. I cannot bring myself to speak of it to Jessica. I do not wish to tell her what we did in the madness of our grief. ''September 15, 1892'' This time it will be gone only when we are, and that is for the best. We secured the wine box with a padlock, and Yiggael was kind enough to come bless our home. He noticed nothing unusual, unlike Jessica during her last visit. Jessica’s sensitivity will never cease to amaze me. ''July 6, 1899'' Igal brought several men home again last night. The situation is intolerable; the sounds of their nighttime debauchery are deeply shocking. If we mean to protect her, threatening to cast her out is no answer. I hope Amassia will know what to do. ''April 22, 1905'' Igal’s screams woke us in the night. She kept repeating the words of the pact we sealed long ago, which we had taken such pains to forget. I would not have the courage to set them down here, for fear of restoring their power. Now they haunt me once more. Why now? I went down to the cellar to check. I could have sworn I saw shadows moving, but everything is in order. ''April 23, 1905'' The evil has found us again, Igal most of all. At times she repeats that word, her eyes empty... C U M A I L. I am convinced it is linked to our summoning of Zs S’àh. It has never left us... ''April 24, 1905'' Amassia and I resolved to burn the box and everything it contained, but nothing worked. Even the wood itself seemed unwilling to burn. We carried it far into the countryside and buried it, as we should have done long ago. We are relieved at last. ''June 2, 1905'' I can scarcely believe it. We have cursed ourselves as surely as we cursed our tormentor, and we shall carry our burden to the grave. I still do not know whether redemption remains within our reach. Amassia seems to have kept her faith, but Igal grows more corrupt with each passing day. I found the box carefully returned to its appointed place, as though it had never moved... I fear what may befall us. ''August 10, 1907'' We found Igal on the doorstep this morning in a wretched state. She is still muttering the accursed phrase. She seems to have wandered for part of the night. She speaks in dark riddles of fighting water with fire. I shall try to speak to Jessica in the coming days. The evil is stirring again; I can feel it. The woodwork of the house creaks most ominously when evening falls. ''August 11, 1907'' Amassia and I purchased a heavy lead strongbox in which to place the box. We then took it by carriage to Old Harbor and cast it into the water from the bank. ''August 12, 1907'' The strongbox is back in its place in the cellar. We have agreed to forget it once more. Amassia goes to pray at the Adath Jeshurun Temple every day. Igal paces endlessly through the house. I caught her taking drugs, no doubt to forget in her own way. ''February 15, 1913'' In the strictest secrecy, we had our little sister committed for a time. It was our last resort. Her mind has been sinking ever since we found her on that August morning. The butterfly is gone. Pain and helplessness are eating me alive. Amassia prays without end to a God indifferent to our suffering. To hell with Him! She is wasting her time. ''May 7, 1913'' Igal returned two days ago. Once again she has retreated behind a wall of silence. I fear I shall never hear her speak again. She plays with the embers in the stove in a strange and unsettling way, humming to herself. Yet the doctors assured us that her condition was stable. Amassia and I have made arrangements never to leave her alone. She must feel all our affection and the safety of our home. ''August 9, 1926'' Last night, chants rang out, low and resonant. At first I thought they had sprung from a nightmare, then I realized they were coming from Orane’s medallion, the very pendant through which our vengeance found passage on that nightmarish night aboard the Fairburn, when we opened the borders of Zs S’àh. It was singing inside the strongbox, which I did not dare open. ''August 10, 1926'' This afternoon I found Igal in the parlor, casually leafing through the book of our sorrows and wearing the pendant around her neck. I am not proud of it, but we fought, and without Amassia’s intervention I dare not imagine what she might have done to me, so completely was she ruled by rage. I believe I glimpsed in my beloved little sister’s eyes the manifestation of the evil that grips our home, and I fear she will carry it with her into the grave. I am terrified. Tomorrow morning I shall put myself entirely in Jessica’s hands. This time I shall tell her everything, for God alone will not come to our aid. </div> <</replace>> <</button>><<else>><div id="continuer">I shall take the time to consult it somewhere more suitable.</div> <</if>> <<invSee "journal_gaddiel">><<set $mid2_hantise += 1>></div>
<div style="max-width: 60%;font-size:80%;float:right;text-align:left;margin-top:20%;">“//That imbalance, that feverish pitching that was breaking him, that frantic reconstitution of his soul around a presence, that ceaseless passage from the extremity of joy to the extremity of grief in the smallest span of time, within the interval of a few heartbeats, within the duration of a single burning wound...//” <span style="float:right">JOSEPH MALÈGUE. Augustin, or The Master Is Here.</span> <div style="font-size:1.3em;float:right"><<link "Begin">><<goto "i_1">><<audio "badtime" fadeout>><<audio "jour" play>><</link>></div></div><<audio "badtime" time 175 play>>
<div id="texte" class="tonitruant">I reel... a frail skiff making its way through streets swollen by a thunderous tide, borne along on the swell of the clamor of laboring workmen, the pitiless hammering of hooves striking the paving stones of the boulevard, the hawkers bawling their wares to draw in customers... To the acrid fish smell are joined the exhalations of leather flooding my nostrils. My temples throb, and I must lean for a moment against one of the barrels cluttering a narrow alley. There, in the shadow cast by the austere wall of the Petty-Fitzmaurice fish warehouses, I am able to catch my breath. The sensory assaults have done nothing but worsen since this afternoon, to such a degree that I was forced to flee the gathering in the auditorium and seek refuge at my lodging. Trying to reason with myself as to the nature of these disturbances, I loosen the vise formed by the bitter grimace of my jaws. One more effort and I shall soon be able to take leave in the calm of my landlady’s rooms and, perhaps, bring myself to call upon a physician. My savings are in a sorry state, but the thought reassures me, and I draw several deep breaths.</div> <div id="continuer"><<link "Resume my journey">><<goto "i_1_0">><</link>></div><<bg "data/media/img/backgrounds/vacille.jpg" 30 24 40>>
<div id="texte">The dimness of the alley stretches away to my left and opens onto a bright aperture through which the tumultuous life of the immigrant quarter streams past. – Guardate quello là, 'n altro che non riesce a smaltire la sbornia! The thin voice, punctuated by laughter, comes from behind me. I wheel around and find that three young figures have now appeared. One of them is already crowding against me, running his hands over the lapels of my frock coat. Startled, I leap backward, lose my balance, and sprawl across the cobblestones. That prank earns me a fresh burst of snickering. The boys gather round me and go on baiting me. This time one of them addresses me in a marked accent: – So? Where’d you find your rotgut? Is it those damned Irish bastards dealing to you? [img[data/media/img/gamins.jpg]] Filled with confusion, I try to gather my wits. The burliest of the three takes it upon himself to punctuate the question with a kick to my ribs.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">What am I to do?</span> <div id="selection"> [[Talk my way out of this mess->i_1_1]] [[Shout to attract a passerby’s attention->i_1_2]] [[Start a physical confrontation->i_1_3]] </div> </div> <</nobr>> <div id="tutoriel"><div class="tuto_title">TUTORIAL: <span style="color: #b6bac0">SAVES</span></div><p>Your story is saved automatically at each new paragraph. You may close the story at any time and continue it later. Four chapters are built into the story, and will be unlocked as you progress, at the start of each day: <<include "chapitre">> Clicking on one will restart the story from the corresponding point.</p> </div>
<div id="texte">Panting, I try to fix my eyes on one of my tormentors. – I... I am not drunk, I am ill... I beg you to leave me be. The boy looks me up and down with a smug air, lifting his chin as he does so. – I beg you to leave me be... he mocks in a pleading tone, drawing out every syllable. And together they laugh all the harder, while a dull anger begins to rise in me. His features now exposed beneath the brim of his cap, I suddenly recognize the boy speaking to me. Known in the neighborhood for his notorious acts of delinquency, he gives me my opening, and I press it: – I know you. Guido, they call you. The mockery stops at once. They look at one another, and the quietest of them finally blurts out in his native tongue: – V'ho già detto ch'è del quartiere quel tipo, filiamo! Guido scowls, turns back to me, and raises his voice: – Yeah? Well, Demetrio’s the only one dealing around here! So don’t go nosing around in this part of town! Then, addressing his companions: – Forza, carusi, scappiamo! – You better not repeat what happened! the burly one adds, nudging me with his foot. At last, they tear off toward the boulevard, barking out expressions with an Italian ring to them. My nerves raw once more, I use the tension that has seized me to cover in one stretch the distance that separates me from my home.</div><div id="continuer">[[Return home->i_2]]</div>
<div id="texte">– Help! Somebody! Help me! Despite my feverish state, I gather my strength into a cry of alarm, surprisingly fierce. The one who appears to be the leader of this little brood bursts out laughing: – Whoa there! Whoa there! Easy, bumpkin, no need to holler your head off. Nobody’s gonna hear you! He calls to “//Kick in the ribs//”: – Pat! Search him! I curl in on myself even as I continue my plea. Pat has trouble slipping his hand beneath my coat while I writhe on the ground. The other two rough me up with kicks, laughing all the while. Then, all at once, a loud voice, full of manly force, imposes silence: – Hey, you brats! Beat it! Go on! Get out of here! Startled, they turn around, and the little ringleader snaps back: – What’s it to you, fatso? The hulking fellow, dressed in a greasy smock, stands framed in the doorway he has just opened. With a determined step, he raises a thick, threatening arm at the boys. They shrink back at once, then bolt toward the boulevard as the shaggy-faced mass lunges after them. I pull myself upright, brush off my clothes, and set my hat straight. I have lost nothing, save a portion of my dignity. My ears are ringing and my limbs are trembling. The man soon returns empty-handed and stops beside me. – Those filthy kids deserve a good lesson! You all right, sir? – Yes, yes... I’m all right. I had a fainting spell, and they took advantage of it to fall upon me. Without your intervention, I cannot say what might have happened... – It’s nothing unusual. They hang around here all the time. They ain’t all that dangerous, but they can do some harm. Well, I’ve got to get back to work. You going to be all right? – Yes, I live only a short distance from here, at the Krieger residence. Thank you for your help. – Think nothing of it. Breathless, rigid, and with my heart still pounding, I plunge again into the chaos of the waterfront quarter and make my way home in one unbroken stretch.</div><div id="continuer">[[Return home->i_2]]</div> <<set $vc += 1>><<set $cible00 to 1>>
<div id="texte">– Wait! Here! I have money... plenty of it... I cough, fumbling in the folds of my overcoat. I pretend to hold out my wallet to the little leader in the cap. He is not particularly sturdy, but timid enough not to be on his guard. He reaches out, and without hesitation I seize his arm and yank with all my strength to throw him off balance. He topples onto me, and I am able to coil my arm around his neck and drag his head against my chest. Stunned, the other two step back. He thrashes like a wild animal caught in a snare and, under the pressure I exert, lets out a rasp that at once turns into a shriek at the very level of my eardrums, so piercing as to become unbearable. I let go and clap my hands over my ears. To the vibrations that seem to gnaw at my brain is added the hail of blows that follows. The pain is sharp, and I quickly lose consciousness. It is a dog reeking of the sewer that brings me back to myself. It is sniffing at my crotch when I regain consciousness, and I send it skittering off with a kick of my heel. The pains have subsided, and despite a body still wracked by fading aches, I feel my mind free once more. I do not know how long I have lain there prostrate. My watch is gone, as are the contents of my wallet. I try to give my hat its shape again, gather the papers from my satchel, then struggle to my feet and brush myself off. At last, I set out to cover the short distance that still separates me from my lodgings.</div><div id="continuer">[[Return home->i_2]]</div> <<smLoss D3>><div id="tutoriel"><div class="tuto_title">TUTORIAL: <span style="color: #b6bac0">SANITY</span></div><p><<include "santementale">> The sanity gauge tells you the state of your mind throughout the story. Certain events will affect that state, for better or worse, and will influence your behavior and your choices as the story unfolds.<br> <span style="color: #fe0e14">A loss</span> or <span style="color: #00ab4f">a gain</span> of sanity will be signaled by a vertical animation to the left of the passages concerned.</p></div>
<div id="texte">I rent a room on the upper floor of a shabby, shrunken old residence not far from the South Boston docks. One of those last-century houses standing apart by the water’s edge, once owned by a family whose wealth has known decline and now swallowed up by the teeming mass of a city in full expansion. Martha Krieger manages this low-priced boardinghouse. At present there are five of us lodgers enjoying the services she provides with the help of her daughter Telma, which allows me, for my own part, to devote myself to my studies; at least when the household tasks that brighten the house do not serve as a pretext for the lighthearted exchanges Telma and I share. The embarrassment the young woman feels during our conversations breathes a benevolent assurance into my ego and subtly unsettles the nature of my feelings toward her; affected in this manner, I lace my affection with a paternal sort of presence, to which she responds with candid attentions. Thus, each meeting, ordinary though it may be, stirs in me a most particular emotion, quickened anew by the slightest of her adornments, her little coquetries, her singular expressions and gestures.</div> <div id="continuer"><<link "Go upstairs">><<goto "i_2_0">><</link>><<set $tut1 to 1>></div> <div id="tutoriel"><div class="tuto_title">TUTORIAL: <span style="color: #b6bac0">MEMENTO</span></div>The memento stands for your memory. You may take notes there at any time, as you see fit, and copy and paste information. Certain details may prove useful in steering your story down a different course.</div>
<div id="texte">The sun is beginning to decline at this late hour of the day, and its brightness reflected in the windows compels me to narrow my eyes. I slip quietly into the dimness of the house, hoping to avoid any contact with the other residents. I have climbed the first few steps when one of the corridor doors creaks open. I cannot suppress a sigh of weariness and turn around out of politeness. My eyes adjusting with difficulty to the gloom of the place, I recognize the delicate silhouette of Telma, who says to me in a timid voice: – A letter arrived for you this morning, Mr. Cornwell. The gentle light cast from the parlor follows the curve of that ingenuous creature, drawing from it all the wonder of line and softness; while, in contrast, the shadows discreetly see to it that the imperfections of a face worn by the afflictions of humble labor are blurred from sight. Her gaze, respectfully lowered to the floorboards, seems to betray the sickly appearance of my attire. She steps forward and holds out the letter. – Here. – Thank you. I am embarrassed, well aware that the strained line serving me for a smile is anything but natural. Please forgive me, I am not feeling very well. I am going to rest, and I shall not be coming down to dinner this evening. – Very well, sir. Would you like us to send for a doctor? – No, thank you. I believe I shall be all right. I merely need a little rest. Have a pleasant evening. – Thank you... I... if there is anything at all I might do for you, please send for me. – Thank you. She turns away and gently closes the door behind her. A glance at the missive tells me that it comes from my mother, from whom I have been awaiting precious news for some time. <<if setup.tuto.isEnabled()>> <center><span class="btn_lire" style="color:#6b8e23;font-size:120%; cursor:pointer">Read the letter.</span></center><div class="revel" style="background-color: #17161a; padding:20px; text-align:left; font-family: josefinsans; letter-spacing:1px; font-size:100%; line-height:1.5em;"><div class="tuto_title">TUTORIAL: <span style="color: #b6bac0">INVENTORY</span></div><p style="color:#fff">The Inventory tab will appear in the menu during the sequences of the story in which you can reach the objects you have collected. Objects you have not yet examined are marked with a green edge. <span style="color: #00ab4f">Objects in the inventory may be used at any point in the story to influence how it unfolds.</span> <b>Open your inventory now to take out Alanna Cornwell’s letter.</b></p></div><</if>> I reach the threshold of my room, feverishly open the door, and step into the gentle coolness within. After taking care to leave the shutters slightly ajar and close each of the windows to stifle the sounds of the street, I am at last able to enjoy the long-coveted quiet. A hitch of relief tightens my throat into the semblance of a sob; the clamor of the street steals furtively into the enclosure of my cloister, I set the letter down on the corner of my desk, remove my shoes, pull back the sheets, and lie down upon the bed, clutching my head hard to imprison the pain as it returns. After a bitter struggle, I finally find comfort in a deep sleep.</div><div id="continuer">[[Sleep->c_1_r_1]]</div><<set $reve to 0>><<set $bloc to 1>><<invGain "lettre_alanna">> <<nobr>><<if setup.tuto.isEnabled()>> <<script>>$(document).ready(function(){ $(".revel").hide(); $(".btn_lire").click(function(){ $(".revel").slideToggle(); return false; }); });<</script>> <</if>> <</nobr>>
<<nobr>> <<set _n1 = setup.intui.isNew("quet1")>> <<set _n2 = setup.intui.isNew("quet2")>> <<set _n3 = setup.intui.isNew("quet3")>> <<set _n4 = setup.intui.isNew("quet4")>> <div id="quet_content"> <<if $quet1 is 1>> <<if _n1>>@@.quet.quet1.intui1.intui-new;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/quetes/quet01.png'><span class='intui_label'>Departed Embrace</span>">><</link>>@@<<else>>@@.quet.quet1.intui1;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/quetes/quet01.png'><span class='intui_label'>Departed Embrace</span>">><</link>>@@<</if>> <<else>> <<if _n1>>@@.quet.quet2.intui1.intui-new;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/quetes/quet01.png'><span class='intui_label'>Departed Embrace</span>">><</link>>@@<<else>>@@.quet.quet2.intui1;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/quetes/quet01.png'><span class='intui_label'>Departed Embrace</span>">><</link>>@@<</if>> <</if>> <<if $quet2 is 1>> <<if _n2>>@@.quet.quet1.intui2.intui-new;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/quetes/quet02.png'><span class='intui_label'>Way of Midrashim</span>">><</link>>@@<<else>>@@.quet.quet1.intui2;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/quetes/quet02.png'><span class='intui_label'>Way of Midrashim</span>">><</link>>@@<</if>> <<else>> <<if _n2>>@@.quet.quet2.intui2.intui-new;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/quetes/quet02.png'><span class='intui_label'>Way of Midrashim</span>">><</link>>@@<<else>>@@.quet.quet2.intui2;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/quetes/quet02.png'><span class='intui_label'>Way of Midrashim</span>">><</link>>@@<</if>> <</if>> <<if $quet3 is 1>> <<if _n3>>@@.quet.quet1.intui3.intui-new;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/quetes/quet03.png'><span class='intui_label'>Echoes of Zs S'àh</span>">><</link>>@@<<else>>@@.quet.quet1.intui3;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/quetes/quet03.png'><span class='intui_label'>Echoes of Zs S'àh</span>">><</link>>@@<</if>> <<else>> <<if _n3>>@@.quet.quet2.intui3.intui-new;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/quetes/quet03.png'><span class='intui_label'>Echoes of Zs S'àh</span>">><</link>>@@<<else>>@@.quet.quet2.intui3;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/quetes/quet03.png'><span class='intui_label'>Echoes of Zs S'àh</span>">><</link>>@@<</if>> <</if>> <<if $quet4 is 1>> <<if _n4>>@@.quet.quet1.intui4.intui-new;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/quetes/quet04.png'><span class='intui_label'>Geometry of Arcana</span>">><</link>>@@<<else>>@@.quet.quet1.intui4;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/quetes/quet04.png'><span class='intui_label'>Geometry of Arcana</span>">><</link>>@@<</if>> <<else>> <<if _n4>>@@.quet.quet2.intui4.intui-new;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/quetes/quet04.png'><span class='intui_label'>Geometry of Arcana</span>">><</link>>@@<<else>>@@.quet.quet2.intui4;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/quetes/quet04.png'><span class='intui_label'>Geometry of Arcana</span>">><</link>>@@<</if>> <</if>> <<script>> $(document).ready(function(){ $("#quet1").hide(); $("#quet2").hide(); $("#quet3").hide(); $("#quet4").hide(); $(".intui1").click(function(){ $("#tutoriel").hide(); $("#quet2").hide(); $("#quet3").hide(); $("#quet4").hide(); $("#quet1").slideToggle(); return false; }); $(".intui2").click(function(){ $("#tutoriel").hide(); $("#quet1").hide(); $("#quet3").hide(); $("#quet4").hide(); $("#quet2").slideToggle(); return false; }); $(".intui3").click(function(){ $("#tutoriel").hide(); $("#quet1").hide(); $("#quet2").hide(); $("#quet4").hide(); $("#quet3").slideToggle(); return false; }); $(".intui4").click(function(){ $("#tutoriel").hide(); $("#quet1").hide(); $("#quet2").hide(); $("#quet3").hide(); $("#quet4").slideToggle(); return false; }); }); <</script>> </div> <<run setup.intui.markSeen()>> <</nobr>> <div id="quet_text"><div id="tutoriel"><div class="tuto_title">TUTORIAL: <span style="color: #b6bac0">INTUITION</span></div><p>Your intuition unfolds along four main paths. These paths are distinct and yet cross one another throughout the writing of your story, but only one will decide how it ends. Your thoughts appear here according to your discoveries, and may influence the choices you make next. <span style="color: #00ab4f">New ideas are signaled by a green edge and by an animation of the corresponding symbol on the right.</span> Each path, however it is resolved, will be marked with <img src="data/media/graph/quetes/check.png" style="width: 20px; height: 20px; vertical-align: middle;"> at the end of the story.</p></div><div id="quet1"><<include "quet1">></div><div id="quet2"><<include "quet2">></div><div id="quet3"><<include "quet3">></div><div id="quet4"><<include "quet4">></div></div><style>body {background:#17161a}</style>
<<nobr>> <style> #ui-dialog-body.popup { background-color:#979797; color:#fff; } body { background:#17161a; } </style> <<for _it range setup.invDB>> <<if _it.visible()>> <div @class="'inventlink' + ((_it.counted && setup.inv.isNew(_it.id)) ? ' is-new' : '')"> <<if _it.type is "popup">> <<popupinv _it.label() _it.passage>> <</if>> <<if _it.type is "map">> <<if _it.id is "schemas">> <<set _label = _it.label()>> <<set _passage = _it.passage>> <<set _dialogTitle = Object.prototype.hasOwnProperty.call(_it, "dialogTitle") ? _it.dialogTitle : _label>> <<set _dialogClass = Object.prototype.hasOwnProperty.call(_it, "dialogClass") ? _it.dialogClass : "">> <<capture _label, _passage, _dialogTitle, _dialogClass>> <<link _label>> <<run setup.maxShowPassageDialog(_passage, _dialogTitle, "map", _dialogClass)>> <</link>> <</capture>> <<else>> <<map _it.label() _it.passage>> <</if>> <</if>> </div> <</if>> <</for>> <</nobr>>
<<nobr>> <<if $vj is 0>> <style>#ui-dialog-body.map {background: #09090d;}</style> <<else>> <style>#ui-dialog-body.map {background: #212126;}</style> <</if>> <div id="col_narr"> <div id="col_invest"> <div id="investigation">INVESTIGATION</div> <p>I can make my way<br>to the following places:</p> <div id="narration"> <<if $vj neq 0>> <<if not passage().startsWith("appart_")>> <div id="rep1" class="repere">Krieger Residence</div> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Make the most of my rooms">><<goto "appart_j_1">><<set $posx to 2863>><<set $posy to 1968>><<script>>Dialog.close();$('#ui-dialog-titlebar').show();$('#ui-overlay').show();$('.passage').show();<</script>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Make the most of my rooms">><<goto "appart_j_2">><<set $posx to 2863>><<set $posy to 1968>><<script>>Dialog.close();$('#ui-dialog-titlebar').show();$('#ui-overlay').show();$('.passage').show();<</script>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Make the most of my rooms">><<goto "appart_j_3">><<set $posx to 2863>><<set $posy to 1968>><<script>>Dialog.close();$('#ui-dialog-titlebar').show();$('#ui-overlay').show();$('.passage').show();<</script>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Make the most of my rooms">><<goto "appart_j_4">><<set $posx to 2863>><<set $posy to 1968>><<script>>Dialog.close();$('#ui-dialog-titlebar').show();$('#ui-overlay').show();$('.passage').show();<</script>><</link>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if ($day neq 4 and (($uni is 0 and $act >= 2 and (($c1 is 0 and $day is 1) or $act > 3 + setup.actBonus())) or ($uni neq 2 and $act >= 2 and $act <= 3 + setup.actBonus()))) or ($act >= 1 and ($uni neq 0 or $day > 1 or ($c1 is 1 and $act <= 3 + setup.actBonus())) and ($e is 1 or $f is 0 or ($t is 0 and $livre >= 2) or $dy is 1))>> <div id="rep2" class="repere">University of Massachusetts</div> <div> <<if $day neq 4>> <<if $uni is 0 and $c1 is 0 and $day is 1 and $act >= 2>> @@#link_1;<<link "Go to class">><<goto "univ_1">><<set $posx to 1800>><<set $posy to 2000>><<script>>Dialog.close();$('#ui-dialog-titlebar').show();$('#ui-overlay').show();$('.passage').show();<</script>><</link>>@@ <<elseif $uni is 0 and $act > 3 + setup.actBonus()>> @@#link_2;<<link "Go to class">><<goto "univ_2">><<set $posx to 1800>><<set $posy to 2000>><<script>>Dialog.close();$('#ui-dialog-titlebar').show();$('#ui-overlay').show();$('.passage').show();<</script>><</link>>@@ <<elseif $uni neq 2 and $act >= 2 and $act <= 3 + setup.actBonus()>> @@#link_2;<<link "Sit through the rest of my lectures">><<goto "univ_2_1">><<set $posx to 1800>><<set $posy to 2000>><<script>>Dialog.close();$('#ui-dialog-titlebar').show();$('#ui-overlay').show();$('.passage').show();<</script>><</link>>@@ <</if>> <</if>> <<if $act >= 1 and ($uni neq 0 or $day > 1 or ($c1 is 1 and $act <= 3 + setup.actBonus())) and ($e is 1 or $f is 0 or ($t is 0 and $livre >= 2) or $dy is 1)>> @@#link_0;<<link "Make my way to the library">><<goto "univ_2_2">><<set $posx to 1800>><<set $posy to 2000>><<script>>Dialog.close();$('#ui-dialog-titlebar').show();$('#ui-overlay').show();$('.passage').show();<</script>><</link>>@@ <</if>> </div> <</if>> <<if $cim is 0 and ($bak is 1 or $pol is 1)>> <div id="rep3" class="repere">Boston City Hall</div> @@#link_1;<<link "Consult the land registry">><<goto "mai_1">><<set $posx to 2319>><<set $posy to 1659>><<script>>Dialog.close();$('#ui-dialog-titlebar').show();$('#ui-overlay').show();$('.passage').show();<</script>><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $tele is -1 and $mer is 1 and $pol neq 0>> <div id="rep4" class="repere">Telegraph Office</div> @@#link_1;<<link "Contact my mother">><<goto "tele_0">><<set $posx to 2430>><<set $posy to 1944>><<script>>Dialog.close();$('#ui-dialog-titlebar').show();$('#ui-overlay').show();$('.passage').show();<</script>><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if ($bak is 2 or $pol is 2) and ($cim is 1 or $cim is 3) and $cible02 neq 100 and $act > 1 and ($erv < 2 or $h is 0)>> <div id="rep5" class="repere">Baker Street Cemetery</div> <<if ($bak is 2 or $pol is 2) and $cim is 1>> @@#link_2;<<link "Make my way to the cemetery">><<goto "cim_1">><<set $posx to 885>><<set $posy to 3413>><<script>>Dialog.close();$('#ui-dialog-titlebar').show();$('#ui-overlay').show();$('.passage').show();<</script>><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if ($bak is 2 or $pol is 2) and $cim is 3>> @@#link_2;<<link "Return to the cemetery">><<goto "cim_1_0">><<set $posx to 885>><<set $posy to 3413>><<script>>Dialog.close();$('#ui-dialog-titlebar').show();$('#ui-overlay').show();$('.passage').show();<</script>><</link>>@@ <</if>> <</if>> <<if $rab is 1 or ($rab is 2 and $cible07 is 100) or ($rab is 2 and $cible07 neq 100 and $exor neq 2 and ($dy >= 2 or $livre is 1 or $not is 0))>> <div id="rep6" class="repere">Temple Adath Jeshurun</div> <<if $rab is 1>> @@#link_1;<<link "Meet Rabbi Yiggael">><<goto "rab_0">><<set $posx to 2200>><<set $posy to 2700>><<script>>Dialog.close();$('#ui-dialog-titlebar').show();$('#ui-overlay').show();$('.passage').show();<</script>><</link>>@@ <<elseif $rab is 2 and $cible07 neq 100 and $exor neq 2>> @@#link_1;<<link "Go back to see Rabbi Yiggael">><<goto "rab_0">><<set $posx to 2200>><<set $posy to 2700>><<script>>Dialog.close();$('#ui-dialog-titlebar').show();$('#ui-overlay').show();$('.passage').show();<</script>><</link>>@@ <<elseif $rab is 2 and $cible07 is 100>> @@#link_1;<<link "Go back to see Rabbi Yiggael">><<goto "rab_10">><<set $posx to 2200>><<set $posy to 2700>><<script>>Dialog.close();$('#ui-dialog-titlebar').show();$('#ui-overlay').show();$('.passage').show();<</script>><</link>>@@ <</if>> <</if>> <<if $not is 1>> <div id="rep7" class="repere">E. Boone Law Office</div> @@#link_1;<<link "Make my way to his office">><<goto "not_1">><<set $posx to 1433>><<set $posy to 3174>><<script>>Dialog.close();$('#ui-dialog-titlebar').show();$('#ui-overlay').show();$('.passage').show();<</script>><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $not is 2>> <div id="rep8" class="repere">Boone Residence</div> @@#link_1;<<link "Call on Edward Boone">><<goto "not_1_1">><<set $posx to 1399>><<set $posy to 2073>><<script>>Dialog.close();$('#ui-dialog-titlebar').show();$('#ui-overlay').show();$('.passage').show();<</script>><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if ($spot is 1 and $jess <= 2) or ($spot is 2 and $jess <= 2 and $cible08 neq 100 and $cible08 neq 2)>> <div id="rep9" class="repere">Spotless White Cleaners</div> <<if $spot is 1 and $jess <= 2>> @@#link_1;<<link "Visit the laundry">><<goto "spot_1">><<set $posx to 1578>><<set $posy to 3324>><<script>>Dialog.close();$('#ui-dialog-titlebar').show();$('#ui-overlay').show();$('.passage').show();<</script>><</link>>@@ <<elseif $spot is 2 and $jess <= 2 and ($cible08 neq 100 and $cible08 neq 2)>> @@#link_1;<<link "Return to the Spotless White">><<goto "spot_2">><<set $posx to 1578>><<set $posy to 3324>><<script>>Dialog.close();$('#ui-dialog-titlebar').show();$('#ui-overlay').show();$('.passage').show();<</script>><</link>>@@ <</if>> <</if>> <<if $day neq 1 and $jesspass < $day and ($cible08 neq 100 and $cible08 neq 2) and $jess neq 100 and $jess neq 0 and setup.jessTopics()>> <div id="rep10" class="repere">Mendhil Residence</div> @@#link_1;<<link "Go back to see Jessica Mendhil">><<goto "jess_0">><<set $posx to 1589>><<set $posy to 3300>><<script>>Dialog.close();$('#ui-dialog-titlebar').show();$('#ui-overlay').show();$('.passage').show();<</script>><</link>>@@ <</if>> <</if>> <<if $vj is 0>> <<if not passage().startsWith("appart_")>> <div id="rep1" class="repere">Krieger Residence</div> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Make the most of my rooms">><<goto "appart_n_1">><<set $posx to 2863>><<set $posy to 1968>><<script>>Dialog.close();$('#ui-dialog-titlebar').show();$('#ui-overlay').show();$('.passage').show();<</script>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Make the most of my rooms">><<goto "appart_n_2">><<set $posx to 2863>><<set $posy to 1968>><<script>>Dialog.close();$('#ui-dialog-titlebar').show();$('#ui-overlay').show();$('.passage').show();<</script>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Make the most of my rooms">><<goto "appart_n_3">><<set $posx to 2863>><<set $posy to 1968>><<script>>Dialog.close();$('#ui-dialog-titlebar').show();$('#ui-overlay').show();$('.passage').show();<</script>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Make the most of my rooms">><<goto "appart_n_4">><<set $posx to 2863>><<set $posy to 1968>><<script>>Dialog.close();$('#ui-dialog-titlebar').show();$('#ui-overlay').show();$('.passage').show();<</script>><</link>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $not is 2 and $act >= 0>> <div id="rep20" class="repere">Boone Residence</div> <<link "Pay a nighttime visit">><<goto "not_1_2">><<set $posx to 1399>><<set $posy to 2073>><<script>>Dialog.close();$('#ui-dialog-titlebar').show();$('#ui-overlay').show();$('.passage').show();<</script>><</link>> <</if>> <<if ($bag is 1 or $bag is 2) and $v is 0 and $act >= 0>> <div id="rep21" class="repere">Downtown Boston</div> <<link "Gather information on the Bagrovyy">><<goto "bag_1">><<set $posx to 2261>><<set $posy to 1834>><<script>>Dialog.close();$('#ui-dialog-titlebar').show();$('#ui-overlay').show();$('.passage').show();<</script>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $oval is 1 and $v is 0 and $act >= 0>> <div id="rep22" class="repere">Baker Street Cemetery</div> <<link "Retrieve the locket from Igal's grave">><<goto "cim_10">><<set $posx to 885>><<set $posy to 3413>><<script>>Dialog.close();$('#ui-dialog-titlebar').show();$('#ui-overlay').show();$('.passage').show();<</script>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $exorcisme <= $day and ($rit3 is 0 or $rit3 is 2) and $v is 0 and $act >= 0>> <div id="rep23" class="repere">Temple Adath Jeshurun</div> <<link "Meet Yiggael for the exorcism">><<goto "exorcisme_1">><<set $posx to 2200>><<set $posy to 2700>><<script>>Dialog.close();$('#ui-dialog-titlebar').show();$('#ui-overlay').show();$('.passage').show();<</script>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $exorcisme <= $day and $rit3 is 1 and $v is 0 and $act >= 0>> <div id="rep24" class="repere"><<print $ritlieu>></div> <<link "Meet Yiggael for the exorcism">><<goto "exorcisme_2">><<set $posx to 2064>><<set $posy to 2200>><<script>>Dialog.close();$('#ui-dialog-titlebar').show();$('#ui-overlay').show();$('.passage').show();<</script>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $obsq is 1 and $day is 3 and $v is 0 and $act >= 0>> <div id="rep25" class="repere">Boston Station</div> <<link "Travel to Alinovitch Kovaleski’s funeral in Pittsburgh">><<goto "pits_0">><<set $posx to 2416>><<set $posy to 1798>><<script>>Dialog.close();$('#ui-dialog-titlebar').show();$('#ui-overlay').show();$('.passage').show();<</script>><</link>> <</if>> <</if>> @@#invest_close;<<link [img[data/media/graph/invest_close.png]]>><<script>>Dialog.close();$('#ui-dialog-titlebar').show();$('#ui-overlay').show();$('.passage').show();<</script>><</link>>@@ </div> </div> <div id='hide_narr'></div> </div> <div id="map"></div> <<script>> $(document).ready(function(){ $('#ui-dialog-titlebar').hide(); $('#ui-overlay').hide(); $('.passage').hide(); $('#hide_narr').click(function(){ $('#col_narr').toggleClass('active'); $('#narration').toggleClass('mask'); }); $('#narration').accordion({ collapsible: true, active: true, heightStyle: "content" }); var news1 = State.active.variables['news1'], news2 = State.active.variables['news2'], news3 = State.active.variables['news3'], news5 = State.active.variables['news5'], news6 = State.active.variables['news6'], news7 = State.active.variables['news7'], news8 = State.active.variables['news8']; var cible06 = State.active.variables['cible06'], cible07 = State.active.variables['cible07'], cible08 = State.active.variables['cible08'], cible02 = State.active.variables['cible02'], cible03 = State.active.variables['cible03']; var exorcisme = State.active.variables['exorcisme'], jesspass = State.active.variables['jesspass'], livre = State.active.variables['livre'], exor = State.active.variables['exor'], oval = State.active.variables['oval'], obsq = State.active.variables['obsq'], tele = State.active.variables['tele'], cim = State.active.variables['cim'], day = State.active.variables['day'], bag = State.active.variables['bag'], bak = State.active.variables['bak'], erv = State.active.variables['erv'], jess = State.active.variables['jess'], jou = State.active.variables['jou'], mer = State.active.variables['mer'], not = State.active.variables['not'], pol = State.active.variables['pol'], rab = State.active.variables['rab'], ritlieu = State.active.variables['ritlieu'], rit3 = State.active.variables['rit3'], spot = State.active.variables['spot'], uni = State.active.variables['uni'], dy = State.active.variables['dy'], vj = State.active.variables['vj'], act = State.active.variables['act']; var c1 = State.active.variables['c1'], e = State.active.variables['e'], f = State.active.variables['f'], h = State.active.variables['h'], m = State.active.variables['m'], t = State.active.variables['t'], v = State.active.variables['v'], w = State.active.variables['w'], z = State.active.variables['z']; var posx = State.active.variables['posx'], posy = State.active.variables['posy']; var mapSW = [0, 4096], mapNE = [4096, 0]; var map = L.map('map', {zoomControl: false}).setView([0,0],2); map._controlCorners.rightmiddle = L.DomUtil.create('div', 'leaflet-right leaflet-middle', map._controlContainer); var angles = [[-4096, 4096], [4096, -4096], map.getMaxZoom()]; L.tileLayer('data/media/img/boston/{z}/{x}/{y}.jpg', { minZoom :2, maxZoom :4, continuousWorld: false, noWrap: true, crs: L.CRS.Simple, }).addTo(map); map.setMaxBounds(new L.LatLngBounds( map.unproject(mapSW, map.getMaxZoom()), map.unproject(mapNE, map.getMaxZoom()) )); var icon_crim = L.icon({ iconUrl: 'data/media/graph/map/icon_crim.png', iconSize: [70, 70], iconAnchor: [35, 70], popupAnchor: [0, -70], }); var icon_day = L.icon({ iconUrl: 'data/media/graph/map/icon_day.png', iconSize: [70, 70], iconAnchor: [35, 70], popupAnchor: [0, -70], }); var icon_noct = L.icon({ iconUrl: 'data/media/graph/map/icon_noct.png', iconSize: [70, 70], iconAnchor: [35, 70], popupAnchor: [0, -70], }); var icon_home = L.icon({ iconUrl: 'data/media/graph/map/icon_home.png', iconSize: [94, 94], iconAnchor: [47, 94], popupAnchor: [0, -80], }); var icon_home_night = L.icon({ iconUrl: 'data/media/graph/map/icon_home_night.png', iconSize: [94, 94], iconAnchor: [47, 94], popupAnchor: [0, -80], }); var icon_max = L.icon({ iconUrl: 'data/media/graph/map/icon_max.png', iconSize: [75, 110], iconAnchor: [37, 50], popupAnchor: [0, -48], shadowUrl: 'data/media/graph/map/max_shadow.png', shadowSize: [82, 67], shadowAnchor: [0, 10], }); var icon_mairie = L.icon({ iconUrl: 'data/media/graph/map/icon_mairie.png', iconSize: [94, 94], iconAnchor: [47, 94], popupAnchor: [0, -80], }); var icon_univ = L.icon({ iconUrl: 'data/media/graph/map/icon_univ.png', iconSize: [94, 94], iconAnchor: [47, 94], popupAnchor: [0, -80], }); var icon_tele = L.icon({ iconUrl: 'data/media/graph/map/icon_tele.png', iconSize: [94, 94], iconAnchor: [47, 94], popupAnchor: [0, -80], }); var icon_cim = L.icon({ iconUrl: 'data/media/graph/map/icon_cim.png', iconSize: [94, 94], iconAnchor: [47, 94], popupAnchor: [0, -80], }); var icon_temple = L.icon({ iconUrl: 'data/media/graph/map/icon_temple.png', iconSize: [94, 94], iconAnchor: [47, 94], popupAnchor: [0, -80], }); var icon_office = L.icon({ iconUrl: 'data/media/graph/map/icon_office.png', iconSize: [94, 94], iconAnchor: [47, 94], popupAnchor: [0, -80], }); var icon_boone = L.icon({ iconUrl: 'data/media/graph/map/icon_boone.png', iconSize: [94, 94], iconAnchor: [47, 94], popupAnchor: [0, -80], }); var icon_jess = L.icon({ iconUrl: 'data/media/graph/map/icon_jess.png', iconSize: [94, 94], iconAnchor: [47, 94], popupAnchor: [0, -80], }); var icon_spot = L.icon({ iconUrl: 'data/media/graph/map/icon_spot.png', iconSize: [94, 94], iconAnchor: [47, 94], popupAnchor: [0, -80], }); var icon_gare = L.icon({ iconUrl: 'data/media/graph/map/icon_gare.png', iconSize: [94, 94], iconAnchor: [47, 94], popupAnchor: [0, -80], }); var icon_port = L.icon({ iconUrl: 'data/media/graph/map/icon_port.png', iconSize: [94, 94], iconAnchor: [47, 94], popupAnchor: [0, -80], }); var noct_boone = L.icon({ iconUrl: 'data/media/graph/map/noct_boone.png', iconSize: [94, 94], iconAnchor: [47, 94], popupAnchor: [0, -80], }); var icon_noct_cocoa = L.icon({ iconUrl: 'data/media/graph/map/noct_cocoa.png', iconSize: [94, 94], iconAnchor: [47, 94], popupAnchor: [0, -80], }); var icon_noct_cim = L.icon({ iconUrl: 'data/media/graph/map/noct_cim.png', iconSize: [94, 94], iconAnchor: [47, 94], popupAnchor: [0, -80], }); var noct_temple = L.icon({ iconUrl: 'data/media/graph/map/noct_temple.png', iconSize: [94, 94], iconAnchor: [47, 94], popupAnchor: [0, -80], }); var noct_exor = L.icon({ iconUrl: 'data/media/graph/map/noct_exor.png', iconSize: [94, 94], iconAnchor: [47, 94], popupAnchor: [0, -80], }); var icon_noct_gare = L.icon({ iconUrl: 'data/media/graph/map/noct_gare.png', iconSize: [94, 94], iconAnchor: [47, 94], popupAnchor: [0, -80], }); var max = L.marker(map.unproject([posx,posy], map.getMaxZoom()), {icon: icon_max, zIndexOffset: 10000}).addTo(map).bindPopup('Maximilien'); var local_boston = L.marker(map.unproject([2332, 1728], map.getMaxZoom()), {opacity: 0}) .bindTooltip("BOSTON", {permanent: true, className: 'local', direction: 'center'}).addTo(map); var local_brookline = L.marker(map.unproject([1492, 2180], map.getMaxZoom()), {opacity: 0}) .bindTooltip("Brookline", {permanent: true, className: 'local', direction: 'center'}).addTo(map); var local_cambridge = L.marker(map.unproject([1572, 1624], map.getMaxZoom()), {opacity: 0}) .bindTooltip("Cambridge", {permanent: true, className: 'local', direction: 'center'}).addTo(map); var local_dorchester = L.marker(map.unproject([2404, 2692], map.getMaxZoom()), {opacity: 0}) .bindTooltip("Dorchester", {permanent: true, className: 'local', direction: 'center'}).addTo(map); var local_eastbost = L.marker(map.unproject([2616, 1424], map.getMaxZoom()), {opacity: 0}) .bindTooltip("East Boston", {permanent: true, className: 'local', direction: 'center'}).addTo(map); var local_southbost = L.marker(map.unproject([2656, 2144], map.getMaxZoom()), {opacity: 0}) .bindTooltip("South Boston", {permanent: true, className: 'local', direction: 'center'}).addTo(map); var local_southend = L.marker(map.unproject([2098, 2110], map.getMaxZoom()), {opacity: 0}) .bindTooltip("South End", {permanent: true, className: 'local', direction: 'center'}).addTo(map); var local_roslindale = L.marker(map.unproject([1784, 3236], map.getMaxZoom()), {opacity: 0}) .bindTooltip("Roslindale", {permanent: true, className: 'local', direction: 'center'}).addTo(map); var local_roxbury = L.marker(map.unproject([1956, 2528], map.getMaxZoom()), {opacity: 0}) .bindTooltip("Roxbury", {permanent: true, className: 'local', direction: 'center'}).addTo(map); var local_westrox = L.marker(map.unproject([1176, 3516], map.getMaxZoom()), {opacity: 0}) .bindTooltip("West Roxbury", {permanent: true, className: 'local', direction: 'center'}).addTo(map); var lieu_appart = L.marker(map.unproject([2863, 1968], map.getMaxZoom()), {icon: ( vj === 0 ? icon_home_night : icon_home )}).addTo(map) .bindPopup('Krieger Residence').openPopup(); var lieu_univ = L.marker(map.unproject([1800, 2000], map.getMaxZoom()), {icon: icon_univ}) .bindPopup('Boston University'); var lieu_cim = L.marker(map.unproject([885, 3413], map.getMaxZoom()), {icon: icon_cim}) .bindPopup('Baker Street Cemetery'); var lieu_mairie = L.marker(map.unproject([2319, 1659], map.getMaxZoom()), {icon: icon_mairie}) .bindPopup('Boston City Hall'); var lieu_telegraph = L.marker(map.unproject([2430, 1944], map.getMaxZoom()), {icon: icon_tele}) .bindPopup('Telegraph Office'); var lieu_offnotaire = L.marker(map.unproject([1433, 3174], map.getMaxZoom()), {icon: icon_office}) .bindPopup('E. Boone Law Office'); var lieu_notaire = L.marker(map.unproject([1399, 2073], map.getMaxZoom()), {icon: icon_boone}) .bindPopup('Boone Residence'); var lieu_yiggael = L.marker(map.unproject([2200, 2700], map.getMaxZoom()), {icon: icon_temple}) .bindPopup('Temple Adath Jeshurun'); var lieu_spotless = L.marker(map.unproject([1578, 3324], map.getMaxZoom()), {icon: icon_spot}) .bindPopup('Spotless White Cleaners'); var lieu_mendhil = L.marker(map.unproject([1589, 3300], map.getMaxZoom()), {icon: icon_jess}) .bindPopup('Jessica Mendhil’s Home'); var noct_notaire = L.marker(map.unproject([1399, 2073], map.getMaxZoom()), {icon: noct_boone}) .bindPopup('Boone Residence'); var noct_cocoa = L.marker(map.unproject([2261, 1834], map.getMaxZoom()), {icon: icon_noct_cocoa}) .bindPopup('Downtown Boston'); var noct_cim = L.marker(map.unproject([885, 3413], map.getMaxZoom()), {icon: icon_noct_cim}) .bindPopup('Baker Street Cemetery'); var noct_yiggael = L.marker(map.unproject([2200, 2700], map.getMaxZoom()), {icon: noct_temple}) .bindPopup('Temple Adath Jeshurun'); var noct_yiggael2 = L.marker(map.unproject([2064, 2200], map.getMaxZoom()), {icon: noct_exor}) .bindPopup(ritlieu); var noct_gare = L.marker(map.unproject([2416, 1798], map.getMaxZoom()), {icon: icon_noct_gare}) .bindPopup('South Station'); var crim_guido = L.marker(map.unproject([2702, 2115], map.getMaxZoom()), {icon: icon_crim}) .bindPopup('Murder of the three children'); var crim_wright = L.marker(map.unproject([2177, 2169], map.getMaxZoom()), {icon: icon_crim}) .bindPopup('Murder of Professor J. Wright'); var crim_ervin = L.marker(map.unproject([1229, 3057], map.getMaxZoom()), {icon: icon_crim}) .bindPopup("Massacre of Ervin Templeton"); var crim_boone = L.marker(map.unproject([1399, 2073], map.getMaxZoom()), {icon: icon_crim}) .bindPopup("Murder of Edward Boone"); var crim_telma = L.marker(map.unproject([2863, 1968], map.getMaxZoom()), {icon: icon_crim}) .bindPopup('Telma Krieger'); var crim_redfield = L.marker(map.unproject([2111, 1797], map.getMaxZoom()), {icon: icon_crim}) .bindPopup("Murder of Anton Redfield"); var crim_yiggael = L.marker(map.unproject([1682, 2605], map.getMaxZoom()), {icon: icon_crim}) .bindPopup('Murder of Rabbi Yiggael'); var crim_mendhil = L.marker(map.unproject([1589, 3300], map.getMaxZoom()), {icon: icon_crim}) .bindPopup('Massacre of Jessica Mendhil'); var crim_yan1 = L.marker(map.unproject([1589, 3300], map.getMaxZoom()), {icon: icon_crim}) .bindPopup("Death of the Ogre"); var crim_yan2 = L.marker(map.unproject([2416, 1798], map.getMaxZoom()), {icon: icon_crim}) .bindPopup("Death of the Ogre"); var crim_reynald = L.marker(map.unproject([885, 3413], map.getMaxZoom()), {icon: icon_crim}) .bindPopup('Murder of the cemetery keeper'); var lieux = L.featureGroup([]); if ( ( day !== 4 && ( ( uni === 0 && act >= 2 && (( c1 === 0 && day === 1 ) || act > 3 + setup.actBonus() )) || ( uni !== 2 && act >= 2 && act <= 3 + setup.actBonus() ) )) || ( act >= 1 && ( uni !== 0 || day > 1 || ( c1 === 1 && act <= 3 + setup.actBonus() )) && ( e === 1 || f === 0 || ( t === 0 && livre >= 2 ) || dy === 1 )) ) { lieu_univ.addTo(lieux); } else { lieu_univ.remove(lieux); } if ( cim === 0 && ( bak === 1 || pol === 1 )) { lieu_mairie.addTo(lieux); } else { lieu_mairie.remove(lieux); } if ( tele === -1 && mer === 1 && pol != 0 ) { lieu_telegraph.addTo(lieux); } else { lieu_telegraph.remove(lieux); } if ( (bak === 2 || pol === 2) && (cim === 1 || cim === 3) && cible02 != 100 && act > 1 && (erv < 2 || h === 0) ) { lieu_cim.addTo(lieux); } else { lieu_cim.remove(lieux); } if ( rab === 1 || ( rab === 2 && cible07 === 100 ) || ( rab === 2 && cible07 != 100 && exor != 2 && ( dy >= 2 || livre === 1 || not === 0 ))) { lieu_yiggael.addTo(lieux); } else { lieu_yiggael.remove(lieux); } if ( not === 1 ) { lieu_offnotaire.addTo(lieux); } else { lieu_offnotaire.remove(lieux); } if ( not === 2 ) { lieu_notaire.addTo(lieux); } else { lieu_notaire.remove(lieux); } if (( spot === 1 && jess <= 2 ) || ( spot === 2 && jess <= 2 && cible08 != 100 && cible08 != 2 )) { lieu_spotless.addTo(lieux); } else { lieu_spotless.remove(lieux); } if ( day != 1 && jesspass < day && cible08 != 100 && cible08 != 2 && jess != 100 && jess != 0 ) { lieu_mendhil.addTo(lieux); } else { lieu_mendhil.remove(lieux); } var nocturne = L.featureGroup([]); if ( not === 2 && act >= 0 ) { noct_notaire.addTo(nocturne); } else { noct_notaire.remove(nocturne); } if ( (bag === 1 || bag === 2) && v === 0 && act >= 0 ) { noct_cocoa.addTo(nocturne); } else { noct_cocoa.remove(nocturne); } if ( oval === 1 && v === 0 && act >= 0 ) { noct_cim.addTo(nocturne); } else { noct_cim.remove(nocturne); } if ( exorcisme <= day && (rit3 === 0 || rit3 === 2) && v === 0 && act >= 0 ) { noct_yiggael.addTo(nocturne); } else { noct_yiggael.remove(nocturne); } if ( exorcisme <= day && rit3 === 1 && v === 0 && act >= 0 ) { noct_yiggael2.addTo(nocturne); } else { noct_yiggael2.remove(nocturne); } if ( obsq === 1 && day === 3 && v === 0 && act >= 0 ) { noct_gare.addTo(nocturne); } else { noct_gare.remove(nocturne); } var crimes = L.featureGroup([]); var jouNews = ( jou >= 2 ); if ( rab === 3 || ( jouNews && news7 === 1 )) { crim_yiggael.addTo(crimes); } if ( z === 1 ) { crim_yan1.addTo(crimes); } if ( z === 2 ) { crim_yan2.addTo(crimes); } if ( m === 1 || m === 2 ) { crim_reynald.addTo(crimes); } if ( c1 === 1 || jou >= 1 ) { crim_guido.addTo(crimes); } if ( news3 === 1 || cible03 === 2 ) { crim_boone.addTo(crimes); } if ( jouNews && news1 === 1 ) { crim_wright.addTo(crimes); } if ( jouNews && news2 === 1 ) { crim_ervin.addTo(crimes); } if ( jouNews && news5 === 1 ) { crim_telma.addTo(crimes); } if ( jouNews && news6 === 1 ) { crim_redfield.addTo(crimes); } if (( jouNews && news8 === 1 ) || cible08 === 2 ) { crim_mendhil.addTo(crimes); } var bt_crimes = L.Control.extend({ options: { position: 'bottomright' }, onAdd: function (map) { var container = L.DomUtil.create('div', 'leaflet-bar leaflet-control leaflet-control-custom'); container.style.background = 'transparent'; container.style.backgroundImage = "url('data/media/graph/map/icon_crim.png')"; container.style.cursor = 'pointer'; container.style.width = '70px'; container.style.height = '70px'; var layerShown = false; container.onclick = function(){ layerShown = !layerShown; if (layerShown) { crimes.addTo(map); } else { crimes.remove(map); } }; return container; } }); var bt_lieux = L.Control.extend({ options: { position: 'bottomright' }, onAdd: function (map) { var container = L.DomUtil.create('div', 'leaflet-bar leaflet-control leaflet-control-custom'); container.style.background = 'transparent'; container.style.backgroundImage = "url('data/media/graph/map/icon_day.png')"; container.style.cursor = 'pointer'; container.style.width = '70px'; container.style.height = '70px'; var layerShown = (vj !== 0); container.onclick = function(){ layerShown = !layerShown; if (layerShown) { lieux.addTo(map); } else { lieux.remove(map); } }; return container; } }); var bt_noct = L.Control.extend({ options: { position: 'bottomright' }, onAdd: function (map) { var container = L.DomUtil.create('div', 'leaflet-bar leaflet-control leaflet-control-custom'); container.style.background = 'transparent'; container.style.backgroundImage = "url('data/media/graph/map/icon_noct.png')"; container.style.cursor = 'pointer'; container.style.width = '70px'; container.style.height = '70px'; var layerShown = (vj === 0); container.onclick = function(){ layerShown = !layerShown; if (layerShown) { nocturne.addTo(map); } else { nocturne.remove(map); } }; return container; } }); var bt_close = L.Control.extend({ options: { position: 'topright' }, onAdd: function (map) { var container = L.DomUtil.create('div', 'leaflet-control pop-close'); container.innerHTML = ''; container.onclick = function(){ Dialog.close(); $('#ui-dialog-titlebar').show(); $('#ui-overlay').show(); $('.passage').show(); }; return container; } }); map.addControl(new bt_close()); if (vj !== 0) { lieux.addTo(map); } else { nocturne.addTo(map); } L.control.zoom({ position:'rightmiddle', zoomInTitle:"ZOOM +", zoomOutTitle:"ZOOM -" }).addTo(map); if ( ( day !== 4 && (( uni === 0 && act >= 2 && (( c1 === 0 && day === 1 ) || act > 3 + setup.actBonus() )) || ( uni !== 2 && act >= 2 && act <= 3 + setup.actBonus() ))) || ( act >= 1 && ( uni !== 0 || day > 1 || ( c1 === 1 && act <= 3 + setup.actBonus() )) && ( e === 1 || f === 0 || ( t === 0 && livre >= 2 ) || dy === 1 )) || ( cim === 0 && ( bak === 1 || pol === 1 )) || ( tele === -1 && mer === 1 && pol != 0 ) || (( bak === 2 || pol === 2 ) && ( cim === 1 || cim === 3 ) && cible02 != 100 && act > 1 && ( erv < 2 || h === 0 )) || ( rab === 1 || ( rab === 2 && cible07 === 100 ) || ( rab === 2 && cible07 != 100 && exor != 2 && ( dy >= 2 || livre === 1 || not === 0 ))) || ( not === 1 ) || ( not === 2 ) || (( spot === 1 && jess <= 2 ) || ( spot === 2 && jess <= 2 && cible08 != 100 && cible08 != 2 )) || ( day != 1 && jesspass < day && cible08 != 100 && cible08 != 2 && jess != 100 && jess != 0 ) || ( w != 0 ) ) { map.addControl(new bt_lieux()); } if ( ( not === 2 && act >= 0 ) || (( bag === 1 || bag === 2 ) && v === 0 && act >= 0 ) || ( oval === 1 && v === 0 && act >= 0 ) || ( exorcisme <= day && (rit3 === 0 || rit3 === 2) && v === 0 && act >= 0 ) || ( exorcisme <= day && rit3 === 1 && v === 0 && act >= 0 ) || ( obsq === 1 && day === 3 && v === 0 && act >= 0 ) ) { map.addControl(new bt_noct()); } if ( rab === 3 || z === 1 || z === 2 || (m === 1 || m === 2) || (c1 === 1 || jou === 1 || jou === 2 || jou === 3 || jou === 4) || (news3 === 1 || cible03 === 2) || (jou === 2 && news1 === 1) || (jou === 2 && news2 === 1) || (jou === 2 && news5 === 1) || (jou === 2 && news6 === 1) || (jou === 2 && news7 === 1) || (jou === 2 && news8 === 1) || (jou === 3 && news1 === 1) || (jou === 3 && news2 === 1) || (jou === 3 && news5 === 1) || (jou === 3 && news6 === 1) || (jou === 3 && news7 === 1) || (jou === 3 && news8 === 1) || (jou === 4 && news1 === 1) || (jou === 4 && news2 === 1) || (jou === 4 && news5 === 1) || (jou === 4 && news6 === 1) || (jou === 4 && news7 === 1) || (jou === 4 && news8 === 1) ) { map.addControl(new bt_crimes()); } $('#rep1').click(function() { map.setView(map.unproject([2863, 1968], map.getMaxZoom()), 4,); lieu_appart.openPopup(); }); $('#rep2').click(function() { map.flyTo(map.unproject([1800, 2000], map.getMaxZoom()), 4); map.addLayer(lieu_univ); lieu_univ.openPopup(); }); $('#rep3').click(function() { map.flyTo(map.unproject([2319, 1659], map.getMaxZoom()), 4); map.addLayer(lieu_mairie); lieu_mairie.openPopup(); }); $('#rep4').click(function() { map.flyTo(map.unproject([2430, 1944], map.getMaxZoom()), 4); map.addLayer(lieu_telegraph); lieu_telegraph.openPopup(); }); $('#rep5').click(function() { map.flyTo(map.unproject([885, 3413], map.getMaxZoom()), 4); map.addLayer(lieu_cim); lieu_cim.openPopup(); }); $('#rep6').click(function() { map.flyTo(map.unproject([2200, 2700], map.getMaxZoom()), 4); map.addLayer(lieu_yiggael); lieu_yiggael.openPopup(); }); $('#rep7').click(function() { map.flyTo(map.unproject([1433, 3174], map.getMaxZoom()), 4); map.addLayer(lieu_offnotaire); lieu_offnotaire.openPopup(); }); $('#rep8').click(function() { map.flyTo(map.unproject([1399, 2073], map.getMaxZoom()), 4); map.addLayer(lieu_notaire); lieu_notaire.openPopup(); }); $('#rep9').click(function() { map.flyTo(map.unproject([1578, 3324], map.getMaxZoom()), 4); map.addLayer(lieu_spotless); lieu_spotless.openPopup(); }); $('#rep10').click(function() { map.flyTo(map.unproject([1589, 3300], map.getMaxZoom()), 4); map.addLayer(lieu_mendhil); lieu_mendhil.openPopup(); }); $('#rep20').click(function() { map.flyTo(map.unproject([1399, 2073], map.getMaxZoom()), 4); map.addLayer(noct_notaire); noct_notaire.openPopup(); }); $('#rep21').click(function() { map.flyTo(map.unproject([2261, 1834], map.getMaxZoom()), 4); map.addLayer(noct_cocoa); noct_cocoa.openPopup(); }); $('#rep22').click(function() { map.flyTo(map.unproject([885, 3413], map.getMaxZoom()), 4); map.addLayer(noct_cim); noct_cim.openPopup(); }); $('#rep23').click(function() { map.flyTo(map.unproject([2200, 2700], map.getMaxZoom()), 4); map.addLayer(noct_yiggael); noct_yiggael.openPopup(); }); $('#rep24').click(function() { map.flyTo(map.unproject([2064, 2200], map.getMaxZoom()), 4); map.addLayer(noct_yiggael2); noct_yiggael2.openPopup(); }); $('#rep25').click(function() { map.flyTo(map.unproject([2416, 1798], map.getMaxZoom()), 4); map.addLayer(noct_gare); noct_gare.openPopup(); }); lieu_appart.on('click', function() { $('#rep1').click(); }); lieu_univ.on('click', function() { $('#rep2').click(); }); lieu_mairie.on('click', function() { $('#rep3').click(); }); lieu_telegraph.on('click', function() { $('#rep4').click(); }); lieu_cim.on('click', function() { $('#rep5').click(); }); lieu_yiggael.on('click', function() { $('#rep6').click(); }); lieu_offnotaire.on('click', function() { $('#rep7').click(); }); lieu_notaire.on('click', function() { $('#rep8').click(); }); lieu_spotless.on('click', function() { $('#rep9').click(); }); lieu_mendhil.on('click', function() { $('#rep10').click(); }); noct_notaire.on('click', function() { $('#rep20').click(); }); noct_cocoa.on('click', function() { $('#rep21').click(); }); noct_cim.on('click', function() { $('#rep22').click(); }); noct_yiggael.on('click', function() { $('#rep23').click(); }); noct_yiggael2.on('click', function() { $('#rep24').click(); }); noct_gare.on('click', function() { $('#rep25').click(); }); if (vj === 0) { var tp = document.querySelector('#map .leaflet-tile-pane'); if (tp) { tp.style.filter = 'brightness(0.3)'; } var mapEl = document.getElementById('map'); if (mapEl) { mapEl.classList.add('veil-night'); } } map.flyTo(map.unproject([posx,posy], map.getMaxZoom()), 4); }); <</script>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">Upon arriving at Miss Mendhil’s home, I meet an old woman on the front steps, whom Jessica is seeing out while holding her by the arm. They greet me politely, then Jessica <<if $oval is 3>>turns back and studies me with a pallid gaze, her attention still fixed on the medallion I wear around my neck, as though it bore witness to some unspeakable presence.<<else>>cordially invites me to sit at the table in her parlor, where she serves me a rosemary infusion, which I accept with pleasure.<</if>> Miss Mendhil, once again, can grant me only a limited amount of time between two consultations. She nevertheless shows a genuine interest in my situation, and a touching attentiveness.</div><<set $act -= 1>> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I mean to learn more about:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $gadd is 0>> <<link "The Zemaria sisters">> <<goto "jess_1_1">><<set $wait += 1>> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $jess_a is 0>> <<link "My future in the tarot">> <<goto "jess_2">><<set $wait += 2>> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $jess_b is 0>> <<link "The presence of the entity, through a séance">> <<goto "jess_3">><<set $wait += 2>> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $oval is 2 or $oval is 3>> <<link "My locket">> <<goto "jess_4">><<set $wait to 1>> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $livre is 1>> <<link "The book">> <<goto "jess_5">><<set $wait to 1>> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $livre is 2>> <<link "The 'Cult of the Threshold Fish'">> <<goto "jess_5">><<set $wait to 1>> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $livre is 5 and $jesspass is ($day - 1)>> <<link "Her reading of the occult book">> <<goto "jess_6">><<set $wait to 1>> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $livre is 3>> [[Entrust the book to Jessica->jess_5_1]] <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>><<set $jess to 4>><<set $jesspass to $day>>
<div id="texte">I have no difficulty finding the mysterious neighbor. Her name appears on the mailbox of the first house to the left of the //Spotless White//: Miss Jessica Mendhil, No. 4353. I knock at the door once, then a second time, until at last an elderly, corpulent lady opens the door. Laden with numerous pieces of jewelry, her face coated in thick makeup and a tulle hat set upon her head,<<if $oval is 3>> she studies me with apprehension, her attention fixed on the medallion I wear around my neck.<<else>> she studies me with curiosity and takes a slight step back in apprehension.<</if>> Once the proper introductions have been exchanged, she receives me into her home with a certain reserve. <div style="width:200px;float:left;padding-right:15px;">[img[data/media/img/portraits/jessica.jpg]]</div> In her parlor, decorated in an extravagantly exotic style, we briefly discuss the Zemaria sisters. During our conversation, Jessica seems deeply intimidated by my presence. With a measure of psychology and a fair amount of patience, I manage to put her relatively at ease. She finally admits that she perceives something like a malignant shadow accompanying and enveloping me. She is unable to define its nature, but she has already felt the same thing while visiting the Zemaria sisters. Though she has little time before the arrival of her next client, she offers me her services as a medium, along with any other practices I might wish to avail myself of, in the hope of helping me.</div><<set $jesspass to $day>><<set $jess to 3>><<set $act -= 1>> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I venture to ask:</span> <div id="selection"> <<link "More about the Zemaria">> <<goto "jess_1_1">><<set $wait += 1>> <</link>> <<link "To give me a tarot reading">> <<goto "jess_2">><<set $wait += 2>> <</link>> <<link "To hold a séance">> <<goto "jess_3">><<set $wait += 2>> <</link>> <<if $oval is 2 or $oval is 3>> <<link "To examine my locket">> <<goto "jess_4">><<set $wait to 1>> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $livre is 1>> <<link "To consult my book">> <<goto "jess_5">><<set $wait to 1>> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $livre is 2>> <<link "To consult the 'Cult of the Threshold Fish'">> <<goto "jess_5">><<set $wait to 1>> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $livre is 3>> [[Entrust the book to Jessica->jess_5_1]] <</if>> </div> </div> <</nobr>>
<div id ="texte" class="coup">The thick silhouette of a woman brandishes a metal symbol triumphantly before me. I feel a sharp pain and retreat a few steps, lashing the air with my claws. An inner rage overwhelms me, a sick desire to butcher this fragile being. I let out a liberating cry while the woman chants words that pain me to hear. – …cut and revoke every covenant of blood, every bond of his soul, and every yoke attached to it. I purge and purify him! All demonic spirits attached to all these covenants and curses, be consumed by the fire of this Light... I retreat again, all my will fixed on a single aim: to scatter the remains of that frail body across this room and silence it forever. – …invoked by solemn command, whether by offering you worship and incense, or by casting some spell through words or magic upon herbs, stones, or in the air, whether these things be temporal or spiritual, or finally whether secret characters have been employed... In a visceral surge, I leap onto a table in the corner of the room, brace myself against the wall, and gather my failing strength for one final spring.</div> <div id="continuer"><<if $sm > 35>>[[Continue->jess_10_1]]<</if>> <<if $sm <= 35>>[[Continue->jess_10_2]]<</if>></div> <<nobr>> <<set $cible08 to 0>> <<saltWake>> <<audio "sursaut-dark2" play>> <<if $day is 2>> <<script>>Save.slots.save(1, "Day2")<</script>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<script>>Save.slots.save(2, "Day3")<</script>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<script>>Save.slots.save(3, "Day4")<</script>> <</if>> <</nobr>>
<div class="zoomout">The woman throws a burning spray of salt. I clench my jaw until it cracks. She continues her imprecations: – ...made with you some pact, tacit or manifest, even with solemn oath: I break, destroy, and annul all these things! By Omnipotens, Ischyros, and Athanatos, let all infernal power be driven out of this creature and destroyed!</div><div class="zoomin">As though drawn inward by suction, all my destructive will vanishes in a single breath, along with the unpleasant sensation of being torn away from myself as I recoil. It is then that I make him out, there before me, his back turned to me, all knotted musculature, his arms extended into sharp claws and stretched toward the object of his craving: Jessica Mendhil... In that suspended instant, I mentally take stock of everything I have at my disposal to help her repel him.<span id="on"></span></div> <<nobr>> <<timed 40s>><div id="continuer">[[Continue->jess_10_1_1]]</div> <<set $reve to 0>><<set $bloc to 1>><<smLoss D3>><</timed>> <</nobr>><<audio "strange" play>> <<script>>$(function(){$(".zoomin").hide();});<</script>>
<div id="texte">Dream and reality intertwined... Stunned by this monstrous fiction, I watch for a moment as a powerless spectator before this bloody ballet. This strangely deformed caricature of a man leaps at Jessica to reduce her to shreds, to scatter her through a vast field of screams... In the end, it is the acrid vermilion spray from the mutilated body that forces my asphyxiated mind to grasp the tangible horror of what is happening. My body trembling, driven by terror, I rush toward the exit and cross the threshold. In one last turn, dwarfed by Jessica’s massive house, now a house of death, I meet his threatening gaze, carved with hatred. [img[data/media/img/ogre_jess.jpg]] I seem to recognize the expression on that face, distorted by tensions from beyond the grave, <<if $yan is 0>>that of the figure from my dream, that desiccated-looking gravedigger’s acolyte!<</if>><<if $yan is 1 or $yan is 3>>that of Yanes, that gravedigger from my dream, the desiccated-looking acolyte!<</if>><<if $yan is 4>>that of Yanes, my brother, in the guise of the gravedigger from my dreams!<</if>> I resume my frantic pace beneath the stunned gaze of the onlookers and make for the refuge of my home.</div> <<nobr>> <<set $vj to 1>> <<set $jess to 100>> <<set $cible08 to 2>> <div id="continuer"> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Continue">><<goto "appart_j_2">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Continue">><<goto "appart_j_3">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Continue">><<goto "appart_j_4">><</link>> <</if>> </div> <<smLoss D8>><<audio "oogr" play>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">I seize her pouch of salt, plunge one hand into it, and draw out a full handful, which I fling against the back of the abject being! The reaction is instantaneous: his skin seems seized by the most virulent acid. With a howl of rage and pain, the humanoid whirls around, wrecking everything in his path. [img[data/media/img/ogre_jess.jpg]] – The dagger! Jessica shouts to me. Maximilien! Take the dagger from the wall! I see it, hanging beneath an African mask. In a single bound I seize it, draw it from its leather sheath, and turn back toward the creature. He fixes me with a threatening gaze carved with hatred; intimidated and shaken, I seem to recognize the expression of his face, distorted by tensions from beyond the grave, <<if $yan is 0>>that of the figure from my dream, that hateful gravedigger’s acolyte.<</if>><<if $yan is 1 or $yan is 3 or $yan is 4>>that of Yanes, that gravedigger from my dream, the desiccated-looking acolyte!<</if>> I tighten my grip on the dagger’s handle as though around the throat of a venomous serpent. My fear insidiously transforms into visceral rage as I, in turn, stare down this caricature of a human being, degrading mirror of the evil gnawing at me. Time and space freeze, contracting into a single nervous spasm at the height of its tension. Beast against beast. The emotional charges at their paroxysm explode in a whirlwind of lacerations and hatred. My intuition slips into a maelstrom of violence, guiding the precision of my gestures with supernatural certainty. <<if $oval >= 2>>I feel the medallion vibrate, source of an ancient, malign energy that grants me the rapture of a singular and barbarous instant.<</if>> And just as suddenly, time and space freeze again. Our bodies pressed together in a pantomime of brotherhood, the blade of my dagger driven vertically through his throat. Our gazes meet once more, and in his tears I perceive the release of a familiar being. <<if $yan is 0>>The man<</if>><<if $yan is 1 or $yan is 3 or $yan is 4>>Yanes<</if>> collapses, releasing his final breath.</div> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->jess_10_1_2_1]]</div> <<set $z to 1>>
<div id="texte">– Maximilien? Are you all right? Jessica Mendhil’s voice tears me from my stupor. The corpse of <<if $yan is 0>>the man<</if>><<if $yan is 1>>Yanes the gravedigger<</if>><<if ($yan is 2 or $yan is 3)>>Yanes, for it really is him, Yanes Kovaleski, the son of Alinovitch,<</if>><<if $yan is 4>>my own brother, Yanes...<</if>> lies at my feet in a pool of blood. – Maximilien... You... You saved my life. Thank you. Our attention swiftly turns to the inert body. Extraordinary though it may seem, it now has the body of a young boy with long hair, entirely human in appearance. Jessica explains that we are in the presence of a shapeshifter, whose transformation was no doubt forced by a curse, and that this curse very likely shares the same origin as my own. As I had suspected, my fate was closely bound to the one whom the press had branded the Ogre of South Boston... I still struggle to gather my thoughts, <<if $livre is 6 and $jess_c is 1>><<set $jess_rit to 1>>when Jessica urges me to leave as quickly as possible. <<elseif $livre is 5 and $oval is 3>><<set $livre to 6>><<set $jess_rit to 1>>when Jessica already tells me of the powerful influence she feels in the presence of the medallion fastened around my neck. She deduces that it is almost certainly the vessel of the curse, the very object she had spoken of to me the day before. And so, as she returns the black leather book to me, she places her index finger on a page carefully marked by a note. – What I have left you here, she says, is not a conjuration. It is a call that gives the threshold its form, stretches it just enough for it to become legible without tearing it... then restores it to its law. She raises her eyes to mine, and in that second I understand that she has discovered a tool too large for her, and that she is fighting the desire to surrender to it. – I do not know everything, Max, she resumes. I cannot promise you safety. But I do know this: the breach will have to be bound physically, in matter, to the one for whose sake the Zemaria sisters doomed themselves. That is how your haunting, like you, will find its way back to the origins. Find one member of your line, whether still living or not; and above all, in that moment, let the words of the call pass through you, or you will open nothing but your own vertigo. I remain still for a moment, not yet certain I have truly grasped everything. I feel something shift inside me. My mind searches for something to hold on to, as though reason, ordinarily so quick to cut and decide, had to learn not to grasp.<<elseif $livre is 5 and $oval < 3>><<set $livre to 6>><<set $jess_rit to 1>>when Jessica is already holding out the black book to me, placing her index finger on a page carefully marked by a note. – What I have left you here, she says, is not a conjuration. It is a call that gives the threshold its form, stretches it just enough for it to become legible without tearing it... then restores it to its law. She raises her eyes to mine, and in that second I understand that she has discovered a tool too large for her, and that she is fighting the desire to surrender to it. – I do not know everything, Max, she resumes. I cannot promise you safety. But I do know this: the breach will have to be bound physically, in matter, to the one for whose sake the Zemaria sisters doomed themselves. That is how your haunting, like you, will find its way back to the origins. Find one member of your line, whether still living or not; and above all, in that moment, let the words of the call pass through you, or you will open nothing but your own vertigo. I remain still for a moment, not yet certain I have truly grasped everything. I feel something shift inside me. My mind searches for something to hold on to, as though reason, ordinarily so quick to cut and decide, had to learn not to grasp.<</if>></div> <<nobr>> <<set $vj to 1>> <<set $vc to 0>> <<set $jess to 100>> <<set $jess_e to 1>> <<if $day is 3>> <<set $victime2 to 0>> <<elseif $day is 4>> <<set $victime3 to 0>> <</if>> <div id="continuer"> <<if $day is 2>> <<if $tele isnot "done" and $tele gte 0 and $tele lt $day>> <<link "Leave">><<goto "appart_j_2">> <<set $cible04 to 0>><</link>> <<else>> <<link "Leave">><<goto "appart_j_2">><</link>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<if $tele isnot "done" and $tele gte 0 and $tele lt $day>> <<link "Leave">><<goto "appart_j_3">> <<set $cible04 to 0>><</link>> <<else>> <<link "Leave">><<goto "appart_j_3">><</link>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<if $tele isnot "done" and $tele gte 0 and $tele lt $day>> <<link "Leave">><<goto "appart_j_4">> <<set $cible04 to 0>><</link>> <<else>> <<link "Leave">><<goto "appart_j_4">><</link>> <</if>> <</if>> </div> <<smGain D6>><<if $yan is 4 and $succ7 is 0>><<remember $succes to $succes + 1>><<remember $succ7 to 1>><</if>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">The woman throws a burning spray of salt. I clench my jaw until it cracks while she continues her imprecations. Poor frail creature, so bound to the perishable matter of her flesh, which I am about to reduce to shreds. I watch her gesticulate for another instant, the desire for destruction radiating through my whole being in waves ever sharper and more stinging, and I release that devastating energy in a whirlwind of lacerations. The massacre goes on for an indefinite span of time in a sovereign, redemptive rapture, again and again, until nothing remains... nothing. It is in a prison cell that I gradually regain consciousness, alone, draped in an unfathomable inner void, wavering at the edge of the nothingness of my being. The days of incarceration do nothing to prevent the succession of dreams, ever stranger and more violent, while I remain alone to glimpse the abominable truth taking shape under the auspices of madness. At last, the judgment that marks the beginning of my slow agony is handed down in accordance with the diagnosis of a psychiatrist delighted to test the methods of treatment then in force; and, denied escape by the electric chair from the hell germinating in every interstice of my soul, I manage to bring it into bloom through successive lobotomies of my prefrontal cortex...</div> <div id="continuer">[[Continue->fin_reve]]</div>
<div id="texte">By showing her sufficient empathy, I invite Miss Mendhil to tell me more about the trio of sisters. Igal, the youngest, was no doubt the one most deeply marked by the past that seemed to be eating away at them. Wild by nature, suspicious and quick-tempered, she had grown withdrawn and dissolute, much to her sisters’ distress. Miss Mendhil had very little contact with her. Amassia, the eldest, found peace in Judaic worship at Temple Adath Jeshurun and politely avoided any dealings with her. Over time, however, Jessica had become a confidante to Gaddiel, the middle sister. A strong bond had formed between them through their shared sensitivity. In this way she learned more about the horrors they had suffered in Eastern Europe shortly before their arrival in America. They fled Little Russia in the eighties, victims of the pogroms that struck Kiev and its surrounding areas. Their father Orane was murdered, their home pillaged, and all three of them were brutalized. They left their community in Polonnoye a few months later to seek refuge in the United States. The Jewish community suffered greatly and remains deeply marked by those repeated persecutions at the end of the last century. After their deaths, Miss Mendhil inherited Gaddiel’s diary, in which she had confided the story of their tumultuous lives. Jessica has not yet had the courage to read it, but she offers to entrust it to me for a time, if I wish, and I receive her help with gratitude. <<if $wait >= 3>>At the very moment she slips the notebook into my hands, someone suddenly knocks at the door. Jessica then sees me to the door in order to receive her visitor and send me on my way.<</if>></div><<set $gadd to 1>><<invGain "journal_gaddiel">><<set $pol to 3>> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">Now I wish to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $wait <= 1>><<if $jess_a is 0>> <<link "Get a tarot reading">> <<goto "jess_2">><<set $wait += 2>> <</link>> <</if>><</if>> <<if $wait <= 1>><<if $jess_b is 0>> <<link "Hold a séance">> <<goto "jess_3">><<set $wait += 2>> <</link>> <</if>><</if>> <<if $wait <= 2>> <<if $oval is 2 or $oval is 3>> <<link "Have her examine my locket">> <<goto "jess_4">><<set $wait += 1>> <</link>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $wait <= 2>> <<if $livre is 1>> <<link "Have her consult my book">> <<goto "jess_5">><<set $wait += 1>> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $livre is 2>> <<link "Have her consult the 'Cult of the Threshold Fish'">> <<goto "jess_5">><<set $wait += 1>> <</link>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $livre is 3>> [[Entrust the book to Jessica->jess_5_1]] <</if>> <<if ($sel_qty ?? 0) > 0>> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">><</link>> <</if>> <<else>><<link "Make ready to leave">><<goto "jess_sel">><</link>> <</if>> </div> </div> <<set $mid2_hantise += 1>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">Miss Mendhil performs a cross spread with a Marseille tarot deck. According to her, the cards will attempt to clarify my evolution within my surroundings and in my present and future situation. <div style="width:300px;float:left;padding-right:15px;">[img[data/media/img/tarot.png]]</div>I draw, in order, from top to bottom and from left to right: the Judgment card, symbolizing transformation; the reversed Tower, for catastrophes; the Hermit, for prudence; the Devil, for fatality; and the reversed Hanged Man, for expiation. Jessica tries to reassure me. Though it speaks of a painful situation with an unforeseen and very difficult outcome, the spread is rich and announces an important awakening, to be followed by a period of fulfillment and release. For the time being, according to her interpretation, this spread invites me to isolate myself, to rely only on myself, to distance myself from those around me, and to detach myself from the material and tangible world. <<if $b is 1>>I now know that it is at the crossroads of my dreams that I alone must find the means to cross the threshold of limbo. To lose everything so as to have, in the end, the faintest chance of finding myself again; to seek out and embrace my own death...<</if>> <<if $wait >= 3>>At these last words, someone suddenly knocks at the door. Jessica sees me out and takes her leave of me in order to receive her new visitor.<</if>></div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">Now I would like to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $wait <= 2 and $gadd is 0>> <<link "Press for details about the Zemaria">> <<goto "jess_1_1">><<set $wait += 1>> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $wait <= 2>> <<if $oval is 2 or $oval is 3>> <<link "Have her examine my locket">> <<goto "jess_4">><<set $wait += 1>> <</link>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $wait <= 2>> <<if $livre is 1>> <<link "Have her consult my book">> <<goto "jess_5">><<set $wait += 1>> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $livre is 2>> <<link "Have her consult the 'Cult of the Threshold Fish'">> <<goto "jess_5">><<set $wait += 1>> <</link>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $livre is 3>> [[Entrust the book to Jessica->jess_5_1]] <</if>> <<if ($sel_qty ?? 0) > 0>> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">><</link>> <</if>> <<else>><<link "Make ready to leave">><<goto "jess_sel">><</link>> <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>><<silently>><<smGain D3>><<set $jess_a to 1>><</silently>>
<div id="texte">We settle around a small pedestal table covered with a lace cloth. She draws the curtains and lights a few candles. She then places on the table a wooden board inlaid with the letters of the alphabet and numbers, accompanied by a triangular pointer meant to indicate the characters. [img[data/media/img/ouija.jpg]] She draws deep breaths, closes her eyes, and begins to chant in a language with Hebrew-sounding consonants. After several summonses from her, I feel a slight quiver in the surrounding air; the candle flames flicker. Jessica raises her voice, and now I hear something like a faint whisper growing louder. The murmur becomes a chorus of intermingled voices and invades the space of the room, recalling the presence I perceived in my dream, from the depths of my grave! Jessica opens her large almond-shaped eyes and declares, hesitating: – It... it is coming!</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">What now?</span> <div id="selection"> [[Break off the séance abruptly->jess_3_1]] <<link "Carry on with the séance">> <<goto "jess_3_2">><<set $wait to 0>> <</link>> </div> </div><</nobr>><<set $jess_b to 1>>
<div id="texte">I spring up violently, throwing my chair backward, frozen with fear, and with a sudden gesture sweep the Ouija board into a corner of the room, shouting: – Nooo! It is too dangerous! Do not let it come! With a start, Jessica plunges her hand into one of her pockets and draws out a handful of thick white powder, salt, which she throws all around us while uttering strange words. There is something like a high-pitched screech, and the cacophony recedes, gradually stifled. – Mr. Cornwell? she asks. Are you all right? I can only apologize profusely for the violence of my behavior, and I explain my reaction to her as the memory of my dream returns to me. Jessica, understanding, in turn tells me what she sensed of the powerful presence that brushed against us and of the dangerous threat it represents. <<if not setup.inv.isAcquired("sel_consacre")>>In order to counter it, she now advises me to scatter consecrated salt around my bed before sleeping. She entrusts me with a full leather pouch of it. The salt, she explains, does not merely repel this entity’s influence over the world of dreams: it also closes the threshold through which it seeks to insinuate itself. For what prowls there can be reached only on the edge of sleep, and whoever calls to it without sealing himself off offers himself up to its hunger. Until I find a way to send it back to its plane of origin, that boundary must guard me.<<set $sel_qty to 2>> <<run setup.salt.ensureState()>><<invGain "sel_consacre">><</if>> I am not certain I understand all of it, and I have my reservations about Miss Mendhil’s state of mind. Yet still dazed and frightened, I have no strength left except to go along with each of her measures.<<if $wait >= 3>>Someone suddenly knocks at the door. Jessica calmly sees me out and takes leave of me with reassuring words, in order to receive her next visitor.<</if>></div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">Now I wish to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $wait <= 2 and $gadd is 0>> <<link "Press for details about the Zemaria">> <<goto "jess_1_1">><<set $wait += 1>> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $wait <= 2>> <<if $oval is 2 or $oval is 3>> <<link "Have her examine my locket">> <<goto "jess_4">><<set $wait += 1>> <</link>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $wait <= 2>> <<if $livre is 1>> <<link "Have her consult my book">> <<goto "jess_5">><<set $wait += 1>> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $livre is 2>> <<link "Have her consult the 'Cult of the Threshold Fish'">> <<goto "jess_5">><<set $wait += 1>> <</link>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $livre is 3>> [[Entrust the book to Jessica->jess_5_1]] <</if>> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">><</link>> <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>><<smLoss D3>>
<div id="texte" class="blanc">Jessica continues her imprecations. The chorus becomes cacophony, and the air fills with crackling static electricity. Her eyes roll back, and she begins a long, continuous, sinister rattle in her hoarse voice. The terror overwhelming me reaches its paroxysm when a strange sensation runs along my spine. A white mist gradually envelops the inside of my skull, my senses fade, and everything grows more and more distant. A sensation of static along the whole line of my consciousness. Like a radio whose frequency can no longer catch a station. A smile gently forms on my face, a filthy smile, I can feel it, as the whiteness finally carries everything away...</div><<nobr>> <<if $dream >= 1 and $dream <= 4>> <div id="continuer"><<link "Let go">><<audio "badtime" fadeout>><<set _dest to "c_" + ($dream + 1)>><<goto _dest>><</link>></div> <</if>> <<set $cible08 to 1>><<set $reve to 1>> <<audio "badtime" time 175 play>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">When Miss Mendhil leans forward to take the medallion, she pauses and stiffens. – There is something black and very hostile in this object, she says apprehensively. I could feel it as soon as you came to me earlier. As she opens it, an expression of surprise crosses her face at the sight of the portrait. – This belonged to the Zemaria family... This is Orane, the father of Gaddiel and her sisters. Orane Zemaria, murdered by the Tsar’s police in 1881. There is a great deal of suffering contained in this object, but that is not the name I feel resonating. There is another. I feel it calling to me. I must concentrate... Jessica closes the medallion and presses it between her clenched hands, her eyes shut. Feelings of sorrow and pain quickly settle over her drawn features. After a brief silence, Jessica lets out a long rattle followed by fragments of sentences in broken bursts: – It is driven by vengeance... rape... prisoner at the threshold of shadows... blood... it is ancient, beyond the age of men... aaaah... it has laid its mark upon the lineage of one man alone... fettered... its freedom purchased at the price of many lives... I see it, it... aaaah... it has found me! Jessica throws the medallion away as though it were an incandescent coal, repeating frantically: – It has found me... It has found me... It has found me... I manage, with difficulty, to calm her, putting into practice what I have learned of certain behavioral theories. Her tears finally carry with them a profound bitterness, revealing a fragile being incapable of standing firm: – His power is matched only by His rage, and He will come for us. You should never have come here! He has condemned me... leave now, take it with you, and never come back! With forceful conviction, I plead with her to help me in putting an end to this curse. <<if $livre is 5 and $jesspass is ($day - 1)>>Ushering me out insistently, she finally confides: – Listen to me carefully. The passage I marked in The Cult of the Threshold Fish is not a conjuration. That book drives nothing away; it makes the threshold sensitive, it opens a breach, but only partway. If you read that passage at the proper moment, something will be able to circulate again. She lowers her eyes toward the medallion fallen on the floor, then resumes in a broken voice: – But that will not be enough. That breach must be bound materially to the one whose lineage was cursed. Living or dead, you will have to find one of his line. If He finds a path older than you, perhaps He will consent to take that path again. Now go... I do not want to hear any more...<<set $livre to 6>><<set $jess_rit to 1>> <<else>>She can only show me her helplessness. Ushering me out insistently, she advises me, though it is no doubt too late, to rid myself of this object once and for all, or else choose to succumb with it... <<if not setup.inv.isAcquired("sel_consacre")>>However, she advises me to scatter consecrated salt around my bed before sleeping. She entrusts me with a full leather pouch of it. It will protect me from the entity’s influence over the world of my dreams, until I find a way to rid myself of this cursed object.<<set $sel_qty to 2>><<run setup.salt.ensureState()>><<invGain "sel_consacre">><</if>><</if>></div> <<nobr>> <div id="continuer"> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">><</link>> <</if>> </div> <<set $cible08 to 1>><<set $jess to 100>><<set $jess_c to 1>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">Her eyes widen at the sight of the gilded title, and she murmurs under her breath: – The Cult of the Threshold Fish... I never thought I would come so close to an occult work of such value... But... but where did you ever come by this book? she asks me. – As it happens, it belonged to the Zemaria sisters. I obtained it under most troubling circumstances... Can you tell me more about it? – Well, well, this is not knowledge to be passed on to the uninitiated, but given the circumstances... she hesitates. I learn that it is a treatise of magic allowing passages to be opened with the higher spheres, worlds of a kind parallel to our own, in order to bind oneself to and commune with entities foreign to man. Haim Pessa'hya Lahad is its author. He was a Kabbalist from the Middle East, born in the tenth century, who succeeded in moving beyond the subjectivity of our perception of reality by decoding the keys of the Sephirotic Tree. His many experiments communication with the beyond, and his contact with the Threshold Fish, inspired his only literary work, but gradually caused him to lose his reason. Few were the disciples who succeeded him, and the cult he had instituted around this antediluvian grimoire sank into oblivion. The Threshold Fish is commonly understood as the manifestation of a very ancient god, Zs S’àh, said to have its roots in Mesopotamia: messenger of the netherworld, guarantor of planar bonds, ferryman of the rivers of eternity... Jessica seems shaken by what may well be one of the rare transcriptions of the original text, if not the only one. She expresses her surprise at Gaddiel’s silence regarding the possession, or even the existence, of this book, then offers to keep it in order to take the time to study it and draw something useful from it. <<if $wait >= 3>>At last, someone knocks at the door, and Jessica sees me out in order to receive her new visitor.<</if>></div> <<nobr>> <div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">Now I would like to:</span> <div id="selection"> [[Entrust the book to Jessica->jess_5_1]] <<if $wait <= 1>><<if $jess_a is 0>> <<link "Get a tarot reading">> <<goto "jess_2">><<set $wait += 2>> <</link>> <</if>><</if>> <<if $wait <= 1>><<if $jess_b is 0>> <<link "Hold a séance">> <<goto "jess_3">><<set $wait += 2>> <</link>> <</if>><</if>> <<if $wait <= 2>> <<if $oval is 2 or $oval is 3>> <<link "Have her examine my locket">> <<goto "jess_4">><<set $wait += 1>> <</link>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $wait <= 2 and $gadd is 0>> <<link "Press for details about the Zemaria">> <<goto "jess_1_1">><<set $wait += 1>> <</link>> <</if>> <<if ($sel_qty ?? 0) > 0>> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">><</link>> <</if>> <<else>><<link "Make ready to leave">><<goto "jess_sel">><</link>> <</if>> </div> </div> <<if $livre < 3>><<set $livre to 3>><</if>><<set $mid2_hantise += 1>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">I do not believe I could obtain more suitable expertise than hers. And so, with confidence, I entrust the book to her for as long as she needs it. Jessica believes she can extract the necessary knowledge from it by tomorrow and invites me to return then so that she may share her discoveries with me and, I very much hope, the remedy for the evil consuming me.</div><<set $livre to 5>><<set $jess_d to 1>> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">Now I wish to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $wait <= 1>><<if $jess_a is 0>> <<link "Get a tarot reading">> <<goto "jess_2">><<set $wait += 2>> <</link>> <</if>><</if>> <<if $wait <= 1>><<if $jess_b is 0>> <<link "Hold a séance">> <<goto "jess_3">><<set $wait += 2>> <</link>> <</if>><</if>> <<if $wait <= 2>> <<if $oval is 2 or $oval is 3>> <<link "Have her examine my locket">> <<goto "jess_4">><<set $wait += 1>> <</link>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $wait <= 2 and $gadd is 0>> <<link "Press for details about the Zemaria">> <<goto "jess_1_1">><<set $wait += 1>> <</link>> <</if>> <<if ($sel_qty ?? 0) > 0>> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">><</link>> <</if>> <<else>><<link "Make ready to leave">><<goto "jess_sel">><</link>> <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>>
<div id="texte">When Jessica returns the book to me, her warning about the dangers it poses is extraordinarily vehement. Great forces are at work within it, drawing on the reader’s very essence, his own energy, in exchange for the knowledge revealed to him. As she lays out her discoveries, I notice the subtle alteration in her behavior and expressions brought on by the influence of that reading: a slight tremor at the edge of a sentence, a way of repeating a word as though she had just heard it spoken elsewhere, a sudden gleam in her eyes, immediately repressed. In the margins of certain pages, she has left notes in a fine pencil line, cross-references, signs, as though her hand had tried to set down what her reason did not yet know how to name. She seems to avoid letting her fingers rest too long on the binding, the way one avoids lingering over a surface still hot to the touch. And as she speaks, I catch in her a contained excitement, that of the initiate at last touching material she had long since expected to find only in stories. – Max... she says, and the simple fact that she calls me that unsettles me. I had never heard of this. Never. This Threshold Fish... this Zs S’àh... She hesitates over the pronunciation, then begins again, lower this time, as though tasting the word. – Zs... S’àh. It is not a spirit, it is not a mask, it is not a name one invokes in order to produce an effect. It is... a breath at the hinge of things. A way of imagining the threshold between worlds as something almost mechanical, and yet alive. I look at her, incredulous, and feel a defensive reply rise to my lips. – You are telling me that this book… I search for the right expression, but she anticipates me, with an impatience she immediately strives to contain. – …is intimately bound up with your haunting, because it allows multiple portals to be opened. That is what terrifies me... and it is also what intoxicates me, I will not hide that from you. She gives a brief, guilty smile. – For years I have read signs, laid cards, made my way through symbols men mistake for ornaments. And now... now I have held in my hands a language that does not merely describe the invisible: it allows it to breathe… Despite this fever, Jessica has dissected the dark arcana of that ancestral knowledge deeply enough to extract from it a hypothesis that is mad, and yet coherent. She does not know the origin, or even the nature, of my union with this haunting. But she is now convinced that an entity has crossed the Threshold. The Zemaria sisters may have been behind this conjuration, driven by a desire for vengeance. She then places her index finger on a carefully marked page. The paper bookmark protrudes from it, covered in her small handwriting. – What I have left you here, she says, is not a conjuration. It is a call that gives the threshold its form, stretches it just enough for it to become legible without tearing it... then restores it to its law. And that is where the peril lies: in reopening, even if only to close it again afterward. She raises her eyes to mine, and in that second I understand that she has discovered a tool too large for her, and that she is fighting the desire to surrender to it. – I do not know everything, Max, she resumes. I cannot promise you safety. But I do know this: the breach will have to be bound physically, in matter, to the one for whose sake the Zemaria sisters doomed themselves. That is how your haunting, like you, will find its way back to the origins. Find one member of your line, whether still living or not; and above all, in that moment, let the words of the call pass through you, or you will open nothing but your own vertigo. I remain still for a moment, not yet certain I have truly grasped everything. I feel something shift inside me. My mind searches for something to hold on to, as though reason, ordinarily so quick to cut and decide, had to learn not to grasp.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">Maintenant I wish to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $wait <= 1>><<if $jess_a is 0>> <<link "Get a tarot reading">> <<goto "jess_2">><<set $wait += 2>> <</link>> <</if>><</if>> <<if $wait <= 1>><<if $jess_b is 0>> <<link "Hold a séance">> <<goto "jess_3">><<set $wait += 2>> <</link>> <</if>><</if>> <<if $wait <= 2>> <<if $oval is 2 or $oval is 3>> <<link "Have her examine my locket">> <<goto "jess_4">><<set $wait += 1>> <</link>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $wait <= 2 and $gadd is 0>> <<link "Press for details about the Zemaria">> <<goto "jess_1_1">><<set $wait += 1>> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">><</link>> <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>><<set $jess_rit to 1>><<set $livre to 6>><<smLoss D3>>
<div id="texte"> I straighten and extend my hand to bring our interview to a close. She takes hold of my arm firmly, while with her other hand she offers me a leather pouch: – Wait... Before you fall asleep, scatter this salt around your bed. It will protect you from many forms of malice, believe me. But remember this above all: what prowls there can be reached only at the threshold of sleep, and whoever calls to it without closing himself off offers himself up to its hunger. Until you discover a way to send it back to its plane of origin, that boundary must guard you. It is the least I can do for now, Mr. Cornwell. Take good care of yourself. – Thank you, Miss Mendhil. Goodbye.<<set $sel_qty to 2>><<run setup.salt.ensureState()>><<invGain "sel_consacre">></div> <<nobr>><div id="continuer"> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">><</link>> <</if>> </div> <</nobr>>
<div id="textepop">The ground-floor parlor is a common room, papered with bluish floral wallpaper and soberly decorated, where breakfasts are usually served to the tenants. Little seascapes line the wall separating it from the corridor, while across the room a limestone fireplace waits for the cold winter days, ready to lend its presence to the peaceful activities of the place. A massive maplewood table, surrounded by eight chairs, clutters the central space. I lean toward the low table beneath the window overlooking the street to take up the Boston Herald, the local newspaper, pull out one of the ocher-wood chairs, and begin reading the news to the rhythm of the ticking faience clock above the fireplace. My gaze drifts casually from column to column; no event seems likely to awaken the slightest interest, until the second page, where a headline captures all my attention:</div> <div style="max-width:500px;margin:0 auto">[img[data/media/img/boston_herald_eng.jpg]]</div> <div id="textepop" style="padding-top:20px">I have just realized that these are the three brats I encountered the previous day. I can see their mocking, superior little faces quite clearly again, still stamped with the innocence of childhood. It is difficult for me to admit any correlation with my escapade of the night before; granted, I crossed paths with the children yesterday, I wandered at night in a sleepwalking state, the children were killed while prowling about, and I returned at daybreak with part of my clothing still covered in fresh blood... The implacable chain of these coincidences cannot keep my doubts from building the darkest conjectures my imagination can devise. Anxiety overwhelms me once more. I must act quickly before another spell of faintness gains the upper hand.</div>
[img[data/media/img/boston_herald_eng.jpg]]
<div class="news-wrap"><<if $news_title_day2_1 neq 0>><div class="col_news"><div class="title_news"><<print $news_title_day2_1>></div><div class="desc_news"><<print $news_desc_day2_1>></div><div class="bar_news"></div></div><</if>><<if $news_title_day2_2 neq 0>><div class="col_news"><div class="title_news"><<print $news_title_day2_2>></div><div class="desc_news"><<print $news_desc_day2_2>></div><div class="bar_news"></div></div><</if>><<if $news_title_day2_3 neq 0>><div class="col_news"><div class="title_news"><<print $news_title_day2_3>></div><div class="desc_news"><<print $news_desc_day2_3>></div><div class="bar_news"></div></div><</if>></div>
<div class="news-wrap"><<if $news_title_day3_1 neq 0>><div class="col_news"><div class="title_news"><<print $news_title_day3_1>></div><div class="desc_news"><<print $news_desc_day3_1>></div><div class="bar_news"></div></div><</if>><<if $news_title_day3_2 neq 0>><div class="col_news"><div class="title_news"><<print $news_title_day3_2>></div><div class="desc_news"><<print $news_desc_day3_2>></div><div class="bar_news"></div></div><</if>><<if $news_title_day3_3 neq 0>><div class="col_news"><div class="title_news"><<print $news_title_day3_3>></div><div class="desc_news"><<print $news_desc_day3_3>></div><div class="bar_news"></div></div><</if>><<if $news_title_day3_4 neq 0>><div class="col_news"><div class="title_news"><<print $news_title_day3_4>></div><div class="desc_news"><<print $news_desc_day3_4>></div><div class="bar_news"></div></div><</if>></div>
<div class="news-wrap"><<if $news_title_day4_1 neq 0>><div class="col_news"><div class="title_news"><<print $news_title_day4_1>></div><div class="desc_news"><<print $news_desc_day4_1>></div><div class="bar_news"></div></div><</if>><<if $news_title_day4_2 neq 0>><div class="col_news"><div class="title_news"><<print $news_title_day4_2>></div><div class="desc_news"><<print $news_desc_day4_2>></div><div class="bar_news"></div></div><</if>><<if $news_title_day4_3 neq 0>><div class="col_news"><div class="title_news"><<print $news_title_day4_3>></div><div class="desc_news"><<print $news_desc_day4_3>></div><div class="bar_news"></div></div><</if>><<if $news_title_day4_4 neq 0>><div class="col_news"><div class="title_news"><<print $news_title_day4_4>></div><div class="desc_news"><<print $news_desc_day4_4>></div><div class="bar_news"></div></div><</if>></div>
<<nobr>> <<if $jou >= 1 and $jou neq 0>> <div class="inventlink"><<popuplecture "Boston Herald 09/08" "jou_1_1">></div> <</if>> <<if $jou >= 2 and $jou neq 0>> <div class="inventlink"><<popuplecture "Boston Herald 09/09" "jou_2">></div> <</if>> <<if $jou >= 3 and $jou neq 0>> <div class="inventlink"><<popuplecture "Boston Herald 09/10" "jou_3">></div> <</if>> <<if $jou >= 4 and $jou neq 0>> <div class="inventlink"><<popuplecture "Boston Herald 09/11" "jou_4">></div> <</if>> <<if $jou is 0>><div class="inventlink"><<popuplecture "Boston Herald 09/08" "jou_1">></div><<set $jou to 1>> <</if>> <<if $day > 1 and $jou < 2>><div class="inventlink"><<popuplecture "Boston Herald 09/09" "jou_2">></div><<set $jou to 2>><</if>> <<if $day > 2 and $jou < 3>><div class="inventlink"><<popuplecture "Boston Herald 09/10" "jou_3">></div><<set $jou to 3>><</if>> <<if $day > 3 and $jou < 4>><div class="inventlink"><<popuplecture "Boston Herald 09/11" "jou_4">></div><<set $jou to 4>><</if>> <<if $police neq 2 and $k is 0 and $cible00 is 1 and $day > 1>><<set $convoc to $day>> <div class="inventlink"><<popuplecture "Police summons" "convoc_1">></div><<set $k to 1>><<invGain "convocation_police">> <</if>> <<if $tele isnot "done" and $tele gte 0 and $tele lt $day>> <<set _telefx to setup.telegram.applyReveal(State.variables)>> <<invGain "telegramme_alanna">> <div class="inventlink"><<popuplecture "Telegram" "telegramme">></div> <</if>> <</nobr>>
<<if $let is 0>><div id="textepop">Accustomed for more than a year now to maintaining this correspondence, I always dread the idea that a third party might intrude, even out of duty, upon our exchanges, to write in my mother’s place. I unfold the missive and reveal her singular handwriting.</div> <div id="lettre_alanna"><p style="text-align:left">August 27, 1926 Rochester</p><p style="text-align:center">Dear Maxime,</p> <p style="text-align:left; text-indent: 50px;">I was so glad to receive your letter. I am sorry you still could not come and see me, but perhaps soon? In any case, that things are going well for you at school and that you like it is a good thing, and it makes me proud. Here my joint pains have come back, but that is not the most important thing, because it is with great sorrow that I am writing this time to tell you very difficult news. John left us on the 23rd. After several days of suffering, because he had cirrhosis, nothing could be done, not even by the doctor. I cry as I write this to you. I know he was always hard on us and especially on you, but he helped me greatly, and I think this news will sadden you too. We held the funeral several days ago already, and I preferred to leave you to your work so as not to trouble you, and since the two of you no longer spoke, I hope you will not hold it against me. I am not alone, with my friends helping me, but I must work more because he did not leave me much when he went. The days feel longer now, and I hope to console myself with your presence when you are done with what you must do. Take care of yourself, my son.</p><p style="text-align:right">Alanna Cornwell.</p></div> <div id="textepop" style="padding-top:20px">The tears refuse to come, but rage pours through my whole being, warping the letter between my clenched fingers. Once again, my mother suffers the consequences of that man who caused us so much pain. And even if this is the last time, it will continue at least until my studies allow me to secure a position. Afterward, I take the time to compose a reply, taking care not to dwell on thoughts that would only drive me to anger, and instead choosing words that may bring comfort and support in this time of trial.</div><<set $let to 1>><<invSee "lettre_alanna">> <<else>><div id="lettre_alanna"><p style="text-align:left">August 27, 1926 Rochester</p><p style="text-align:center">Dear Maxime,</p> <p style="text-align:left; text-indent: 50px;">I was so glad to receive your letter. I am sorry you still could not come and see me, but perhaps soon? In any case, that things are going well for you at school and that you like it is a good thing, and it makes me proud. Here my joint pains have come back, but that is not the most important thing, because it is with great sorrow that I am writing this time to tell you very difficult news. John left us on the 23rd. After several days of suffering, because he had cirrhosis, nothing could be done, not even by the doctor. I cry as I write this to you. I know he was always hard on us and especially on you, but he helped me greatly, and I think this news will sadden you too. We held the funeral several days ago already, and I preferred to leave you to your work so as not to trouble you, and since the two of you no longer spoke, I hope you will not hold it against me. I am not alone, with my friends helping me, but I must work more because he did not leave me much when he went. The days feel longer now, and I hope to console myself with your presence when you are done with what you must do. Take care of yourself, my son.</p><p style="text-align:right">Alanna Cornwell.</p></div><</if>>
<<nobr>> <div id="invent_img">[img[data/media/img/inventaire/livre.png]]</div> <<if ($passagename is "appart_j_1" or $passagename is "appart_j_2" or $passagename is "appart_j_3" or $passagename is "appart_j_4" or $passagename is "appart_n_1" or $passagename is "appart_n_2" or $passagename is "appart_n_3" or $passagename is "appart_n_4" or $passagename is "pits_1" or $passagename is "obsq_3" or $passagename is "obsq_3_1" or $passagename is "roch_2") and $y is 0>> <div id="continuer"><<link "Leaf through the book">> <<audio ":all" stop>><<audio "oogr" play>> <<set _opts to { onEnd : function (termine) { if (termine) setup.maxShowPassageDialogInner("parchemin", "Leaf through the book", "inventaire", "INVENTORY"); } }>> <<canvasfx "data/script/js/flash_eso.js" "FlashEso" _opts>> <</link>></div> <<elseif $y is 0>> <div id="continuer">I shall take the time to consult this book somewhere more suitable.</div> <</if>> <<if $livre is 6>> On a page marked with a paper bookmark, Jessica has left several notes woven into the original text: “By the name Agla for Lot; by the name Iod for Jacob; by the name Anexepheton for Aaron; by the name Zebaoth for Moses; by the sea, floating and transparent; by the four divine creatures that come and go before the throne of the spiraled divine Majesty, with eyes before and eyes behind. Let the border take shape through these words without breaking; let what wanders find its bed again; let ancient flesh call back what was severed; and let it remain open for the span of a breath.” In the margin, in a more nervous hand: “Unless constrained, do not hold back; let the words pass through.”<</if>> <<invSee "livre">> <</nobr>>
<<set $bloc to 1>><div id="texte">[img[data/media/img/mairie.jpg]] The dim light of the gas lamps feebly floods the basement of City Hall as I consult the cadastral register of Boston and its outskirts. I must verify the reality of the points of reference that fed my dream, in order to establish the landmarks for any interpretation to come: simple imaginary creation or resurgence of a repressed past? The descriptive precision of the place in which I moved constitutes the best starting point. I therefore comb through the detailed nomenclature of the city’s cemeteries with great care.</div> <<set $act -= 1>><div id="recherche"><div id="rech_cadre"><div id="rech_title">Refine my search</div>@@#rech_input; <<textbox "$cadrec" "">><<set $cadastre to 0>><<set $cad1 to 0>> @@@@#rech_button; <<button "Search">> <<set $cadrec to $cadrec.trim().toLowerCase()>> <<if $cadrec is "baker street" or $cadrec is "baker street cemetery" or $cadrec is "baker street jewish cemeteries">><<set $cadastre to 3>><</if>> <<if $cadrec is "jewish" or $cadrec is "jewish cemetery" or $cadrec is "the jewish cemetery">><<set $cad1 to 1>><<set $cadastre += 1>><<replace "#info1">>I gather the documents concerning Boston’s Jewish cemeteries. They are already numerous, and I must further narrow my search with other information.<</replace>><<replace "#info2">><</replace>><<replace "#texte">>[img[data/media/img/list_cimetieres_juif_ENG.jpg]]<</replace>><</if>> <<if ($cadrec is "polonnoye" or $cadrec is "polonnoe") and $cad1 is 0>><<replace "#info1">>I cannot simply search for a parcel bearing that name in every cemetery in Boston. There must be some way to save time.<</replace>><<replace "#info2">><</replace>><</if>> <<if ($cadrec is "polonnoye" or $cadrec is "polonnoe") and $cad1 is 1>><<set $cadastre += 1>><</if>> <<if $cadrec is "bagrovyy" and $cad1 is 0>><<replace "#info1">>Rather like looking for a needle in a haystack...<</replace>><<replace "#info2">><</replace>><</if>> <<if $cadrec is "bagrovyy" and $cad1 is 1>><<replace "#info2">>No trace of a lead came to light. I concluded that, in order to obtain information on this place as it had appeared in my dream, I would certainly have to drag myself through an equivalent den. There were, however, a number of cabarets in Boston, perhaps more respectable ones, where I might make inquiries that evening.<</replace>><<set $bag to 2>><</if>> <<if $cadrec neq "jewish" and $cadrec neq "jewish cemetery" and $cadrec neq "the jewish cemetery" and $cadrec neq "baker street" and $cadrec neq "baker street cemetery" and $cadrec neq "baker street jewish cemeteries" and $cadrec neq "polonnoye" and $cadrec neq "polonnoe" and $cadrec neq "bagrovyy">><<replace "#info2">><<timed 1s>>My searches are fruitless...<</timed>><</replace>><</if>> <<if $cadastre is 2>><<goto "cad_2">><</if>> <<if $cadastre is 3>><<goto "cad_1">><</if>> <<replace "#rech_title">>Continue the search<</replace>> <<replace "#rech_input">><<textbox "$cadrec" "">><</replace>> <</button>> @@</div> <div id="rech_text"><span id="info1"></span><br><span id="info2"></span></div></div> <<nobr>> <<if $day is 1>> <div id="continuer">[[Return home->appart_j_1]]</div> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <div id="continuer">[[Return home->appart_j_2]]</div> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <div id="continuer">[[Return home->appart_j_3]]</div> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <div id="continuer">[[Return home->appart_j_4]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>> <<if $tut2 is 0>><div id="tutoriel"><div class="tuto_title">TUTORIAL: <span style="color: #b6bac0">ACTIONS</span></div><p><span style="padding-right: 8px"><<include "action">></span>The story unfolds through a succession of days and nights. The indicator above shows how many actions you have available for the day. The cost in actions of any initiative on your part is marked on the links in the story as follows: @@#link_1;<<link "">><</link>>@@ / 1 action toward a short scene. @@#link_2;<<link "">><</link>>@@ / 2 actions toward a long scene. @@#link_0;<<link "">><</link>>@@ / toward a scene containing a series of links with varying action costs. <span style="color: #00ab4f">The day ends once your actions are spent.</span> Your nighttime investigations are free, but they may reduce the number of actions available the following day, to reflect your moral or physical fatigue.</p> </div><<set $tut2 to 1>><</if>>
<div id="texte">Telma sent for the doctor at the house without delay. I took the opportunity to remain lying down, breathing deeply to calm the nervous tension humming through every fiber of my body. While I waited, I was surprised by a succession of brief dozes, irregularly interrupted by imaginary sequences of heightened violence in which blood and fire appeared again and again in various forms, and in which I was by turns actor and spectator. In the end, Telma found me sitting upright in bed, eyes wide, sweat spreading over my face, when she returned with the doctor. He immediately spoke in a very pronounced German accent: “Thank you, you may leave us, miss,” then, advancing toward me: “I am Doctor Bergmann. What is your name, young man?” Once the introductions were made, he set his bag on my cleared desk, took out his stethoscope, and began his examination, interrupting it with personal questions, more in an attempt to put me at ease than to pierce the mystery of the illness from which I was suffering. He wore a classic black suit, broadly cut so as to slim the stoutness that characterized his gait, and over his face, at once grave and smiling, swept a dark and generous shock of hair combed back from his brow.</div> <div id="continuer">[[Listen to the diagnosis->med_1_1]]</div> <<set $act -= 1>>
<div id="texte">– Overwork, Mr. Cornwell, he pronounces at last. You are no doubt asking too much of yourself, and the result is high blood pressure, which in turn causes poor sleep. Fatigue builds up until it produces the kind of nervous agitation that leads to these increasingly frequent bouts of sleepwalking. In short: rest, rest, and more rest, Mr. Cornwell. – I am not sure I understand, Doctor. I do not believe I have been overworking myself excessively, in any case no more than before. – Such things can accumulate over time. The human machine is well made, young man, but it has its limits. – Yes... no doubt. And yet this seems more complex to me. Certain aspects of my dreams are so tangible that they no longer seem like hallucinations. Could buried memories in my unconscious resurface during these episodes? – Hm, hm, hm, he coughed with an amused air. The treatment of sleepwalking is a complex subject, and we still know very little about it. As for your question, it does not fall within my field and, in my opinion, is merely a consequence of your state of health. However, perhaps in that recent volume written by a Swiss psychologist on the subject, Théodore Flournoy... Let us see, what was it called? Ah yes, “//From India to the Planet Mars//,” I believe; a study of sleepwalking episodes involving atypical visions. I have not read it myself, but it might be useful to you, if only in the context of your studies in psychophysiology. – //From India to the Planet Mars//... Théodore Flournoy… Very well, I shall try to consult it, thank you. – Good. And to help you during your convalescence, I shall prescribe an acetazolamide-based medication, aspirin for your headaches, and chamomile tea, strictly three times a day. Naturally, avoid anything likely to excite the nerves, such as coffee. There you are, young man; in a few days you should be recovered. After taking care to write his final recommendations on the prescription sheet he hands me, and after speaking for a moment with Martha on the ground-floor landing, I find myself in the half-light of my room, alone with myself.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">Now I desire to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $uni is 0 and $act >= 2 and $day is 1>> @@#link_2;<<link "Make my way to the university">><<goto "univ_1">><</link>>@@ <<elseif $uni is 0 and $act >= 2>> @@#link_2;<<link "Make my way to the university">><<goto "univ_0">><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $n is 0>> @@#link_2; <<if $y is 1>> <<link "Let myself drift a while">><<goto "repo_1">><<audio "appart_j_3" fadeout>><</link>> <<else>> <<link "Take some rest">><<goto "repo_1">><<audio "appart_j_3" fadeout>><</link>> <</if>> @@ <</if>> <<set _hub to "appart_j_" + $day>><<link "Make the most of my rooms">><<goto _hub>><</link>> </div> </div><</nobr>> <<smGain D6>><<set $e to 1>>
<<nobr>> <style> #ui-dialog-body.popup { background-color: #f1f4f6; } body { background:#17161a; } .corruption-mot { text-decoration: line-through; text-decoration-thickness: 2px; display: inline-block; transform: rotate(-2deg) translateY(1px); } .victime-morte { text-decoration: line-through; text-decoration-thickness: 2px; display: inline-block; transform: rotate(-2deg) translateY(1px); } </style> <</nobr>><div id="memento-edit" contenteditable="true" spellcheck="false"></div>
<<nobr>> <<if $vj neq 0>> <div id="moment_day"></div> <<else>> <div id="moment_night"></div> <</if>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">The E. Boone notary office is located at 1227 Centre Street in West Roxbury. A wrought-iron gate opens onto a small courtyard lined with carefully trimmed shrubs, at the far end of which stands a massive wooden door. A brass plaque on the side bears the firm’s name. I found the address easily by relying on the directions of one of the shopkeepers along the avenue I had been walking for some time without success. As I enter, I cross paths with a man gesturing furiously, whose words express with some vigor the full measure of his contempt for the firm, and I am therefore received in a patio-like hall by a sour and deeply unwelcoming secretary. Edward Boone is not at the office and, from what I manage to gather despite her emphatic insistence, has in fact been absent for several days, the victim of a disabling illness that forces him to rest at his principal residence. For the moment, his associate is handling the most urgent matters, my request obviously not among them. I have the devil’s own job obtaining his home address, resorting to low subterfuges I would never, even now, have thought myself capable of... and I leave the office satisfied.</div><<set $act -= 1>> <<nobr>> <div id="continuer"> <<if $act >= 1>>@@#link_1;<<link "Call on him at home">><<goto "not_1_1">><</link>>@@<</if>> <<set _hub to "appart_j_" + $day>><<link "Return home">><<goto _hub>><</link>> </div> <<set $not to 2>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">To avoid wasting time on a tedious journey, I decide to make another dent in my meager savings and hail a taxi, which takes me to Boylston Street in Brookline. The imposing Boone residence, crowned with a tall, steeply pitched roof, emerges behind a luxuriant hedge of neatly trimmed shrubs. Two drives cross the property from the street. One holds a well-maintained vehicle—no doubt one of those Daniels Touring cars whose power is so endlessly advertised—then continues along part of the fence on the left before ending at a sort of shed attached to the house. The other opens at the very center through a small gate and leads to the front door. The taxi takes the last of my small change before driving off again, leaving me on the sidewalk of this quiet boulevard. A bank of clouds spreads across the sky, slipping inland from the coast and darkening the air as I breathe in the sea wind beginning to rise.</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->not_1_1_1]]</div><<set $bloc to 1>><<set $act -= 1>>
<div id="texte">The small gate turns on well-oiled hinges, and I enter the property to reach the front steps. The lawn, overgrown with weeds and covered in a bed of dead leaves, contributes to the surprisingly neglected state of the exterior. I announce myself by ringing the little bell at the entrance, wait a few moments without result, then insist by knocking at the door, which opens slightly with a creak. Startled, I step back and turn around, as though to make sure no one is about to confront me over this inadvertent trespass. A languid rumble rolls in the distance like a wave collapsing upon itself, and the neighborhood’s apparent tranquility reveals no one nearby. I move closer and push the door a little farther open, revealing the dimness of a vast corridor flanked by a door on either side and leading, opposite, to a room bathed in milky daylight. I listen... and from the room on the left I hear what sounds like something sliding across the floor. – Hello? I say timidly. Is anyone there? Only silence, master of these premises, seems to grant me its full attention. – Mr. Boone? Mrs. Boone? I insist. Still no answer... My inner alarm starts ringing; driven by instinct and aware of the abnormality of the situation, I seize an umbrella from the carved wooden coat stand and take a few steps toward the door. My fingers whiten with the pressure exerted on the handle, and I perceive nothing but the agitated rhythm of my heartbeat, punctuated by another rolling sound in the distance, announcing the coming storm.</div><<nobr>> <div id="continuer"> <<link "I open the door">><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><<goto "not_2">><</link>> <<link "Go back home">><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><<set _dest to "appart_j_" + $day>><<goto _dest>><<set $not to 3>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>
<div id="texte">To avoid wasting time on a tedious journey, I decide to make another dent in my meager savings and hail a taxi, which takes me to Boylston Street in Brookline. The imposing Boone residence, crowned with a tall, steeply pitched roof, emerges behind a dark mass of neatly trimmed shrubs. Two drives disappear from the street into the darkness of the property. One holds a well-maintained vehicle whose matte body partly absorbs the light of the streetlamps. The other opens at the very center through a small gate and leads to the house’s porch. A curtain of fine rain has spread over the coast, punctuating the fleeting passage of the late-afternoon storm. The taxi takes the last of my small change before driving off again, leaving me on the sidewalk of this quiet boulevard. Cars glide lazily over the oily surface of the road, drawing out the sound of steaks laid on a scorching griddle, their headlights like two great wide-open, dazzling eyes.</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->not_1_2_1]]</div><<set $vj to 0>><<set $bloc to 1>>
<div id="texte">The small gate turns on well-oiled hinges, and I enter the property to reach the front steps, partly lit by the light from the ground floor. The lawn, overgrown with weeds and covered in a shining bed of dead leaves, contributes to the surprisingly neglected state of the exterior. I announce myself by ringing the little bell at the entrance, wait a few moments without result, then insist by knocking at the door, which opens slightly with a creak. Startled, I step back and turn around, as though to make sure no one is about to confront me over this inadvertent trespass. The neighborhood’s apparent tranquility reveals no one nearby. I move closer and push the door a little farther open, revealing the darkness of a vast corridor flanked by a door on either side and leading, opposite, to a room plunged in darkness. A line of light on the threshold of the first door to my left fans out in a gradation, outlining the depth of the corridor; there I make out what sounds like something furtively dragging across the floor. – Hello? I say timidly. Is anyone there? The sliding sound stops dead at once, and only silence, master of these premises, seems to grant me its full attention. – Mr. Boone? Mrs. Boone? I insist. Still no answer... My inner alarm starts ringing; driven by instinct and aware of the abnormality of the situation, I seize an umbrella from the carved wooden coat stand and take a few steps toward the door. My fingers whiten with the pressure exerted on the handle, and I listen again, only to perceive the accelerated rhythm of my heartbeat and the drumming of the rain enveloping the house.</div><<nobr>> <div id="continuer"> <<link "I open the door">><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><<goto "not_2">><</link>> <<link "Go back home">><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><<set _dest to "appart_n_" + $day>><<goto _dest>><<set $not to 3>><</link>> </div> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">I push it wide open without stepping inside, nudging it with the tip of my makeshift weapon. It creaks softly on its hinges before revealing a cluttered, richly appointed library. Across the floor and over the furniture, papers and books of every kind lie scattered in disarray, as though a rowdy workers’ rally had swept through the room. The curtains are drawn at every window, while a chandelier overhead casts a warm, comfortable glow. A wooden spiral staircase rises to the upper floor, following the curve of the room’s northwest corner. The partition wall to the right is pierced by two doors. One of them, the one nearest the outer wall of the house, stands ajar. The room is empty. Keeping sharply alert, I risk a few steps forward and skim the first writings that catch my eye. They are a jumble of treatises, notes, and assorted references, most of them concerning the ethnological cultures of Eastern Europe, along with reports on archaeological sites and discoveries. Other works venture into darker fields of inquiry, mingling the mythologies and cosmogonies of peoples long since vanished. The sheer density of all this accumulated knowledge makes it impossible for me to extract even the smallest useful or evocative clue without devoting to it a study that, for now, would take far too long. I turn my attention away from these researches and focus instead on one of the room’s openings.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I set my sights on:</span> <div id="selection"> <<link "The spiral staircase">><<run if (window.crackDebounceTimer) clearTimeout(window.crackDebounceTimer)>><<run window.onscroll = null>><<goto "not_2_1">><</link>> <<link "The closed door">><<run if (window.crackDebounceTimer) clearTimeout(window.crackDebounceTimer)>><<run window.onscroll = null>><<goto "not_2_1">><</link>> <<link "The half-open door">><<run if (window.crackDebounceTimer) clearTimeout(window.crackDebounceTimer)>><<run window.onscroll = null>><<goto "not_2_1">><</link>> </div> </div><<set $not to 3>><</nobr>> <div style="height:500px;"><center>"..."</center></div> <div style="height:500px;"><center>"... ..."</center></div> <div style="height:500px;"><center>"!"</center></div> <div style="height:500px;"><center>"... ..."</center></div> <div style="height:500px;"><center>"..."</center></div> <div id="texte">A faint shadow steals across the floor, betraying the threatening presence creeping up behind me!</div><div id="continuer"><<link "Turn back">><<run if (window.crackDebounceTimer) clearTimeout(window.crackDebounceTimer)>><<run window.onscroll = null>><<goto "not_2_2">><</link>></div> <<set $bloc to 1>> <<script>> var crackSounds = [ new Audio('data/media/audio/son/crack.mp3'), new Audio('data/media/audio/son/crack2.mp3'), new Audio('data/media/audio/son/crack3.mp3') ]; window.crackDebounceTimer = null; var armed = false; var lastPlayTime = 0; var minGapBetweenSounds = 4000; setTimeout(function() { armed = true; }, 500); window.onscroll = function() { if (!armed) return; clearTimeout(window.crackDebounceTimer); window.crackDebounceTimer = setTimeout(function() { var now = Date.now(); if (now - lastPlayTime < minGapBetweenSounds) return; lastPlayTime = now; var pick = crackSounds[Math.floor(Math.random() * crackSounds.length)]; pick.currentTime = 0; pick.play(); }, 250); }; <</script>><<bg "data/media/img/backgrounds/boone.jpg" 30 40 30>>
<div id="texte" class="coup">The blow is as swift as it is unexpected. A sharp impact twists through the base of my skull and instantly cuts off every motor function in my body. I drop the umbrella and collapse forward onto my outstretched arms, nearly slipping on the scattered sheets of paper. I clench my teeth as a sharp pain spreads across the entire surface of my skull, and a dim black veil drops over my vision, studded with dazzling pinpricks of light. A second blow, even more violent, lands flat across my back, forcing me to spread out on the floor like a starfish dried in the sun. I lose consciousness... The jolts of my body striking one hard edge after another drag me briefly out of my stupor. Half conscious, I feel myself being dragged down the steep pitch of a staircase, each impact sending a searing burn through my back. By sheer force of will, I struggle, thrashing my legs and hips in an attempt to free myself from the grip around my ankles, again and again, but no strength remains in me, not even the slightest visible tremor in any of my limbs. I groan before slipping once more into unconsciousness...</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->not_2_1_1]]</div><<nobr>> <<set $reve to 1>> <<if $meurtre is 2 and $victime1 is "Jessica Mendhil">> <<set $victime1 to 0>> <<set $victime2 to "Edward Boone">> <<set $cible08 to 0>> <<set $cible03 to 100>> <<elseif $meurtre is 3 and $victime2 is "Jessica Mendhil">> <<set $victime2 to 0>> <<set $victime3 to "Edward Boone">> <<set $cible08 to 0>> <<set $cible03 to 100>> <<elseif $meurtre is 4 and $victime3 is "Jessica Mendhil">> <<set $victime3 to 0>> <<set $victime4 to "Edward Boone">> <<set $cible08 to 0>> <<set $cible03 to 100>> <<elseif $meurtre is 2 and $victime1 is "James Wright">> <<set $victime1 to 0>> <<set $victime2 to "Edward Boone">> <<set $cible01 to 0>> <<set $cible03 to 100>> <<elseif $meurtre is 3 and $victime2 is "James Wright">> <<set $victime2 to 0>> <<set $victime3 to "Edward Boone">> <<set $cible01 to 0>> <<set $cible03 to 100>> <<elseif $meurtre is 4 and $victime3 is "James Wright">> <<set $victime3 to 0>> <<set $victime4 to "Edward Boone">> <<set $cible01 to 0>> <<set $cible03 to 100>> <<elseif $meurtre is 2 and $victime1 is "Ervin Templeton">> <<set $victime1 to 0>> <<set $victime2 to "Edward Boone">> <<set $cible02 to 0>> <<set $cible03 to 100>> <<elseif $meurtre is 3 and $victime2 is "Ervin Templeton">> <<set $victime2 to 0>> <<set $victime3 to "Edward Boone">> <<set $cible02 to 0>> <<set $cible03 to 100>> <<elseif $meurtre is 4 and $victime3 is "Ervin Templeton">> <<set $victime3 to 0>> <<set $victime4 to "Edward Boone">> <<set $cible02 to 0>> <<set $cible03 to 100>> <<elseif $meurtre is 2 and $victime1 is "Alanna Cornwell">> <<set $victime1 to 0>> <<set $victime2 to "Edward Boone">> <<set $cible04 to 0>> <<set $cible03 to 100>> <<elseif $meurtre is 3 and $victime2 is "Alanna Cornwell">> <<set $victime2 to 0>> <<set $victime3 to "Edward Boone">> <<set $cible04 to 0>> <<set $cible03 to 100>> <<elseif $meurtre is 4 and $victime3 is "Alanna Cornwell">> <<set $victime3 to 0>> <<set $victime4 to "Edward Boone">> <<set $cible04 to 0>> <<set $cible03 to 100>> <<elseif $meurtre is 2 and $victime1 is "Yiggael">> <<set $victime1 to 0>> <<set $victime2 to "Edward Boone">> <<set $cible07 to 0>> <<set $cible03 to 100>> <<elseif $meurtre is 3 and $victime2 is "Yiggael">> <<set $victime2 to 0>> <<set $victime3 to "Edward Boone">> <<set $cible07 to 0>> <<set $cible03 to 100>> <<elseif $meurtre is 4 and $victime3 is "Yiggael">> <<set $victime3 to 0>> <<set $victime4 to "Edward Boone">> <<set $cible07 to 0>> <<set $cible03 to 100>> <<elseif $meurtre is 3 and $victime2 is "Telma Krieger">> <<set $victime2 to 0>> <<set $victime3 to "Edward Boone">> <<set $cible05 to 0>> <<set $cible03 to 100>> <<elseif $meurtre is 4 and $victime3 is "Telma Krieger">> <<set $victime3 to 0>> <<set $victime4 to "Edward Boone">> <<set $cible05 to 0>> <<set $cible03 to 100>> <<else>> <<set $cible03 to 1>> <</if>> <<set $act to 0>><<audio ":playing" stop>><<set $_arcBg to "">><<audio "tension" play volume 0.6>><</nobr>> <<timed 5s>><<run setup.arcBg.stop()>><<run (function() { /* 1. Crée ou récupère le canvas de seuil */ let canvas = document.getElementById("sm-fx-canvas"); if (!canvas) { canvas = document.createElement("canvas"); canvas.id = "sm-fx-canvas"; canvas.style.cssText = "position:fixed;top:0;left:0;width:100%;height:100%;pointer-events:none;z-index:9999;"; canvas.width = window.innerWidth * (window.devicePixelRatio || 1); canvas.height = window.innerHeight * (window.devicePixelRatio || 1); document.body.appendChild(canvas); } /* 2. Lance SmTierFx_a directement */ if (window.SmTierFx_a) { window.SmTierFx_a.play(canvas); } })();>><</timed>>
<div id="texte">The throbbing pain stretching the length of my spine drags me awake with a languid moan. I make out a faint light through the prism of my tear-filled eyes and try to move like an insect caught in a spider’s web. Impossible... I am trussed up with rope at the center of a circle formed by candles with wavering flames, like Houdini about to perform his final trick. A foul stench of decomposition rushes into my nostrils, almost making me retch beyond endurance; farther off, I hear the droning dance of ravenous flies. A whole clutter of crates and boxes has been piled against the walls to clear the space where I lie, while on the opposite side a wine rack stretches away into the darkness of the cellar, from which footsteps are approaching. Before long, an imposing figure looms over me and sets down a wooden box at the edge of the circle. He opens its two panels, revealing a miscellany of objects, among them a copper candelabrum whose feet resemble the appendages of an octopus. The potbellied man is dressed in a filthy, tattered suit that only heightens the grotesque quality of his movements, culminating in an expression his face twisted into an expression of terror and rapturous joy. He carries on a monologue in unsettling tones while busying himself with his preparations: – This time it’ll work, yes, this is where he came out, this is where I’ll bring him back. Do you hear me? You’re coming back! You’re coming back, and you’re going to guide me! Oh Lord! This time I’ve got one who’ll do, yes, he’s still alive! I shook Clara a little too hard, but this one will do... – Mr. Boone? I stammer. Edward Boone? Is that... is that really you? The man looks me over briefly, snorting in a crude, careless manner. He rummages in the pocket of his jacket and pulls out a piece of cloth, which he promptly stuffs into my mouth, nearly wrenching my jaw out of place. Then, as he moves away, he resumes his soliloquy with broad gestures: – I’m not going to shake you, no, not like Clara. She should have kept her mouth shut, that fishwife. You’re going to live right to the end, until I offer you to him, and he’ll reward me for it, oh yes... I can still hear him babbling and rummaging frantically at the far end of the room. The man is utterly deranged, and I have little doubt as to the fate he has in store for me. Panic takes hold, and I struggle with all my strength to free myself from my bonds. Nothing works. The knots are too tight; I cannot even twist my wrists where they are pinned in the hollow of my back. Worse still, to make sure I cannot move at all, he has driven two stakes into the ground a few feet away and wound the ends of the rope around them, preventing me from writhing like a worm. I try to roll left and right to loosen the stakes, but already he is coming back.</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->not_2_1_1_1]]</div> <<silently>> <<smLoss D3>> <</silently>>
<div id="texte"> He has draped himself in some kind of black hooded robe and holds a thickly bound book in one hand, a curved-bladed dagger in the other. – //Goddamn it, he’s going to do it! This madman is really going to do it!// My muffled screams and convulsions fail to disturb the man, who begins chanting incomprehensible guttural sounds, with a terrifying coherence to their fluid delivery. It is then that I feel the presence insinuate itself into me, like the wave of an icy tide flooding a shore, boiling with furious foam. My breath stops short, my heartbeat quickens further, my eyes widen under a pressure that rises all the way to the crown of my skull. The man stands over me, raising his dagger in one final outburst, ready to pierce my rib cage. My limbs stiffen as though under electroshock, and yet I no longer move, reduced to no more than the embryo of a thought, while the venomous presence finishes swallowing my soul in an atrocious sensation of drowning. As I reach the abyssal threshold of unconsciousness, I barely feel my bonds snap under the force of my arms spreading apart. I free myself, body and soul, and sink into a deep lethargy...</div><<nobr>><<if $day is 1>><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_2]]</div><</if>><<if $day is 2>><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_3]]</div><</if>><<if $day is 3>><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_4]]</div><</if>><<if $day is 4>><div id="continuer">[[Continue->c_5]]</div><</if>><</nobr>> <<smLoss D6>><<set $j to 1>>
<div id="texte">I spring forward, whipping around as I do. The filthy, potbellied silhouette of a man is brandishing an iron poker and beginning a looping figure-eight swing in my direction. I brace myself on my rear foot and block the blow with both hands, using my umbrella, which gives way in the middle with a crack. The ribs and fabric still hold the limp remains together, and I use the circular motion to snare my attacker’s weapon. He pulls hard to deliver another blow, and the head of the poker catches in my improvised tangle. I pull back in turn, more violently, putting my shoulders into it, and the handle slips from his hand. The momentum carries me backward, and I execute a side-step to steady myself while the poker swings in the curve formed by the umbrella. The man seizes a four-branch candlestick and hurls it at me with all his rage. I dodge to one side, but the object scrapes my scalp before crashing into the shelves at the back. I have barely enough time to straighten, barely enough time to feel warm liquid spreading through the tangled mass of my hair, before the man is already charging me with his full weight. His bulk sweeps me up and smashes me against the stair rail, knocking the breath from my lungs. I have no time to react... He grabs me by the front of my shirt and sends me flying onto a low table. Pain explodes through my elbow joint. I am still suffocating, and I see him running toward me to crush me beneath his full weight. I bend my knees and meet him with the soles of my feet, using his own momentum to throw him backward. His mass is too much for my frail legs, and he tips to the side before collapsing onto the table, which finally gives way. He immediately begins thrashing frantically, dragging himself toward me. I roll in the opposite direction, let go of the broken umbrella, seize the poker in one hand, and start trying to stand. We are still on our knees when he lunges at me with one arm outstretched. I thrust the poker crosswise between us, but he grabs it and forces me backward. The pressure is irresistible, and I have no strength left to fight it. I bend inexorably... My arms and hips finally give way, and I collapse onto my back under the weight of the man, who presses harder and harder, intending to crush my throat with the iron bar. The cold touch of metal against my windpipe terrifies me. My heart is pounding wildly as I glimpse the inevitable end. In one last convulsion, I twist my head to the side, setting the muscles of my neck against the pressure, and through the prism of my tear-filled eyes I make out one of the broken legs of the low table. In a fraction of a second, I release all resistance. The poker bites into my flesh, nearly snapping my vertebrae. I seize the makeshift stake in my right hand and drive it straight into his throat, which bursts open in an uninterrupted torrent of blood. Eyes rolled back, mouth stretched wide, the man fumbles clumsily at the piece of wood, then collapses to the side with a gargling rattle.</div><div id="continuer">[[Continue->not_2_2_1]]</div> <<silently>><<smLoss D4>><<set $cible03 to $day + 1>><<set $v to 1>><<if $succ5 is 0>><<remember $succes to $succes + 1>><<remember $succ5 to 1>><</if>> <</silently>>
<div id="texte">The bruise left by the crushing pressure spreads across my neck like an ink stain on blotting paper, and countless bruises send corkscrews of pain through my joints so sharply that I move like a puppet whose puppeteer has had one drink too many. The man sprawled on the library floor continues bleeding out in such quantities that it is hard to believe the human body could ever contain so much. A good part of it has already soaked into my clothes and skin, so I begin climbing upstairs to raid the master of the house’s wardrobe for something to change into. Silence has settled again in the wake of the confrontation’s uproar, and I fear at every moment an unexpected intervention from the neighbors or the authorities. A quick glance through one of the windows overlooking the outside drives reassures me, and I judge that I may still have a good ten minutes of this quiet at my disposal. The clothes stored upstairs are cut to fit my attacker. It is indeed Edward Boone. Something drove this man into madness, something as insidious as the evil gnawing at me from within, and I fully intend to uncover its nature. I quickly bundle up my soiled clothes and sling them over my shoulder. Dressed in an outfit two sizes too large for me—I look like one of those young railwaymen who hang around the platforms in my neighborhood—I turn my attention to the study above the library, which can be reached either by the spiral staircase or from the landing outside the bedroom. Numerous files clutter his writing desk, but on the whole the room has escaped Edward’s frenzy. In a filing section relating to the notary office’s affairs, I eventually find a register concerning the Zemaria inheritance; and after spending far more time on it than should have been necessary, I finally begin to understand what kind of fraud our dear Edward Boone has been committing. The documents all have one thing in common: they concern family deaths leaving no surviving heir, with the estates then auctioned off on behalf of the state. Edward, however, takes the liberty of appropriating certain items for himself, depending on his interest in one property or another, all of it orchestrated with great precision. Skimming through his various acquisitions, I realize that Edward has developed a strange habit of collecting objects connected with magic and esotericism. The documents give the address of the Zemaria residence, which includes a laundry business, the //Spotless White//, at 4351 Washington Street, Roslindale. The fire that ravaged the house left very little behind, but Boone was able to set aside, for his own purposes, a book a book whose title was written in a strange script: “דער קולט פֿונעם גרענעץ-פֿיש” contained in a small safe that had survived the fury of the flames. Now that I know how to direct my search, I make a brief survey of the remaining rooms of the household. Finding nothing, I return once more to the library, where one exit remains to be explored: the uninviting one beyond the half-open door, where a rudimentary staircase descends into darkness, and from which rises a fetid odor—the one leading straight down into the foundations of the house...</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">Should I?</span> <div id="selection"> [[Go down to the cellar?->not_2_2_1_1]] <<if $vj neq 0>> <<set $act += 1>> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Flee as fast as I can?">><<goto "appart_j_1">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Flee as fast as I can?">><<goto "appart_j_2">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Flee as fast as I can?">><<goto "appart_j_3">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Flee as fast as I can?">><<goto "appart_j_4">><</link>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $vj is 0>> <<if $day is 1>> [[Flee as fast as I can? ->appart_n_1]] <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> [[Flee as fast as I can? ->appart_n_2]] <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> [[Flee as fast as I can? ->appart_n_3]] <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> [[Flee as fast as I can? ->appart_n_4]] <</if>> <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>><<if $spot is 0>><<set $spot to 1>><</if>><<set $news3 to 1>>
<div id="texte">The foul stench of rot saturates my senses, even my sense of taste. Carrying an oil lantern, I descend the last few steps and arrive in a vast, cluttered cellar. A whole jumble of crates and boxes has been piled to one side to clear a central space, marked out in a circle by candles set on the floor, while on the opposite side a wine rack stretches away into the darkness, from which comes the low drone of a swarm of flies. [img[data/media/img/cave.jpg]] Shoved carelessly against one of the walls, I make out the putrefied body of a woman, whose heart has clearly been torn from her chest, leaving behind a gaping, ragged opening. I lean against the vaulted wall, head bowed, trying for that instant to forget what I have just seen, when naturally my gaze falls upon it... How it seems to call to me, that book, resting in its velvet-lined case. That book bound in dark leather, its enamelled crimson glints weeping thousands of tears at the borders of its world. I lift it delicately and wrap it like a newborn pulled from its mother’s womb, then carry it away...</div> <<nobr>> <<if $vj neq 0>> <<if $day is 1>> <div id="continuer"><<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">><<audio "suspens_dark" fadeout>><</link>></div> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <div id="continuer"><<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">><<audio "suspens_dark" fadeout>><</link>></div> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <div id="continuer"><<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">><<audio "suspens_dark" fadeout>><</link>></div> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <div id="continuer"><<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">><<audio "suspens_dark" fadeout>><</link>></div> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $vj is 0>> <<if $day is 1>> <div id="continuer"><<link "Continue">><<goto "appart_n_1">><<audio "suspens_dark" fadeout>><</link>></div> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <div id="continuer"><<link "Continue">><<goto "appart_n_2">><<audio "suspens_dark" fadeout>><</link>></div> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <div id="continuer"><<link "Continue">><<goto "appart_n_3">><<audio "suspens_dark" fadeout>><</link>></div> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <div id="continuer"><<link "Continue">><<goto "appart_n_4">><<audio "suspens_dark" fadeout>><</link>></div> <</if>> <</if>> <<silently>> <<smLoss D10>> <<set $livre to 1>> <<invGain "livre">> <</silently>><<audio "suspens_dark" play>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">The piercing, vibrating sound of a locomotive on the verge of derailing drags me irrevocably out of this echo-dream. As my eyes adjust to a pestilential dampness, I recognize the sound of a boiler running short of fuel, the one in the basement of the Boone residence. Uncurling my body, I nearly slip on the blood spilled in abundance from Edward’s mangled carcass. It lies in shreds among what remains of his hooded robe. I prop myself up on one side and vomit in disgust, making the moribund atmosphere even fouler. Sobbing, I gulp down enough oxygen to recover some strength and finally manage to stand, with only one urgent thought: to flee this purgatory as quickly as possible. [img[data/media/img/cave.jpg]] Farther away, at last, in the morning light of a small cellar window, I make out the putrefied body of a woman, shoved carelessly against one of the cellar walls, her heart visibly torn from her chest, leaving behind a gaping, ragged opening. I lean against the vaulted wall, my head tilted toward the light, trying instantly to forget what I have just seen, when naturally my gaze falls upon it. How it seems to call to me, that book, resting on its velvet casket. That book bound in dark leather, its enamelled purple glints weeping thousands of tears at the borders of its world. I lift it delicately and wrap it like a newborn drawn from its mother’s womb, then carry it away.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">Should I?</span> <div id="selection"> <<link "Search the house">><<goto "not_3_1">><<audio "suspens_dark" fadeout>><</link>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home in this state">><<goto "appart_j_2">><<audio "suspens_dark" fadeout>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home in this state">><<goto "appart_j_3">><<audio "suspens_dark" fadeout>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home in this state">><<goto "appart_j_4">><<audio "suspens_dark" fadeout>><</link>> <</if>> </div> </div><<silently>><<smLoss D10>><</silently>><<set $reve to 0>><<set $livre to 1>><<invGain "livre">><<set $j to 0>><<set $vc += 1>> <<set $vj to 1>><<set $news3 to 1>> <<audio "suspens_dark" play>> <<if $day is 2>> <<script>>Save.slots.save(1, "Day2")<</script>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<script>>Save.slots.save(2, "Day3")<</script>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<script>>Save.slots.save(3, "Day4")<</script>> <</if>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">I start making my way quietly upstairs to raid the master of the house’s wardrobe for something to change into, fearing at every moment some chance intervention by the authorities. A quick glance through one of the windows overlooking the outside drives reassures me, and I judge that I may have this quiet at my disposal for a little while yet. The clothes stored upstairs are cut to fit the madman. Something drove this man into madness, something as insidious as the evil gnawing at me from within, and I fully intend to uncover its nature. I quickly bundle up my used clothes and sling them over my shoulder. Dressed in an outfit two sizes too large for me—I look like one of those young railwaymen who haunt the platforms in my neighborhood—I turn my attention to his study above the library, which can be reached either by the spiral staircase or from the landing outside the bedroom. Numerous files clutter his writing desk, but on the whole the room has largely escaped Edward’s frenzy. In a filing section relating to the notary office’s affairs, I eventually find a register assigned to the Zemaria inheritance; and after spending far more time on it than should have been necessary, I finally begin to understand what kind of fraud our dear Edward Boone has been committing. The documents all have one thing in common: they concern family deaths leaving no surviving heir, with the estates then auctioned off on behalf of the state. Edward, however, grants himself the liberty of private appropriation depending on his interest in one item or another, all of it orchestrated with great precision. Skimming through his various acquisitions, I realize that Edward has developed a strange habit of collecting objects connected with magic and esotericism. The documents give the address of the Zemaria residence, which includes a laundry business, the //Spotless White//, at 4351 Washington Street, Roslindale. The fire that ravaged the house left very little behind, but Boone had managed to set aside for himself the book with the singular script I found in the cellar, preserved in a small safe that had survived the fury of the flames. Now that I know how to direct my search, I make a brief survey of the remaining rooms of the household. Finding nothing, I return once more to the library. All that remains is for me to slip quietly back home.</div><<nobr>><<if $day is 2>><div id="continuer">[[Continue->appart_j_2]]</div><</if>><<if $day is 3>><div id="continuer">[[Continue->appart_j_3]]</div><</if>><<if $day is 4>><div id="continuer">[[Continue->appart_j_4]]</div><</if>><</nobr>> <<if $spot is 0>><<set $spot to 1>><</if>>
<div id="texte">My stomach knotted, I decide to forgo lunch and go directly to the Third Presbyterian Church on Fifth Avenue, where I wait for the ceremony to begin. The families arrive by degrees, few in number and properly clad in the customary black of mourning. Several people regard me with stern, superior expressions, as though weighing my reasons for attending such an event. <center><div style="width:300px">[img[data/media/img/alino_obs.jpg]]</div></center> I am deeply shaken to recognize this stranger, the master and slave of my dreams, at once made real and rendered absent in the likeness of an austere portrait, set in a copper-toned frame and presiding over the cherrywood coffin. Solemnly and in a state of feverish agitation, I attend the liturgy conducted by a young pastor, who intones one honeyed tribute after another to this impostor: a grand masquerade performed before an audience no less false. – Mr. Alinovitch Kovaleski, until his final hour, enjoyed the esteem and friendship of all who had the good fortune to know him. He devoted himself unstintingly to the good of those around him. I shall never forget the dedication with which, over these last years, he served as honorary president of our association. Nor shall I ever forget the faith and piety with which he fulfilled this great duty of the Christian life. Thus, whenever you come to this church, near which he will soon lie at rest, you will pray for the repose of his soul. You will remember the example he set before you and resolve to live for God alone, that He may be yours throughout eternity...</div><div id="continuer"><<if $jess_rit is 1 and $livre is 6>>[[Attend the laying-in->obsq_1_1]]<<else>>[[Attend the laying-in->obsq_1_2]]<</if>></div><<set $vj to 1>><<audio "ereth" play volume 0.6>><<set $act to 5>><<set $reve to 0>><<set $bloc to 1>><<script>>Save.slots.save(3, "Day4")<</script>><<bg "data/media/img/backgrounds/obseques.jpg" 30 50 30>>
<div id="texte">The funeral service ends with the rite of absolution, during which the congregation prays that our dearly departed may be cleansed of his sins. The pastor censes the coffin and sprinkles it with holy water, then invites us to accompany the remains in procession to Allegheny Cemetery. We pass through the Bloomfield district behind the funeral cortege, singing the //In Paradisum//. Around the open grave, a final moment of silence and prayerful reflection is observed. We then recite, in solemn chorus, the //Our Father// and the //Ave Maria//, both entirely unfamiliar to me, and I merely mouth the words. The coffin is slowly lowered into its lair as the pastor speaks his final words. – Friend, here your path among us comes to an end. But here we shall return to remember... His words dissolve into the current of my thoughts as I search for a fitting preamble to the conjuration of the Dybbuk. I approach the clergyman as he concludes his oration and manage to put my request to him. I tell him that I act at the behest of the deceased’s son Yanes, regrettably absent today, and present the rite as a symbolic expression of the Scandinavian folk culture from which Kovaleski hailed.</div><div id="continuer">[[Speak up->obsq_1_1_1]]</div><<set $vj to 1>>
<div id="texte">Under the questioning gaze of those assembled, I open the //Cult of the Threshold Fish// to the page marked by Jessica. I let each word settle into its rightful place within me, with the strange sensation that I am granting it passage. Around the open grave, the air seems to draw taut. The wind itself suspends its course, and my words bend reality almost imperceptibly, until the threshold can be felt. Alinovitch’s coffin lies there before me, between the prayers of the living and the patience of the earth. If this man was indeed my progenitor, then at this moment his remains are not merely those of a dead man: they are still an address written into my blood. And what haunts me may well recognize in that silent flesh a path older than I am... <<if $jess_rit is 1 and $livre is 6 and $t is 1 and $kov is 2 and (Number($sm) || 0) <= 45>>The words of the invocation pass through my chest like black water, and something behind the veil of reality begins to answer.<<else>>I continue my imprecation, but no outward sign yet bends the course of the world.<</if>></div> <div id="continuer"><<if $jess_rit is 1 and $livre is 6 and $t is 1 and $kov is 2 and (Number($sm) || 0) <= 45>><<link "Bind the Threshold Fish's breach to the flesh">><<goto "echo_cumail">><<audio "ereth" stop>><</link>><<elseif $oval >= 2>><<link "Finish my imprecation">><<goto "obsq_1_3_1">><</link>><<else>><<link "Finish my imprecation">><<goto "obsq_1_3">><</link>><</if>></div>
<div id="texte">The funeral service ends with the rite of absolution, during which the congregation prays that our dearly departed may be cleansed of his sins. The pastor censes the coffin and sprinkles it with holy water, then invites us to accompany the remains in procession to Allegheny Cemetery. We pass through the Bloomfield district behind the funeral cortege, singing the //In Paradisum//. Around the open grave, a final moment of silence and prayerful reflection is observed. We then recite, in solemn chorus, the //Our Father// and the //Ave Maria//, both entirely unfamiliar to me, and I merely mouth the words. The coffin is slowly lowered into its lair as the pastor speaks his final words. Finally, those who wish are invited to cast a flower into the grave, and the mourners disperse in small groups toward the cemetery exit. As I wonder how to pursue my investigation in Pittsburgh, I am approached by a tall white man encased in a close-fitting butler’s uniform. – Sir, would you kindly follow me? he says in a cavernous voice.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I decide to:</span> <div id="selection"> [[Follow the butler->obsq_2]] [[Set off in search of a hotel->obsq_3]] </div> </div><</nobr>> <<set $vj to 1>>
<div id="texte">At the knell of my final words, the wind dies at once, leaving a heavy silence. Every accusing gaze fixed upon me seems to command me to put an end to this buffoonery. I am on the verge of complying when, still hesitant, I absently run my fingers over Orane’s medallion.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I decide to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<link "Keep the locket">><<goto "obsq_1_3_1">><</link>> <<link "Throw the locket away">><<set $oval to 4>><<invSee "pendentif">><<goto "obsq_1_3_1">><</link>> </div> </div><</nobr>>
<div id="texte">At last I take a step backward, as though to fade from view. The assembled jurors prepare to deliver their verdict, whispering among themselves about how best to condemn my conduct. Fortunately, the pastor quickly invites those who wish to cast a flower into the grave to come forward in single file. I seize the moment to make my retreat toward the cemetery exit. As I wonder how to pursue my investigation in Pittsburgh, a tall white man, buttoned stiffly into a close-fitting butler’s uniform, addresses me: – Sir, would you kindly follow me? he says in a cavernous voice.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I decide to:</span> <div id="selection"> [[Follow the butler->obsq_2]] [[Set off in search of a hotel->obsq_3]] </div> </div><</nobr>>
<div id="texte">The man strides with a haughty bearing toward a splendid navy-blue Hotchkiss limousine parked nearby, a broad-brimmed silhouette seated inside. With a pinched bow, the butler opens the rear door and invites me to enter. I take a moment to study the old man waiting for me, then climb into the vehicle, ill at ease amid such lavish opulence. – I am an observant man, despite my advanced age. Observe, assess, arrange... he sighs in a heavy Eastern European accent. What brings you to pay your respects to Alin Alinovitch? Beneath the band of shadow, I make out a patrician face scored by deep vertical furrows. His two pearl-like eyes, flashing like diamonds, pierce me to the core. <<if $kov is 2>>– I... I have strong reason to believe that this man is my father <<else>>– I... I have dreamed of this man, though I do not know him<</if>>, I finally stammer. As the car jolts into motion, he lifts his furrowed head and says with a grimace: <<if $kov is 2>>– Alin Alinovitch was father to many a lost sheep. <<else>>– Alin Alinovitch is rather the sort of man one has nightmares about. <</if>>Who are you, young man?</div><div id="continuer">[[Make the introductions->obsq_2_1]]</div>
<div id="texte">– My name is Maximilien Cornwell, son of Alanna Connellan. He narrows his eyes, his gaze fixed on the road slipping past, as though trying to seize a wandering thought from the scenery of his life. – Alanna was a whore at the Bagrovyy, he recalls. She tried the stage several times, but she had no talent. In the arts of the cunt, though, no beauty could rival her. – Careful... you are speaking of my mother, I cut in, embarrassed. – Well, your mother was a whore, boy, and the finest mare in his stable. She ran off carrying his child and broke poor Alin’s heart. – Was it in 1905? – Alin Alinovitch landed in the United States in 1901. Yes, she left us in 1905. Four years later his one true heir was born, Yanes Alinovitch Kovaleski. But I have no doubt he fathered many other bastards. Alin loved women above all else... – Speaking of women, did he ever have dealings with three sisters, Igal, Gaddiel, or Amassia Zemaria? – Those names mean nothing to me. – Were you yourself close to Mr. Kovaleski? You have not introduced yourself. – I am Alin Alinovitch Kovaleski’s attorney and business partner, Pyotr Stasovitch Dolgorukov. We met on business shortly after his arrival in New York. What have you come looking for here, Cornwell? – I am tempted to turn the question back on you. What do you want from me, Mr. Dolgorukov?</div><div id="continuer">[[Carry on the conversation->obsq_2_1_1]]</div>
<div id="texte">– I am not a man to be trifled with, Cornwell, he replies acidly. Let us lay our cards on the table. You appear on the day of his funeral, seem to be laying claim to his estate, and his son has been missing for several days. What am I to think? – That it is an unfortunate coincidence, I retort, slightly wrong-footed. To be honest, I am afflicted by an illness that eats away at me from within. It seems to take root in dreams that have recurred since the beginning of the week, which coincides with Mr. Kovaleski’s death. Those dreams contain a measure of truth, for they led me here to speak with you. Before this, I knew neither of his existence nor of the Bagrovyy. I am lost. I am searching for answers, and deep down I know my time is running short as well. His expression seems to absorb the passing landscape as sunlight dries the dew. – He too was troubled by dreams before his death, he continues. He told me of a monster pursuing him. I believe he called it the Dybbuk. – Yes, the Dybbuk, that is it. It has appeared in my dreams as well. It is the evil afflicting me. What did he tell you about it? My heart begins to race at the sound of that name. – Nothing else. He remained rather vague. He was not a man to share his troubles. As for me, I concern myself with the tangible matters of life. – Then tell me something of his history. Perhaps I can find a lead in it, or at least understand what is happening to me. – This will be quid pro quo, Maximilien. Then you vanish as you appeared. I want no more word of you, nor of any supposed tie to the Kovaleski family. Is that understood?</div><div id="continuer">[[Listen to Dolgorukov’s account->obsq_2_1_1_1]]</div>
<div id="texte">Alin Alinovitch Kovaleski, son of Alin Dmitriovitch Kovaleski, fled the unrest beginning to undermine the authority of Nicholas II of Russia and became a naturalized American at the beginning of the century. A staunch supporter of the regime and a member of the Tsarist police under Alexander III, he took part in the Kiev pogroms of 1881 and amassed from the plunder of Jews the nest egg that allowed him to settle in Pittsburgh. His first investment was a declining brothel, which he christened //Bagrovyy// after the color of his own lust. He then expanded rapidly into gambling and liquor, building his little empire. Intransigent and merciless toward his opponents, he gradually won the respect of his community through violence. His only son, Yanes, has been missing since Monday. Pyotr fears he has been abducted by one of the local underworld families, waiting like hyenas to seize the Kovaleski businesses. Pyotr signals to his chauffeur, who draws the limousine up before a luxurious downtown hotel. – When do you intend to leave, Cornwell? the attorney asks me. – Tomorrow morning. You will hear no more of me, Mr. Dolgorukov. – Excellent. I am certain Alin would have wished Alanna’s son to spend the night somewhere decent. Mikhail will see that you are treated well here. Goodbye, Maximilien. – A touching gesture, Mr. Dolgorukov. Thank you, and farewell.</div><div id="continuer">[[Make the most of the hotel->obsq_3_1]]</div><<set $obsq to 2>><<set $hist += 1>>
<div id="texte">It takes me a long time to find an inexpensive hotel. I can afford a room only at a seedy establishment on the outskirts of Pittsburgh. My surroundings are noisy, and my disappointment profound. I am far from convinced that this excursion has served any purpose. Considering the expense and the time ultimately wasted, I had expected a far more conclusive result. Then there is the ever-growing, disquieting impression that I am being watched wherever I go. My return ticket to Boston lists a departure on Sunday morning. Will there even be a Sunday? “Ticktock, ticktock,” sounds that damned clock fixed to the wall. Drop by drop, my soul drains into its clepsydra, as though replaying the snapshots of this final day... It is with this thought that sleep finally finds me late that evening.</div> <<nobr>> <<if $oval is 2 and $ecri is 1>> <div id="medaillon_nuit"> <<link "Put the locket around my neck">> <<set $oval to 3>> <<run $("#medaillon_nuit").remove()>> <<run setup.dream.refreshSleepLink()>> <</link>> </div> <<script>> $("#medaillon_nuit a").addClass("macro-map"); <</script>> <</if>> <<sleepLink "c_5" "continuer">> <<set $vj to 0>><<timed 30s>><<audio "tictac" play>><</timed>><</nobr>>
<div id="texte">Thanks to the attorney’s generosity, I am received with great ceremony by the staff of this sumptuous establishment. I luxuriate in the foaming water of a bathtub set upon gilded feet before going downstairs to dine in the restaurant. Never have I known such opulence, and I savor every moment. Even so, I remain unconvinced that this excursion has served any real purpose. I had expected a more conclusive result. The information gleaned about Alinovitch nevertheless allows me to draw broad connections with my research in Boston and to glimpse the terrible past binding the Zemarias to the Kovaleskis, <<if $kov is 2>>a legacy to which I am heir.<<else>>a legacy of which I may be one of several heirs.<</if>> Back in the suite, amid its silk sheets, I take care to check the departure time on my ticket before going to bed. “Ticktock, ticktock,” goes the clock in the sitting room. Drop by drop, my soul drains through its clepsydra, as though lingering over the snapshots of the day now past... With that thought, sleep finally finds me late that evening.</div> <<nobr>><<if $oval is 2 and $ecri is 1>> <div id="medaillon_nuit"> <<link "Put the locket around my neck">> <<set $oval to 3>> <<run $("#medaillon_nuit").remove()>> <<run setup.dream.refreshSleepLink()>> <</link>> </div> <<script>> $("#medaillon_nuit a").addClass("macro-map"); <</script>> <</if>> <<sleepLink "c_5" "continuer">> <<set $vj to 0>><<smGain D6>><<timed 30s>><<audio "tictac" play>><</timed>><</nobr>>
<div id="invent_img">[img[data/media/img/inventaire/medaillon.png]]</div> <<nobr>> <center> <<if $oval is 2>> <div id="on"> <<button "Wear the locket">> <<set $oval to 3>> <<replace "#on">> The locket is worn around my neck. <</replace>> <<run setup.dream.refreshSleepLink()>> <</button>> </div> <</if>> <<if $oval is 3>> <div id="on"> <<button "Take off the locket">> <<set $oval to 2>> <<script>> $(".cumail").hide(); clearInterval(window._cumailHeaderTimer); <</script>> <<replace "#on">> <<button "Wear the locket">> <<set $oval to 3>> <<replace "#on">> The locket is worn around my neck. <</replace>> <</button>> <</replace>> <<run setup.dream.refreshSleepLink()>> <</button>> </div> <</if>> </center> <<invSee "pendentif">> <</nobr>>
<<nobr>> <<if $y is 0>><<audio ":all" stop>><<audio "oogr" play>> <<smLoss D10>> <div id="textepop"> The contents of this manuscript—its calligraphy, sketches, diagrams, and annotations—draw me in completely. Though I can neither read nor understand this language, images force themselves upon me, violent and tormented, while a lament rises up and invades the whole space of my being. My eyes widen. I cannot stop myself from poring over every winding turn of these lines, until suddenly a sheet comes loose and slips to the floor, tearing me free of the haunting spell. One page stands apart from the others, made of some kind of partly translucent skin and covered in strange esoteric symbols. I close the book and pick up the sheet. </div> <div style="max-width:500px">[img[data/media/img/inventaire/parchemin.png]]</div> <<set $y to 1>><<invGainSeen "parchemin">> <<else>> <div style="max-width:600px">[img[data/media/img/inventaire/parchemin.png]]</div> <</if>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">South Station lies only a few blocks from my lodgings, between Atlantic Avenue and Summer Street, and I reach it quickly on foot. Though some thirty years old, the station has a distinctly modern appearance. Its Neoclassical Revival architecture draws on the style of H. H. Richardson, best known for designing Trinity Church. Three large double doors open onto Dewey Square, with an imposing statue of an eagle poised above the clock. Inside, a mosaic floor of marble, polished granite, and glazed brick leads me to the ticket window. The train journey to Pittsburgh promises to be a tedious one. I shall first have to take a Northeast Regional train to Philadelphia, then change trains to complete the sixteen-hour journey. If I am to reach the funeral in time, the schedules leave me little choice. I must take the 7:30 p.m. departure and arrive at 11:45 tomorrow morning, which should leave me enough time for luncheon and to make my way to the Third Presbyterian Church on Fifth Avenue. The real difficulty is the quoted round-trip fare, even in the cheapest accommodations. It will consume every penny of the savings I have left, and I shall likely be unable to pay next month’s rent. I could always come to some arrangement with Martha, but I wonder whether it is truly worth all this trouble...</div><<nobr>> <div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I choose:</span> <div id="selection"> [[To give up this journey->appart_n_3]] [[To travel to Pittsburgh->pits_1]] </div> </div><</nobr>>
<div id="texte">I board at 7:10 p.m. I make my way through the car in search of my berth beneath the almost accusatory gaze of the Black passengers, who make up the entire company of travelers in this section of the train. Deeply conscious that I do not belong, I settle into a compartment where a young Black man is already busy with two large suitcases. Fortunately, he soon puts me at ease with a few well-aimed quips that cannot help but make me laugh. He generously invites me to share a frugal meal, and we converse for part of the evening. Late that night, I withdraw into William James’s //Psychology//. Rocked by the jolts of the train over the uneven track, I fall asleep before our stop in Philadelphia.</div> <div id="continuer">[[Let myself be carried->c_4_rp]]</div> <<set $bloc to 1>>
<div id="texte"><p id="letter">I hear a groan like that of a man in mortal agony. It is not mine, though for an instant I doubt it. Every muscle in my outstretched arms drawn taut, I crush and grind beneath my hands a mass of muscle and cartilage looming over me. The bulging eyes of this edifice of dark flesh roll wildly, searching for an impossible escape. Its mouth labors to form the words: “Let me go! Let me go! Help...” At that instant, I come to myself and release the man from my grip. He springs into the opposite corner of the compartment, dragging in a deep, rasping breath. – I... I am sorry... I stammer. Still in shock and never taking his eyes off me, he snatches up the handles of his suitcases and drags them into the corridor. The train has stopped. I raise the window shade, revealing the teeming activity of a station. We have reached the first stop on my journey. I barely have time to gather my wits and belongings before plunging into the crowd in search of my connecting train.</p></div><<nobr>><div id="continuer"> <<if $jess_rit is 1>> [[Continue->c_4_rp_2]] <<else>> [[Continue->pits_2_1]] <</if>><<set $reve to 0>><<audio "jour" play>><<saltWake>> </div><<smLoss D3>><</nobr>>
<div id="texte">Lines of people crowd the approaches to the platforms, and in a daze I cross this human tide until I finally reach my connecting train. It is already there. A large family blocks the entrance to my car and takes an eternity to get themselves organized enough to board. I wait as patiently as I can, then resign myself to finding a seat rather than taking the berth reserved for me. Deeply shaken by the earlier episode, I resist the lure of sleep with all my strength. The struggle seems to last an eternity, and several times I am forced to walk the length of the train to clear my mind. I try, without much success, to strike up conversations with a few solitary night travelers and spend most of the time lost in the winding channels of my thoughts.</div> <<timed 28s>><div id="texte"><<if $n is 0 and $y is 1>><<canvasfx "data/script/js/flash_eso.js" "FlashEso">>After I know not how many spells of absence, my gaze falls upon my notebook. One page is black with a tangle of nervous signs, traced by a hand I have no memory of letting run across the page.<<set $n to 1>><<invGain "dessins_auto">><</if>> By late morning, the train pulls into Pittsburgh station.</div><div id="continuer">[[Make my way to the funeral->obsq_1]]</div> <<set $day to 4>><<set $vj to 1>><</timed>>
<span id="texte">– //Stay in line!// – the thought flashes through me like a survival reflex. Lines of people crowd the approaches to the platforms. I must cross this thunderous tide, a frail skiff... to reach my connecting train at last. – //But that man is following me, I swear// – the train is there. A large family blocks the entrance to my car. – //I saw him before I boarded in Boston// – the family takes an eternity to get itself organized and climb aboard. My temples throb, and vertigo begins to take hold. – //At last...// – I climb the few steps. – //Where is he? I cannot see him anymore...// – the train whistles its departure. – //What a headache...// – I reel...</span> <<timed 30s>><<replace "#texte">><span class="flou">– //Stay in// </span>//line//<span class="flou">!// – the thought flashes through me like a survival reflex. </span>Lines<span class="flou"> of people crowd the approaches to the platforms. I </span>must<span class="flou"> cross this thunderous tide, a frail skiff... </span>to<span class="flou"> reach my connecting train at last. – //But that man is following me, I swear// – the train is there. A large family blocks the entrance to my car. – //I saw// </span>//him//<span class="flou"> //before I boarded in Boston// – the family takes an </span>eternity<span class="flou"> to get itself organized and climb aboard. My temples throb, and vertigo begins to take hold. – //At last...// – I climb the few steps. – //Where is he? I cannot see him anymore...// – the train whistles its departure. – //What a headache...// – I reel...</span><</replace>><</timed>><div id="continuer">[[Sink into sleep->c_4_rp_3]]</div><<set $reve to 0>><<audio "phase01" stop>><<audio "phase02" play loop>>
<div style="max-width:49%;float:left"><div id="texte" class="melange">The effluvium of his treacherous soul befouls his path, leaving a tangible trail of stench. By the Master’s grace, I follow the scent of his agony to the very extinction of his being, exulting at the thought of spilling his steaming entrails. I cannot lose him. – //You are mine// –</div><div id="continuer">[[Draw closer->c_4_rp_4]]</div></div><div id="mirror"><div class="melange">The effluvium of his treacherous soul befouls his path, leaving a tangible trail of stench. By the Master’s grace, I follow the scent of his agony to the very extinction of his being, exulting at the thought of spilling his steaming entrails. I cannot lose him. – //You are mine// –</div><div id="continuer">[[Hold on->pits_3]]</div></div> <<set $reve to 0>><<audio "phase01" stop>><<audio "phase03" play loop>>
<div style="max-width:49%;float:left"><div id="texte" class="melange">He writhes in his berth, poor creature, vulnerable and given over to the Master’s sleep. My prey. Rage and hatred warp my body in exquisite pain. My claws tear free of their sheaths of flesh, my phalanges burst, and I hurl myself upon him to rend him to shreds, becoming at once actor and spectator in my own death...</div><div id="continuer"><<link "Slaughter">><<goto "fin_reve">><<audio "phase03" fadeout>><</link>></div></div><div id="mirror"><div class="melange">He writhes in his berth, poor creature, vulnerable and given over to the Master’s sleep. My prey. Rage and hatred warp my body in exquisite pain. My claws tear free of their sheaths of flesh, my phalanges burst, and I hurl myself upon him to rend him to shreds, becoming at once actor and spectator in my own death...</div><div id="continuer">[[Manifest->pits_3]]</div></div> <<set $reve to 0>><<audio "phase04" stop>><<audio "phase03" play>>
<div id="texte" class="tonitruant">—//NO!//— Driven by a visceral impulse, I roll aside and tumble from the bunk just as the claws puncture the mattress. I saw it coming... The hard, brutal impact jolts me like a thunderclap. I gather my sprawled limbs beneath me in a single bound and press myself against the window. At that moment, I see it pivot toward me. The thing is a kind of human remnant, spindly yet corded with muscle, its arms ending in razor-sharp talons. [img[data/media/img/ogre_pitts.jpg]] Its long, filthy hair clings to its skin, and in the crimson gleam of its eyes and the chiseled planes of its face, I recognize features all too familiar. <<if $yan is 1>>Those of Yanes, the gravedigger of my dreams, that hateful accomplice.<</if>><<if ($yan is 2 or $yan is 3)>>Those of Alinovitch Kovaleski’s son, Yanes, wasted and drawn.<</if>><<if $yan is 4>>Those of the man who can be none other than my own brother, Yanes...<</if>> It faces me now, every sinew taut, blocking the compartment’s only exit, poised to spring at me in a single bound. In a flash, I take stock of everything within reach that might help me bring it down. Whatever happens now, confrontation is inevitable... <span id="on"></span><div id="continuer">[[Fight to the death->pits_4]]</div><<audio ":all" stop>><<timed 20s>><<audio "strange" play>><</timed>><<audio "jour" play>><<saltWake>></div>
<div id="texte">Nothing... I see nothing around me that I might use against it. It gives me a predatory smile, and as I recall the condition in which the Ogre’s victims were found, terror grips me so completely that every joint locks. Its arms spread and its clawed fingers extend. I cannot even utter a sound. In that instant, I know it is over. //I do not want to suffer. My God, please, do not let me suffer.// It coils in upon itself and hurtles straight at me with superhuman speed. I have no time to flinch. Its blade-like claws drive into my chest with such force that it carries me through the train window, bearing me away forever into the ink-black night...</div><<set $reve to 1>> <<timed 27s>><<replace "#texte">><div id="texte" style="font-size:105%;">NO. It coils in upon itself and springs like an arrow. At the same instant, I duck. It smashes through the window and vanishes into the night with a bestial groan. I saw it coming... I cannot explain it, but in that brief, frozen instant, it was as though I had become him and knew precisely what to do. I remain for a moment lost in thought before the shattered frame, blasted by the wind of the train hurtling at full speed. A few curious passengers eventually appear, and later I account for the broken window to the staff by claiming that I mishandled the shade. By late morning, the train pulls into Pittsburgh station. I plunge into the city with renewed confidence.</div><<timed 20s>><div id="continuer">[[[Make my way to the funeral->obsq_1]]</div><</timed>><<set $day to 4>><<set $vj to 1>><<set $reve to 0>><</replace>><</timed>><<smLoss D4>>
<div id="texte">I seize the pouch of salt, thrust my hand inside, and fling a full handful at the loathsome creature! The reaction is instantaneous: its skin erupts as though drenched in the most corrosive acid. With a howl of rage and pain, the humanoid spins about, laying waste to everything in its path. I flatten myself against the glass to avoid its wild blows, and my hand finds the handle. I pull the window down in one motion. A violent wind tears into the compartment. Without thinking, I thrust my head outside, spot the running board, and climb through the window to cling to the outside of the car. Step by step, with the train hurtling at full speed, I begin working my way toward the nearest exit. The creature bursts out when I have barely covered a few yards. It bounds after me in a succession of leaps, one arm hanging limp. Twice I narrowly avoid slamming into the trackside signal lights. The door is not far now; the reassuring light from within the car spills through it like the Holy Grail itself. //One more effort, Max.// But it is too late. The Ogre crashes into me and locks its remaining arm around me. Like a constrictor, it twists around me and pins me fast. I choke, and my strength deserts me. I feel my arms begin to give way. I am about to lose my grip, and the monster cares nothing for it... the brothel’s red light!</div><div id="continuer">[[Count to six->pits_4_1_1]]</div>
<div id="texte">My fear suddenly turns to visceral rage as I slam my forehead against the beast’s brow and stare it down one last time. I count one, two, three... red. This oozing caricature of a human being, a debasing mirror of the evil gnawing at me. Time and space freeze, narrowing in a nervous contraction until they converge upon a single point. Four, five, six and... red! <<if $oval >= 2>>I feel the medallion thrum with an ancient and unwholesome energy, filling me with the ecstasy of this singular instant.<</if>> I bend my knees, grip the ledge, and push with all my strength, straightening my arms. The misshapen creature’s bulk smashes into the next trackside signal at more than eighty miles per hour. And red floods over us. I reach the doorway between the two cars alone. The Ogre has been extinguished in the ink-black night, while the steam engine runs on. I keep out of sight for the rest of the journey, avoiding the staff until we arrive in Pittsburgh. By late morning, I plunge into the industrial city.</div><div id="continuer">[[Make my way to the funeral->obsq_1]]</div> <<set $day to 4>><<set $vj to 1>><<set $z to 2>><<if $yan is 4 and $succ7 is 0>><<remember $succes to $succes + 1>><<remember $succ7 to 1>><</if>><<smGain D10>>
<div id="texte">Resigned, I make my way to 121 W Broadway, home to the South Boston district police station. After an interminable wait, I am led to the far end of an upstairs office, where four plainclothes detectives await me. They stand around me, save for one who sits on the edge of a table and takes it upon himself to conduct my interrogation. I quickly understand what they are driving at. The butcher who intervened during my altercation with the three boys has testified to our exchange. They are attempting to connect that assault with the murders committed later that evening. I tell them of my spell of illness that afternoon and do my utmost to establish myself as the victim, invoking the dubious coincidence that has placed me in such a compromising position. <<if $telm is 0>>Unfortunately for me, Martha has reported that I returned the morning after the tragedy, injured and with unmistakable traces of blood on my suit. <<set $vc += 1>>I am caught off guard and feel the vise of guilt tightening inexorably. Nevertheless, I manage to spin a story calculated to exonerate me. <<elseif $telm is 2>>Moreover, Telma has told them that she spent part of the night at the boardinghouse tending to me while I shivered with fever. <<if $e neq 0>>Dr. Bergmann, who attended me the following day, can confirm my illness.<</if>> This confirms the depth of Telma’s trust in me and rescues me from a most painful predicament.<<set $vc -= 2>> <<elseif $telm is 3>>Yet I am left defenseless when he confronts me with the testimony of Telma and her mother, Martha. Having noted aggressive behavior on my part of late, they swear that they saw me return that morning, my suit sticky and covered in bloodstains.<<set $vc += 2>> The vise of guilt tightens inexorably around me as I remain silent, lost amid the chaos of my thoughts.<</if>><<set $act -= 1>> <center><<button "Continue">> <<if $telm is 1>><<set $vc += 1>><</if>> <<replace "#texte">> <<if $victime1 neq 0 and $victime1 neq "Alanna Cornwell">>Finally, they question me about my dealings with $victime1, who was murdered last night under similar circumstances. I appear deeply shocked and clumsily attempt to explain my relationship with the victim as best I can.<<set $vc += 1>><</if>> The interrogation continues with insistent, repeated questions about my habits, my acquaintances, my neighborhood, and my daily schedule. They seek to dissect every aspect of my daily life and wear me down until a few sobs escape me. <center><<button "Continue">> <<replace "#texte">> <<if $vc < 3>>At last they release me, on the strict condition that I not leave Boston under any circumstances until their investigation is complete. I emerge from the interview dazed, privately convinced that I have far less time than I had thought. <<nobr>> <div id="continuer"> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">><</link>> <</if>> </div> <</nobr>> <<else>><<goto "arrestation_2">><</if>> <</replace>> <</button>></center> <</replace>> <</button>></center> <<set $police to 2>><<set $k to 2>></div>
<div id="texte">They knew they would catch me at home. No sooner have I set foot on the landing than they pounce on their prey. How long had they been lying in wait, hidden in the recesses of the property? Long enough for their patience to wear thin and for them to take their pent-up hostility out on me. Surrounded, threatened, then pinned to the ground, I exercise my right to remain silent, gripped by fear. They bundle me into a police van bound for police headquarters. [img[data/media/img/police.jpg]] From their remarks, I understand that they have enough witness testimony and evidence to pin the murders committed by the South Boston Ogre on me, and that they mean to subject me to the treatment and punishment such a monster deserves.</div><<set $act -= 2>> <div id="continuer">[[Answer for my actions->poli_1_1]]</div> <<nobr>> <<set $vc to 0>> <<set $reve to 1>> <<set $test_interro to 0>> <<audio "badtime" stop>> <<audio "badtime" play volume 0.5>> <</nobr>>
<<nobr>><div id="texte">What follows is an interrogation conducted by vindictive shadows beneath a punishing light trained on me:</div> <<if $cible00 is 1>> <div class="intero"> <div class="inter_titre">The massacre on the night of September 7.</div> The three street boys. <div id="jour0" class="inter"> <div class="inter_texte"> <<if $police is 1>>“You failed to report as summoned to the South Boston police station. A butcher can testify to your altercation with the three victims on the afternoon before their deaths.” <<else>> <<if $telm is 2>>“Your alibi involving Telma Krieger will not hold up against all the evidence linking you to the other murders.”<<else>>“According to your landlady, you returned home the following morning bearing traces of blood.”<</if>> <</if>> </div> <<if $police is 1>> <<link "– I am not the Ogre you are looking for. I failed to appear because I was gathering evidence of my innocence. Someone is trying to frame me.">><<script>>$('#jour0').hide();interro();<</script>><<set $vc += 1>> <</link>> <<else>> <<link "– I have nothing further to add. I am entitled to an attorney.">><<script>>$('#jour0').hide();interro();<</script>> <</link>> <</if>> </div> </div> <<else>> <<script>>interro();<</script>> <</if>> <<if $victime1 neq 0>> <div class="intero"> <div class="inter_titre">The massacre on the night of September 8. </div> <<if $victime1 is "James Wright">> James Wright, professor at Boston University. <div id="jour1" class="inter"> <div class="inter_texte">“You behaved aggressively in response to the professor’s verbal attacks on Wednesday afternoon. The students present can testify to the threats you made against him.” </div> <<if $e is 1>> <<link "– It is merely a coincidence. According to Dr. Bergmann, I was suffering from severe nervous agitation brought on by repeated sleepless nights and the pressure of the new academic year.">><<script>>$('#jour1').hide();interro();<</script>> <</link>> <</if>> <<link "– I reacted that way because Mr. Wright had had it in for me since the first day of classes and would have been only too pleased to make me his scapegoat for the rest of the year.">><<script>>$('#jour1').hide();interro();<</script>><<set $vc += 1>> <</link>> </div> <</if>> <<if $victime1 is "Ervin Templeton">> Ervin Templeton, gravedigger at Baker Street Cemetery. <div id="jour1" class="inter"> <div class="inter_texte">“You verbally and physically assaulted Mr. Templeton. Margarette Lawson, who was visiting at the time, witnessed the incident.” </div> <<link "– I allowed myself to be provoked by the old man, who treated me with the utmost disrespect when I was merely asking him for information.">><<script>>$('#jour1').hide();interro();<</script>><<set $vc += 1>> <</link>> <<link "– That man and his colleague abducted me the previous night and tried to bury me alive. That is why I returned home the following morning in such a wretched state.">><<script>>$('#jour1').hide();interro();<</script>><<set $vc += 1>> <</link>> </div> <</if>> <<if $victime1 is "Edward Boone">> Edward Boone, attorney in West Roxbury. <div id="jour1" class="inter"> <div class="inter_texte">“According to his secretary, you recently came to his law office and obtained his home address. <<if $livre neq 0>>Neighbors saw a young man matching your description stagger out of the house.<</if>>” </div> <<if $livre neq 0>> <<link "– He had killed his wife by tearing out her heart! He had lured me into a trap to sacrifice me to some sort of diabolical cult. I managed to escape when a fight broke out between him and his accomplice, the real Ogre you are looking for.">><<script>>$('#jour1').hide();interro();<</script>> <</link>> <</if>> <<link "– I went there to question him and learn who was behind my abduction at Baker Street Cemetery and the attempt to bury me there the previous night. He was already dead when I arrived. I panicked and fled.">><<script>>$('#jour1').hide();interro();<</script>><<set $vc += 1>> <</link>> </div> <</if>> <<if $victime1 is "Anton Redfield">> Anton Redfield, security officer at the Cocoanut Grove. <div id="jour1" class="inter"> <div class="inter_texte">“Several patrons, as well as his colleague, can testify to the scene you caused and your ejection from the establishment that evening.” </div> <<link "– I was drugged against my will, probably by a jealous man who belonged to a group I had been invited to join. They are the ones you should question. I remember nothing...">><<script>>$('#jour1').hide();interro();<</script>><<set $vc += 1>> <</link>> <<if $yan is 3>> <<link "– I had gone to ask around about a Pittsburgh brothel, the Bagrovyy. <<if $bag_tel is 1>>The owner died at the beginning of the week. His son Yanes, heir to the business, has since disappeared.<</if>> Yanes Kovaleski was responsible for my abduction at the cemetery, and I was trying to pick up his trail. Anton, the man who gave me the information, must have crossed someone. I had nothing to do with it.">><<script>>$('#jour1').hide();interro();<</script>> <</link>> <</if>> </div> <</if>> <<if $victime1 is "Yiggael">> Yiggael and Levy, rabbis at Temple Adath Jeshurun. <div id="jour1" class="inter"> <div class="inter_texte">“An appointment under the name Cornwell Maximilien had been scheduled with the victims on the evening of their murder for the performance of an exorcism. The synagogue office provided us with this information.” </div> <<if $livre is 4>> <<link "– I spoke privately with Rabbi Yiggael. I gave him a book belonging to a diabolical cult. I believe they wanted it back. The Ogre is part of that sect and reenacts sacrificial rites in the name of its beliefs. The synagogue office must also have kept a record of my delivering the book to Yiggael.">><<script>>$('#jour1').hide();interro();<</script>> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $telm neq 2>> <<link "– Yiggael had become my confidant. He had offered to cure my anxiety by performing this exorcism. I went there and lost consciousness during the ritual. When I awoke, they were dead. I fled for fear that I would be implicated, but I did nothing. I could never have done such a thing.">><<script>>$('#jour1').hide();interro();<</script>><<set $vc += 1>> <</link>> <<else>> <<link "– I never attended the session. I grew frightened. It is not my religion. Telma, my landlady’s daughter, can testify on my behalf. I spent the evening with her.">><<script>>$('#jour1').hide();interro();<</script>> <</link>> <</if>> </div> <</if>> <<if $victime1 is "Jessica Mendhil">> Jessica Mendhil, clairvoyant and medium. <div id="jour1" class="inter"> <div class="inter_texte">“The workers at the Spotless White construction site saw you loitering in the area and visiting the fortune-teller.” </div> <<if $yan < 3>> <<link "– Yes, and I was there on the night of the murder. I had an appointment for a reading. When I arrived, Jessica was struggling with the killer, the Ogre. I managed to escape him. I am not proud of it, but if you question the people who had gathered there, they will certainly testify that they saw two people leave the scene one after the other. I was the first.">><<script>>$('#jour1').hide();interro();<</script>><<set $vc += 1>> <</link>> <<else>> <<link "– Yes, and I was there on the night of the murder. I even managed to identify your Ogre: Yanes Kovaleski, son of Alinovitch Kovaleski, owner of the Bagrovyy in Pittsburgh. I did not come to you because I feared reprisals. I am convinced they are part of the underworld.">><<script>>$('#jour1').hide();interro();<</script>> <</link>> <</if>> </div> <</if>> </div> <<else>> <<script>>interro();<</script>> <</if>> <<if $victime2 neq 0>> <div class="intero"> <div class="inter_titre">The massacre on the night of September 9. </div> <<if $victime2 is "James Wright">> James Wright, professor at Boston University. <div id="jour2" class="inter"> <div class="inter_texte">“You behaved aggressively in response to the professor’s verbal attacks on Thursday afternoon. The students present can testify to the threats you made against him.” </div> <<if $e is 1>> <<link "– It is merely a coincidence. According to Dr. Bergmann, I was suffering from severe nervous agitation brought on by repeated sleepless nights and the pressure of the new academic year.">><<script>>$('#jour2').hide();interro();<</script>> <</link>> <</if>> <<link "– I reacted that way because Mr. Wright had had it in for me since the first day of classes and would have been only too pleased to make me his scapegoat for the rest of the year.">><<script>>$('#jour2').hide();interro();<</script>><<set $vc += 1>> <</link>> </div> <</if>> <<if $victime2 is "Ervin Templeton">> Ervin Templeton, gravedigger at Baker Street Cemetery. <div id="jour2" class="inter"> <div class="inter_texte">“You verbally and physically assaulted Mr. Templeton on Thursday. Margarette Lawson, who was visiting at the time, witnessed the incident.” </div> <<link "– I allowed myself to be provoked by the old man, who treated me with the utmost disrespect when I was merely asking him for information.">><<script>>$('#jour2').hide();interro();<</script>><<set $vc += 1>> <</link>> <<link "– That man and his colleague abducted me the previous night and tried to bury me alive. That is why I returned home the following morning in such a wretched state.">><<script>>$('#jour2').hide();interro();<</script>><<set $vc += 1>> <</link>> </div> <</if>> <<if $victime2 is "Edward Boone">> Edward Boone, attorney in West Roxbury. <div id="jour2" class="inter"> <div class="inter_texte">“According to his secretary, you recently came to his law office and obtained his home address. <<if $livre neq 0>>Neighbors saw a young man matching your description stagger out of the house.<</if>>” </div> <<if $livre neq 0>> <<link "– He had killed his wife by tearing out her heart! He had lured me into a trap to sacrifice me to some sort of diabolical cult. I managed to escape when a fight broke out between him and his accomplice, the real Ogre you are looking for.">><<script>>$('#jour2').hide();interro();<</script>> <</link>> <</if>> <<link "– I went there to question him and learn who was behind my abduction at Baker Street Cemetery and the attempt to bury me there the previous night. He was already dead when I arrived. I panicked and fled.">><<script>>$('#jour2').hide();interro();<</script>><<set $vc += 1>> <</link>> </div> <</if>> <<if $victime2 is "Anton Redfield">> Anton Redfield, security officer at the Cocoanut Grove. <div id="jour2" class="inter"> <div class="inter_texte">“Several patrons, as well as his colleague, can testify to the scene you caused and your ejection from the establishment that evening.” </div> <<link "– I was drugged against my will, probably by a jealous man who belonged to a group I had been invited to join. They are the ones you should question. I remember nothing...">><<script>>$('#jour2').hide();interro();<</script>><<set $vc += 1>> <</link>> <<if $yan is 3>> <<link "– I had gone to ask around about a Pittsburgh brothel, the Bagrovyy. <<if $bag_tel is 1>>The owner died at the beginning of the week. His son Yanes, heir to the business, has since disappeared.<</if>> Yanes Kovaleski was responsible for my abduction at the cemetery, and I was trying to pick up his trail. Anton, the man who gave me the information, must have crossed someone. I had nothing to do with it.">><<script>>$('#jour2').hide();interro();<</script>> <</link>> <</if>> </div> <</if>> <<if $victime2 is "Yiggael">> Yiggael and Levy, rabbis at Temple Adath Jeshurun. <div id="jour2" class="inter"> <div class="inter_texte">“An appointment under the name Cornwell Maximilien had been scheduled with the victims on the evening of their murder for the performance of an exorcism. The synagogue office provided us with this information.” </div> <<if $livre is 4>> <<link "– I spoke privately with Rabbi Yiggael. I gave him a book belonging to a diabolical cult. I believe they wanted it back. The Ogre is part of that sect and reenacts sacrificial rites in the name of its beliefs. The synagogue office must also have kept a record of my delivering the book to Yiggael.">><<script>>$('#jour2').hide();interro();<</script>> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $telm neq 2>> <<link "– Yiggael had become my confidant. He had offered to cure my anxiety by performing this exorcism. I went there and lost consciousness during the ritual. When I awoke, they were dead. I fled for fear that I would be implicated, but I did nothing. I could never have done such a thing.">><<script>>$('#jour2').hide();interro();<</script>><<set $vc += 1>> <</link>> <<else>> <<link "– I never attended the session. I grew frightened. It is not my religion. Telma, my landlady’s daughter, can testify on my behalf. I spent the evening with her.">><<script>>$('#jour2').hide();interro();<</script>> <</link>> <</if>> </div> <</if>> <<if $victime2 is "Jessica Mendhil">> Jessica Mendhil, clairvoyant and medium. <div id="jour2" class="inter"> <div class="inter_texte">“The workers at the Spotless White construction site saw you loitering in the area and visiting the fortune-teller on Thursday.” </div> <<if $yan < 3>> <<link "– Yes, and I was there on the night of the murder. I had an appointment for a reading. When I arrived, Jessica was struggling with the killer, the Ogre. I managed to escape him. I am not proud of it, but if you question the people who had gathered there, they will certainly testify that they saw two people leave the scene one after the other. I was the first.">><<script>>$('#jour2').hide();interro();<</script>><<set $vc += 1>> <</link>> <<else>> <<link "– Yes, and I was there on the night of the murder. I even managed to identify your Ogre: Yanes Kovaleski, son of Alinovitch Kovaleski, owner of the Bagrovyy in Pittsburgh. I did not come to you because I feared reprisals. I am convinced they are part of the underworld.">><<script>>$('#jour2').hide();interro();<</script>> <</link>> <</if>> </div> <</if>> </div> <<else>> <<script>>interro();<</script>> <</if>> <<if $victime3 neq 0>> <div class="intero"> <div class="inter_titre">The massacre on the night of September 10. </div> <<if $victime3 is "James Wright">> James Wright, professor at Boston University. <div id="jour3" class="inter"> <div class="inter_texte">“You behaved aggressively in response to the professor’s verbal attacks on Friday afternoon. The students present can testify to the threats you made against him.” </div> <<if $e is 1>> <<link "– It is merely a coincidence. According to Dr. Bergmann, I was suffering from severe nervous agitation brought on by repeated sleepless nights and the pressure of the new academic year.">><<script>>$('#jour3').hide();interro();<</script>> <</link>> <</if>> <<link "– I reacted that way because Mr. Wright had had it in for me since the first day of classes and would have been only too pleased to make me his scapegoat for the rest of the year.">><<script>>$('#jour3').hide();interro();<</script>><<set $vc += 1>> <</link>> </div> <</if>> <<if $victime3 is "Ervin Templeton">> Ervin Templeton, gravedigger at Baker Street Cemetery. <div id="jour3" class="inter"> <div class="inter_texte">“You verbally and physically assaulted Mr. Templeton on Friday. Margarette Lawson, who was visiting at the time, witnessed the incident.” </div> <<link "– I allowed myself to be provoked by the old man, who treated me with the utmost disrespect when I was merely asking him for information.">><<script>>$('#jour3').hide();interro();<</script>><<set $vc += 1>> <</link>> <<link "– That man and his colleague abducted me the previous night and tried to bury me alive. That is why I returned home the following morning in such a wretched state.">><<script>>$('#jour3').hide();interro();<</script>><<set $vc += 1>> <</link>> </div> <</if>> <<if $victime3 is "Edward Boone">> Edward Boone, attorney in West Roxbury. <div id="jour3" class="inter"> <div class="inter_texte">“According to his secretary, you recently came to his law office and obtained his home address. <<if $livre neq 0>>Neighbors saw a young man matching your description stagger out of the house.<</if>>” </div> <<if $livre neq 0>> <<link "– He had killed his wife by tearing out her heart! He had lured me into a trap to sacrifice me to some sort of diabolical cult. I managed to escape when a fight broke out between him and his accomplice, the real Ogre you are looking for.">><<script>>$('#jour3').hide();interro();<</script>> <</link>> <</if>> <<link "– I went there to question him and learn who was behind my abduction at Baker Street Cemetery and the attempt to bury me there the previous night. He was already dead when I arrived. I panicked and fled.">><<script>>$('#jour3').hide();interro();<</script>><<set $vc += 1>> <</link>> </div> <</if>> <<if $victime3 is "Anton Redfield">> Anton Redfield, security officer at the Cocoanut Grove. <div id="jour3" class="inter"> <div class="inter_texte">“Several patrons, as well as his colleague, can testify to the scene you caused and your ejection from the establishment that evening.” </div> <<link "– I was drugged against my will, probably by a jealous man who belonged to a group I had been invited to join. They are the ones you should question. I remember nothing...">><<script>>$('#jour3').hide();interro();<</script>><<set $vc += 1>> <</link>> <<if $yan is 3>> <<link "– I had gone to ask around about a Pittsburgh brothel, the Bagrovyy. <<if $bag_tel is 1>>The owner died at the beginning of the week. His son Yanes, heir to the business, has since disappeared.<</if>> Yanes Kovaleski was responsible for my abduction at the cemetery, and I was trying to pick up his trail. Anton, the man who gave me the information, must have crossed someone. I had nothing to do with it.">><<script>>$('#jour3').hide();interro();<</script>> <</link>> <</if>> </div> <</if>> <<if $victime3 is "Yiggael">> Yiggael and Levy, rabbis at Temple Adath Jeshurun. <div id="jour3" class="inter"> <div class="inter_texte">“An appointment under the name Cornwell Maximilien had been scheduled with the victims on the evening of their murder for the performance of an exorcism. The synagogue office provided us with this information.” </div> <<if $livre is 4>> <<link "– I spoke privately with Rabbi Yiggael. I gave him a book belonging to a diabolical cult. I believe they wanted it back. The Ogre is part of that sect and reenacts sacrificial rites in the name of its beliefs. The synagogue office must also have kept a record of my delivering the book to Yiggael.">><<script>>$('#jour3').hide();interro();<</script>> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $telm neq 2>> <<link "– Yiggael had become my confidant. He had offered to cure my anxiety by performing this exorcism. I went there and lost consciousness during the ritual. When I awoke, they were dead. I fled for fear that I would be implicated, but I did nothing. I could never have done such a thing.">><<script>>$('#jour3').hide();interro();<</script>><<set $vc += 1>> <</link>> <<else>> <<link "– I never attended the session. I grew frightened. It is not my religion. Telma, my landlady’s daughter, can testify on my behalf. I spent the evening with her.">><<script>>$('#jour3').hide();interro();<</script>> <</link>> <</if>> </div> <</if>> <<if $victime3 is "Jessica Mendhil">> Jessica Mendhil, clairvoyant and medium. <div id="jour3" class="inter"> <div class="inter_texte"> “The workers at the Spotless White construction site saw you loitering in the area and visiting the fortune-teller on Friday.” </div> <<if $yan < 3>> <<link "– Yes, and I was there on the night of the murder. I had an appointment for a reading. When I arrived, Jessica was struggling with the killer, the Ogre. I managed to escape him. I am not proud of it, but if you question the people who had gathered there, they will certainly testify that they saw two people leave the scene one after the other. I was the first.">><<script>>$('#jour3').hide();interro();<</script>><<set $vc += 1>> <</link>> <<else>> <<link "– Yes, and I was there on the night of the murder. I even managed to identify your Ogre: Yanes Kovaleski, son of Alinovitch Kovaleski, owner of the Bagrovyy in Pittsburgh. I did not come to you because I feared reprisals. I am convinced they are part of the underworld.">><<script>>$('#jour3').hide();interro();<</script>> <</link>> <</if>> </div> <</if>> </div> <<else>> <<script>>interro();<</script>> <</if>> <div id="continuer"> <<link "Continue">> <<if $test_interro >= 4>> <<goto "arrestation_1">> <<else>> <<script>> $('#interro_rep').delay(0).show(0).delay(4000).hide(0); <</script>> <</if>> <</link>> </div> <div id="interro_rep">You’re going to spill it, Maximilien!</div> <<script>> $(document).ready(function(){ $('#interro_rep').hide(); }); <</script>> <</nobr>>
<<nobr>> <div id="quet_titre">THE DEPARTED EMBRACE<<if $quet1_1 is 1>> | Eviction<</if>><<if $quet1_2 is 1>> | Symbiosis<</if>><<if $quet1_3 is 1>> | Possession<</if>><<if $quet1 is 1>><img src="data/media/graph/quetes/check.png" class="quet_check"><</if>></div> <div class="rep_quet1">The forgetting of the eternal infinite.</div> <div class="rep_quet2"> <<if $def1 is 1 and $def2 is 1 and $def3 is 1 and $def4 is 1>> To free myself, I must find a way to fracture my dream, and do it violently. My act must be symbolic enough to bring me before Him, before He takes possession of me. <<elseif $def1 is 1>> To die, even in a dream, is not granted me... <</if>> </div> <<if $day >= 1 and $def1 is 1>> <div class="rep_quet1">Set my dreams against reality.</div> <div class="rep_quet2"> <<if $def2 is 1>> <<if $cim >= 2 and $erv is 2 and $sis is 2>> The cemetery, Ervin, the Zemaria... It all fits together. My dreams seem to run ahead of me, but to say what? <<elseif $cim >= 2 and $erv is 2>> The cemetery, and Ervin’s presence. This is no longer coincidence. <<elseif $cim >= 2 and $sis is 2>> The cemetery, the Zemaria... This is no longer coincidence. <<elseif $erv is 2 and $sis is 2>> Ervin, the Zemaria... This is no longer coincidence. <</if>> <</if>> </div> <div class="rep_quet1">Know my origins.</div> <div class="rep_quet2"> <<if $def3 is 1>> <<if $kov is 2 and $bag >= 3 and $mer is 2>> The Bagrovyy, Alinovitch, my mother... I am a Kovaleski, Maximilien Kovaleski... And I was most likely born in that establishment. <<elseif $kov is 2 and $bag >= 3>> My father Alinovitch Kovaleski ran the Bagrovyy. <<elseif $kov is 2 and $mer is 2>> Alinovitch and Alanna conceived me twenty-one years ago. There is something murky in my story, then, that has always been left in the dark. <<elseif $bag >= 3 and $mer is 2>> So the Bagrovyy truly exists... and my mother worked there twenty years ago. I was barely a year old at the time. <<elseif $kov is 2>> Alinovitch Kovaleski... could he be my father, then? <<elseif $bag >= 3>> So the Bagrovyy truly exists... why does that place feel as though it has always been waiting for me? <<elseif $mer is 2>> So my mother really did work at the Bagrovyy... what did she keep from me all her life? <</if>> <</if>> </div> <div class="rep_quet1">Understand what unsettles me.</div> <div class="rep_quet2"> <<if $def4 is 1>> <<if $n is 1 and $dy >= 2 and $f is 1>> The harder I try to name what runs through me, the more I feel a presence seeking a place within me. <<elseif $n is 1 and $dy >= 2>> If this dybbuk truly exists, it is very likely that I am its victim. Is He the one working these changes in me? <<elseif $n is 1 and $f is 1>> Am I coming apart, or is something foreign trying to speak through me? <</if>> <<elseif $dy >= 2>> It always takes advantage of my absences. <</if>> </div> <</if>> <<if $day >= 2 and $def1 is 1 and $def4 is 1>> <div class="rep_quet1">Confront the evil eating away at me.</div> <div class="rep_quet2"> <<if $def1 is 1 and $def2 is 1 and $def3 is 1 and $def4 is 1>> My dreams, my past, this presence within me... my existence is a prison. <<if $kov is 2>>Alinovitch is its jailer.<</if>> <<if $bag >= 3>>The Bagrovyy is its sanctuary.<</if>> <br>This meeting must take place within my dreams. My time is running short; I must wait no longer. <</if>> <<if ($sel_qty ?? 0) > 0>> I shall have to shield myself. Without that, I cannot meet Him without becoming His. <<elseif $dy >= 2 and ($f is 1 or $n is 1) >> But how am I to loosen His hold on me? <</if>> </div> <</if>> <</nobr>>
<<nobr>> <div id="quet_titre">THE WAY OF THE MIDRASHIM<<if $quet2 is 1>><img src="data/media/graph/quetes/check.png" class="quet_check"><</if>></div> <div class="rep_quet1">The manifestation of the sacred.</div> <div class="rep_quet2"> <<if $rab is 1>> A visit to Temple Adath Jeshurun may perhaps quiet my anxieties. <<elseif $rab is 2>> Yiggael has not dispelled my dread, but his presence has given shape to a possibility higher than my fear. I sense that a sacred order might deliver me from this hold. <<elseif $rab is 3>> Yiggael has closed his doors to me for good. This recourse to the sacred is denied me, and I have none but myself to blame. <<elseif $rab >= 100>> Yiggael is dead, and takes with him any hope of driving back the evil eating away at me. <</if>> </div> <<if $dy >= 1>> <div class="rep_quet1">The presence.</div> <div class="rep_quet2"> <<if $mid2_nature <= 0>> The dybbuk conjured in my dreams leaves me at a loss. <<elseif $mid2_nature is 1>> <<if $livre is 7>> That black book may have served to summon an entity, but of what nature? <<elseif $t is 1>> What haunts me is bound to the Cult of the Threshold Fish. I must learn more. <<elseif $dy is 2>> In the Jewish faith the dybbuk is a haunting with two faces, that of a departed soul and that of a demon. I must learn more. <<elseif $dy is 3>> Amassia was already questioning Yiggael about the dybbuk, but from within the occult heritage of her community in Ukraine. Though I still do not know its nature, a case of possession seems to be taking shape. <</if>> <<elseif $mid2_nature is 2>> The further I go, the stronger grows the notion of a presence older and more unclean. I still struggle to name it, and must press on with my research. <<else>> Everything draws me steadily toward a demonic nature. I can no longer regard what pursues me as merely the strayed soul of a departed one. <</if>> </div> <</if>> <<if $exor >= 1>> <div class="rep_quet1">The vessel.</div> <div class="rep_quet2"> <<if $mid2_hantise <= 0>> More and more I sense that this presence does not drift freely about me. Something must serve it as a hold, though I do not yet know what. <<elseif $mid2_hantise is 1>> The idea of an anchoring grows clearer. This evil does not cling to me alone: it seems to hold as well to a trace, a support, a matter. <<elseif $mid2_hantise is 2>> I now lean toward a material anchoring. But is it a place or an object? <<elseif $mid2_hantise is 3>> The object asserts itself little by little as the leading hypothesis. Everything I learn tightens that conviction. <<elseif $mid2_hantise is 4>> Could it be Orane’s locket? <<else>> The locket no longer strikes me as one lead among others. I now see in it the surest anchoring of what pursues me. <</if>> </div> <<if $dy is 3 and $rab is 2>> <div class="rep_quet1">The identity.</div> <div class="rep_quet2"> <<if $mid2_nom <= 0>> What is its name? <<elseif $mid2_nom is 1>> Written forms surface, yet remain drowned among the signs. <<elseif $mid2_nom is 2>> The clues begin to converge. A name emerges from the confusion, as though it insisted through several forms. <<else>> I feel I can grasp its true name. It knows itself through what has been shown to me. <</if>> </div> <</if>> <<if $rab isnot 3 and $rab isnot 100>> <div class="rep_quet1">The exorcism.</div> <div class="rep_quet2"> <<if $exor is 2>> The ritual is being prepared; I must go there <<if $exorcisme > $day>>tomorrow evening<<else>>this evening<</if>>. <<elseif $mid2_nature >= 2 and $mid2_nom >= 2 and $oval >= 2>> Deliverance is not yet in my hands, but I now have enough to present myself before Yiggael for the ritual: its name, its nature, and the locket in which it dwells. <<elseif $mid2_nature >= 2 and $mid2_nom >= 2 >> Deliverance is not yet in my hands, but I now have enough to present myself before Yiggael for the ritual. Its name and its nature will suffice. <<elseif $oval >= 2 >> Deliverance is not yet in my hands, but I now have enough to present myself before Yiggael, thanks to the locket in which it resides. <<else>> Yiggael offers me an exorcism to set me free. But first I must gather all the information I can, to identify the nature of what haunts me or the ground on which it manifests. <</if>> </div> <</if>> <</if>> <</nobr>>
<<nobr>> <div id="quet_titre">THE ECHOES OF ZS S'ÀH<<if $quet3 is 1>><img src="data/media/graph/quetes/check.png" class="quet_check"><</if>></div> <div class="rep_quet1">The inward alteration.</div> <div class="rep_quet2"> <<if $sm <= 90 and $sm > 75>> Fatigue seems to be playing tricks on me. <<elseif $sm <= 75 and $sm > 50>> I take pleasure in losing my grip on reality. <<elseif $sm <= 50 and $sm > 45>> I glimpse a secret ordering behind the chaos of the world. But I am not yet free... <<elseif $sm <= 45 and $sm > 25>> I pierce the thin veil of this subjective reality. <<if $jess_rit is 1>>I am ready to open the breach.<</if>> <<elseif $sm <= 25 and $sm > 10>> I know what I see, without seeing what I know, without knowing what I see, I see what I know and I know what I see. <<elseif $sm <= 10>> Maximilien, Maximilien, Maximilien, Maximilien, Maximilien... <</if>> </div> <<if $sis >= 2>> <div class="rep_quet1">The curse.</div> <div class="rep_quet2"> <<if $gadd neq 2>>Those three graves weigh on me for reasons I cannot account for. I must learn more about the Zemaria.<</if>> <<if $livre is 1>> That black book stirs in me less dread than an obscure attraction. I shall have to find someone able to reveal its meaning to me. <<elseif $livre is 2 and $jess < 3>> The Cult of the Threshold Fish seems heir to a knowledge older than our creeds. <<elseif ($livre is 3 or $livre is 2 or $livre is 5 ) and $cible08 is 0 and $jess is 3>> Miss Mendhil may perhaps be able to tell me more. <<elseif $livre neq 6 and $cible08 neq 0>> Something broke off before it could be passed on to me. <<elseif $livre is 7 and $jess_rit is 0>> Breaking the curse is no longer possible now, not without the book. <</if>> <<if $livre is 6 and $t neq 1>> Jessica has opened my eyes, but the fever of the initiate about her leaves a crack in me through which doubt seeps in. I need to verify what she says through research. <</if>> <<if $t is 1 and $livre neq 6>> Djinn, lamia, oni, ifrit—everywhere, under other names, the same presence seeping through a breach. But if it truly exists, how is it to be closed? <</if>> <<if $t is 1 and $livre is 6>> Doubt is no longer permitted; I must open the breach of the Threshold Fish. <</if>> </div> <</if>> <<if $bag is 3 or $mer is 2 or $kov is 2>> <div class="rep_quet1">The memory of blood.</div> <div class="rep_quet2"> <<if $kov is 2>> Alinovitch bequeathed me more than his name. <</if>> <<if $bag is 3 and $kov is 2>> <br>It was at the Bagrovyy, twenty-one years ago, most likely in a month of September... <</if>> <<if ($bag is 3 and $mer is 2) or ($mer is 2 and $kov is 2) or ($bag is 3 and $kov is 2)>> <<if $yan neq 4>> <br>I am not the prey: only the last name on a debt that precedes me. <<else>> <br>I am not the prey: only the second-to-last name on a debt that precedes us, <br>Yanes and I. <</if>> <</if>> </div> <</if>> <<if $jess_rit is 1 or $kov is 2>> <div class="rep_quet1">The point of juncture.</div> <div class="rep_quet2"> <<if $jess_rit is 1 and $kov neq 2>> The marked page will serve me for nothing without a link in matter. <br>Living or dead, I shall have to find the blood of my line. <<if $t is 1>> <br>It alone will let me open the breach. <</if>> <</if>> <<if $bag is 3 and $kov is 2 and $jess_rit is 1>> <<if $obsq is 1>> Alinovitch's body will never be more within my reach than at this moment, before the earth closes over him. Failing that, I shall have to pick up the trail of Yanes, that vanished half-brother. <<elseif $obsq is 0 and $bag_tel is 0>> The Bagrovyy exists, in Pittsburgh. Too far to travel blindly; it must be possible to make contact from a distance. <</if>> <</if>> </div> <</if>> <</nobr>>
<<nobr>> <div id="quet_titre">THE GEOMETRY OF THE ARCANA<<if $quet4 is 1>><img src="data/media/graph/quetes/check.png" class="quet_check"><</if>></div> <div class="rep_quet1">The topology of the signs.</div> <div class="rep_quet2"> <<if $n is 1 or $y is 1>> <<if $n is 1 and $y is 0>> Something is manifesting through me. <<elseif $y is 1 and $n is 0>> The symbols on the parchment are esoteric in nature; I still do not know what to make of them. <<elseif $y is 1 and $n is 1 and $ecri is 0>> The signs multiply without ever intersecting. <<elseif $y is 1 and $n is 1 and $ecri is 1>> A geometry takes shape and falls into alignment; something is being woven between the book and what haunts me. This key will surely serve me when the time comes. <</if>> <</if>> </div> <<if $n is 1 or $mid2_nom > 0>> <div class="rep_quet1">The cryptonym.</div> <div class="rep_quet2"> <<if $mid2_nom <= 0>> I make out only the outline of what is seeking to exist. <<elseif $mid2_nom is 1 and $gadd is 2>> Gaddiel spells out a most peculiar name in her diary. <<elseif $mid2_nom is 1>> There are recurrences among the signs, in the form of letters. <<elseif $mid2_nom is 2>> This name reveals itself through several forms. <<else>> It knew itself through what was shown to me; I can now know it by its true name. <</if>> </div> <</if>> <<if $ecri is 1>> <div class="rep_quet1">The threshold.</div> <div class="rep_quet2"> <<if $oval < 2 and not setup.inv.isAcquired("sel_consacre")>> I must find something to shield me during my sleep. <<elseif $oval < 2 and setup.inv.isAcquired("sel_consacre")>> Jessica has entrusted me with the means to guard the threshold; I still lack the true anchoring of this presence. <<elseif $oval >= 2 and not setup.inv.isAcquired("sel_consacre")>> The locket is its refuge; it remains to find the means of closing the way into my dreams. <<elseif $oval >= 2 and setup.inv.isAcquired("sel_consacre")>> Everything leads me to believe that the locket binds it, and that the salt Jessica entrusted to me can hold the breach open. <</if>> </div> <</if>> <<if $dy >= 2 and $mid2_nom >= 1>> <div class="rep_quet1">Reach its lair.</div> <div class="rep_quet2"> <<if $mid2_nom >= 3 and $oval is 3 and ($sel_qty ?? 0) > 0>> Its name has asserted itself through the signs and the visions. With the locket worn and Jessica’s salt to shield me, nothing will remain but to join it in its lair through sleep. <<elseif $mid2_nom >= 2 and $oval >= 2 and ($sel_qty ?? 0) > 0>> Its name surfaces, insistent. I must still let it assert itself fully, wear the locket, shield myself, then cross through sleep to reach it. <<elseif $oval is 3 and ($sel_qty ?? 0) > 0>> The locket is worn and Jessica’s salt will guard me during the crossing; but I need to name it in order to face it. <<elseif $mid2_nom >= 2 and ($sel_qty ?? 0) > 0>> Its name emerges little by little, and Jessica’s salt will guard me during the crossing; but I still need the object to which this presence remains bound. <<elseif $mid2_nom >= 2 and setup.inv.isAcquired("sel_consacre") and ($sel_qty ?? 0) <= 0>> I have scattered all the salt; I shall not be able to open the breach without it. <<elseif $mid2_nom >= 2 and $oval >= 2>> A name is beginning to assert itself through the signs, and the locket does seem to be what binds it; I still lack the means to guard myself during the crossing. <<else>> I shall reach it only by setting in order what I have glimpsed: its bond, its name, a protection, and the crossing. <</if>> </div> <</if>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">[img[data/media/img/temple.jpg]] <<if $rab is 1>> Temple Adath Jeshurun stands on Blue Hill Avenue in Roxbury, near Franklin Park, the largest park at the far end of the Emerald Necklace. The building is relatively conservative in design with two large towers, common features in many synagogues, that emphasize the round-headed arch that sets off the brick-and-stone façade. Beyond the temple itself, which can accommodate several hundred worshippers for prayer, the building as a whole also contains several study rooms and a large assembly hall. It is there that I announce my presence and ask to meet the rabbi who officiated at the Zemaria funeral rites, Yiggael, to whom I am taken without delay. <div id="continuer"><<link "Continue">><<goto "rab_1">><</link>></div> <<else>>Certain that I may obtain further help from Rabbi Yiggael, I make my way once more to the synagogue in Roxbury. <div id="continuer"><<link "Continue">><<goto "rab_2">><</link>></div> <</if>></div><<set $act -= 1>><<audio "Klemhr1" play volume 0.6>>
<div id="texte">I am still waiting, seated on a chair in an empty classroom, my eyes moving mechanically over the rows of books, gathering in my thoughts the questions that have so tormented me as to bring me here. The door opens with a scrape against the floor and reveals a man of considerable height despite his advanced age, his face marked by a subtle mingling of sadness and torment. He gives me an almost embarrassed smile, as though his appearance in this place were an intrusion. – Shalom. How may the humble servant of the Lord that I am be of help to you? he asks me suddenly. He comes closer and draws a chair beside mine in order to sit and listen to the succession of events that has led me to him. I take care to omit no detail, down to that strange dream, as though encouraged by the kindness and attention of this good man. After a few general questions, no doubt as a way of first sounding out my character, Yiggael invites me to state my expectations more precisely, his troubled gaze searching mine.</div> <<nobr>> <div class="dialogue"> <div id="dial_port"> [img[data/media/img/portraits/yiggael.jpg]] </div> <div id="dial_choise"> <<if $dy is 2>> [[– What can you teach me about the nature of a Dybbuk?->rab_1_1]] <</if>> <<if $o is 0>> <<link "– What can you tell me about the Zemaria?">><<goto "rab_1_3">><<set $jess to 1>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $livre is 1>> [[– Is this book written in Hebrew?->rab_1_4]] <</if>> <<if $not is 0>> [[– Who is the notary in charge of the Zemaria affairs?->rab_1_2]] <</if>> </div> </div> <<set $rab to 2>> <<audio "yiggael" play volume 0.6>><</nobr>>
<div id="texte">My stomach tightens when I see the police presence at the entrance to the Temple. Numerous vehicles are clustered all around, and men move back and forth around a security cordon established at the perimeter. I have neither the strength to insist nor even the desire to inquire into what is happening. Deep within myself, I know that something grave has befallen Rabbi Yiggael, and that I shall likely have no further opportunity to confide in him. I continue on my way, my gaze unfocused, trying to understand what could have happened and cursing myself for having involved him in this way by entrusting the book to him. I clench my fists and pass through the stream of curious onlookers without turning back.</div><<nobr>> <div id="continuer"> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">> <</link>> <</if>> </div><</nobr>><<set $rab to 3>><<audio "reve" play>><<smLoss D3>>
<div id="texte">– Ah... yes, he answers thoughtfully, I am indeed particularly qualified to tell you more on this subject, for I teach the Midrashim here within our congregation. – The Midrashim, you say? – Yes. Since you are not Jewish, it is only natural that you would not know, he adds. The Midrashim are collections of commentary, in-depth studies of sacred texts dealing more particularly with folklore, morality, legends, rituals, and anecdotes. Each Midrash has its own particular character. It was, in fact, over a question similar to yours that I came to know Amassia Zemaria. – Remarkable. Was she under the sway of dreams similar to mine? – No. Her questions seemed to have their origin in the cradle of her community in Ukraine, where some still cultivated occult practices inherited from the Kabbalah and now repudiated. The dybbuk came up several times in what she told me, yes. – Most interesting. What is it? – It is commonly understood as the spirit of a dead person who has escaped Sheol, a kind of purgatory toward which every soul proceeds before the Last Judgment, or to which it may be denied entry. There are also interpretations in certain Jewish traditions that associate the dybbuk with a demon or a jinn. In any case, it is always an entity that attaches itself to the body of a human being in order to torment him, even to the point of possession. – That is troubling, I murmur after a carefully measured silence. Do you personally believe that such a thing can truly exist? – In my view, one must be a believer in order to lend it credence. I practice as an exorcist, and as such I can testify to cases of possession that are more than disturbing. He lets a slight smile form at this pronouncement. – For my part, I study psychology, which offers cases every bit as unsettling, I reply to this sally. I have been asking myself a great many questions about the unease that has gripped me these past few days, and I believe I am seeking help wherever I may find it. I am no longer even capable of judging what may or may not be.<<if $e is 2>>I am thinking in particular of the study of that medium, Miss Hélène Smith, which comes back to me now...<</if>> – I can help you to a certain extent. If your unease is indeed linked to the presence of a dybbuk, you can sense it and discover it intuitively. Let me explain: the dybbuk harassing you needs a vessel as a bridge between this world and the hereafter. It may be something material, such as an object, a place, a building of some sort. In every case, in the presence of that vessel, your unease should increase tenfold. Seek out that link, or try to learn more about the identity of this spirit; then I shall be able to rid you of it, provided you are willing to believe...</div><<set $exor to 1>><<set $dy to 3>> <<nobr>> <div class="dialogue"> <div id="dial_port"> [img[data/media/img/portraits/yiggael.jpg]] </div> <div id="dial_choise"> <<if $o is 0>> <<link "– What can you tell me about the Zemaria?">><<goto "rab_1_3">><<set $jess to 1>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $livre is 1>> [[– Is this book written in Hebrew?->rab_1_4]] <</if>> <<if $not is 0>> [[– Who is the notary in charge of the Zemaria affairs?->rab_1_2]] <</if>> <<if $u is 1 and $livre neq 4 and $livre neq 5 and $livre neq 7>> [[– I would like to entrust the book to you for study.->rab_1_4_1]] <</if>> <<if $jess is 1>> [[– Can you tell me more about the Zemarias' neighbor?->rab_1_3_1]] <</if>> <<if $exor is 1>> [[– I wish to proceed with the exorcism of the Dybbuk.->exor_1]] <</if>> </div> </div> <div id="continuer"> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">><</link>> <</if>> </div> <<if $mid2_init is 0>> <<set $mid2_init to 1>> <<set $mid2_nat_defunt_possible to 1>> <<set $mid2_nat_demon_possible to 1>> <<set $mid2_anchor_objet_possible to 1>> <<set $mid2_anchor_lieu_possible to 1>> <<set $mid2_obj_medaillon_possible to 0>> <<set $mid2_obj_livre_possible to 0>> <<set $mid2_lieu_bagrovyy_possible to 0>> <</if>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">– The Edward Boone firm is handling their testamentary bequests. You will find it in West Roxbury, on Centre Street. </div><<set $not to 1>> <<nobr>> <div class="dialogue"> <div id="dial_port"> [img[data/media/img/portraits/yiggael.jpg]] </div> <div id="dial_choise"> <<if $dy is 2>> [[– What can you teach me about the nature of a Dybbuk?->rab_1_1]] <</if>> <<if $o is 0>> <<link "– What can you tell me about the Zemaria?">><<goto "rab_1_3">><<set $jess to 1>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $livre is 1>> [[– Is this book written in Hebrew?->rab_1_4]] <</if>> <<if $u is 1 and $livre neq 4 and $livre neq 5 and $livre neq 7>> [[– I would like to entrust the book to you for study.->rab_1_4_1]] <</if>> <<if $jess is 1>> [[– Can you tell me more about the Zemarias' neighbor?->rab_1_3_1]] <</if>> <<if $exor is 1>> [[– I wish to proceed with the exorcism of the Dybbuk.->exor_1]] <</if>> </div> </div> <div id="continuer"> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">> <</link>> <</if>> </div> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">– As far as I can remember, Amassia first came to me more than twenty years ago now. It was during the festival of Sukkot. She seemed so distraught, while for everyone else it was zman simchateinu, and I... – Forgive me, I interrupt him. I did not understand. – Ah, yes, well... the time of our rejoicing, I meant, he resumes. Everyone, then, was in high spirits, and I could not leave that poor young woman in her distress. She had only just arrived from Europe, with no one to turn to among our large family, so the doors of the congregation were opened to her and her two sisters. Afterward, they had difficulty integrating into our community and remained apart. – Which explains, in the end, the small number of people present at the funeral. – Yes. The Hevra Kadisha, our burial society, had to make up for the absence of relatives so that the rituals could be properly carried out. <<if $spot is 0>>– Can you tell me where they lived? – Indeed. They were neighbors of a person of ill repute within our community, Mendhil, who practices the forbidden arts of divination, among other occult practices. The three of them lived alone at their place of work, the <i>Spotless White</i> laundry, which burned down. It is at 4351 Washington Street, in Roslindale.<<set $spot to 1>><<if $jess is 0>><<set $jess to 1>><</if>><</if>> – Thank you. I did not quite grasp what caused Amassia’s distress. Their solitude? Their difficulty integrating? Their poverty? – No, not really. From what Amassia was willing to confide in me, I understood that they had been profoundly affected by the loss of their father, Orane, in Polonnoye, Ukraine, shortly before their arrival in America. And in general, Amassia expressed great concern over her sister Igal and her wish to draw her out of a silence that was at times almost pathological.</div><<set $o to 1>><<set $pol to 3>> <<nobr>> <div class="dialogue"> <div id="dial_port"> [img[data/media/img/portraits/yiggael.jpg]] </div> <div id="dial_choise"> <<if $dy is 2>> [[– What can you teach me about the nature of a Dybbuk?->rab_1_1]] <</if>> <<if $livre is 1>> [[– Is this book written in Hebrew?->rab_1_4]] <</if>> <<if $not is 0>> [[– Who is the notary in charge of the Zemaria affairs?->rab_1_2]] <</if>> <<if $jess is 1>> [[– Can you tell me more about the Zemarias' neighbor?->rab_1_3_1]] <</if>> <<if $u is 1 and $livre neq 4 and $livre neq 5 and $livre neq 7>> [[– I would like to entrust the book to you for study.->rab_1_4_1]] <</if>> <<if $exor is 1>> [[– I wish to proceed with the exorcism of the Dybbuk.->exor_1]] <</if>> </div> </div> <div id="continuer"> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">> <</link>> <</if>></div> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">– Take my advice: you should leave that woman to her own affairs. She can bring you nothing but misfortune, he insists. I warned the Zemaria against such an acquaintance, and see what became of them... – I understand, but I cannot neglect any lead. She may have some connection to the evil gnawing at me. I must know more, even if what you tell me does nothing to reassure me. – Her name is Jessica Mendhil. She has long been barred from the congregation and also keeps apart from our community. The practice of divinatory arts runs contrary to the Torah and to the designs of our Lord. I have heard it said that she also gives herself over to astrology and to the use of teraphim. – Teraphim, you say? What are they? – Pagan dolls of a sort, sometimes even mummified skulls, used in magical rituals, can you imagine? – I believe I can. I feel as though I am sinking into the middle of some voodoo affair... – I have not heard anything of her for several years. I suppose she must still live somewhere on Washington Street. But truly, I advise you once again not to approach her.</div><<set $jess to 2>> <<nobr>> <div class="dialogue"> <div id="dial_port"> [img[data/media/img/portraits/yiggael.jpg]] </div> <div id="dial_choise"> <<if $dy is 2>> [[– What can you teach me about the nature of a Dybbuk?->rab_1_1]] <</if>> <<if $livre is 1>> [[– Is this book written in Hebrew?->rab_1_4]] <</if>> <<if $not is 0>> [[– Who is the notary in charge of the Zemaria affairs?->rab_1_2]] <</if>> <<if $u is 1 and $livre neq 4 and $livre neq 5 and $livre neq 7>> [[– I would like to entrust the book to you for study.->rab_1_4_1]] <</if>> <<if $exor is 1>> [[– I wish to proceed with the exorcism of the Dybbuk.->exor_1]] <</if>> </div> </div> <div id="continuer"> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">> <</link>> <</if>> </div><</nobr>>
<div id="texte">– Let me see. Yes, this is indeed Hebrew. On the cover it says: //The Cult of the Threshold Fish//. The book itself is written in Hebrew, he says, leafing through it. – Can you tell me quickly what it is about? I press him. – Certainly. I can tell you that it is a work that may prove dangerous for the uninitiated, he says, continuing to scan the book, his expression growing more and more absorbed. It appears to be a kind of Kabbalistic collection... of black magic. Here, he says, pointing with his finger. These passages deal with summoning rites, with gateways to other worlds. No, no, that is enough. It must not be read, he concludes in a severe tone. He snaps the cover shut and sets the book back on the table.</div> <<nobr>> <div class="dialogue"> <div id="dial_port"> [img[data/media/img/portraits/yiggael.jpg]] </div> <div id="dial_choise"> [[– I would like to entrust the book to you for study.->rab_1_4_1]] <<if $dy is 2>> [[– What can you teach me about the nature of a Dybbuk?->rab_1_1]] <</if>> <<if $o is 0>> <<link "– What can you tell me about the Zemaria?">><<goto "rab_1_3">><<set $jess to 1>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $jess is 1>> [[– Can you tell me more about the Zemarias' neighbor?->rab_1_3_1]] <</if>> <<if $not is 0>> [[– Who is the notary in charge of the Zemaria affairs?->rab_1_2]] <</if>> <<if $exor is 1>> [[– I wish to proceed with the exorcism of the Dybbuk.->exor_1]] <</if>> </div> </div> <div id="continuer"> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">> <</link>> <</if>> </div> <<if $livre < 3>><<set $livre to 2>><</if>><<set $u to 1>><<set $mid2_hantise += 1>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">– As I told you, it must not be read. I refuse, he says, studying me gravely. – Listen, I resume. All this is very confused for me. I give little credence to anything touching on the supernatural, but I have the feeling that this book may provide me with answers, and I am prepared to make an effort in that direction. <<if $y is 1>>I have leafed through it myself without success. Between the language and the symbols it contains, I understand nothing. To crown it all, I am hardly an adherent of Carl Gustav Jung’s ideas, and I would find it very difficult to follow his line of thought. <</if>>So please, there must be something you can do for me. <<if $dy is 3>>Perhaps there is some mention of this dybbuk, of its nature, its origin? You yourself urged me to discover more about its identity or provenance, and if I am to take you at your word, it may well come from one of the worlds evoked in the book.<</if>> Besides, there is no one but you to whom I can entrust myself: you, your culture, and your faith. So I ask you again: take this book and uncover its secrets. By the grace of our Lord, I implore you... – By the grace of our Lord, yes... he thinks aloud. This book should not exist. But I shall conduct research into its author and refer the matter to our higher authorities in order to seek appropriate counsel. I can promise you nothing, but come back tomorrow; perhaps I shall at least have a few leads to give you. <<if $dy is 3>>But do not forget my advice: for your part, pay attention to what haunts you. Your recovery depends upon its origin.<</if>> So be it. He takes hold of the book and slips it beneath his arm.</div><<set $livre to 4>> <<nobr>> <div class="dialogue"> <div id="dial_port"> [img[data/media/img/portraits/yiggael.jpg]] </div> <div id="dial_choise"> <<if $dy is 2>> [[– What can you teach me about the nature of a Dybbuk?->rab_1_1]] <</if>> <<if $o is 0>> <<link "– What can you tell me about the Zemaria?">><<goto "rab_1_3">><<set $jess to 1>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $jess is 1>> [[– Can you tell me more about the Zemarias' neighbor?->rab_1_3_1]] <</if>> <<if $not is 0>> [[– Who is the notary in charge of the Zemaria affairs?->rab_1_2]] <</if>> <<if $exor is 1>> [[– I wish to proceed with the exorcism of the Dybbuk.->exor_1]] <</if>> </div> </div> <div id="continuer"> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">> <</link>> <</if>> </div><</nobr>>
<div id="texte">– Yes, yes, he says thoughtfully. Recovering it will be impossible. As agreed, I reported it to the higher authorities, who took care to place that obscure artifact somewhere safe, under seal. It represents a great danger, you know. We were able to confirm that it is a treatise of black magic setting forth the means of establishing bridges with Sheol and those who dwell there. The Threshold Fish refers to an entity of demonic origin, capable of opening portals between our two worlds. In any case, this lies far beyond my competence. Its very nature works harm upon the human soul; an unwarned reader might well lose his reason. – You are closer to the truth than you know. It was in the possession of the Zemaria sisters’ notary, Mr. Boone, for only a short time, and that was enough to bring about the tragedy that befell his household... Still, I regret being unable to learn more. And as for its author, can you tell me anything? – His name is Haim Pessa'hya Lahad. Although certain passages of the book contain his personal notes, I was unable to learn more about the man. Now, I wish to thank you on behalf of our congregation for revealing the existence of this work to us and allowing us to place it under proper guard. You may count on all my support in your recovery, and on my guidance, should you still wish to carry out the exorcism of the entity of which you are the victim.</div><<set $livre to 7>> <<nobr>> <div class="dialogue"> <div id="dial_port"> [img[data/media/img/portraits/yiggael.jpg]] </div> <div id="dial_choise"> <<if $dy is 2>> [[– What can you teach me about the nature of a Dybbuk?->rab_1_1]] <</if>> <<if $o is 0>> <<link "– What can you tell me about the Zemaria?">><<goto "rab_1_3">><<set $jess to 1>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $jess is 1>> [[– Can you tell me more about the Zemarias' neighbor?->rab_1_3_1]] <</if>> <<if $not is 0>> [[– Who is the notary in charge of the Zemaria affairs?->rab_1_2]] <</if>> <<if $exor is 1>> [[– I wish to proceed with the exorcism of the Dybbuk.->exor_1]] <</if>> </div> </div> <div id="continuer"> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">> <</link>> <</if>> </div> <<set $mid2_nature += 1>> <</nobr>>
<<nobr>> <div class="dialogue"> <div id="dial_port"> [img[data/media/img/portraits/yiggael.jpg]] </div> <div id="dial_choise"> <<if $dy is 2>> [[– What can you teach me about the nature of a Dybbuk?->rab_1_1]] <</if>> <<if $o is 0>> <<link "– What can you tell me about the Zemaria?">><<goto "rab_1_3">><<set $jess to 1>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $livre is 1>> [[– Is this book written in Hebrew?->rab_1_4]] <</if>> <<if $not is 0>> [[– Who is the notary in charge of the Zemaria affairs?->rab_1_2]] <</if>> <<if $jess is 1>> [[– Can you tell me more about the Zemarias' neighbor?->rab_1_3_1]] <</if>> <<if $u is 1 and $livre neq 4 and $livre neq 5 and $livre neq 7>> [[– I would like to entrust the book to you for study.->rab_1_4_1]] <</if>> <<if $exor is 1>> [[– I wish to proceed with the exorcism of the Dybbuk.->exor_1]] <</if>> <<if $livre is 4>> [[– I have come to retrieve the //Cult of the Threshold Fish//->rab_1_4_2]] <</if>> </div> </div> <div id="continuer"> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">><</link>> <</if>> </div><</nobr>><<set $rab to 2>>
<div class="songe"><span></span></div><div id="texte" class="tonitruant">Tumult of voices in ecstatic chorus, confusion of the senses as I sink into my dreams... names, concepts, ideas, and sensations overlap in the mists of my mind, harried by an almost palpable presence. I find myself sprawled on the floor of my room among the torn pages of my notebook. Written notes, diagrams, signs draw my attention to one of them, which I pick up. I drag myself along and haul myself to the edge of my bed, to the brink, all the way to the brink... </div><<canvasfx "data/script/js/flash_eso.js" "FlashEso">><<set $act -= 2>> <<nobr>> <div id="continuer"> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Surface">> <<script>>$(".songe").hide(); clearInterval(window._songeRepoTimer);<</script>> <<goto "appart_j_1">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Surface">> <<script>>$(".songe").hide(); clearInterval(window._songeRepoTimer);<</script>> <<goto "appart_j_2">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Surface">> <<script>>$(".songe").hide(); clearInterval(window._songeRepoTimer);<</script>> <<goto "appart_j_3">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Surface">> <<script>>$(".songe").hide(); clearInterval(window._songeRepoTimer);<</script>> <<goto "appart_j_4">> <</link>> <</if>> </div> <<script>> $(document).ready(function(){ var mots = ['Maximilien', 'Death', 'mutinous', 'Scion', 'Sacrifice', 'Shame', 'Vengeance', 'Igal', 'Gaddiel', 'Amassia', 'Orane', 'Kovaleski', 'brood', 'dream', 'prison', 'awakening', 'pact', "Zs S'àh", 'inheritance', 'Cumaïl', 'possession' ]; clearInterval(window._songeRepoTimer); window._songeRepoTimer = setInterval(function() { var fsize = Math.floor(Math.random() * 5); var lspace = Math.floor(Math.random() * 5); var opac = Math.random(); var y = Math.floor(Math.random() * 101) + 1; var x = Math.floor(Math.random() * 101) + 1; $(".songe").css({ 'font-size' : fsize + "em", 'top' : y + "vh", 'left' : x + "vw", 'letter-spacing' : lspace + "em", 'opacity' : opac, }); var mot = mots[Math.floor(Math.random()*mots.length)]; $(".songe span").replaceWith('<span>'+mot+'</span>'); }, 800); }); <</script>> <<silently>> <<smLoss D4>> <<set $n to 1>> <<set $bloc to 1>> <<invGain "dessins_auto">> <<audio "repo" play>> <</silently>> <style>body {background-color: #000000;color:#d3d4d6;}</style> <</nobr>>
<div class="songe"><span></span></div><div id="texte" class="tonitruant">Tumult of voices in ecstatic chorus, confusion of the senses as I sink into my dreams... names, concepts, ideas, and sensations overlap in the mists of my mind, harried by an almost palpable presence. I find myself sprawled on the dorm floor, among the torn pages of my notebook. Written notes, diagrams, signs draw my attention to one of them, which I pick up. The nurse, alarmed by my condition, hauls me with difficulty to the edge of my bed. I push her aside with a gesture, at once irritated and resolved to resume my path toward one final confrontation. The beast is waiting for me. I do not want to disappoint it.</div><<canvasfx "data/script/js/flash_eso.js" "FlashEso">><<set $act -= 2>> <<nobr>> <div id="continuer"> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Take my leave">> <<script>>$(".songe").hide(); clearInterval(window._songeRepoTimer);<</script>> <<goto "appart_n_2">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Take my leave">> <<script>>$(".songe").hide(); clearInterval(window._songeRepoTimer);<</script>> <<goto "appart_n_3">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Take my leave">> <<script>>$(".songe").hide(); clearInterval(window._songeRepoTimer);<</script>> <<goto "appart_n_4">> <</link>> <</if>> </div> <<script>> $(document).ready(function(){ var mots = ['Maximilien', 'Death', 'mutinous', 'Scion', 'Sacrifice', 'Shame', 'Vengeance', 'Igal', 'Gaddiel', 'Amassia', 'Orane', 'Kovaleski', 'brood', 'dream', 'prison', 'awakening', 'pact', "Zs S'àh", 'inheritance', 'Cumaïl', 'possession' ]; clearInterval(window._songeRepoTimer); window._songeRepoTimer = setInterval(function() { var fsize = Math.floor(Math.random() * 5); var lspace = Math.floor(Math.random() * 5); var opac = Math.random(); var y = Math.floor(Math.random() * 101) + 1; var x = Math.floor(Math.random() * 101) + 1; $(".songe").css({ 'font-size' : fsize + "em", 'top' : y + "vh", 'left' : x + "vw", 'letter-spacing' : lspace + "em", 'opacity' : opac, }); var mot = mots[Math.floor(Math.random()*mots.length)]; $(".songe span").replaceWith('<span>'+mot+'</span>'); }, 800); }); <</script>> <<silently>> <<smLoss D4>> <<set $n to 1>> <<set $vj to 0>> <<set $bloc to 1>> <<invGain "dessins_auto">> <<audio "repo" play>> <</silently>> <style>body {background-color: #000000;color:#d3d4d6;}</style> <</nobr>>
<<nobr>> <div class="sm-meter" aria-label="Sanity" role="img"> <svg class="sm-meter__svg" viewBox="0 0 43 43" preserveAspectRatio="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" aria-hidden="true"> <rect x="0" y="0" width="43" height="43" fill="#00ab4f"/> <path class="sm-meter__path" pathLength="100" d="M 27.33362,3.7641871 19.896739,2.4095544 C 16.605471,3.6957905 11.633156,7.4831005 9.0065717,9.7442068 l -4.993311,5.2295172 1.1009629,13.926257 3.3167082,4.526836 7.0885112,5.07196 7.750413,1.829573 7.280391,-2.784632 5.795114,-5.457259 1.882302,-7.703586 -2.114002,-7.231554 -4.641066,-5.437168 -7.881191,-0.64595 -5.226936,-0.03209 -7.037086,4.433465 -1.099303,10.061419 5.753369,4.577248 6.283939,3.490724 9.007313,-4.055623 0.479699,-5.073099 -3.004283,-6.965718 -5.854002,-1.101118 -4.198417,0.196786 -3.003731,3.628507 0.943368,3.78006 3.038011,2.214868 3.419004,1.079071 3.353206,-1.274719 -1.310539,-4.048169 -4.093352,-0.687772"/> <image class="sm-meter__img" x="0" y="0" width="43" height="43" preserveAspectRatio="none" href="data/media/graph/mask_spirale.png" xlink:href="data/media/graph/mask_spirale.png"/> </svg> <span class="sm-meter__score" aria-hidden="true">$sm</span> </div> <</nobr>>
<<nobr>> <div id="ecrit_drag">[img[data/media/img/inventaire/parchemin.png]]</div> <div id="ecrit_fond">[img[data/media/img/inventaire/ecrit_auto.png]]</div> <div id="ecrit_close"></div> <div id="icon_ecrit"></div> <<script>> requestAnimationFrame(function () { const V = State.variables; const dialog = document.getElementById('ui-dialog'); if (dialog) { dialog.classList.add('schema-dialog'); } const fond = document.getElementById('ecrit_fond'); const drag = document.getElementById('ecrit_drag'); const close = document.getElementById('ecrit_close'); const icon = document.getElementById('icon_ecrit'); if (!fond || !drag || !close || !icon) { console.log('schema: élément manquant'); return; } const $drag = $('#ecrit_drag'); const $close = $('#ecrit_close'); const $icon = $('#icon_ecrit'); $drag.hide(); const DESIGN = { fondW: 600, dragW: 910 }; const cfg = { startX: V.schemaX ?? -150, startY: V.schemaY ?? -110, targetX: -233, targetY: 196, tolerance: 10 }; const schemaAudio = new Audio('data/media/audio/son/Mystic-mystery-02.mp3'); schemaAudio.preload = 'auto'; const state = { x: cfg.startX, y: cfg.startY, dragging: false, pointerId: null, startClientX: 0, startClientY: 0, baseX: 0, baseY: 0, found: false, audioPrimed: false }; function getScale() { const rect = fond.getBoundingClientRect(); return rect.width / DESIGN.fondW; } function render() { if (!$drag.is(':visible')) return; const rect = fond.getBoundingClientRect(); const scale = getScale(); drag.style.width = (DESIGN.dragW * scale) + 'px'; drag.style.left = (rect.left + state.x * scale) + 'px'; drag.style.top = (rect.top + state.y * scale) + 'px'; } function primeAudio() { if (state.audioPrimed) return; state.audioPrimed = true; try { schemaAudio.play().then(function () { schemaAudio.pause(); schemaAudio.currentTime = 0; }).catch(function () {}); } catch (e) {} } function triggerSchemaFound() { if (state.found) return; state.found = true; drag.style.transition = 'left 140ms ease-out, top 140ms ease-out'; state.x = cfg.targetX; state.y = cfg.targetY; render(); V.schemaX = state.x; V.schemaY = state.y; V.ecri = 1; try { schemaAudio.currentTime = 0; schemaAudio.play().catch(function () {}); } catch (e) {} state.dragging = false; drag.classList.remove('dragging'); drag.classList.add('locked'); drag.onpointerdown = null; drag.onpointermove = null; drag.onpointerup = null; drag.onpointercancel = null; $icon.hide(); } function checkAlignment() { if (state.found) return; const dx = state.x - cfg.targetX; const dy = state.y - cfg.targetY; const aligned = Math.hypot(dx, dy) <= cfg.tolerance; if (aligned) { triggerSchemaFound(); } } function pointerDown(ev) { if (state.found) return; ev.preventDefault(); primeAudio(); state.dragging = true; state.pointerId = ev.pointerId; state.startClientX = ev.clientX; state.startClientY = ev.clientY; state.baseX = state.x; state.baseY = state.y; drag.classList.add('dragging'); drag.setPointerCapture(ev.pointerId); } function pointerMove(ev) { if (!state.dragging || ev.pointerId !== state.pointerId || state.found) return; const scale = getScale(); const dx = (ev.clientX - state.startClientX) / scale; const dy = (ev.clientY - state.startClientY) / scale; state.x = state.baseX + dx; state.y = state.baseY + dy; render(); checkAlignment(); } function pointerUp(ev) { if (ev.pointerId !== state.pointerId) return; state.dragging = false; state.pointerId = null; drag.classList.remove('dragging'); V.schemaX = state.x; V.schemaY = state.y; } function onResize() { render(); } function cleanup() { window.removeEventListener('resize', onResize); drag.onpointerdown = null; drag.onpointermove = null; drag.onpointerup = null; drag.onpointercancel = null; $close.off('.schema'); $icon.off('.schema'); if (dialog) { dialog.classList.remove('schema-dialog'); } } function closeSchema(ev) { ev.preventDefault(); ev.stopPropagation(); cleanup(); Dialog.close(); } function toggleParchemin(ev) { if (state.found) return; ev.preventDefault(); ev.stopPropagation(); $drag.toggle(); if ($drag.is(':visible')) { render(); } } $close.off('.schema').on('click.schema', closeSchema); $icon.off('.schema').on('click.schema', toggleParchemin); drag.onpointerdown = pointerDown; drag.onpointermove = pointerMove; drag.onpointerup = pointerUp; drag.onpointercancel = pointerUp; window.addEventListener('resize', onResize, { passive: true }); window.schemaDebug = function () { const out = { x: Math.round(state.x), y: Math.round(state.y) }; console.log(out); return out; }; }); <</script>> <</nobr>>
<<run setup.salt.ensureState()>> <div id="invent_img">[img[data/media/img/inventaire/sel.png]]</div> <<nobr>><center> <<invSee "sel_consacre">> <div id="on"> <<if ($sel_qty ?? 0) > 0>> <<button `setup.salt.buttonLabel()`>> <<set _t = setup.salt.use()>> <<if _t neq "">> <<replace "#on">><<print _t>><</replace>> <</if>> <</button>> <<else>> The pouch of consecrated salt is empty. There is nothing left to scatter. <</if>> </div> </center> <<if $sel_home_day is $day>> <p><em>The circle of salt holds for tonight. I do not know whether it will hold beyond that.</em></p> <<elseif $sel_home_day > -1>> <p><em>The circle I had traced has broken. The coming and going must have worn it away.</em></p> <</if>> <<invSee "sel_consacre">> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">Roslindale is a town that was annexed to Greater Boston and incorporated as a working-class district at the end of the last century. Numerous businesses line Washington Street all the way to No. 4351, the address where I can already see the mark left by the disastrous fire. The façade of the three-story building is covered in scaffolding, where a few workers are busy at work. The blaze caused severe damage at the heart of the structure; the second floor has partly collapsed, and yet the foundations still keep the whole standing. A worksite has sprung up all around it, and five workers are going about their labor. [img[data/media/img/spotless.jpg]] I approach the worksite clustered around the building and call out to two men loading a wheelbarrow below. Despite their apparent good nature and friendly willingness to help, they ultimately tell me very little: They have been working since last Monday on behalf of a private individual who purchased the site from the state for a pittance and wishes to turn it into a gallery of exotic arts. The fire, accidental in origin, began in a first-floor bedroom and then spread through the frame and floors into the rest of the house. The neighboring buildings were spared thanks to the space between them and the intervention of the firefighters. </div><<set $act -= 1>> <<nobr>> <<if $act >= 1>> <div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I take it upon myself to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $jess is 2>> @@#link_1;<<link "Look for Jessica Mendhil">> <<goto "jess_1">><</link>>@@ <<else>> @@#link_1;<<link "Walk around the neighborhood">> <<goto "spot_1_1">><</link>>@@ <</if>> </div> </div> <<else>> <div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">It is growing very late:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $day is 1>> [[Return home ->appart_j_1]] <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> [[Return home ->appart_j_2]] <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> [[Return home ->appart_j_3]] <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> [[Return home ->appart_j_4]] <</if>> </div> </div> <</if>> <<set $spot to 2>><</nobr>>
<div id="texte">After seeking out the account of a surly neighbor interrupted while tidying his garden, I turn my attention to the rather eccentric neighbor at No. 4353. According to Mr. Surly, she had kept rather too close company with the Zemaria sisters, in his priceless opinion. <div style="width:200px;float:left;padding-right:15px;padding-top:11px;line-height:0;">[img[data/media/img/portraits/jessica.jpg]]</div>I therefore knock at Miss Jessica Mendhil’s door, and an elderly, corpulent lady eventually opens the door. Laden with numerous pieces of jewelry, her face thickly made up, a tulle hat set upon her head,<<if $oval is 3>> she studies me with apprehension, her attention fixed on the medallion I wear around my neck.<<else>> she studies me with curiosity and takes a slight step back in apprehension.<</if>>Once the proper introductions have been exchanged, she receives me into her home with a certain reserve. In her parlor, decorated in an extravagantly exotic style, we briefly discuss the Zemaria sisters. During our conversation, Jessica seems deeply intimidated by my presence. With a measure of tact and a fair amount of patience, I manage to put her relatively at ease. She finally admits that she perceives something like a malignant shadow accompanying and enveloping me. She is unable to define its nature, but she has already felt the same thing while visiting the Zemaria sisters. Though she has little time before the arrival of her next client, she offers me her gifts as a medium, along with any other practices I might choose, in the hope of helping me.</div><<set $jesspass to $day>><<set $jess to 3>><<set $act -= 1>> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I venture to ask:</span> <div id="selection"> <<link "More about the Zemaria">> <<goto "jess_1_1">><<set $wait += 1>> <</link>> <<link "To give me a tarot reading">> <<goto "jess_2">><<set $wait += 2>> <</link>> <<link "To hold a séance">> <<goto "jess_3">><<set $wait += 2>> <</link>> <<if $oval is 2 or $oval is 3>> <<link "To examine my locket">> <<goto "jess_4">><<set $wait to 1>> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $livre is 1>> <<link "To consult my book">> <<goto "jess_5">><<set $wait to 1>> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $livre is 2 or $livre is 6>> <<link "To consult the 'Cult of the Threshold Fish'">> <<goto "jess_5">><<set $wait to 1>> <</link>> <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>>
[img[data/media/img/spotless.jpg]] <div id="texte">I return once more to the former home of the deceased Zemaria sisters, hoping to have more time to further my investigation in Roslindale.</div> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I take it upon myself to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $jess is 2>> @@#link_1;<<link "Look for Jessica Mendhil">> <<goto "jess_1">><</link>>@@ <<elseif $jesspass < $day and setup.jessTopics()>> @@#link_1;<<link "Consult Jessica Mendhil">> <<goto "jess_0">><</link>>@@ <<else>> @@#link_1;<<link "Walk around the neighborhood">> <<goto "spot_1_1">><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $day is 1>> [[Return home ->appart_j_1]] <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> [[Return home ->appart_j_2]] <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> [[Return home ->appart_j_3]] <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> [[Return home ->appart_j_4]] <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>><<set $act -= 1>>
<<nobr>> <style> .succ_label { display:block; width:153px; height:31px; background:#3c3c43; font-family: josefinsans; font-weight: bold; font-size: 100%; color:#d2d3d5; letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align:center; line-height:31px; overflow:hidden; white-space:nowrap; text-decoration: none; border: none; } .succ .macro-link { display:block; line-height:0; border: none; outline: none; } .succ .macro-link:hover { background: none; border: none; color: inherit; text-decoration: none; } </style> <div id="succes_content"> <<if $succ1 is 1>> @@.succ;.succ1;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/succes/succ01.png'><span class='succ_label'>Sound Mind</span>">> <<replace "#title_rais">>Sound Mind<</replace>> <<replace "#text_rais">><span style="color: #00ab4f">Finished the story with at least eighty points of sanity.</span><</replace>> <</link>>@@ <<else>> @@.succ;.succ2;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/succes/succ01.png'><span class='succ_label'>Sound Mind</span>">> <<replace "#title_rais">>Sound Mind<</replace>> <<replace "#text_rais">>Bring my story to its end with my reason intact.<</replace>> <</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $succ2 is 1>> @@.succ;.succ1;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/succes/succ02.png'><span class='succ_label'>Innocence</span>">> <<replace "#title_rais">>Innocence<</replace>> <<replace "#text_rais">><span style="color: #00ab4f">Finished my story without my hand causing the death of an innocent.</span><</replace>> <</link>>@@ <<else>> @@.succ;.succ2;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/succes/succ02.png'><span class='succ_label'>Innocence</span>">> <<replace "#title_rais">>Innocence<</replace>> <<replace "#text_rais">>Bring my story to its end without loss of life.<</replace>> <</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $succ3 is 1>> @@.succ;.succ1;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/succes/succ03.png'><span class='succ_label'>Romeo</span>">> <<replace "#title_rais">>Romeo<</replace>> <<replace "#text_rais">><span style="color: #00ab4f">Lived out a romance with Telma.</span><</replace>> <</link>>@@ <<else>> @@.succ;.succ2;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/succes/succ03.png'><span class='succ_label'>Romeo</span>">> <<replace "#title_rais">>Romeo<</replace>> <<replace "#text_rais">>Find love.<</replace>> <</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $succ4 is 1>> @@.succ;.succ1;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/succes/succ04.png'><span class='succ_label'>Fugitive</span>">> <<replace "#title_rais">>Fugitive<</replace>> <<replace "#text_rais">><span style="color: #00ab4f">Escaped the police.</span><</replace>> <</link>>@@ <<else>> @@.succ;.succ2;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/succes/succ04.png'><span class='succ_label'>Fugitive</span>">> <<replace "#title_rais">>Fugitive<</replace>> <<replace "#text_rais">>Face the authorities.<</replace>> <</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $succ5 is 1>> @@.succ;.succ1;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/succes/succ05.png'><span class='succ_label'>Nasty Surprise</span>">> <<replace "#title_rais">>Nasty Surprise<</replace>> <<replace "#text_rais">><span style="color: #00ab4f">Caught Edward Boone out before he could strike.</span><</replace>> <</link>>@@ <<else>> @@.succ;.succ2;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/succes/succ05.png'><span class='succ_label'>Nasty Surprise</span>">> <<replace "#title_rais">>Nasty Surprise<</replace>> <<replace "#text_rais">>Listen closely for the faintest creak.<</replace>> <</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $succ6 is 1>> @@.succ;.succ1;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/succes/succ06.png'><span class='succ_label'>The Ogre</span>">> <<replace "#title_rais">>The Ogre<</replace>> <<replace "#text_rais">><span style="color: #00ab4f">The Ogre of South Boston was the Dybbuk’s puppet, animated by the blood of my line.</span><</replace>> <</link>>@@ <<else>> @@.succ;.succ2;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/succes/succ06.png'><span class='succ_label'>The Ogre</span>">> <<replace "#title_rais">>The Ogre<</replace>> <<replace "#text_rais">>Uncover the origin of the evil.<</replace>> <</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $succ7 is 1>> @@.succ;.succ1;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/succes/succ07.png'><span class='succ_label'>In the Blood</span>">> <<replace "#title_rais">>In the Blood<</replace>> <<replace "#text_rais">><span style="color: #00ab4f">Killed my half-brother Yanes in our confrontation.</span><</replace>> <</link>>@@ <<else>> @@.succ;.succ2;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/succes/succ07.png'><span class='succ_label'>In the Blood</span>">> <<replace "#title_rais">>In the Blood<</replace>> <<replace "#text_rais">>Suffer the wrath of my bloodline.<</replace>> <</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $succ8 is 1>> @@.succ;.succ1;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/succes/succ08.png'><span class='succ_label'>Dark Past</span>">> <<replace "#title_rais">>Dark Past<</replace>> <<replace "#text_rais">><span style="color: #00ab4f">Gathered every fragment needed to understand my whole story.</span><</replace>> <</link>>@@ <<else>> @@.succ;.succ2;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/succes/succ08.png'><span class='succ_label'>Dark Past</span>">> <<replace "#title_rais">>Dark Past<</replace>> <<replace "#text_rais">>Piece my story back together: <span style="color: #00ab4f"><<print $hist>></span> / 5<</replace>> <</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $succ9 is 1>> @@.succ;.succ1;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/succes/succ09.png'><span class='succ_label'>Archivist</span>">> <<replace "#title_rais">>Archivist<</replace>> <<replace "#text_rais">><span style="color: #00ab4f">Every documentary trail followed to its end.</span><</replace>> <</link>>@@ <<else>> @@.succ;.succ2;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/succes/succ09.png'><span class='succ_label'>Archivist</span>">> <<replace "#title_rais">>Archivist<</replace>> <<replace "#text_rais">>Comb through every source within reach.<</replace>> <</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $succ10 is 1>> @@.succ;.succ1;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/succes/succ10.png'><span class='succ_label'>Boston Surveyor</span>">> <<replace "#title_rais">>Surveyor of Boston<</replace>> <<replace "#text_rais">><span style="color: #00ab4f">Every place in Boston visited.</span><</replace>> <</link>>@@ <<else>> @@.succ;.succ2;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/succes/succ10.png'><span class='succ_label'>Boston Surveyor</span>">> <<replace "#title_rais">>Surveyor of Boston<</replace>> <<replace "#text_rais">>Walk every corner of the city.<</replace>> <</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $succ11 is 1>> @@.succ;.succ1;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/succes/succ11.png'><span class='succ_label'>Full Measure</span>">> <<replace "#title_rais">>Full Measure<</replace>> <<replace "#text_rais">><span style="color: #00ab4f">Used the consecrated salt both to ward myself and to face the Ogre.</span><</replace>> <</link>>@@ <<else>> @@.succ;.succ2;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/succes/succ11.png'><span class='succ_label'>Full Measure</span>">> <<replace "#title_rais">>Full Measure<</replace>> <<replace "#text_rais">>Know where to put in my grain of salt.<</replace>> <</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $succ12 is 1>> @@.succ;.succ1;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/succes/succ12.png'><span class='succ_label'>By One’s Own Light</span>">> <<replace "#title_rais">>By One’s Own Light<</replace>> <<replace "#text_rais">><span style="color: #00ab4f">Reached the final resolution without ever consulting Jessica Mendhil or Rabbi Yiggael.</span><</replace>> <</link>>@@ <<else>> @@.succ;.succ2;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/succes/succ12.png'><span class='succ_label'>By One’s Own Light</span>">> <<replace "#title_rais">>By One’s Own Light<</replace>> <<replace "#text_rais">>Refuse any intermediary between myself and the truth.<</replace>> <</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $succ13 is 1>> @@.succ;.succ1;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/quetes/quet01.png'><span class='succ_label'>Departed Embrace</span>">> <<replace "#title_rais">>The Departed Embrace<</replace>> <<replace "#text_rais">><span style="color: #00ab4f">Reached the most favorable resolution of this path.</span><</replace>> <</link>>@@ <<else>> @@.succ;.succ2;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/quetes/quet01.png'><span class='succ_label'>Departed Embrace</span>">> <<replace "#title_rais">>The Departed Embrace<</replace>> <<replace "#text_rais">>Meet every condition.<</replace>> <</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $succ14 is 1>> @@.succ;.succ1;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/quetes/quet02.png'><span class='succ_label'>Way of Midrashim</span>">> <<replace "#title_rais">>The Way of the Midrashim<</replace>> <<replace "#text_rais">><span style="color: #00ab4f">Reached the most favorable resolution of this path.</span><</replace>> <</link>>@@ <<else>> @@.succ;.succ2;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/quetes/quet02.png'><span class='succ_label'>Way of Midrashim</span>">> <<replace "#title_rais">>The Way of the Midrashim<</replace>> <<replace "#text_rais">>Meet every condition.<</replace>> <</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $succ15 is 1>> @@.succ;.succ1;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/quetes/quet03.png'><span class='succ_label'>Echoes of Zs S'àh</span>">> <<replace "#title_rais">>The Echoes of Zs S'àh<</replace>> <<replace "#text_rais">><span style="color: #00ab4f">Reached the most favorable resolution of this path.</span><</replace>> <</link>>@@ <<else>> @@.succ;.succ2;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/quetes/quet03.png'><span class='succ_label'>Echoes of Zs S'àh</span>">> <<replace "#title_rais">>The Echoes of Zs S'àh<</replace>> <<replace "#text_rais">>Meet every condition.<</replace>> <</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $succ16 is 1>> @@.succ;.succ1;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/quetes/quet04.png'><span class='succ_label'>Geometry of Arcana</span>">> <<replace "#title_rais">>The Geometry of the Arcana<</replace>> <<replace "#text_rais">><span style="color: #00ab4f">Reached the most favorable resolution of this path.</span><</replace>> <</link>>@@ <<else>> @@.succ;.succ2;<<link "<img src='data/media/graph/quetes/quet04.png'><span class='succ_label'>Geometry of Arcana</span>">> <<replace "#title_rais">>The Geometry of the Arcana<</replace>> <<replace "#text_rais">>Meet every condition.<</replace>> <</link>>@@ <</if>> </div> <div id="succ_rais"><div id="title_rais"><span style="color: #00ab4f"><<print $succes>></span> / 16</div><div id="text_rais"><<if $tut4 is 0>><div id="tutoriel"><div class="tuto_title">TUTORIAL: <span style="color: #b6bac0">ACHIEVEMENTS</span></div><p>Achievements mark the accomplishment of certain feats over the course of successive playthroughs. They may bend your choices, for better or for worse... <span style="color: #00ab4f">Achievements are in no way essential to the building of your story.</span></p> </div><<set $tut4 to 1>><</if>></div></div> <</nobr>><style>body {background:#17161a}</style>
<div id="texte">[img[data/media/img/telegraph.jpg]] Since my mother has no modern means of communication, I go to the telegraph company to contact her. Mad as it may seem, my dream appears to be intimately bound to her past...</div><<set $act -= 1>> <div id="continuer"><<link "Continue">><<goto "tele_1">><</link>></div> <<if $tut2 is 0>><div id="tutoriel"><div class="tuto_title">TUTORIAL: <span style="color: #b6bac0">ACTIONS</span></div><p><span style="padding-right: 8px"><<include "action">></span>The story unfolds through a succession of days and nights. The indicator above shows how many actions you have available for the day. The cost in actions of any initiative on your part is marked on the links in the story as follows: @@#link_1;<<link "">><</link>>@@ / 1 action toward a short scene. @@#link_2;<<link "">><</link>>@@ / 2 actions toward a long scene. @@#link_0;<<link "">><</link>>@@ / toward a scene containing a series of links with varying action costs. <span style="color: #00ab4f">The day ends once your actions are spent.</span> Your nighttime investigations are free, but they may reduce the number of actions available the following day, to reflect your moral or physical fatigue.</p> </div><<set $tut2 to 1>><</if>>
I choose with care the points on which I wish to obtain further detail: <div id="telegramme"><label class="check_lab">HAD STRANGE DREAM LAST NIGHT/ STOP</label> <label class="check_lab">NEED ANSWERS URGENT/ STOP</label> <<if $mer is 1>><<checkbox "$telemer" 0 1>><label for="checkbox-telemer" class="check_lab"><span></span>ALANNA CONNELLAN BROTHEL BAGROVYY/ STOP</label><</if>> <<if $pol is 1 or $pol is 2>><<checkbox "$teleper" 0 1>><label for="checkbox-teleper" class="check_lab"><span></span>MY FATHER JEWISH ORIGIN/ STOP</label><</if>><<if $pol is 3>><<checkbox "$teleper" 0 1>><label for="checkbox-teleper" class="check_lab"><span></span>MY FATHER FROM POLONNOYE UKRAINE/ STOP</label><</if>> <<if $kov is 1>><<checkbox "$telepername" 0 1>><label for="checkbox-telepername" class="check_lab"><span></span>WHO IS ALINOVITCH KOVALESKI/ STOP</label><</if>> <<if $sis is 1>><<checkbox "$telesis" 0 1>><label for="checkbox-telesis" class="check_lab"><span></span>WHO ARE AMASSIA IGAL GADDIEL/ STOP</label><</if>><<if $sis >= 2>><<checkbox "$telesis" 0 1>><label for="checkbox-telesis" class="check_lab"><span></span>AMASSIA IGAL GADDIEL ZEMARIA FAMILY/ STOP</label><</if>> <<if $dy is 1>><<checkbox "$teledy" 0 1>><label for="checkbox-teledy" class="check_lab"><span></span>WHAT IS A DYBBUK/ STOP</label><</if>> </div><<nobr>> <div id="continuer"> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">><</link>> <</if>> </div><</nobr>> <<set $tele to $day>>
<<nobr>> <<set _telefx to setup.telegram.applyReveal(State.variables)>> <<set _date to setup.telegram.dateLabel($day)>> <<set _lines to (setup.telegram.buildReplyLines(State.variables) || [])>> <div class="tele-wrap"> <img class="tele-bg" @src="setup.telegram.bg" alt="Telegram"> <div class="tele-overlay"> <div class="tele-date"><<print _date>></div> <pre class="tele-reply"><<for _i = 0; _i < _lines.length; _i++>><<print _lines[_i]>> <</for>></pre> </div> </div> <<invSee "telegramme_alanna">> <</nobr>>
<<nobr>><<run (function () { var v = State.variables; if (!v.telm_return || v.telm_return === 0 || /^telm_/.test(String(v.telm_return))) { for (var i = State.history.length - 2; i >= 0; i--) { var t = State.history[i].title; if (t && !/^telm_/.test(t)) { v.telm_return = t; break; } } } })()>> <<if $telm_paid_day neq $day and $act > 0>> <<set $act to ($act - 1)>> <<set $telm_paid_day to $day>> <</if>> <<set _telmTopicsJ to ($dial_tel_2 is 0 or $dial_tel_2 is 1 or ($rab > 1 and $dial_tel_4 is 0) or ($exor >= 1 and $dial_tel_4 is 1))>> <</nobr>> <<if _telmTopicsJ>><div id="texte">I quietly search the boardinghouse from top to bottom for sweet Telma, whom I finally find in the small laundry room at the back of the house. She is busy sorting a pile of linen with delicate care. – Telma, may I ask for a few moments of your time? I have something I wish to discuss with you. She turns, only mildly surprised, her thoughts still occupied with her work. – Mr. Cornwell? Certainly. I am listening, she replies. – Perhaps we might speak in the parlor... over a cup of tea? It takes Telma only a moment to set aside her headscarf and apron before joining me in the parlor. </div><<audio "cotton" play volume 0.1>> <<nobr>><div class="dialogue"> <div id="dial_port">[img[data/media/img/portraits/telma.jpg]]</div> <div id="dial_choise"><<if $dial_tel_2 is 0>><<link "– Tell me, Telma, would you have studied, had you been given the chance?">><<set $bloc to 1>><<goto "telm_2">><</link>><</if>> <<if $dial_tel_2 is 1>><<link "– Is there some passion that stirs you above all?">><<set $bloc to 1>><<goto "telm_2_1">><</link>><</if>> <<if $rab > 1 and $dial_tel_4 is 0>><<link "– I would like to tell you about a recent encounter with a rabbi.">><<set $bloc to 1>><<goto "telm_4">><</link>><</if>> <<if $exor >= 1 and $dial_tel_4 is 1>><<link "– What do you make of the practice of exorcism?">><<set $bloc to 1>><<goto "telm_4_1">><</link>><</if>></div><</nobr>></div><</if>>
<div id="texte">I take my time recounting the fantastic adventures of the past few nights, dwelling in particular on the strange recurrence of events in a cemetery I had never known before, and on the mutiny I led there to escape being buried alive. <<if $cim >=2>>With some difficulty, I manage to convey my astonishment at discovering that the place truly exists, <<set $att_telm += 1>><<if $erv is 2>>and that I even met the old gravedigger Ervin there in the flesh, in defiance of every conceivable logic.<<set $att_telm += 1>><</if>><</if>> I speak candidly of the anguish that seems bound to some obscure past and to death itself. <<if $mer >= 1>>I also tell her of my mother Alanna’s presence in that strange house, the Bagrovyy, <<set $att_telm += 1>><<if $mer is 2>> and of the telegram confirming that she did indeed work there more than twenty years ago... <<set $att_telm += 1>><</if>>I relate it all in such detail that I can see her concern deepen in the furrow of her brow. <</if>><<if $sis is 2>>Then I tell her of the deeply mysterious presence of those three sisters, who seemed possessed and who have lain in the earth since last August, in the very grave where they mean to bury me. <<set $att_telm += 1>><</if>><<if $d1 is 1>>Finally, I describe the fine-boned features of the master of that place, enigmatic and dark, <<set $att_telm += 1>><<if $kov is 2>>none other than the father I never knew, <<set $att_telm += 1>><</if>><<if $dy >= 1>>serving an unspeakable presence more malevolent still, called the Dybbuk, <</if>>and announcing my responsibility for a death yet to come, night after night...<<set $att_telm += 1>><</if>></div> <div id="continuer">[[Continue|telm_1_1]]</div><<set $dial_tel_1 to 1>>
<<if $att_telm <= 3>><div id="texte">Her head bowed slightly as though to show her understanding, Telma fixes me with a gentle, tender gaze from her almond-shaped eyes. – Maximilien... I understand your distress. And I am sincerely touched by the trust you have placed in me. Please know that you are not alone in this ordeal; we are never alone. During the terrible winter that took my father from us on our farm some years ago, my mother and I were plunged into the deepest despair. Yet the fervor of our faith was not diminished by the injustice and hardship of that trial. On the contrary, it was strengthened, because we learned to surrender ourselves to Him and to His will. Yahweh is love and mercy, Maximilien. To keep the warmth of His presence alive in my heart, I made myself a flower of cloth, after the one my father cherished, and I have kept it close ever since. I should like you to have it. I am certain it will comfort and help you, as it did me. She reaches into the pocket of her blouse and draws out the little scrap of cloth, naively stitched by the child she once was, then holds it out to me. I can only accept this priceless gift with gratitude, deeply moved by her story and by the affection she now shows me in return. – I... I do not know what to say, I stammer. Thank you. Thank you, Telma. I shall try to prove worthy of it. – It is the least I can do for you. I feel so powerless to help. But please know that you have my full support, Maximilien.</div><<invGain "fleur_telma">><<set $fle to 1>><<set $att_telm -= 2>><<elseif ($att_telm is 4 or $att_telm is 5)>><div id="texte">When the silence following my account has settled between us, Telma reaches out, takes one of my hands in both of hers, and gives me a compassionate smile. – There is not so much to fear, Maximilien. I have always been told that dreams may take many forms, and that their lessons are many and varied. But I believe the important thing to remember is that their purpose is above all to bind the past to the present, and the divine to the profane. Attend to their meaning, and keep faith in yourself. You must move forward, however frightening your dreams may be. Know that you are not alone, and that you have all my support. – At least I may count on one light amid the darkness through which I am passing. Thank you for your help, Telma.</div><<smGain D3>><<set $att_telm -= 1>><<elseif $att_telm is 6>><div id="texte">Telma stares at me, wide-eyed, plainly shaken by what I have told her. – I... I do not know what to say, Mr. Cornwell. You seem so possessed by your nightmares that you can no longer distinguish them from reality. I should like to trust you, but this is... this is too much for me. There is something in you that terrifies me. I must leave you, Mr. Cornwell. – Telma, no, please do not go, I say, trying to hold her back. – I have a great deal to do. Please, let me be. I... I am sorry. She turns away, gathers up some linen in haste, and leaves me to my torment. I am devastated by her reaction, and had I foreseen it, I would gladly have kept silent. I find myself alone once more, face-to-face with that unspeakable evil, which grows more destructive in every aspect of my existence.</div><<set $telm to 2>><<set _telmLabel to "Remain alone with my torment">><<else>><!-- $att_telm >= 7 --><div id="texte">Confronted with the undeniable succession of my surreal claims, Telma clasps her hands together in an effort to still the trembling that has seized her. Her eyes search the room for some escape from the discomfort our conversation has created. Her reaction overwhelms me, and I feel a visceral urge rise within me to seize her by the arms and shake her with all my strength. – Pull yourself together! I am telling you, in all sincerity, of the hell I am living through, and you have not a word to say? She casts me a helpless glance, to which I answer with a face twisted raw by anger. – So this is all the support you have to offer me, I continue. After all the care I have shown you, you ungrateful girl! – Mr. Cornwell, please, you... you are frightening me! she finally blurts out. – So I frighten you. You have seen nothing yet. Because everything I have just told you is nothing, do you hear me? Nothing! I spring to my feet and rush from the room. As I pass, my hand closes around a vase and smashes it against the wall before I disappear upstairs.</div><<set $telm to 3>><<smLoss D4>><<set $cible05 to 1>><<set _telmLabel to "Find my room again">><</if>> <<nobr>> <<if $att_telm < 6>> <<set $telm to 1>> <div class="dialogue"> <div id="dial_port"> [img[data/media/img/portraits/telma.jpg]] </div> <div id="dial_choise"> <<if $dial_tel_5 is 0 and $love is 2>> [[– Telma… there is a radiance in you that brings me back to life.|telm_5]] <</if>> </div> </div> <</if>> <<telmEnd _telmLabel>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">At this question, Telma is surprised at first, then seems to grow sullen. – I confess I have never thought about it. I... no, she hesitates. No, no. Besides, there are so many things to learn that I would never have known what to choose. – Forgive my indiscretion, I say, choosing not to press her, since the question has plainly left her quite abashed. – I am very happy to help my mother as I do, she adds proudly. I feel no desire to be anywhere else. And besides... in our community, women are traditionally kept apart from formal study. – It is only that I sometimes find it painful to see you burdened with so many household tasks. I believe you deserve better. It reminds me of my mother, Alanna, who was also alone in raising me. Yet that did not prevent me from leaving for university, and her encouragement was ardent. – As I have told you, I am very happy as I am. We are greatly fortunate to have this establishment, and it gives me great pleasure to care for it alongside my mother. In His mercy, our Lord has provided for all our needs. I shall never know how to thank Him enough, except through the daily zeal I bring to my work, she concludes. – Yes, I understand. Where I see ingratitude, you see a blessing. That is a fine lesson for me. Please forgive my hasty judgment; I never meant to offend you, Telma. I have so often read sorrow and weariness in my mother’s eyes, and I blame myself for being unable to change any of it—or to keep from making you a mirror of her suffering. – Thank you, Maximilien. That is very kind of you. Your mother is fortunate to have you for a son. I am sure you will succeed in improving her circumstances, for you are already doing everything necessary.</div><<set $att_telm += 1>> <<nobr>> <div class="dialogue"> <div id="dial_port"> [img[data/media/img/portraits/telma.jpg]] </div> <div id="dial_choise"> <<if $dial_tel_4 is 0 and $rab > 1>> [[– I would like to tell you about a recent encounter with a rabbi.|telm_4]] <</if>> [[– Is there some passion that stirs you above all?->telm_2_1]] </div> </div> <<telmEnd>><</nobr>><<set $dial_tel_2 to 1>>
<div id="texte">– Yes, of course... I am listening. – I turned to several works of psychology... in the hope of shedding light on those troubled nights in which I lose myself without memory. – And how far has that veil been lifted? <<if $f is 1>>– At least I already know one thing: I am not subject to schizophrenia. That illness touches the human soul, splits it apart, and produces dual behaviors of which one retains no awareness. – You mean... believing oneself to do one thing, then another, without ever realizing it? – In theory, yes. Science has observed several such cases. – And you feared you might have acted in that way, without knowing it? – That is entirely debatable, and corresponds only distantly to what I am experiencing. That illness is distinguished in particular by the patient’s total lack of lucidity. – You mean... that whoever suffers from it does not even know he is delirious? – Exactly. Only the madman is unaware of his own madness. Yet I see, I measure, I understand everything that happens to me. My nocturnal wanderings trouble me, certainly, but they are not enough to account for such a diagnosis.<</if>> <<if $e is 2>>– There is also the particular case of a certain Hélène Smith, I continue. A woman who was treated by a psychiatrist some years ago. She spoke an unknown language in her sleep, had visions, conversed with beings from elsewhere, and claimed to have lived several lives. It goes to show that illnesses of the soul may assume astonishing forms. – My God... and you believe such an illness may have afflicted you? – At this stage, I am more inclined to suspect an old trauma, deliberately buried, which is now rising to the surface again. My mother has remained so evasive about certain parts of our history... particularly where my father is concerned. <<set $att_telm += 1>><</if>> – I shall pray for you, Maximilien. Pray with all my heart that our Lord may enlighten and help you. I feel so awkward, so powerless... how clumsy I must seem. – No, Telma. You do me a great deal of good. Your listening is enough to soothe me. – You are kind... but I can see that you hoped for more answers. I am sorry that I cannot help you further. Forgive me. – Believe me: your presence is precious to me. In illness, loneliness is an immeasurable burden... and you already lighten it greatly.</div> <<nobr>> <div class="dialogue"> <div id="dial_port"> [img[data/media/img/portraits/telma.jpg]] </div> <div id="dial_choise"> <<if $dial_tel_1 is 0 and ($jui is 1 or $pol is 1 or $bak is 1)>> [[– Telma… I carry within me a disquiet I can no longer contain… let me speak of it to you.|telm_1]] <</if>> <<if $love >= 1 and $dial_tel_3 is 0>> [[– You carry something I can no longer name… a lightness, in spite of everything. How do you manage it?->telm_3]] <</if>> <<if $dial_tel_5 is 0 and $love is 2 and $att_telm <= 5>> [[– Telma… there is a radiance in you that brings me back to life.|telm_5]] <</if>> </div> </div> <<telmEnd>><</nobr>><<set $dial_tel_2_2 to 1>>
<div id="texte">– A passion? she asks, blushing. Your question is very embarrassing, Mr. Cornwell. – Embarrassing? I... I do not understand, I stammer. – Someone does indeed occupy my thoughts at present, if that is what you are asking, she replies, trying to reassure me. – Oh, no! I mean... you have misunderstood my question. That is not what I meant to ask, I say, beginning to laugh. I merely wished to know whether you have some particular enthusiasm for an activity beyond your daily duties. She clenches her fists and glances aside, her face flushed crimson. – I do not know where to put myself, Maximilien. How could I have imagined that...? – It is nothing, truly, I interrupt. The misunderstanding is obvious. Forgive my clumsiness. – There is one thing. Something I have done ever since we lived on the farm, she continues, her head still lowered. I collect little creatures. – Such as insects? – Yes, insects. I began by finding them here and there, often damaged, though sometimes in good condition. Now I manage to catch them in colored containers in the garden behind the house. It is curious how changing the colors draws different insects inside. – That is fascinating indeed. Without realizing it, you are practicing entomology, a branch of zoology taught at the university. How do you preserve them? Her face brightens, and her gaze meets mine again. – I believe they dry out naturally, she replies. Then I pin them onto frames, arranged in families of shape and color. In general, I separate those that fly from those that crawl, and from those that do both. – I hope you will show them to me sometime. I could borrow a few books from the library for you, should you wish, to help you identify them. – I should be delighted, she says with her brightest smile. I would very much like to learn more about them and be able to name them. – That pleases me greatly. Not that I mean to make a specialist of you, but I have heard that a congregation of scientists and experts met in Zurich last year. Perhaps, to encourage this sinecure, I might keep you informed of the latest advances in the field? – Why not? So long as it remains a simple and pleasant pastime for me. Thank you for taking such an interest, Maximilien. It touches me deeply.</div> <<set $love += 1>><<set $att_telm -= 2>> <<nobr>> <div class="dialogue"> <div id="dial_port"> [img[data/media/img/portraits/telma.jpg]] </div> <div id="dial_choise"> <<if $dial_tel_4 is 0 and $rab > 1>> [[– I would like to tell you about my recent encounter with a rabbi.|telm_4]] <</if>> </div> </div> <<telmEnd>> <</nobr>><<set $dial_tel_2 to 2>>
<div id="texte">– Yes, I am listening, Maximilien, she says. Was he Orthodox? – Well... I hesitate a moment. I could not say. To put it simply, my investigation into these bad dreams naturally led me to his temple, but I paid little attention to the particulars of his practice. What distinguishes it? – I am an observant Orthodox Jew myself. As such, I remain faithful to the laws given to Moses on Mount Sinai, to the Halakha, our Jewish law, and to the Talmud. My mother often says that we are authentic Jews. But I believe everyone should be free to express faith as they experience it, because our Lord is always full of surprises. – Then I believe I did speak with an Orthodox rabbi named Yiggael. He received me openly and with great humility. He offered me knowledge and several promising lines of inquiry concerning the afflictions I suffer, and remains at my disposal should I need him. – That is very charitable of him. – Yes. But as a Cartesian, and a man of no faith, I confess that I am religiously lost, so to speak. All of this is entirely new to me, and some of the possibilities I must now consider leave me particularly perplexed. – Tell me, Maximilien, if there is any way I may help you.</div> <<nobr>> <div class="dialogue"> <div id="dial_port"> [img[data/media/img/portraits/telma.jpg]] </div> <div id="dial_choise"> <<if $exor >= 1>> [[– What do you make of the practice of exorcism?|telm_4_1]] <</if>> <<if $dial_tel_2 is 0>> [[– Would you have studied, had you been given the chance?->telm_2]] <</if>> <<if $dial_tel_2 is 1>> [[– Is there some passion that stirs you above all?->telm_2_1]] <</if>> </div> </div><<telmEnd>> <</nobr>><<set $dial_tel_4 to 1>>
<div id="texte">– What does it involve? she asks in return. I find the question somewhat surprising, but take care to explain. – It is a ritual performed by a man of faith to drive out an entity that is said to influence or manipulate a living person. One speaks of possession. According to Yiggael, the entity might be either a deceased person or a demon. Does that mean anything to you? – It is frightening, she says. Man is what he is, with his share of shadow and light. I believe that is how evil may reveal itself, whatever name it bears. But to imagine malevolent forces capable of acting upon our lives... I have often been told of the Yetser Hara’, our evil inclination, which it is our duty to resist. Only our actions and thoughts reflect or manifest evil; they depend upon us alone, do they not? – I quite agree with you. But where the evil that grips and afflicts me is concerned, I am prepared to consider other alternatives, however fanciful they may be. – The rabbi is our religious authority. His knowledge is great. For that reason, I believe you should take him very seriously. But if you can draw from within yourself the strength needed to cure your affliction, whatever it may be, I believe you will emerge much stronger—and greater as well. And I am certain you can do it, Maximilien.</div><<set $att_telm += 1>> <<nobr>> <div class="dialogue"> <div id="dial_port"> [img[data/media/img/portraits/telma.jpg]] </div> <div id="dial_choise"> <<if $dial_tel_2 is 0>> [[– Would you have studied, had you been given the chance?->telm_2]] <</if>> <<if $dial_tel_2 is 1>> [[– Is there some passion that stirs you above all?->telm_2_1]] <</if>> </div> </div> <<telmEnd>> <</nobr>><<set $dial_tel_4 to 2>>
<div id="texte">– Well... I believe our life is the place where God works and reveals Himself. God is love, and by nature we come into the world with a pure soul. The trials we endure shape our inclination toward good or evil. Yet He always leaves us our free will; perhaps, in the end, everything is merely a matter of choice. My faith simply helps me discern the choice that seems right. A bright spark passes through her eyes as she continues with newfound assurance. I watch her attentively, discovering a Telma less timid and more self-possessed than I had imagined. – To welcome God into the temple of my life, she says, is to seek harmony. I often tell myself that everything finds its place, even when certain events seem obscure or unjust to me. I do not hold our Lord responsible for my joys or sorrows; I merely invite Him to reveal Himself through me, and that brings me peace. – And does that give meaning to your existence? I finally ask. She hesitates for a brief moment. – I would rather say that... it is my life that gives meaning to what I receive from Him. I hope that does not sound too prideful. – I am not certain I understand. – Well, it is something like gratitude: welcoming each moment, however harsh it may be. Without my own feeling, without what I experience within it, how could any moment possess meaning? Do you see what I mean? – Yes... yes, I believe I understand now. It is not easy to put into words, but you have given me much to think about. I greatly admire the way you think; there is something wonderfully fresh in it. Thank you, Telma. – It is a true joy to be able to share this with you, Maximilien.</div><<set $love += 1>><<set $att_telm -= 2>> <<nobr>> <div class="dialogue"> <div id="dial_port"> [img[data/media/img/portraits/telma.jpg]] </div> <div id="dial_choise"> <<if $uni neq 0 and ($e is 2 or $f is 1) and $dial_tel_2_2 is 0 and $dial_tel_2 is 1>> [[– My reading has lifted a veil I did not expect… let me say a word of it to you.|telm_2_2]] <</if>> <<if $dial_tel_1 is 0 and ($jui is 1 or $pol is 1 or $bak is 1)>> [[– Telma… I carry within me a disquiet I can no longer contain… let me speak of it to you.|telm_1]] <</if>> <<if $dial_tel_5 is 0 and $love is 2 and $att_telm <= 5>> [[– Telma… there is a radiance in you that brings me back to life.|telm_5]] <</if>> </div> </div> <<set $dial_tel_3 to 2>> <<telmEnd>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">She looks at me for a moment, gently takes my hands, and steps closer. I hold her gaze, incline my head almost imperceptibly, and together we drift toward a gesture only half foreseen, taking shape in the trembling light of our shared hesitation. It is one of those fragments of eternity in which the world stands still and allows the moment to blossom into a bouquet of tender emotion. The warmth of her skin comes to rest against my lips, accompanied by the faint breath of her perfume. We embrace. She shivers... I draw her against my heart, and the last of our tension dissolves at the dawn of our nascent love. [img[data/media/img/romeo.jpg]] I shall forever cherish the wondrous memory of that embrace, whose serenity softens the wounds of the ordeal through which I am passing. I know now that I may count on her support, whatever may come. After a few shy words, a few awkward gestures punctuated by laughing silences, we finally manage to part from one another and bring to a close that evening blessed by the grace of our tender stirrings.</div><<set $dial_tel_5 to 1>><<set $att_telm -= 5>><<set $telm to 2>><<if $succ3 is 0>><<remember $succes to $succes + 1>><<remember $succ3 to 1>><</if>> <<nobr>> <<telmEnd>> <<smGain D10>><</nobr>>
<div id="texte">Diethyl ether fumes permeate my sinuses as my watering eyes adjust to the opaline glow of the groaning hospital ward where I lie, groggy. At the first sign of movement, a nurse comes over and begins examining me. I can scarcely move in the tangle of the open-backed gown they have put me in, yet no pain impedes my languid awakening. I would sooner have suffered the physical tortures of a thousand hells than endure the devastating torment of the terrible news brought to me a little later by a police lieutenant come to take my statement: The South Boston Ogre broke into the Krieger boardinghouse last night. A few lodgers mad enough to face him, myself among them though I remember none of it, managed to drive him off. Deep down, I knew I had lured that ravenous monster there. I had shown him his prey. At the mention of her name, the echo of my suffering tore through the ward in a howl of despair. The Ogre had indeed fled, but he had already wrought his loathsome work upon my gentle Telma, whose smile I shall never see again. The officer learns nothing more from me. For hours I drift upon the undulating limbo of my thoughts in ruins.</div><<set $act to 5>> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">Would I even have the strength to collect myself?</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $n is 0>> @@#link_5;<<link "Recover my strength">><<goto "repo_2">><</link>>@@ <<elseif $day is 1>> [[Sleep->c_2]] <<elseif $day is 2>> [[Sleep->c_3]] <<elseif $day is 3>> [[Sleep->c_4]] <<elseif $day is 4>> [[Never stop sleeping->c_5]] <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> @@#link_2;<<link "Slip away to my rooms">><<goto "appart_j_2">><<set $act -= 2>><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> @@#link_2;<<link "Slip away to my rooms">><<goto "appart_j_3">><<set $act -= 2>><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> @@#link_2;<<link "Slip away to my rooms">><<goto "appart_j_4">><<set $act -= 2>><</link>>@@ <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>> <<silently>><<smLoss D6>><<audio "jour" play>><<set $vj to 1>><<set $vc to 0>><<set $reve to 0>><<set $bloc to 1>> <<if $day is 2>> <<script>>Save.slots.save(1, "Day2")<</script>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<script>>Save.slots.save(2, "Day3")<</script>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<script>>Save.slots.save(3, "Day4")<</script>> <</if>><</silently>>
<div id="texte">The scene takes place in the room of Telma, the landlady’s daughter, at the Krieger boardinghouse. The Ogre (a gaunt, long-haired humanoid creature), having ransacked the room, savagely butchers Telma with its razor-sharp claws. Maximilien (a powerless spectator) is so horrified that his mind compels him to imagine himself part of a grotesque stage play. Victor and a stranger (the neighboring lodgers), alerted by the clamor, burst into the room to intervene. The Ogre leaps through the window and disappears. <center>Scene I: The Death of Telma //Maximilien – Telma – The South Boston Ogre – Victor – Stranger//</center> //(Maximilien stands upon the apron, arms hanging limp, facing the closed curtain.) The traditional three knocks resound, struck with the brigadier: one, “in the name of the Father”; two, “in the name of the Son”; three, “and of the Holy Spirit,” cries the stage manager’s voice. (The bloodred curtain creaks open. Telma is cornered against the west wall by the Ogre’s looming presence.)// ''Telma'' (//panicked.//) – Please, please do not hurt me! ''The Ogre'' (//with a sickly smile.//) – … ''Telma'' (//despairing.//) – I implore you! ''The Ogre'' (//draws slowly nearer, spreading its claws.//) – Grrr. (//Guttural rumble.//) ''Maximilien'' (//aside.//) – A dream... this is unmistakably a dream. And in the name of dreaming, I dare invoke a grace fashioned of frail hopes. (//He turns to the audience.//) I have not yet asked for that grace... or if I have dared it even in thought, then... Good God, may it please Thy mercy... (//He turns back toward the stage.//) Telma... may she suffer no great misery before the raging beast. ''Telma'' (//frantic.//) – Maximilien! Help me! Do something! ''Maximilien'' (//aside, sighing.//) – Too late to see it from within my puppet booth... Good God... the strings that bind me... (//Addressing Telma.//) Grace has fled... ''The Ogre'' (//hurls itself upon Telma and tears her to pieces.//) – Groaarrgh! (//Bestial growl.//) ''Telma'' (//meets her fate in piercing screams.//) – Aaaargh! ''Maximilien'' (//thoughtfully.//) – … //(The two neighbors come onto the apron, racing past Maximilien on either side. The Ogre, caught in the midst of chewing flesh, whirls around.)// ''Victor'' (//draws his revolver and fires three times at the Ogre without hitting it.//) – Vile minion of the Devil! ''Stranger'' (//stops short at the sight of Telma’s body and shields his eyes with his arm.//) – Oh, by all the saints, no! This is more than I can bear! //(The Ogre takes two strides and exits the stage by crashing through the closed window with a thunderous din. Glass showers across the room. Victor rushes to the sill and fires twice more. Maximilien remains still as a statue.)// ''Victor'' (//leaping through the window.//) – I shall hunt it to the very end of the night! ''Stranger'' (//straightens and pulls Maximilien onto the stage by the arm.//) – Pull yourself together, sir! (//He slaps Maximilien three times.//) We need you. Come now! Pull yourself together! ''Maximilien'' (//collapses in on himself, sobbing.//) //(A final gunshot sounds offstage.)//</div> <div id="continuer">[[Scene II->telma_2_1]]</div> <<silently>> <<timed 8s>><<smLoss D10>><</timed>><<audio "jour" play>> <<if $day is 2>> <<script>>Save.slots.save(1, "Day2")<</script>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<script>>Save.slots.save(2, "Day3")<</script>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<script>>Save.slots.save(3, "Day4")<</script>> <</if>> <</silently>>
<div id="texte">The scene takes place in the parlor of the Krieger boardinghouse. Victor returns empty-handed from his nocturnal hunt. The characters are gathered around a central table for questioning. The police take their statements as part of the investigation. Still convinced he is part of a theatrical production, Maximilien remains passive and absent, then begins to sing. <center>Scene II: Maximilien’s Song //Maximilien – Martha – Police Officer – Untz – Victor – Stranger//</center> //(Maximilien sits cross-legged on the apron, facing the audience.) Sirens sound offstage as the curtain slides open. (At the rear of the stage, coroners and investigators come and go. The stranger keeps Martha warm beneath a blanket near the fireplace. The police officer, Victor, and Untz stand around the table.)// ''Police Officer'' (//addresses Victor while taking notes in his notebook.//) – And that, according to your account, is how the culprit escaped. ''Victor'' (//confidently.//) – Yes. Over the parapet it went... without further ado. ''Police Officer'' (//mockingly.//) – Six times you fired and never struck true; six times the beast made sport of you. Three shots in the room, two through the window, and one in the garden. Six in all, far more than was seemly. ''Victor'' (//embarrassed.//) – To my great regret. The monster was so fleet that even six did not suffice. Yet know this: my skill in matters of war requires no further proof. //(Maximilien strikes the floor with his fist twice, then three times, and rises. Every character turns toward him in silence.)// ''Maximilien'' (//addresses the audience with his eyes closed.//) – One sacrificed scion, for three defiled spirits... Three times, far more than was seemly indeed. The show is over... Now strike the lavish set, gag the coryphaeus, and let me sing this street ballad in peace. //(Untz approaches Maximilien, takes him gently by his frail shoulders, and leads him out of the parlor under the assembly’s watchful gaze. Untz escorts Maximilien back to his room.) The stage lights fade to black. The curtain closes.// ''Maximilien'' (//continues his litany offstage.//) – One sacrificed scion, for three defiled spirits...</div> <<nobr>> <div id="continuer"> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "End of the act">><<goto "appart_j_2">><<set $reve to 0>><</link>> <<elseif $day is 3>> <<link "End of the act">><<goto "appart_j_3">><<set $reve to 0>><</link>> <<elseif $day is 4>> <<link "End of the act">><<goto "appart_j_4">><<set $reve to 0>><</link>> <</if>> </div><<set $vj to 1>><<set $act to 4>><<set $vc to 0>><<set $convoc to 100>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">Two hands clamped around my thin arms shake me frantically: – Mr. Cornwell! What is wrong with you? Wake up! Victor, my neighbor across the hall, shouts at me, his features seeming to melt with terror. The veil of my dreambound limbo is swept away in an instant by Telma’s screams rising from the ground floor. We race downstairs and rush toward Telma’s room. Martha’s body lies sprawled across the threshold of the half-open door, motionless. An acrid smell of animal sweat creeps into the hallway. Two other lodgers join us just as I plunge into the room. Telma lies clutching a bloodied arm, pinned beneath the knotted, gaunt bulk of a long-haired humanoid figure with razor-sharp claws, half lost in the darkness. [img[data/media/img/ogre_cim.jpg]] The creature turns upon me a gaze glinting vermilion, seizes a fistful of Telma’s hair, and hauls her in a single bound toward the window. With a sweeping motion, it tears away part of the frame. For an instant, I feel my heart stop, my blood frozen by dread. The sight of Telma bruised and battered is the spark that jolts me back to life. I fling myself at the human beast, but with a single violent motion it knocks me to the floor. <<if _echoOK>><<include "echo_entry">><</if>> <<if !_echoOK>>A gunshot cracks behind me. The creature reels, spitting with rage. It releases its victim, then leaps through the windowpane and vanishes into the night. Victor, trembling, readjusts the aim of his Colt and fires a second time, but it is already too late... <div id="continuer">[[Continue->telma_3_1]]</div><</if>></div> <<nobr>> <<if $day is 2>> <<script>>Save.slots.save(1, "Day2")<</script>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<script>>Save.slots.save(2, "Day3")<</script>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<script>>Save.slots.save(3, "Day4")<</script>> <</if>> <<set $reve to 0>><<set $bloc to 1>> <<audio "jour" play>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">Telma is in shock, bruised and battered but alive and out of danger. Martha regains consciousness soon afterward and begins tending to her. Until daybreak, a frenzied ballet of authorities plays out through the boardinghouse and its grounds as they hunt the South Boston Ogre. If any doubts remained about my involvement in the monster’s unspeakable deeds, I am now cleared of all suspicion. Like every other lodger, I am pulled aside by one officer and inspector after another to answer their endless questions, which, I hope, will allow them to reconstruct the events as faithfully as possible. At last, late that morning, we are released from our obligations. This encounter at such close quarters with the beast has only strengthened my conviction that some intimate bond unites us. And I doubt the special investigative unit assembled by the police can meet with any success unless I myself manage to probe the origins of the evil that grips me.</div> <<nobr>> <div id="continuer"> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return to my room">><<goto "appart_j_2">><</link>> <<set $victime1 to 0>> <<elseif $day is 3>> <<link "Return to my room">><<goto "appart_j_3">><</link>> <<set $victime2 to 0>> <<elseif $day is 4>> <<link "Return to my room">><<goto "appart_j_4">><</link>> <<set $victime3 to 0>> <</if>> </div> <<set $cible05 to 2>> <<set $vc to 0>> <<set $vj to 1>><<set $act to 3>><<smGain D6>> <</nobr>>
<div id="indicjour"><<include "date">></div><<include "moment">>
<div id="texte">I am already badly behind, and I cannot afford to miss any more of my classes. I gather my things into my satchel, put on my overcoat, and slip discreetly out of my rooms. The route I usually take leads me along the wharves, then into the heart of the bustling //South Boston// district, before turning onto //W 4th street//, one of those broad boulevards that grid the neighborhood. I follow it for a little under an hour to reach the first tramway station at //Back Bay East//, which runs west along //Commonwealth Avenue// toward //Governor Square//, where the University is located. Boston University stretches lengthwise along the //Charles// River from the //Harvard// Bridge and is arranged in two distinct sections of the neighborhood. In the eastern part stand buildings mostly built of ocher stone tinged with red, their English architecture marked by clustered columns, spired towers, and roofs that call to mind the singularity of certain Gothic manors. Only //Adath Israel//, a gray-stone synagogue meant to reproduce the Temple of Solomon, stands in sharp contrast to the rest in the second part of the district. The buildings on that side are markedly more imposing, shaped by an eclectic architectural tendency in which neo-Romanesque forms predominate, with vaulted entrances and broad granite façades adorned with semicircular bays. It is in one of these buildings, shared by the arts and sciences, that research and classes in psychology are conducted. Given how late I am, I slip discreetly into the lecture hall, where the course is treating the functions of the psyche in relation to their organic conditions; and it is with difficulty, and no small effort of concentration, that I follow for the rest of the morning the study of the soul’s faculties as characterized by sensation, instinct, consciousness, and freedom, and more particularly the correspondences of their intermediate determinations: on the one hand perception, understanding, reason, and feeling; on the other, locomotion, speech, will, and passion. At last, the chapel bells, blessed deliverance, announce the mass migration of students toward the refectories, where I am able to fortify myself after a particularly emphatic blessing. Though I seek isolation at all costs, I am forced to endure the social exchanges that bring me face to face with my classmates, to which I respond with terse politeness. The din rebounds through the entire hall, a mounting mass of voices and the clatter of cutlery, and I am obliged to cut my meal short and make my way to the park that runs along the Charles behind the courtyard. My nervousness worsens, and my headache, that beast crouched in the convolutions of my bruised brain, seems to surface again. The tranquillity afforded me by the blazing nature of this early autumn allows me to take stock of the afflictions that have plagued me of late: “//A recent tendency toward agoraphobia associated with incipient schizophrenia, manifesting in recurrent panic attacks and nocturnal somnambulistic episodes, nothing too serious, Mr. Cornwell//,” I think, with an ironic smile fixed at the corner of my mouth, “//eeeeverything is fine; it would merely seem that your psychic functions are slightly disturbed, hardly anything to get worked up about//.” Seated beneath a tree, on a bed of red-orange leaves, I keep setting my memories of the past few days against one another without the least coherence emerging. In the end, few choices present themselves to me for setting the gears of my failing psyche back in order: either I grant myself a period of latency while doing my utmost to pursue my studies under these conditions, or I take matters in hand and resolve the conflicts underlying the whole of my predicament, in hopes of making up the delay I have incurred under the best possible circumstances.</div><<set $act -= 2>> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">For now I intended to:</span> <div id="selection"> @@#link_2;<<link "Carry on with the afternoon lectures">><<goto "univ_2_1">><</link>>@@ @@#link_0;<<link "Research at the university library">><<goto "univ_2_2">><<set $posx to 2810>><<set $posy to 2415>><</link>>@@ <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Withdraw to my rooms">> <<goto "appart_j_2">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Withdraw to my rooms">> <<goto "appart_j_3">> <</link>> <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>><<silently>><<set $uni to 1>><<set $bloc to 1>><</silently>>
<div id="texte">After the episode that forced me to leave the establishment prematurely the day before, I cannot afford to miss any more of today’s classes. I gather my things into my satchel, put on my overcoat, and slip discreetly out of my rooms to avoid the proprietors’ reproaches. The route I usually take leads me along the wharves, then into the heart of the bustling //South Boston// district, before turning onto //W 4th street//, one of those broad boulevards that grid the neighborhood. I follow it for a little under an hour to reach the first tramway station at //Back Bay East//, which runs west along //Commonwealth Avenue// toward //Governor Square//, where the University is located. I have barely passed one of the last Petty-Fitzmaurice warehouses when I come upon a dense gathering of onlookers blocking my way. Two police vehicles and several uniformed men are preventing access to a side alley leading toward the wharves. I assume it must be yet another sordid killing in this neighborhood of gambling dens, so often subject to tragedies of that kind. And yet, despite the timely presence of several reporters, I am surprised by the excessive interest shown by the many curious spectators gathering there, and by the plainly genuine disturbance they display. I am about to skirt the mass of people spilling out into the road when a thought, almost self-evident, seeps into my mind like a cup of poison: “//The blood//.” The blood, still sticky, spread across my clothes. In that instant, doubt hooks every interpretation I have of the scene unfolding before my terrified eyes and drags from it the most dreadful reality: “//Could I have played some part in the violent episode behind this commotion?//” I stand on the sidewalk, unsteady, short of breath, trying to reason with myself.</div> <<nobr>><div id="continuer">@@#link_2;<<link "Carry on my way">><<goto "univ_1_1">><</link>>@@</div> <</nobr>><<silently>><<smLoss D4>><</silently>> <<if $tut2 is 0>><div id="tutoriel"><div class="tuto_title">TUTORIAL: <span style="color: #b6bac0">ACTIONS</span></div><p><span style="padding-right: 8px"><<include "action">></span>The story unfolds through a succession of days and nights. The indicator above shows how many actions you have available for the day. The cost in actions of any initiative on your part is marked on the links in the story as follows: @@#link_1;<<link "">><</link>>@@ / 1 action toward a short scene. @@#link_2;<<link "">><</link>>@@ / 2 actions toward a long scene. @@#link_0;<<link "">><</link>>@@ / toward a scene containing a series of links with varying action costs. <span style="color: #00ab4f">The day ends once your actions are spent.</span> Your nighttime investigations are free, but they may reduce the number of actions available the following day, to reflect your moral or physical fatigue.</p> </div><<set $tut2 to 1>><</if>>
<div id="texte">//I do not want to be mixed up in this affair. In any case, even in the worst possible event, I would be of no help whatsoever: a wretched amnesiac witness, victim of my own somnambulism, I could have had no influence on the course of events... My good Maximilien, protect yourself; you already have quite enough to contend with at present.// Fortified by these arguments, I cross the street in haste and resume my way toward the university. On the way, I complete my reasoning in order to dispel any sense of guilt, and I concentrate on the classes that will resume later that morning. By the end of the week I shall have to propose the subject of my year’s thesis, and my experiences of the past few days now allow me to sketch out the field in which I intend to work. Given the disorders affecting me, it seems logical to undertake an observation of behavior within altered states of consciousness and draw from it a behavioral phenomenology, perhaps through the sensory modifications that result from them. At present, I have no better experimental subject than myself, and by refining my observation I may be able to establish correlations on the metaphysical plane, provided I make up the ground lost in Professor Stanton’s philosophy lectures. While my mind considers the various ramifications opened by the first outline of this absorbing subject, my automatic steps have quite naturally led me onto the university forecourt.</div><div id="continuer"><<link "Continue">><<goto "univ_2">><<set $posx to 2784>><<set $posy to 2451>><</link>></div>
<div id="texte">Boston University stretches lengthwise along the //Charles// River from the //Harvard// Bridge and is arranged in two distinct sections of the neighborhood. In the eastern part stand buildings mostly built of ocher stone tinged with red, their English architecture marked by clustered columns, spired towers, and roofs that call to mind the singularity of certain Gothic manors. Only //Adath Israel//, a gray-stone synagogue meant to reproduce the Temple of Solomon, stands in sharp contrast to the rest in the second part of the district. The buildings on that side are markedly more imposing, shaped by an eclectic architectural tendency in which neo-Romanesque forms predominate, with vaulted entrances and broad granite façades adorned with semicircular bays. It is in one of these buildings, shared by the arts and sciences, that research and classes in psychology take place. Given how late I am, I slip discreetly into the lecture hall, where the lecture is concerned with the functions of the psyche in relation to their organic conditions; and it is with difficulty, and no small effort of concentration, that I follow for the rest of the morning the study of the soul’s faculties as characterized by sensation, instinct, consciousness, and freedom, and more particularly the correspondences of their intermediate determinations: on the one hand perception, understanding, reason, and feeling; on the other, locomotion, speech, will, and passion. At last, the chapel bells, blessed deliverance, announce the mass migration of students toward the refectories, where I am able to fortify myself after a particularly emphatic blessing. Though I seek isolation at all costs, I am forced to endure the social exchanges that bring me face to face with my classmates, to which I respond with terse politeness. The din rebounds through the entire hall, a mounting mass of voices and the clatter of cutlery, and I am obliged to cut my meal short and make my way to the park that runs along the Charles behind the courtyard. My nervousness worsens, and my headache, that beast crouched in the convolutions of my bruised brain, seems to surface again. The tranquility afforded me by the blazing nature of this early autumn allows me to take stock of the afflictions that have plagued me of late: “//A recent tendency toward agoraphobia associated with incipient schizophrenia, manifesting in recurrent panic attacks and nocturnal somnambulistic episodes, nothing too serious, Mr. Cornwell//,” I think, with an ironic smile fixed at the corner of my mouth, “//eeeeverything is fine; it would merely seem that your psychic functions are slightly disturbed, hardly anything to get worked up about//.” Seated beneath a tree, on a bed of red-orange leaves, I keep setting my memories of the past few days against one another without the least coherence emerging. In the end, few choices present themselves to me for setting the gears of my failing psyche back in order: either I grant myself a period of latency while doing my utmost to pursue my studies under these conditions, or I take matters in hand and resolve the conflicts underlying the whole of my predicament, in hopes of making up the delay I have incurred under the best possible circumstances.</div><<set $act -= 2>> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">For now I intended to:</span> <div id="selection"> @@#link_2;<<link "Carry on with the afternoon lectures">><<goto "univ_2_1">><</link>>@@ @@#link_0;<<link "Research at the university library">><<goto "univ_2_2">><<set $posx to 2810>><<set $posy to 2415>><</link>>@@ <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Withdraw to my rooms">> <<goto "appart_j_1">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Withdraw to my rooms">> <<goto "appart_j_2">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Withdraw to my rooms">> <<goto "appart_j_3">> <</link>> <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>><<set $uni to 1>><<set $bloc to 1>><<audio ":playing" stop>>
<div id="texte">This day consists, in order, of two general courses followed by one specialized subject. In the morning we take up general speculative anthropology, then in the early afternoon we pursue our study of physiological psychology in greater depth. Finally, I have chosen the subconscious being as my specialization, a field concerned with the obscure phenomena of normal and abnormal psychology. The succession of our professors’ inexhaustible monologues has finally plunged me into a kind of torpor in which my tensions have dissolved, giving way to brief, restorative spells of drowsiness.</div> <<timed 22s>><div id="texte"><<if $n is 0 and $y is 1>><<canvasfx "data/script/js/flash_eso.js" "FlashEso">>During one of these absences, my gaze falls again upon my notebook, left open before me. Between a few scattered notes, an entire page has covered itself with an interlacing of nervous signs, traced by a hand I do not remember allowing to run free.<<set $n to 1>><<invGain "dessins_auto">><</if>>The euphoria produced by such a lull abruptly tolls its own death knell in the middle of the third hour. As though taking advantage of the languor in which I have been basking, Professor Wright calls me out in a thunderous voice and, taking the assembled students as his witnesses, takes pleasure in humiliating me by pointing out my incapacity for assimilation and understanding: – With Mr. Cornwell, it would seem we are dealing with a particularly rare case: it is far easier to discern the influence of his subconscious when he is in a waking state than to measure any effective work of his conscious and voluntary mind... Could you specify for us, in such a case, how psychic synthesis escapes your consciousness, Mr. Cornwell? Faced with my inability to answer, my classmates are unable to repress a collective laugh that finishes cracking the thin illusion that my tensions had come to rest; I then lose control... Like a wild animal driven into a corner after an implacable hunt, I yield to an aggressive panic released by hours of constrained nervousness. I spring to my feet, sweep up my things in one violent motion, and stuff them into my satchel by the handful, sputtering as I do so; then I make my way with heavy steps toward the exit at the top of the auditorium. Before crossing the threshold, I turn back toward the professor to show him all the hatred burning within me, and in a visceral tone I let fall: – You will pay for this! At that instant I perceive the sudden reversal of our roles... I savor his stunned expression, though I shall only understand that impression later...</div><<nobr>> <<if $day is 1>> <div id="continuer"> <<link "Head home">> <<goto "fin_jour">> <</link>> </div> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <div id="continuer"> <<link "Head home">> <<goto "fin_jour">> <</link>> </div> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <div id="continuer"> <<link "Head home">> <<goto "fin_jour">> <</link>> </div> <</if>> <<silently>> <<smLoss D4>> <<set $cible01 to 1>> <<set $uni to 2>> <</silently>> <</nobr>><</timed>>
<div id="texte"> [img[data/media/img/biblio.jpg]] The university library is a separate building in the eastern part of the university district, welcoming students, professors, and independent readers across three levels. It brings together a body of knowledge that far surpasses the works offered by the municipal library. Each wing of the building is organized according to the subjects covered by the university’s courses: theology, medicine, law, arts and sciences, health and rehabilitation sciences, economics, education. Aside from the fact that my questions bear essentially on the alteration of my behavior, I also try to focus on the most enigmatic aspects of my strange nightmare.</div><<set $bloc to 0>> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I begin my search into:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $f is 0>> @@#link_1;<<link "Changes of personality">><<goto "univ_2_2_1">><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $e is 1>> @@#link_1;<<link "//From India to the Planet Mars//">><<goto "univ_2_2_2">><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $dy is 1>> @@#link_1;<<link "The term dybbuk">><<goto "univ_2_2_3">><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $livre >= 2 and $t is 0>> @@#link_1;<<link "The Cult of the Threshold Fish">><<goto "univ_2_2_4">><</link>>@@ <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>>
<div id="texte">My questions drive me to conduct research into recorded pathologies that influence the personality, bringing into relief the symptoms most telling in light of the events of these past few days. I make my way through the health and rehabilitation sciences wing on the third floor, concentrating my attention on the row devoted to psychoanalysis, and, by cross-referencing, I finally establish a diagnosis toward which all my afflictions seem to converge. My blood runs cold, and the feverishness that seizes me as I leaf through several conference reports on the subject prevents me from sorting through this terrible discovery —loss of contact with reality, dissociative syndrome, disturbances of vigilance, major anxiety, affective disorder, autism, and disorder of the association of ideas—//Schi-zo-phre-ni-a, formerly called dementia praecox, my God, no! It cannot be that! I must find some way to refute it...// Opinions diverge as to the origins and causes of the disease. Dr. Eugen Bleuler, the guiding authority on this dreadful pathology, establishes a theory according to which schizophrenia is a Prozess Psychose, an organic process; while others object that the observed presence of lesions does not prove they are the basis of the pathological process. //That is not worth a red cent; let us look further... It seems certain that disturbances of affectivity are extremely characteristic... the organization of affectivity, or libido, occurs in several stages...// I pursue my study relentlessly, hunting down the slightest arguments capable of refuting this madness. After an indeterminable length of time, I reach the conclusion that while certain symptoms do seem to correlate, they do not constitute the essence of the pathology. The chief point, according to recent discoveries, is first that it originates in conflicts of early childhood, which in no way correspond to my experience—for my part, this dates back only a few days...—and second, that the patient has no awareness of his infirmity. Is it not said that only the madman fails to see that he is mad? Armed with this precious information, I shall know how to remain vigilant in future as to the development of any psychopathology of which I may be the victim.</div><<set $act -= 1>> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I then wish to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $e is 1>> @@#link_1;<<link "Find the work: //From India to the Planet Mars//">><<goto "univ_2_2_2">><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $dy is 1>> @@#link_1;<<link "Search for the term dybbuk">><<goto "univ_2_2_3">><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $livre >= 2 and $t is 0>> @@#link_1;<<link "Research //The Cult of the Threshold Fish//">><<goto "univ_2_2_4">><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">><</link>> <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>><<silently>><<timed 4s>><<smGain D3>><</timed>><<set $f to 1>><</silently>>
<div id="texte">On Dr. Bergmann’s advice, I conduct a search into Professor Flournoy’s case study, and I am pleasantly surprised to discover a copy in the health and rehabilitation sciences wing, in an English translation published by //Harper & Brothers// four years earlier: “From India to the Planet Mars — A Study of a Case of Somnambulism.” As the translator’s preface states, the enthusiasm aroused by the transatlantic phenomenon of the experience set forth by its heroine, presented in the work under the pseudonym Mlle. Hélène Smith, was considerable enough to mark a new era in the progress of human knowledge. I settle at one of the vacant desks to examine it attentively for a good part of the afternoon. From a modest background, this lady earned an honorable living as an employee in a commercial house. After three years of initiation into Spiritism, and once introduced into an intimate circle of that practice, she displayed her remarkable psychic faculties and quickly became a renowned medium. The author, a privileged guest at these manifestations, bears witness to an exacting, rational observation by concentrating on the particular nature of the somnambulistic phases, punctuated by the subject’s amnesia, which are organized into three cycles. Two concern former existences lived as a Hindu princess and as a queen of France; the last concerns contact with a Martian civilization and the revelation of its mysteries. //Well, I may take some comfort, at least, in not being quite so frustrated by my present life...// Finally, the personality of Leopold, a disembodied soul floating in space, plays the role of protector and spiritual adviser, and intervenes as a vector within these phases. In the end, what I retain from this investigation is the rigorous quality of an objective gaze upon an individual presenting, on the one hand, numerous physiological disturbances involving motility and sensitivity during her visions and somnambulisms, from which she appears free in her normal state; and, on the other, behavior governed by recognized psychological principles whose successive or concurrent action produces the multiple phenomena observed. He notes in particular the influence of emotional shocks and certain psychic traumas on mental dissociation, giving rise to hypnoid states responsible for the manifestations of more or less clearly characterized secondary personalities, or for somnambulistic episodes interpreted as the exaggeration of half-conscious imaginary fantasies to which most people give themselves over in the normal state. As for myself, I understand that no reference present in last night’s dream, so disturbingly tangible, is to be neglected, each one echoing a direct or indirect experience, more or less distant, with my environment. In the end, I reassure myself as to my current condition, no doubt a passing one, being quite unable to situate any emotional shock capable of giving rise to my ailments, however far back I may go into my early childhood.</div><<set $act -= 1>> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I decide to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $f is 0>> @@#link_1;<<link "To read up on schizophrenia">><<goto "univ_2_2_1">><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $dy is 1>> @@#link_1;<<link "Search for the term dybbuk">><<goto "univ_2_2_3">><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $livre >= 2 and $t is 0>> @@#link_1;<<link "Search for //The Cult of the Threshold Fish//">><<goto "univ_2_2_4">><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">><</link>> <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>><<silently>><<set $e to 2>><</silently>>
<div id="texte">Starting from the simple premise that it is a name invoked during my dream of the previous night to designate a force inhabiting a cemetery, I put my question to the archivists on hand; and, by good fortune, one of them, a Jewish archivist, recognizes the pronunciation of that particular word. He has not heard it since childhood, but remembers that in Jewish folklore it is attributed to the spirit of a dead person taking possession of the living. He decides to accompany me to the ground floor, into the wing devoted to theology, with all the energy of a treasure hunter. We have the greatest difficulty unearthing the rare citations in which the Dybbuk appears—as it is most often spelled—our trail is so slender, and English-language works likely to mention it are so few. Yet, thanks to pamphlets devoted to mythological subjects and to my companion’s modest knowledge of Hebrew, I nevertheless manage to form a more precise idea of it. The term Dybbuk has various spellings, meaning “attachment,” and designates a wandering spirit to which varied origins are ascribed. The earliest references depict a disembodied demon taking possession of someone; later, the Dybbuk is described as the spirit of a deceased person whose host is a living being. The symptoms of possession by a Dybbuk are relatively precise: the victim may discourse on subjects unknown to him and use a language foreign to him, display complex abilities innately, testify to distant events or to another time, and appropriate the dreams of others. The only means contemplated for ridding oneself of the unwelcome spirit is the practice of an exorcism by a rabbi, within the framework of a very precise ritual. Most troubling of all remains the fact that I have never heard of its existence, and that it finds an echo both in my dream and in my somnambulistic behavior. //Could this be what Dr. Jung attributed to the language of symbols in the collective unconscious?// I think under my breath. No, those are images and concepts; it is difficult to believe that a precise reference to a culture, under a name in the corresponding language, could resurface in this way from my unconscious. Though I can glimpse the reason for the Dybbuk’s symbolic presence in my dream, I can in no way authenticate its origin, my knowledge of Judaism being more than limited. I finally put the books away before going to thank the archivist warmly for his precious help, pleased to share with him the information we had gleaned.</div><<set $act -= 1>> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">After which, I decide:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $f is 0>> @@#link_1;<<link "To read up on changes of personality">><<goto "univ_2_2_1">><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $e is 1>> @@#link_1;<<link "To find the work //From India to the Planet Mars//">><<goto "univ_2_2_2">><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $livre >= 2 and $t is 0>> @@#link_1;<<link "To search for //The Cult of the Threshold Fish//">><<goto "univ_2_2_4">><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">><</link>> <</if>> </div> </div><</nobr>><<silently>><<set $dy to 2>><<set $mid2_nature += 1>><</silently>>
<div id="texte">I compel myself to lucidity, to that critical spirit one must know how to summon when venturing into the most complex manifestations of the human mind. Then I deliberately lose myself in the convolutions of the stacks, in order to disentangle myth from history, the genuine from the falsified. I manage to detect its earliest traces in Sumero-Akkadian civilization thanks to translations of cuneiform Assyrian texts commissioned by the Royal Asiatic Society. The notion of the Threshold Fish appears in the evocation of a complex divinity: Zs S'àh, dissociated from the Mesopotamian pantheon and heir to protohistoric beliefs. It is nevertheless venerated by a sinister and sectarian conventicle bearing the name Cult of the Threshold Fish. <<if $livre is 7 or $livre is 3 or $livre is 5 or $livre is 6 >>No citation, however, mentions Haim Pessa'hya Lahad as precursor or initiator of the cult, and I find no trace of him anywhere in the full extent of my research.<</if>> These worshippers are described as guardians of the gates of the beyond, scribes of the murmurs of the between-world, emissaries of the Grand Preceptor. After several hours of thankless reading—contradictory articles, ethnologists’ monographs, field reports often colored by bias—I finally establish a convergence. In cultures distant from one another, there are mentions of entities whose nature exceeds ordinary categories. The terms vary according to the language: demon, ifrīt, incubus, shayṭān, rākṣasa, djinn, lamia, oni... but the underlying logic remains comparable. These presences seem to manifest through a breach, a passage opened, willingly or not, by liminal practices, threshold rites, or operations of reading and conjuration whose scope even the witnesses themselves do not always understand. By cross-referencing these sources with the rare studies devoted to the Cult of the Threshold Fish, one hypothesis imposes itself: Zs S'àh does not designate the entity invoked, but rather a privileged channel, a conduit between planes, through which certain forces insinuate themselves into our world as water seeps into a fissure. This cosmological gibberish would certainly have left me more than dubious, but an icy shiver runs down my spine in the light of these revelations. I begin to feel a malevolent pulsation irradiating my chest with every thought that lends them credence. An intimate connection with a presence binding itself to me, and in whose increasingly tangible manifestation my research seems to take part. My blood seethes; a throbbing rage rises from the depths of my viscera and spreads all the way to my skin. I can no longer continue my research, and I must leave, walk, even run, to try to rid myself of it.</div><<set $act -= 1>> <<nobr>><div id="cadre_selec"> <span id="titre_selec">I decide to:</span> <div id="selection"> <<if $f is 0>> @@#link_1;<<link "Read up on changes of personality">><<goto "univ_2_2_1">><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $e is 1>> @@#link_1;<<link "Find the work //From India to the Planet Mars//">><<goto "univ_2_2_2">><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $dy is 1>> @@#link_1;<<link "Search for the term dybbuk">><<goto "univ_2_2_3">><</link>>@@ <</if>> <<if $day is 1>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_1">><<audio "phase03" stop>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 2>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_2">><<audio "phase03" stop>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 3>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_3">><<audio "phase03" stop>><</link>> <</if>> <<if $day is 4>> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_j_4">><<audio "phase03" stop>><</link>> <</if>> </div> </div> <<set $t to 1>><<smLoss D4>><<audio "suspens_dark" play>><<timed 20s>><<audio "phase03" play loop>><</timed>><<set $mid2_nature += 1>> <</nobr>>
<<nobr>> <<run (function () { var v = State.variables; if (!v.telm_return || v.telm_return === 0 || /^telm_/.test(String(v.telm_return))) { for (var i = State.history.length - 2; i >= 0; i--) { var t = State.history[i].title; if (t && !/^telm_/.test(t)) { v.telm_return = t; break; } } } })()>> <<set _telmTopicsN to ( ($uni neq 0 and ($e is 2 or $f is 1) and $dial_tel_2_2 is 0 and $dial_tel_2 is 1) or ($love >= 1 and $dial_tel_3 is 0) or ($dial_tel_1 is 0 and $dial_tel_2 > 0 and ($jui is 1 or $pol is 1 or $bak is 1)) or ($dial_tel_5 is 0 and $love is 2 and $att_telm <= 5) )>> <<if _telmTopicsN>> <<audio "cotton" play volume 0.1>> <div class="dialogue"> <div id="dial_port">[img[data/media/img/portraits/telma.jpg]]</div> <div id="dial_choise"> <<if $dial_tel_1 is 0 and ($jui is 1 or $pol is 1 or $bak is 1)>> <<link "– Telma… I carry within me a disquiet I can no longer contain… let me speak of it to you.">> <<set $bloc to 1>> <<goto "telm_1">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $uni neq 0 and ($e is 2 or $f is 1) and $dial_tel_2_2 is 0 and $dial_tel_2 is 1>> <<link "– My reading has lifted a veil I did not expect… let me say a word of it to you.">> <<set $bloc to 1>> <<goto "telm_2_2">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $love >= 1 and $dial_tel_3 is 0>> <<link "– There is a serenity in you that I deeply envy, Telma. Where does it come from?">> <<set $bloc to 1>> <<goto "telm_3">> <</link>> <</if>> <<if $dial_tel_5 is 0 and $love is 2 and $att_telm <= 5>> <<link "– Telma… there is a radiance in you that brings me back to life.">> <<set $bloc to 1>> <<goto "telm_5">> <</link>> <</if>> </div> </div> <</if>> <</nobr>>
<div class="epilogues"><p class="epil_text"><div style="max-width: 180px; margin: 0 auto"><img src='data/media/graph/quetes/quet02.png'></div> <center>@@.beauty_link;The Way of the Midrashim@@</center> <span id="texte">A tangle of inhuman voices rings out within the building, distorted and saturated with rage. The almost metallic echo reverberates to the top of the temple before dying away forever, leaving behind a heavy silence. HE is gone, driven by the sacred beyond the borders of the world, where words and thoughts no longer have any hold. The medallion rests in the bowl, inert and cold. Yiggael, still panting, whispers a final blessing, as though to seal the breach in the world-lair. The curse of the Zemarias, as it has been recognized, ends here. It will seek no further heir. Yet not everything has been erased... The sins of the fathers remain, fault lines inscribed in gestures, silences, and choices, following us like a shadow along the path of a life. I know my name is Max. Maximilien Cornwell. And that at the age of twenty-one, I give thanks to the wisdom of the ancients, the truth of the rites, and the roots of the faith that sustain me, for enabling me to break the curse upon my bloodline. I now wear Orane’s medallion, not as a trophy, but to remind myself, always, that there is no righteousness in vengeance.</span> <p id="fin">THE END</p> @@.encart-appel;<<link "Maximilien's story isn't over →">><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><<goto "encart_fin">><</link>>@@ </p></div> <<nobr>> <<set $reve to 1>> <<if $sm >= 80>> <<if $succ1 is 0>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ1 to 1>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $victime1 is 0 and $victime2 is 0 and $victime3 is 0 and $victime4 is 0 and $rab < 100>> <<if $succ2 is 0>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ2 to 1>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $succ12 is 0 and $livre < 2>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ12 to 1>> <</if>> <<if $succ14 is 0>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ14 to 1>> <</if>> <<if $quet2 is 0>> <<remember $quet2 to 1>> <</if>> <<audio ":all" stop>> <<audio "Klemhr1" play>> <<audio "repo" play>> <</nobr>>
<<set $echoStep to 0>> <<set $glisse to 0>> <<set $echoFails to 0>> <<set $echoMoves to 0>> <<set $echoGoods to 0>> <<canvasfx "data/script/js/puzzle.js?v=3" "Puzzle" _opts>> /* figer SM au début du contact */ <<set $sm_echo to (Number($sm) || 0)>> /* limite : SM haute = plus indulgent */ <<set $echoFailLimit to ((Number($sm_echo) >= 20) ? 5 : 4)>> <div class="songe"><span></span></div> <div id="echo-overlay" data-echo=""> <div id="echo-box"> <div id="echo-text"><<echoRender>></div> </div> </div> <<run setup.echo.updateAlpha($glisse)>> <<run setup.echo.mark("")>> <<run setup.echo.palimpsestRefresh()>> <<audio "incant" play loop>> <<set _opts = { destroyCanvasOnSolved: true }>> <<script>> (function () { if (window._songeTimer) { clearInterval(window._songeTimer); window._songeTimer = null; } if (window._songeObserver) { window._songeObserver.disconnect(); window._songeObserver = null; } function startSongeFx() { if (window._songeTimer) return; var mots = ['Cumaïl', 'Okran', 'Nat', 'Naguial', 'Ash', 'Orth', 'Aôrt', 'Nugash', 'Vatgh']; window._songeTimer = setInterval(function () { var fsize = Math.floor(Math.random() * 5); var lspace = Math.floor(Math.random() * 5); var opac = Math.random(); var y = Math.floor(Math.random() * 101) + 1; var x = Math.floor(Math.random() * 101) + 1; $(".songe").css({ 'font-size': fsize + "em", 'top': y + "vh", 'left': x + "vw", 'letter-spacing': lspace + "em", 'opacity': opac }); var mot = mots[Math.floor(Math.random() * mots.length)]; $(".songe span").replaceWith('<span>' + mot + '</span>'); }, 1000); } function waitForPuzzleSolved() { var observer = new MutationObserver(function () { var puzzleRoot = document.getElementById("puzzle-root"); if (!puzzleRoot) { observer.disconnect(); window._songeObserver = null; startSongeFx(); } }); observer.observe(document.body, { childList: true, subtree: true }); window._songeObserver = observer; } // Si le puzzle n'est déjà plus là, on lance direct. if (!document.getElementById("puzzle-root")) { startSongeFx(); } else { waitForPuzzleSolved(); } })(); <</script>> <<script>> (function () { var blocker = document.getElementById("twine-loading-blocker"); if (blocker) blocker.remove(); blocker = document.createElement("div"); blocker.id = "twine-loading-blocker"; blocker.style.position = "fixed"; blocker.style.inset = "0"; blocker.style.zIndex = "2147483647"; blocker.style.cursor = "none"; blocker.style.pointerEvents = "auto"; blocker.style.background = "transparent"; document.body.appendChild(blocker); function canRelease() { var root = document.getElementById("puzzle-root"); if (!root) return false; var style = window.getComputedStyle(root); return style.display !== "none" && style.visibility !== "hidden" && style.pointerEvents !== "none"; } function release() { if (observer) observer.disconnect(); if (blocker && blocker.parentNode) blocker.parentNode.removeChild(blocker); } if (canRelease()) { release(); return; } var observer = new MutationObserver(function () { if (canRelease()) release(); }); observer.observe(document.body, { childList: true, subtree: true, attributes: true, attributeFilter: ["style", "class"] }); // sécurité: au cas où le puzzle ne vient jamais setTimeout(function () { release(); }, 8000); })(); <</script>><<audio "incant" play>>
<div class="epilogues"><p class="epil_text"><div style="max-width: 180px; margin: 0 auto"><img src='data/media/graph/quetes/quet03.png'></div> <center>@@.beauty_link;The Echoes of Zs S’àh@@</center> <span id="texte">The presence of Cumaïl slips in first like a chill with no source, then like something undeniable. I hold fast, clench tight, try to remain in control; and this impulse to master it, however brief, gives it a hold on me. The signs overlap, as though my thoughts, my dreams, and my intuitions had been nothing more than a tracing laid over an older sentence: a palimpsest whose fresh ink I have now become. Something knots itself to my breathing, braces itself against my warmth, and my being becomes a territory. My soul slowly withers, engulfed by an ocean of countless shades of white. In one final spasm, my consciousness exults in the sensation of this strange embrace, then founders and vanishes into eternity. I no longer know my name, my age, or even what I am. I have surrendered my vessel of flesh to an alien force, allowing it to revel in its manifestation upon our Earth. The South Boston Ogre, wearing this new face, will continue to breathe his black terror into the hearts of generations to come, carrying with him the name of Maximilien Cornwell...</span> <p id="fin">THE END</p> @@.encart-appel;<<link "Maximilien's story isn't over →">><<audio ":playing" fadeout>><<goto "encart_fin">><</link>>@@ </p></div> <<nobr>> <<set $reve to 1>> <<if $sm >= 80>> <<if $succ1 is 0>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ1 to 1>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $victime1 is 0 and $victime2 is 0 and $victime3 is 0 and $victime4 is 0 and $rab < 100>> <<if $succ2 is 0>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ2 to 1>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $succ12 is 0 and $livre < 2>> <<remember $succes to $succes + 1>> <<remember $succ12 to 1>> <</if>> <<if $quet3 is 0>> <<remember $quet3 to 1>> <</if>> <<audio "repo" play>> <<audio "cumail_epilog" play>> <</nobr>>
<<widget "draggon">> <div id="drag-wrapper"> <div id="drag-targets"> <div class="drag-target-slot slot-subj"></div> <div class="drag-target-slot slot-verb"></div> <div class="drag-target-slot slot-comp"></div> </div> <div id="drag-pool"> <!-- SUBJECTS --> <span class="drag-frag frag-subj" data-cat="E">I am not your host,</span> <span class="drag-frag frag-subj" data-cat="P">I become your shadow,</span> <<if setup.salt.sleepActive()>> <span class="drag-frag frag-subj" data-cat="S">I am the one who shelters you,</span> <</if>> <!-- VERBS --> <span class="drag-frag frag-verb" data-cat="E">and I cast you out,</span> <span class="drag-frag frag-verb" data-cat="P">and I give myself to you,</span> <<if setup.salt.sleepActive()>> <span class="drag-frag frag-verb" data-cat="S">and I recognize you,</span> <</if>> <!-- COMPLEMENTS --> <span class="drag-frag frag-comp" data-cat="E">beyond the limits of my being.</span> <span class="drag-frag frag-comp" data-cat="P">until I dissolve.</span> <<if setup.salt.sleepActive()>> <span class="drag-frag frag-comp" data-cat="S">to unify our voices.</span> <</if>> </div> </div> <div id="continuer"> <div id="dragimag"></div> <<button "THINK THIS SENTENCE?">> <<if dragE>> <<remember $quet1_1 to 1>><<remember $quet1 to 1>> <<goto "epilogue_1">> <<elseif dragS>> <<remember $quet1_2 to 1>><<remember $quet1 to 1>> <<goto "epilogue_2">> <<elseif dragP>> <<remember $quet1_3 to 1>><<remember $quet1 to 1>> <<goto "epilogue_3">> <<else>> <<smLoss D10>> <<script>> $('.aide').append("thinking in madness does what it hurls me into "); var point = Math.floor((Math.random() * 20) + 1); $("#timeprogress").width($("#timeprogress").width() - point); <</script>> <</if>> <</button>> </div> <<script>> setTimeout(function () { if (typeof initDragPuzzle === "function") { initDragPuzzle(); } }, 0); <</script>> <</widget>> <<widget "echoAdvance">> <<set _delta to Number(_args[0])>> <<set _mode to String(_args[1] || "")>> <<set _nextStep to Number(_args[2])>> <<set _failPassage to String(_args[3] || "epilogue_5_1")>> <<set _winPassage to String(_args[4] || "epilogue_5")>> <<set $echoMoves to (Number($echoMoves) || 0) + 1>> <<if _delta < 0>> <<set $echoFails to (Number($echoFails) || 0) + 1>> <<elseif _delta > 0>> <<set $echoGoods to (Number($echoGoods) || 0) + 1>> <</if>> <<set $glisse to (Number($glisse) || 0) + _delta>> <<run setup.echo.mark(_mode)>> <<run setup.echo.updateAlpha($glisse)>> <<if (Number($echoFails) || 0) >= (Number($echoFailLimit) || 3)>> <<goto _failPassage>> <</if>> <<if (Number($echoGoods) || 0) >= 3>> <<goto _winPassage>> <</if>> <<set $echoStep to _nextStep>> <<replace "#echo-text">><<echoRender>><</replace>> <<run setup.echo.palimpsestRefresh()>> <</widget>> <<widget "echoRender">> <<switch $echoStep>> <<case 0>> <span class="echo-cumail">'Cumaïl' 'okran' 'nat' 'naguial' 'ash' 'orth' 'Aôrt-Nugash' 'vatgh'</span> <div class="echo-choices"> <div class="echo-btn"> <<link "There you are!">> <<set $echoStep to 1>> <<run setup.echo.mark("")>> <<replace "#echo-text">><<echoRender>><</replace>> <<run setup.echo.palimpsestRefresh()>> <</link>> </div> </div> <<case 1>> <span class="echo-cumail">'Ko' 'va' 'les' 'ki'<br>The pleasure of the flesh.<br>Avarice. Domination. Bitterness.<br>More!</span> <div class="echo-choices"> <div class="echo-btn"> <<link "What?">> <<set $echoStep to 2>> <<replace "#echo-text">><<echoRender>><</replace>> <<run setup.echo.palimpsestRefresh()>> <</link>> </div> </div> <<case 2>> <span class="echo-cumail">I want more of it ...<br>'Ma 'xi' 'mi' 'lien'<br>The lineage... the last one...</span> <div class="echo-choices"> <div class="echo-btn"> <<link "[Silence]">> <<set $echoStep to 3>> <<replace "#echo-text">><<echoRender>><</replace>> <<run setup.echo.palimpsestRefresh()>> <</link>> </div> </div> <<case 3>> <span class="echo-cumail">You are here...<br>I can feel you, at last...</span> <div class="echo-choices"> <div class="echo-btn"> <<link "I am here.">> <<set $echoStep to 4>> <<replace "#echo-text">><<echoRender>><</replace>> <<run setup.echo.palimpsestRefresh()>> <</link>> </div> </div> <<case 4>> <span class="echo-cumail">Guilt. Sorrow. Madness.<br>I smell your base shames as you smell the scent of warm bread.<br>'Glut' 'ton' 'y'</span> <<set _smHigh to (Number($sm_echo) <= 20)>> <div class="echo-choices"> <<set _lbl to (_smHigh ? "Begone! I repudiate you!" : "I conjure you!")>><div class="echo-btn"><<link _lbl>><<echoAdvance -1 "cling" 5>><</link>></div> <<set _lbl to (_smHigh ? "There is nothing left to take here." : "I make my peace with all of it.")>><div class="echo-btn"><<link _lbl>><<echoAdvance +1 "glide" 5>><</link>></div> <<set _lbl to (_smHigh ? "Who are you?" : "Are you a demon?")>><div class="echo-btn"><<link _lbl>><<echoAdvance -1 "cling" 5>><</link>></div> </div> <<case 5>> <span class="echo-cumail">Threshold of passage, bound where the living splits open.<br>Pact unsealed. Futile... I can only glide.<br></span> <<set _smHigh to (Number($sm_echo) <= 20)>> <div class="echo-choices"> <<set _lbl to (_smHigh ? "Judgment." : "You are Evil.")>> <div class="echo-btn"><<link _lbl>><<echoAdvance -1 "cling" 6>><</link>></div> <<set _lbl to (_smHigh ? "Acceptance" : "[Silence]")>> <div class="echo-btn"><<link _lbl>><<echoAdvance +1 "glide" 6>><</link>></div> <<set _lbl to (_smHigh ? "Condemnation." : "Go back to your own.")>> <div class="echo-btn"><<link _lbl>><<echoAdvance -1 "cling" 6>><</link>></div> </div> <<case 6>> <span class="echo-cumail">You tremble. I feel it.<br>I can smooth that away.<br>In the name of the Zemaria, shall we help one another?</span> <<set _smHigh to (Number($sm_echo) <= 20)>> <div class="echo-choices"> <<set _lbl to (_smHigh ? "The wind blows and the tides carry it away." : "I ask nothing of you.")>> <div class="echo-btn"><<link _lbl>><<echoAdvance +1 "glide" 7>><</link>></div> <<set _lbl to (_smHigh ? "Dependency." : "Help me.")>> <div class="echo-btn"><<link _lbl>><<echoAdvance -1 "cling" 7>><</link>></div> <<set _lbl to (_smHigh ? "Insecurity." : "You have no business here.")>> <div class="echo-btn"><<link _lbl>><<echoAdvance -1 "cling" 7>><</link>></div> </div> <<case 7>> <span class="echo-cumail">I am not here to do you harm. <br>I come into you to rid you of it.<br> Welcome me and you will have nothing left to fear. </span> <<set _smHigh to (Number($sm_echo) <= 20)>> <div class="echo-choices"> <<set _lbl to (_smHigh ? "I want no more of it, I can bear no more..." : "Take it.")>> <div class="echo-btn"><<link _lbl>><<echoAdvance -1 "cling" 8>><</link>></div> <<set _lbl to (_smHigh ? "You are freed." : "I am not your anchor.")>> <div class="echo-btn"><<link _lbl>><<echoAdvance +1 "glide" 8>><</link>></div> <<set _lbl to (_smHigh ? "I shall lose myself in it." : "You are using me.")>> <div class="echo-btn"><<link _lbl>><<echoAdvance -1 "cling" 8>><</link>></div> </div> <<case 8>> <span class="echo-cumail">It is I who ride your tide.<br>I who cradle your unspeakable thoughts.<br>I who drink your guilt down to the dregs.</span> <<set _smHigh to (Number($sm_echo) <= 20)>> <div class="echo-choices"> <<set _lbl to (_smHigh ? "I who embrace the dreams born beyond the worlds..." : "You shall have none of it.")>> <div class="echo-btn"><<link _lbl>><<echoAdvance +1 "glide" 9>><</link>></div> <<set _lbl to (_smHigh ? "I need help." : "Almighty God, help me!")>> <div class="echo-btn"><<link _lbl>><<echoAdvance -1 "cling" 9>><</link>></div> <<set _lbl to (_smHigh ? "I need no one!" : "Better to suffer...")>> <div class="echo-btn"><<link _lbl>><<echoAdvance -1 "cling" 9>><</link>></div> </div> <<case 9>> <span class="echo-cumail">Entrust your vessel to me now,<br>Your heart is the casket of the echoes of my being.<br>frail skiff crossing the tumultuous waters...</span> <<set _smHigh to (Number($sm_echo) <= 20)>> <div class="echo-choices"> <<set _lbl to (_smHigh ? "I hate you!" : "Begone!")>> <div class="echo-btn"><<link _lbl>><<echoAdvance -1 "cling" 10>><</link>></div> <<set _lbl to (_smHigh ? "I am strong!" : "I shall prove you otherwise!")>> <div class="echo-btn"><<link _lbl>><<echoAdvance -1 "cling" 10>><</link>></div> <<set _lbl to (_smHigh ? "My heart is the casket of the echoes of Zs S’àh." : "borne on a thunderous tide...")>> <div class="echo-btn"><<link _lbl>><<echoAdvance +1 "glide" 10>><</link>></div> </div> <<case 10>> <span class="echo-cumail">Do not fight.<br>Do not grip.<br>Only say…</span> <div class="echo-choices"> <div class="echo-btn"> <<link "I am ready.">> <<set _fails to (Number($echoFails) || 0)>> <<set _goods to (Number($echoGoods) || 0)>> /* majorité stricte : il faut plus de "bons" que de "mauvais" */ <<if _goods > _fails>> <<goto "epilogue_5">> <<else>> <<goto "epilogue_5_1">> <</if>> <</link>> </div> </div> <</switch>> <</widget>> <<widget "telmEnd">><<nobr>> <<run (function () { var v = State.variables; var ret = v.telm_return; if (!ret || ret === 0 || /^telm_/.test(String(ret))) { for (var i = State.history.length - 2; i >= 0; i--) { var t = State.history[i].title; if (t && !/^telm_/.test(t)) { ret = t; break; } } } State.temporary.telmRet = ret; })()>> <<set _telmEndLabel to (_args[0] ? _args[0] : "Bring the conversation to an end")>> <div id="continuer"><<link _telmEndLabel>><<audio "cotton" fadeout>><<if _telmRet and not /^telm_/.test(_telmRet)>><<goto _telmRet>><<else>><<goto "fin_jour">><</if>><</link>></div> <</nobr>><</widget>>
The time to act has come, and I open the book. My fingers find the marked page—not without hesitating, the way one brushes a wound without knowing whether it still bleeds. Jessica’s note is there, crowded into the margin, a small stubborn hand, and yet what it holds is nothing like advice: it is a bearing, an angle at which the world consents to shift. I would like to understand. I would like to hold on. But I remember her words, and I try not to grip. <<if $sm <= 45>> So I do not read: I let the sentence pass through me, the way a current passes through a wire. Something answers at once—a cold without a source, a presence without a shape, the very notion of a Threshold drawing near until it touches the flesh. The real begins to ring differently, as though the air had changed density. I stay there, in that minute breach, open enough to let something through… not enough to lose myself in it. And something, behind it, begins to answer. <center><<link "Bind the Threshold Fish's breach to the flesh">><<goto "echo_cumail">><</link>></center> <<else>> But nothing gives. The words remain ink, and the ink remains paper. I run them through my mind the way one runs a lamp over a lock: I light it, I make out the detail… but I find no hold. Everything stays outside. Nothing catches. I understand then—not through thought, but through sensation—that I am still too whole. Too upright. Too well held together. As though the fracture within me had not bitten deep enough for the threshold to consent to take shape. The page is not mute: it is I who remain closed.<</if>>
<<nobr>> <div id="schema_revele" style="width:400px;text-align:justify">[img[data/media/img/inventaire/schema_revele.png]] This diagram does not strike me as a matter of caprice. Jung might see in it one of those formations by which the dream ceases to obscure and begins to give structure.</div> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte">Baker Street Cemetery, at night, dark and cool, laid like a shroud over this dream-haunted scene. The taxi drops me at the end of the street of the same name without questioning me. I make my way along the asphalt, drunk on the sounds of the surrounding wildlife, and hemmed in by forest on either side. I am not really there, or rather I am there without being there. What I am preparing to do tonight is a faint inflection in the clamor of my dreams. The gate is closed. I make out a few lights in one of the buildings set back from the path, surely the watchman... The moon is nearly full and the sky is clear. A fine late-summer night. There is a flaw in the wrought-iron gate through which I slip. I let my intuition guide me through the tangle of upright gravestones. I know this place now, after all. Even so, I find a decrepit shed containing the tools required for my grim task, which I drag to the grave I seek. Everything seems so simple, so obvious... I could not say how long I have been digging. With each shovelful, my mind strays a little deeper into the repressed emotions of a visceral hatred, drawing from them an animal, superhuman strength. At last I touch the coffin and manage to bite into the wood, when I stop dead... The caretaker is prowling not far away, the light of his lantern wavering through the nocturnal maze, no doubt drawn by the sounds of my sinister activity. – Who’s there? I hear him shout. When I give no answer, he comes closer, attempting to circle around me. – I saw you! Come out now! I slip between two graves just as he reaches Igal’s stele. I make out the expression on his face, where fear and disgust mingle. I know in that instant that all is lost, unless... I emerge furtively and rush at him. If only he would let it happen. If only his heavy build did not stand in the way of my assault. But he fights; with all his strength, he clings to his miserable life, and with one well-placed blow of the shovel I take it from him... without an ounce of guilt, like an animal. I complete my task and find the medallion, in which the portrait of an old man has been set. I have nothing more to do here, nothing more...</div> <<nobr>> <div id="continuer"> <<link "Return home">><<goto "appart_n_4">><</link>> </div><<set $oval to 2>><<invGain "pendentif">><<smLoss D8>><</nobr>>
<div class="songe"><span></span></div><div id="typocu"></div> <<nobr>> <div id="continuer" class="switch"></div> <<timed 2s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Without seeking, you found Me.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 6s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Without resisting, you welcomed Me.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 11s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Of all those who came before you, none offered Me so much.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 21s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>No other has loved Me so perfectly,</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 26s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>you are all that I needed.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 30s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>I shall care for you and for your lineage.</span>",i=0,isTag,text;(function type(){text=str.slice(0,++i);if(text===str)return;typocu.innerHTML=text;var char=text.slice(-1);if(char==='<')isTag=true;if(char==='>')isTag=false;if(isTag)return type();setTimeout(type,80);}());<</script>> <<replace ".switch">> <<timed 5s>> @@.beauty_link;<<link "[Silence]">><<goto "epilogue_7">><<audio "incant" fadeout>><</link>>@@ <</timed>> <</replace>> <</timed>> <<script>> $(document).ready(function(){ var mots = ['Cumaïl', 'Okran', 'Nat', 'Naguial', 'Ash', 'Orth', 'Aôrt', 'Nugash', 'Vatgh']; clearInterval(window._songeFinalTimer); window._songeFinalTimer = setInterval(function() { var fsize = Math.floor(Math.random() * 5); var lspace = Math.floor(Math.random() * 5); var opac = Math.random(); var y = Math.floor(Math.random() * 101) + 1; var x = Math.floor(Math.random() * 101) + 1; $(".songe").css({ 'font-size' : fsize + "em", 'top' : y + "vh", 'left' : x + "vw", 'letter-spacing' : lspace + "em", 'opacity' : opac, }); var mot = mots[Math.floor(Math.random()*mots.length)]; $(".songe span").replaceWith('<span>'+mot+'</span>'); }, 1000); }); <</script>> <</nobr>>
<<script>>$("#story").show();<</script>> <div id="fin">THE END</div> <div id="continuer" class="switch"></div> <<nobr>> <<timed 7s>><<shaketarget "#fin" 0.2s>><</timed>> <<timed 10s>><<shaketarget "#fin" 0.5s>><</timed>> <<timed 14s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Wait...</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;fin.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 80);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 20s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>Max?</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;fin.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 600);}());<</script>> <<replace ".switch">> <<timed 6s>> @@.beauty_link2;<<link "[...]">><<goto "final_1">><</link>>@@ <</timed>> <</replace>> <</timed>> <</nobr>>
<<nobr>> <<if $oval is 3>> <div class="cumail"><span></span></div> <<script>> $(document).ready(function(){ var lettres = ['C', 'U', 'M', 'A', 'Ï', 'L']; clearInterval(window._cumailHeaderTimer); window._cumailHeaderTimer = setInterval(function() { var fsize = Math.floor(Math.random() * 10); var opac = Math.random(); var y = Math.floor(Math.random() * 101) + 1; var x = Math.floor(Math.random() * 101) + 1; $(".cumail").css({ 'font-size' : fsize + "em", 'top' : y + "vh", 'left' : x + "vw", 'opacity' : opac, }); var lettre = lettres[Math.floor(Math.random()*lettres.length)]; $(".cumail span").replaceWith('<span>'+lettre+'</span>'); }, 800); }); <</script>> <</if>> <<set _echoOK to ( $jess_rit is 1 and $livre is 6 and $t is 1 and $kov is 2 and (Number($sm) || 0) <= 45 )>> <</nobr>>
<<set _opts = { onComplete : function () { var v = State.variables; if (v.oval >= 2 && v.ritnom === "cumaïl") { Engine.play("epilogue_4_1"); } else if (v.oval >= 2 || (v.rit2 === 1 && v.ritnom === "cumaïl")) { Engine.play("epilogue_4"); } else { Engine.play("epilogue_4"); } }, onTimeout : function () { Engine.play("epilogue_7"); } }>> <<canvasfx "data/script/js/exorcisme.js" "ExoFx_1" _opts "auto">><<audio "oogr" play>>
<span id="dial1"></span> <span id="dial2"></span> <span id="dial3"></span> <span id="dial4"></span> <span id="dial5"></span> <span id="dial6"></span> <div id="rep"></div> <<nobr>> <<timed 1s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– I regret to say. Alin Alinovitch Kovaleski left us this past Tuesday, following a heart attack.</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial1');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 9s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– I am truly sorry. My deepest condolences, mister?</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial2');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 13s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– Mikhail. I represent Pyotr Stasovitch Dolgorukov, who oversees the affairs of the Kovaleski family, pending the settlement of the estate.</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial3');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 23s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– I see. How long has the Bagrovyy been in operation?</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial4');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 27s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– The Bagrovyy has opened its doors every evening for twenty-three years now. This is the first time it has been closed, even temporarily.</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial5');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 35s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– Thank you. May I ask:</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial6');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 37s>> <<replace "#rep">><div id="continuer"><<link "Where does Mister Kovaleski lie at rest?">><<goto "bag_2_5">><</link>><<link "Who will take over the running of the Bagrovyy?">><<goto "bag_2_6">><</link>></div><</replace>> <</timed>> <</nobr>>
<span id="dial1"></span> <span id="dial2"></span> <span id="dial3"></span> <span id="dial4"></span> <span id="dial5"></span> <div id="rep"></div> <<nobr>> <<timed 1s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– I represent Pyotr Stasovitch Dolgorukov, who oversees the affairs of the Kovaleski family, pending the settlement of Alin Alinovitch Kovaleski’s estate.</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial1');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 11s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– I see. How long has the Bagrovyy been in operation?</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial2');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 15s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– I have no time to spare you, Mister Cornwell. Kindly trouble us no further.</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial3');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 21s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– Just one last question, if you please.</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial4');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 23s>> <<script>>var str = "<span>– Do not insist.</span>",i = 0,isTag,text;(function type() {var el = document.getElementById('dial5');if (!el) return;text = str.slice(0, ++i);if (text === str) return;el.innerHTML = text;var char = text.slice(-1);if( char === '<' ) isTag = true;if( char === '>' ) isTag = false;if (isTag) return type();setTimeout(type, 50);}());<</script>> <</timed>> <<timed 26s>> <<replace "#rep">><div id="continuer"><<if $day is 2>><<link "Very well, goodbye." "appart_j_2">><<run UIBar.unstow()>><</link>><</if>><<if $day is 3>><<link "Very well, goodbye." "appart_j_3">><<run UIBar.unstow()>><</link>><</if>></div><</replace>> <</timed>> <</nobr>>
<div id="texte" class="melange">The gray cast by infinite space.</div><div id="continuer">[[Cnuotine->c_3_r_3]]</div> <<set $d to 1>>
<section class="mx-endcard" aria-label="Thank you for playing Maximilien"> <div class="mx-endcard-inner"><div class="mx-endcard-block mx-endcard-thanks"> <p class="mx-endcard-eyebrow">A note from the author</p> <h2 class="mx-endcard-title">Thank you for playing.</h2> <p class="mx-endcard-ending">You have reached one of the story's nine main endings.</p><p>Maximilien began as years of writing alone, long before it was ready for anyone else to read. Whether you found this story through the IFComp as a judge, a fellow author, or simply a curious player, thank you for spending September 1926 in Boston, and for staying until the end.</p><p>Maximilien was written in French, and reached you in English thanks to Lucia Desogus. Both versions will be available on Steam.</p></div><div class="mx-endcard-block mx-endcard-choice"> <p>If you enjoyed your time here and would like to help Maximilien reach its release, there's one more thing you can choose to do.</p><p class="mx-endcard-prompt">How would you like to continue?</p><div class="mx-endcard-choicebox"><a class="mx-endcard-choicebtn mx-wishlist" href="https://store.steampowered.com/app/4755440/Maximilien__A_Psychological_Horror_Interactive_Novel/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Add Maximilien to my Steam wishlist</a> <a class="mx-endcard-choicebtn" href="https://maximilien-game.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Visit the website</a> </div><p class="mx-endcard-microcopy">The wishlist is free, takes a few seconds, and is the single most useful thing you can do before October 26.</p> <nav class="mx-endcard-socialicons" aria-label="Follow Maximilien elsewhere"> <a class="mx-social-bsky" href="https://bsky.app/profile/yohandupuy.bsky.social" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" title="Follow on Bluesky"><img src="data/media/img/promo/bluesky_media_kit_logo_3.png" alt=""><span>Bluesky</span></a> <a class="mx-social-itch" href="https://maximilien-archive.itch.io/maximilien-game" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" title="Follow on itch.io"><img src="data/media/img/promo/itchio-logo-textless-black.svg" alt=""><span>itch.io</span></a> <a class="mx-social-tumblr" href="https://www.tumblr.com/blog/yohandupuygames" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" title="Follow on Tumblr"><img src="data/media/img/promo/tumblr.svg" alt=""><span>Tumblr</span></a> </nav><p class="mx-endcard-ending">Your thoughts are always welcome on any of these.</p> </div><div class="mx-endcard-block mx-endcard-steamedition"> <h3 class="mx-endcard-subtitle">Maximilien Steam Edition — October 26, 2026</h3> <p>The story you just finished stands complete on its own, all twelve endings exist fully in this version. On Steam, the world of Maximilien keeps growing:</p> <ul class="mx-endcard-features"> <li>Three additional story arcs, 54 passages and over 11,000 more words.</li> <li>A new potential victim, and new ways for the police to close in on you.</li> <li>Illustrations upgraded to premium quality throughout.</li> <li>25 color mini-paintings, 7 of them new.</li> <li>10 remastered engravings, plus 15 new ones.</li> <li>A gallery to revisit every illustration you've unlocked.</li> <li>Immersive video animations, 8 of them new.</li> <li>Nearly an hour of music and atmospheric sound.</li></ul> <figure class="mx-endcard-compare"> <img class="mx-endcard-compare-img" src="data/media/img/promo/mx-endcard-compare.jpg" alt="Three side-by-side screens from Maximilien, each shown as it appears in this version on the left and in Maximilien Steam Edition on the right." loading="lazy"> </figure> <div class="mx-endcard-gallery-teaser"> <img src="data/media/img/promo/mx-endcard-gallery-lock.jpg" alt="Preview of the in-game illustration gallery: a few scenes are visible, most thumbnails are still blurred or marked with a question mark, waiting to be unlocked." loading="lazy"></div></div><div class="mx-endcard-block mx-endcard-closingcta"><a class="mx-endcard-choicebtn mx-wishlist" href="https://store.steampowered.com/app/4755440/Maximilien__A_Psychological_Horror_Interactive_Novel/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Add Maximilien to my Steam wishlist</a></div><center><p class="mx-endcard-ending mx-endcard-signoff">Thank you again.<br>— Yohan</p></center><div class="mx-endcard-block mx-endcard-restart"><<link "Restart the story">><<run UI.restart()>><</link>></div> </div> </section>