Narrare

<big><center>Narrare</center></big> <center>A Twine game that explores game narrative, along with all of its potentials and limitations.</center> <center>Created by: Cody Mejeur, MA</center> <center>Dedicated to: Jeff Ketcham. Rest in peace dear friend.</center> <center>[[Start a New Game->The Beginning]]</center>

Once upon a time, there was a beautiful kingdom called Eluvia. It was a peaceful land, filled with rolling plains and lush forests. The sun shone brightly in Eluvia, and with each day its citizens greeted the light with hope in their hearts–hope for the promise of a new day, even better than the last. Perched atop the Grey Mountain in the East were the spires of Cerendas, Eluvia’s great capital. But our story does not begin there. Instead, our story takes root in the small town of Dwillim, where our hero–that’s you!–awakens on a crisp morning so like all those that came before it. This hero is… oh bother. What are you again? [[A Wizard]] [[A Warrior]] [[A Hunter]]

Ah that’s right! You are a Wizard. An inexperienced one at that! Anyway, our wizarding hero awakens, and ponders what to do today. Each day feels so similar to the ones that came before… perhaps it is time for something different! You decide that today is the day for adventuring. Rummaging through the chest at the foot of your bed, you find a few items that you could take with you. What will you take? [[A gnarled staff]] [[An old sword]] [[A trusty bow]]

Ah that’s right! You are a Warrior, young and strong–not bad looking either! Anyway, our warrior hero awakens, and ponders what to do today. Each day feels so similar to the ones that came before… perhaps it is time for something different! You decide that today is the day for adventuring. Rummaging through the chest at the foot of your bed, you find a few items that you could take with you. What will you take? [[A gnarled staff->Warrior Staff]] [[An old sword->Warrior Sword]] [[A trusty bow->Warrior Bow]]

Ah that’s right! You are a Hunter, cunning and quick–nothing catches you by surprise! Anyway, our hunter hero awakens, and ponders what to do today. Each day feels so similar to the ones that came before… perhaps it is time for something different! You decide that today is the day for adventuring. Rummaging through the chest at the foot of your bed, you find a few items that you could take with you. What will you take? [[A gnarled staff->Hunter Staff]] [[An old sword->Hunter Sword]] [[A trusty bow->Hunter Bow]]

You feel a surge of energy as you pick up the gnarled staff. There’s something weirdly alive about it, or at least it makes you feel that way. This is definitely the right choice. You head out the door, and make your way out of Dwillim. At the gates, you see two paths before you. One is bumpy with tree roots, and leads to the woods that look cool and mysterious. The other is partially paved with rough stones, and shows clear signs of much travel onto the plains. Which will you take? [[The one leading into the woods.]] [[The one leading onto the plains.]]

A wizard with a sword? I guess it worked for Gandalf. Very well–it seems a little silly, but don’t let that stop you. You head out the door, and make your way out of Dwillim. At the gates, you see two paths before you. One is bumpy with tree roots, and leads to the woods that look cool and mysterious. The other is partially paved with rough stones, and shows clear signs of much travel onto the plains. Which will you take? [[The one leading into the woods.]] [[The one leading onto the plains.]]

You picked the bow? You do remember you’re a wizard right? What sort of wizard uses a bow? No, no, no. Pick again you silly hero. [[Fine, whatever.->A Wizard]]

You picked the staff? And what is a warrior going to do with a staff? You must have hit yourself on the head with it. Try again, silly hero. [[I can use staves too...->A Warrior]]

The sword glistens in your hand as you pick it up, and in the glint you remember battles gone by. Your trusty sword is definitely the right choice. You head out the door, and make your way out of Dwillim. At the gates, you see two paths before you. One is bumpy with tree roots, and leads to the woods that look cool and mysterious. The other is partially paved with rough stones, and shows clear signs of much travel onto the plains. Which will you take? [[The one leading into the woods.->Warrior Woods]] [[The one leading onto the plains.->Warrior Plains]]

The bow eh? Well stranger choices have been made–and no, I won’t tell you what they are. At least your strong Warrior arms will make for powerful shots, even if you can’t hit the broad side of a barn with them. You head out the door, and make your way out of Dwillim. At the gates, you see two paths before you. One is bumpy with tree roots, and leads to the woods that look cool and mysterious. The other is partially paved with rough stones, and shows clear signs of much travel onto the plains. Which will you take? [[The one leading into the woods.->Warrior Woods]] [[The one leading onto the plains.->Warrior Plains]]

A Hunter with a staff? I don’t recall telling you you could be a druid. Probably because I didn’t. But don’t let me stop you. Maybe you can use the staff to befriend the woodland critters and sic em on your foes. That would certainly be exciting! You head out the door, and make your way out of Dwillim. At the gates, you see two paths before you. One is bumpy with tree roots, and leads to the woods that look cool and mysterious. The other is partially paved with rough stones, and shows clear signs of much travel onto the plains. Which will you take? [[The one leading into the woods.->Hunter Woods]] [[The one leading onto the plains.->Hunter Plains]]

The sword?! You could poke somebody’s eye out with that thing-probably your own! Probably best to pick something else. [[Why does everyone keep saying that...->A Hunter]]

The bow fits perfectly in your hand, and you can already feel the thrill of the hunt as you finger the bowstring. This is definitely the right choice. You head out the door, and make your way out of Dwillim. At the gates, you see two paths before you. One is bumpy with tree roots, and leads to the woods that look cool and mysterious. The other is partially paved with rough stones, and shows clear signs of much travel onto the plains. Which will you take? [[The one leading into the woods.->Hunter Woods]] [[The one leading onto the plains.->Hunter Plains]]

You make your way into the woods, avoiding all the ruts and tree roots as you do so. The road commission has *definitely* not been this way. The path quickly bends under the trees, and the canopy they form overhead starts to block out almost all sunlight. In the dimness you trip on a root, curse, and fall silent as nearby brush starts to rustle. The rustling does not stop, but grows louder and more violent with each passing second. What do you do? [[Ready your weapon. A wizard is always prepared!->Squirrel Weapon]] [[Wait calmly, without sudden movements. No need to offer threat where none is needed.->Squirrel No Weapon]]

Ah the plains. The road leading onto them looks so welcoming, and morning light feels so good on your face. You start in that direction, humming the Eluvian national anthem ("Eluvia! The land I call my home!"). The oppenness of air and sky makes you feel as though nothing can get in your wa-BAM! What was that? You seem to have run into something, but nothing seems to be there. You try again. SMACK! Now you're going to get a bruise. There seems to be some sort of invisble object in your way. You walk down a little ways and try to go forward again, but the same thing happens again! That's going to be a big bruise. It's almost like there is an invisible wall in the way. Invisible wall? Who could have put that there? Oh that's right. I did. Guess you're going to the woods after all! [[Grumble about the stupid narrator and head towards the woods->The one leading into the woods.]]

You make your way into the woods, avoiding all the ruts and tree roots as you do so. The road commission has *definitely* not been this way. The path quickly bends under the trees, and the canopy they form overhead starts to block out almost all sunlight. In the dimness you trip on a root, curse, and fall silent as nearby brush starts to rustle. The rustling does not stop, but grows louder and more violent with each passing second. What do you do? [[Ready your weapon. A warrior is alreadys ready for a fight!->Squirrel Warrior Weapon]] [[Start yelling your battle cry. It could scare the thing off->Squirrel Warrior Battle Cry]]

You make your way into the woods, avoiding all the ruts and tree roots as you do so. The road commission has *definitely* not been this way. The path quickly bends under the trees, and the canopy they form overhead starts to block out almost all sunlight. In the dimness you trip on a root, curse, and fall silent as nearby brush starts to rustle. The rustling does not stop, but grows louder and more violent with each passing second. What do you do? [[Ready your weapon. A hunter is always prepared for the wild!->Squirrel Hunter Weapon]] [[Crouch down and prepare yourself. Maybe you can earn the creature's trust->Squirrel Hunter Tame]]

You raise your weapon-how good it feels in your hands!-and prepare for what will undoubtedly be a battle for the ages. Just as the rustling reaches its peak, and your adrenaline is surging, an adorable squirrel jumps out of the brush. You sigh, half relief, half frustration, and lower your weapon. "Well aren't you the cutest little thing," you say as you move toward the squirrel. Strangely, it does not run off like most woodland critters would. Instead, it starts to... grow? You shrug the thought off, assuming it's just the dim forest lighting playing tricks on you again. You take a few steps closer. Nope, this squirrel is definitely growing, and growing fast. Your mind races as you try to decide on a course of action. [[EVIL SQUIRREL!!! RUN AWAY, RUN AWAY!!!->Forest Path]] [["I am the wizard of Dwillim, servant of the arcane, and I shall undo thee fel creature!"->Squirrel Fight]]

You gather your thoughts and still your breath as the rustling reaches its peak. Impressive composure! I mean, if it's a bear then you're in a heap of trouble, but one has to admire bravery in the face of the unknown. Even if it does mean death. I'm not helping much am I? Anyway, the rustling comes to a stop as an adorable squirrel hops out of the brush. You've always had an affinity for woodland creatures, and it seems you lucked out this time. "Well aren't you the cutest little thing," you say as you move toward the squirrel. Strangely, it does not run off like most woodland critters would. Instead, it starts to... grow? You shrug the thought off, assuming it's just the dim forest lighting playing tricks on you again. You take a few steps closer. Nope, this squirrel is definitely growing, and growing fast. Your mind races as you try to decide on a course of action. [[EVIL SQUIRREL!!! RUN AWAY, RUN AWAY!!!->Forest Path]] [["I am the wizard of Dwillim, servant of the arcane, and I shall undo thee fel creature!"->Squirrel Fight]]

A little dramatic, don't you think? Mustering all of your courage, valor, and might, you bravely run away. When danger showed its cruel, ugly, mangled face, you gallantly turned tail and fled. That'll show that mutant squirrel thing. Having survived the encounter with the most dangerous squirrel in all of Eluvia, you realize these woods aren't as cool and tranquil as they first appeared. No wonder the road commission gave this one a pass. Looking about, you realize that many of the trees are easily climbable and closely packed together. Perhaps traveling *above* the ground in the woods would be safer, and let you see more? [[Stick to the path. It is bound to lead somewhere, and your spells are more effective with both feet on the ground.->Stay on the Path]] [[Climb a nearby tree and travel above. You can see more, and can hurl your spells from above->Tree Path]]

You gather all of your courage and knowledge, preparing to battle the monstrous squirrel. Its transformation is almost complete, and you know you need to strike while you have the advantage. How do you attack? [[Hit it with your weapon.->Physical Woods Attack]] [[Conjure a magical blast to send the cursed creature to the dark beyond!->Magical Woods Attack]]

Ah yes, probably best to stay on the path. After all, it hasn't failed you yet has it? As you continue down the forest path, you realize that you have been walking for quite a long time. And, other than a few oddly shaped trees or rocks, all of bends in the bumpy path have started to look the same. In the monotony of your trek, your mind starts to wander. What time is it? How will you get home at the end of the day? Will there be a tavern at some point to spend the night if you can't get home? Surely the narrator wouldn't expect a powerful wizard such as yourself to camp out for a night (actually, nothing would make me happier)? All of the sudden your musings are interrupted by a crash in the distance. Given your earlier experience with sudden noises in the woods, your wizard senses are giving you an ominous feeling. But would turning back be any safer? [[Turn around and try to find another path. That crash sounded larger than a squirrel.->Forest Turnaround Attempt]] [[What do you have to fear as the Wizard of Dwillim? Press forward toward the sound!->Wizard Hut]]

You move toward the nearest tree and begin to climb up. About half way up you remember that you don't have much tree-climbing experience, you hate sap, and you are afraid of heights. That would have been nice to remember sooner, wouldn't it? Anyway, too late to turn back now. You reach the upper branches of the tree and feel a breeze from above the woods. It is quite refreshing after spending so long in the stagnant air below. You scramble a bit higher, and peak your head above the surrounding trees. The sights that greet you are breathtaking. From your perch you can see all of the surrounding country for miles, including the plains to the East, Dwillim to the South, and far away to the Northeast the spires of the capitol. Eluvia truly is a beautiful land, and you are happy to live here as you feel the sun's warm rays kiss your face. After basking for a moment, something almost directly North catches your eye. In an area where the trees seem to diminish you see smoke rising. Perhaps you will find shelter, or a place to rest! Then again, perhaps you will find danger that dwarfs that of the evil and terrible squirrel. [[Travel through the trees toward the smoke. Today was a day for adventure, after all!->Wizard Hut]] [[Make your way away from the smoke. Where there be smoke, there be fires->Forest Turnaround Attempt]]

A little boring, but I guess it will work. You raise your weapon, and with all the skill and deftness that a whopping single morning of use can muster, you strike. Your attack is true and hits its mark, and the squirrel grunts as it falls over, its transformation interrupted. Victory is yours! Rather than stick around and wait for more dangerous squirrels to show up, you move along on your journey. Having survived the encounter with the most dangerous squirrel in all of Eluvia, you realize these woods aren't as cool and tranquil as they first appeared. No wonder the road commission gave this one a pass. Looking about, you realize that many of the trees are easily climbable and closely packed together. Perhaps traveling *above* the ground in the woods would be safer, and let you see more? [[Stick to the path. It is bound to lead somewhere, and your spells are more effective with both feet on the ground.->Stay on the Path]] [[Climb a nearby tree and travel above. You can see more, and can hurl your spells from above->Tree Path]]

Magic, that's more like it! A light humming sound begins as you start to cast your spell. This one's going to be a doozy, you can feel it. Your muscles tighten as your energy flows through you and collects in your hands. After a few moments, the spell is ready. You smile as you unleash the magic, knowing victory is assured. A flash and a sharp crackling sound ensue, and when the magic settles all that is left of the monstrous squirrel and its heinous crimes (you assume the squirrel committed heinous crimes) is a small pile of dust. You would like to revel in your victory, and perhaps collect the dust as a trophy, but realize that you should move on before any other vile woodland creatures show up. Having survived the encounter with the most dangerous squirrel in all of Eluvia, you realize these woods aren't as cool and tranquil as they first appeared. No wonder the road commission gave this one a pass. Looking about, you realize that many of the trees are easily climbable and closely packed together. Perhaps traveling *above* the ground in the woods would be safer, and let you see more? [[Stick to the path. It is bound to lead somewhere, and your spells are more effective with both feet on the ground.->Stay on the Path]] [[Climb a nearby tree and travel above. You can see more, and can hurl your spells from above->Tree Path]]

You turn around and try to move away, back through the woods. But no matter which way you go, you keep running into what seem to be invisible walls. Who could have put those there? I *assure* you, I would never do such a thing. It seems you have but one choice. [[Move forward through the woods.->Wizard Hut]]

After traveling for a short time, you come into a clearing where the trees finally give way to some sunlight. A stream from the woods runs into a small pool nearby, and a cottage stands next to it. Above both of them looms a large fruit tree. As you take in the scene, a crashing, booming noise emits from the cottage, shaking some fruit loose from the tree. A waft of smoke emits from the cottage chimney, like an old man blowing smoke rings. The scene looks welcoming enough, except for the occasional crashing sound from the cottage. What to do? [[Walk up to the cottage and knock on the door. Crashes and booms are nothing to strange for a wizard!->Wizard Hut Door Knock]] [[Play it cautious. Sneak up to the window of the cottage and take a look.->Wizard Hut Peek]]

Mustering the grace and smug sense of self-importance that all wizards have at the ready, you walk-more like glide-to the door of the cottage. You draw yourself up, preparing to knock. Before your knuckles can even touch the wood of the door, however, it opens suddenly. An old but surprisingly tall man stands in the doorway. His broad shoulders speak of strength in days gone by, but they are rather hunched now. A smile plays in his twinkling eyes and wrinkles at the edges of his mouth, which he opens to speak. "I've been expecting you." <center><big>*TO BE CONTINUED*</big></center>

You mutter some words, casting a spell that muffles the sound of your feet and helps you fade into your surroundings. You edge your way up to the cottage, and slowly, gently hoist yourself up to the window to peer in. What you see doesn't surprise you, wizard that you are. A fire is crackling in the fireplace, and over it stands a cauldron burping blue and purple vapors. The shelves are lined with old books and odd-looking instruments. A small wooden bed and desk stand against the far wall, and leaning against them you can discern worn leather boots and what appears to be a long, gnarled staff. Strangely, no one seems home. As this last observation registers in your brain, the door to the cottage opens suddenly. An old but surprisingly tall man stands in the doorway. His broad shoulders speak of strength in days gone by, but they are rather hunched now. A smile plays in his twinkling eyes and wrinkles at the edges of his mouth, which he opens to speak. "I've been expecting you." <center><big>*TO BE CONTINUED*</big></center>

You raise your weapon-how good it feels in your hands!-and prepare for what will undoubtedly be a battle for the ages. Just as the rustling reaches its peak, and your adrenaline is surging, an adorable squirrel jumps out of the brush. You sigh, half relief, half frustration, and lower your weapon. "You scared me buddy," you say as you move toward the squirrel. Strangely, it does not run off like most woodland critters would. Instead, it starts to... grow? You shrug the thought off, assuming it's just the dim forest lighting playing tricks on you again. You take a few steps closer. Nope, this squirrel is definitely growing, and growing fast. Your mind races as you try to decide on a course of action. [[Time to beat a hasty retreat. It's not running away! It's strategy.->Warrior Forest Path]] [["You asked for it!" Charge!->Warrior Squirrel Fight]]

You take a deep breath and bellow your mightiest battle cry from the depths of your incredibly muscled torso. Full on Flight of the Valkyries. If you don't make it as a warrior, you definitely have a future in opera. Anyway, the rustling comes to a stop as an adorable squirrel hops out of the brush. You've always had an affinity for woodland creatures, and it seems you lucked out this time. "You startled me little friend," you say as you move toward the squirrel. Strangely, it does not run off like most woodland critters would. Instead, it starts to... grow? You shrug the thought off, assuming it's just the dim forest lighting playing tricks on you again. You take a few steps closer. Nope, this squirrel is definitely growing, and growing fast. Your mind races as you try to decide on a course of action. [[Time to beat a hasty retreat. It's not running away! It's strategy.->Warrior Forest Path]] [["You asked for it!" Charge!->Warrior Squirrel Fight]]

Whatever you need to tell yourself friend. Mustering all of your courage, valor, and might, you bravely run away. When danger showed its cruel, ugly, mangled face, you gallantly turned tail and fled. That'll show that mutant squirrel thing. Having survived the encounter with the most dangerous squirrel in all of Eluvia, you realize these woods aren't as cool and tranquil as they first appeared. No wonder the road commission gave this one a pass. Looking about, you realize that many of the trees are easily climbable and closely packed together. Perhaps traveling *above* the ground in the woods would be safer, and let you see more? [[Stick to the path. It is bound to lead somewhere, and you can hit things better when you can get up close.->Warrior Stay on the Path]] [[Climb a nearby tree and travel above. You can see more, and surprise enemies from above->Warrior Tree Path]]

You gather all of your courage and strength, charging toward the monstrous squirrel. Its transformation is almost complete, and you know you need to strike while you have the advantage. How do you attack? [[Hit it with your weapon, duh.->Physical Warrior Woods Attack]] [[Throw the weapon away and wrestle the creature. More guts, more glory.->Wrestle Woods Attack]]

Ah yes, probably best to stay on the path. After all, it hasn't failed you yet has it? As you continue down the forest path, you realize that you have been walking for quite a long time. And, other than a few oddly shaped trees or rocks, all of bends in the bumpy path have started to look the same. In the monotony of your trek, your mind starts to wander. What time is it? How will you get home at the end of the day? Will there be a tavern at some point to spend the night if you can't get home? Or maybe you'll get to go camping! That would be fun, who doesn't like roughing it? All of the sudden your musings are interrupted by a crash in the distance. Given your earlier experience with sudden noises in the woods, your warrior spirit is giving you an ominous feeling. But would turning back be any safer? [[Turn around and try to find another path. That crash sounded larger than a squirrel.->Warrior Forest Turnaround Attempt]] [[What do you have to fear as the brawniest and sexiest warrior in the land? Press forward toward the sound!->Warrior Wizard Hut]]

You move toward the nearest tree and begin to climb up. You always liked getting a little messy, and the sap that starts to cover your arms and legs just makes you happier with your decision. The only downside is knowing you'll have to take a bath at some point. You reach the upper branches of the tree and feel a breeze from above the woods. It is quite refreshing after spending so long in the stagnant air below. You scramble a bit higher, and peak your head above the surrounding trees. The sights that greet you are breathtaking. From your perch you can see all of the surrounding country for miles, including the plains to the East, Dwillim to the South, and far away to the Northeast the spires of the capitol. Eluvia truly is a beautiful land, and you are happy to live here as you feel the sun's warm rays kiss your face. After basking for a moment, something almost directly North catches your eye. In an area where the trees seem to diminish you see smoke rising. Perhaps you will find shelter, or a place to rest! Then again, perhaps you will find danger that dwarfs that of the evil and terrible squirrel. [[Travel through the trees toward the smoke. Today was a day for adventure, after all!->Warrior Wizard Hut]] [[Make your way away from the smoke. Where there be smoke, there be fires->Warrior Forest Turnaround Attempt]]

You feel a thrill as you raise your weapon, preparing for a dazzling display of mastery. All those days training with wooden swords and knocking kids on their butts have led to this glorious moment. Your attack is true and hits its mark, and the squirrel cries as it falls over, its transformation interrupted. Victory is yours! Rather than stick around and wait for more dangerous squirrels to show up, you move along on your journey. Having survived the encounter with the most dangerous squirrel in all of Eluvia, you realize these woods aren't as cool and tranquil as they first appeared. No wonder the road commission gave this one a pass. Looking about, you realize that many of the trees are easily climbable and closely packed together. Perhaps traveling *above* the ground in the woods would be safer, and let you see more? [[Stick to the path. It is bound to lead somewhere, and you can hit things better when you can get up close.->Warrior Stay on the Path]] [[Climb a nearby tree and travel above. You can see more, and surprise enemies from above->Warrior Tree Path]]

You aren't the brightest bulb are you? Then again who needs brains when you have brawn right? You jump on top of the squirrel and begin your frantic and ill-advised wrestling match. You get in some good blows, and even pin it a few times. All the while the squirrel scratches and bites you. But what's a little pain? Unfortunately taking the time to wrestle the squirrel also means giving the squirrel the time to complete its transformation. After a couple minutes you are no longer wrestling a tiny woodland creature, but rather a frothing, rabid squirrel the size of a bear. Stinks to be you! Eventually the squirrel tires of the nonsense, and with one fel swoop of its large, sharp, pointy buck teeth it lops off your head. A tragic end for a tragically misguided adventurer. [[That's not fair! Rewind time and stop being the worst narrator ever!->Warrior Squirrel Fight]]

You turn around and try to move away, back through the woods. But no matter which way you go, you keep running into what seem to be invisible walls. You even try headbutting them, but all it does is give you a throbbing pain in your forehead. Who could have put those there? I *assure* you, I would never do such a thing. You should probably just move forward through the forest. I always get my way. [[Fine. Stupid narrator.->Warrior Wizard Hut]]

After traveling for a short time, you come into a clearing where the trees finally give way to some sunlight. A stream from the woods runs into a small pool nearby, and a cottage stands next to it. Above both of them looms a large fruit tree. As you take in the scene, a crashing, booming noise emits from the cottage, shaking some fruit loose from the tree. A waft of smoke emits from the cottage chimney, like an old man blowing smoke rings. The scene looks welcoming enough, except for the occasional crashing sound from the cottage. What to do? [[Walk up to the cottage and knock on the door. A warrior always approaches a challenge with honor!->Warrior Wizard Hut Door Knock]] [[Play it cautious. Sneak up to the window of the cottage and take a look.->Warrior Wizard Hut Peek]]

You start to "sneak" across the clearing, but quickly remember that footfalls are about as soft as drafthorse hooves. Every step is another thud that brings you closer to disaster. If only you had stuck with ballet longer, you may have been able to avoid this. Thankfully your sneaking proves completely unnecessary. As you inch closer to the cottage, its door opens suddenly. An old but surprisingly tall man stands in the doorway. His broad shoulders speak of strength in days gone by, but they are rather hunched now. A smile plays in his twinkling eyes and wrinkles at the edges of his mouth, which he opens to speak. "I've been expecting you." <center><big>*TO BE CONTINUED*</big></center>

You saunter across the clearing, looking regal, honorable, and downright charming as you do so. Once you reach the cottage, you draw yourself up, preparing to knock. Before your knuckles can even touch the wood of the door, however, it opens suddenly. An old but surprisingly tall man stands in the doorway. His broad shoulders speak of strength in days gone by, but they are rather hunched now. A smile plays in his twinkling eyes and wrinkles at the edges of his mouth, which he opens to speak. "I've been expecting you." <center><big>*TO BE CONTINUED*</big></center>

You raise your weapon-how good it feels in your hands!-and prepare for what will undoubtedly be a battle for the ages. Just as the rustling reaches its peak, and your adrenaline is surging, an adorable squirrel jumps out of the brush. You sigh, half relief, half frustration, and lower your weapon. "You scared me little one," you say as you move toward the squirrel. Strangely, it does not run off like most woodland critters would. Instead, it starts to... grow? You shrug the thought off, assuming it's just the dim forest lighting playing tricks on you again. You take a few steps closer. Nope, this squirrel is definitely growing, and growing fast. Your mind races as you try to decide on a course of action. [[Fade into the forest. This squirrel is not your enemy.->Hunter Forest Path]] [[Prepare for a fight! Survival of the fittest.->Hunter Squirrel Fight]]

You put yourself in an animal's mindset. Maybe you just scared the creature? Perhaps the creature could be a useful ally on your adventure! A mighty beast is always a welcome companion when facing the unknown! Anyway, the rustling comes to a stop as an adorable squirrel hops out of the brush. You've always had an affinity for woodland creatures, and it seems you lucked out this time. "You startled me little one," you say as you move toward the squirrel. Strangely, it does not run off like most woodland critters would. Instead, it starts to... grow? You shrug the thought off, assuming it's just the dim forest lighting playing tricks on you again. You take a few steps closer. Nope, this squirrel is definitely growing, and growing fast. Your mind races as you try to decide on a course of action. [[You fade into the forest. Squirrels don't make good pets.->Hunter Forest Path]] [[Move closer and try to calm the squirrel down. This is just a misunderstanding!->Hunter Squirrel Fight]]

How noble of you! Squirrels are people too, or something like that. Even magical mutant squirrels. Having survived the encounter with the most dangerous squirrel in all of Eluvia, you realize these woods aren't as cool and tranquil as they first appeared. No wonder the road commission gave this one a pass. Looking about, you realize that many of the trees are easily climbable and closely packed together. Perhaps traveling *above* the ground in the woods would be safer, and let you see more? [[Stick to the path. It is bound to lead somewhere, and you can hit things better when you can get up close.->Hunter Stay on the Path]] [[Climb a nearby tree and travel above. You can see more, and surprise enemies from above->Hunter Tree Path]]

You gather all of your courage and cunning, knowing you have to make a decision. The squirrel's transformation is almost complete, and you know you need to strike while you have the advantage. Or maybe there's still time to tame it? Which do you choose? [[Use your weapon. You can't take the chance.->Physical Hunter Woods Attack]] [[Throw the weapon away and show the squirrel you aren't a threat.->Hunter Taming Attack]]

You wish it hadn't come to this, but it is necessary. You raise your weapon and do what you must. Your attack is true and hits its mark, and the squirrel cries as it falls over, its transformation interrupted. Victory is yours, though you don't revel in it. You'll make a good park ranger someday. Rather than stick around and wait for more dangerous squirrels to show up, you move along on your journey. Having survived the encounter with the most dangerous squirrel in all of Eluvia, you realize these woods aren't as cool and tranquil as they first appeared. No wonder the road commission gave this one a pass. Looking about, you realize that many of the trees are easily climbable and closely packed together. Perhaps traveling *above* the ground in the woods would be safer, and let you see more? [[Stick to the path. You're less likely to disturb more creatures that way.->Hunter Stay on the Path]] [[Climb a nearby tree and travel above. You'll get a birds eye, and hopefully know the forest better->Hunter Tree Path]]

You toss your weapon away-which sounds like a terrible idea-and assume a less threatening stance. I would say you've just turned yourself into squirrel food, but... it's working? The squirrel starts to shrink back down to normal size, and you slowly edge towards it. Well, I certainly didn't expect that to work. You reach the squirrel and it lets you stroke its fur for a moment. It squeeks a few times-you'll need to work on your squirrel language-before running off into the brush again. You know you've made a friend in these woods. You would like to revel in your non-violent victory, but realize that where there are magical squirrels there are probably also much more dangerous creatures. You turn back toward the path to continue your journey. Having survived the encounter with the what only seemed like the most dangerous squirrel in all of Eluvia, you realize these woods aren't as cool and tranquil as they first appeared. No wonder the road commission gave this one a pass. Looking about, you realize that many of the trees are easily climbable and closely packed together. Perhaps traveling *above* the ground in the woods would be safer, and let you see more? [[Stick to the path. You're less likely to disturb more creatures that way.->Hunter Stay on the Path]] [[Climb a nearby tree and travel above. You'll get a birds eye, and hopefully know the forest better->Hunter Tree Path]]

Ah yes, probably best to stay on the path. Nothing could possibly happen to you on the path! Especially one with shrubberies. This one doesn't have shrubberies. As you continue down the forest path, you realize that you have been walking for quite a long time. And, other than a few oddly shaped trees or rocks, all of bends in the bumpy path have started to look the same. In the monotony of your trek, your mind starts to wander. What time is it? How will you get home at the end of the day? Will there be a tavern at some point to spend the night if you can't get home? Or maybe you'll get to go camping! That would be fun, who doesn't like roughing it? All of the sudden your musings are interrupted by a crash in the distance. Given your earlier experience with sudden noises in the woods, your hunter instincts are giving you an ominous feeling. But would turning back be any safer? [[Turn around and try to find another path. That crash sounded larger than a squirrel.->Hunter Forest Turnaround Attempt]] [[You'll never understand the forest if you keep running away from it! Investigate the crash->Hunter Wizard Hut]]

You move toward the nearest tree and begin to climb up. The moss and bark beneath your hands and feet make you feel right at home, and you notice where creatures have made their homes on and in the trees. Hopefully none of them are magical mutants, you've already had your close call for the day. You reach the upper branches of the tree and feel a breeze from above the woods. It is quite refreshing after spending so long in the stagnant air below. You scramble a bit higher, and peak your head above the surrounding trees. The sights that greet you are breathtaking. From your perch you can see all of the surrounding country for miles, including the plains to the East, Dwillim to the South, and far away to the Northeast the spires of the capitol. Eluvia truly is a beautiful land, and you are happy to live here as you feel the sun's warm rays kiss your face. After basking for a moment, something almost directly North catches your eye. In an area where the trees seem to diminish you see smoke rising. Perhaps you will find shelter, or a place to rest! Then again, perhaps you will find danger that dwarfs that of mutant squirrels. [[Travel through the trees toward the smoke. Today was a day for adventure, after all!->Hunter Wizard Hut]] [[Make your way away from the smoke. Where there be smoke, there be fires->Hunter Forest Turnaround Attempt]]

You turn around and try to move away, back through the woods. But no matter which way you go, you keep running into what seem to be invisible walls. You even try throwing rocks through them, but they just bounce to the ground. Who could have put those there? I *assure* you, I would never do such a thing. You should probably just move forward through the forest. I always get my way. [[Fine. Stupid narrator.->Hunter Wizard Hut]]

After traveling for a short time, you come into a clearing where the trees finally give way to some sunlight. A stream from the woods runs into a small pool nearby, and a cottage stands next to it. Above both of them looms a large fruit tree. As you take in the scene, a crashing, booming noise emits from the cottage, shaking some fruit loose from the tree. A waft of smoke emits from the cottage chimney, like an old man blowing smoke rings. The scene looks welcoming enough, except for the occasional crashing sound from the cottage. What to do? [[Walk up to the cottage and knock on the door. A resourceful hunter like you can handle anything you come across out here.->Hunter Wizard Hut Door Knock]] [[Play it cautious. Try to sneak up and see what you're dealing with!.->Hunter Wizard Hut Fruit]]

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With lithe, confident strides you make your way across the clearing. Once you reach the cottage, you pause for a moment, gathering your wits and preparing to knock. Before your knuckles can even touch the wood of the door, however, it opens suddenly. An old but surprisingly tall man stands in the doorway. His broad shoulders speak of strength in days gone by, but they are rather hunched now. A smile plays in his twinkling eyes and wrinkles at the edges of his mouth, which he opens to speak. "I've been expecting you." <center><big>*TO BE CONTINUED*</big></center>

You gently pad across the clearing, using the thickest patches of grass to mask your footfalls. This is what makes you such a great hunter. Your past prey still doesn't know what hit it. As you approach the cottage, you see some of the fruit shaken free of the tree laying on the ground. You stoop to pick it up, intent on examining it. Your action is interrupting by the sudden opening of the cottage door. You quickly stash a piece of fruit in your pocket, hoping the occupant hasn't noticed. Thieves don't typically get warm welcomes. An old but surprisingly tall man stands in the doorway. His broad shoulders speak of strength in days gone by, but they are rather hunched now. A smile plays in his twinkling eyes and wrinkles at the edges of his mouth, which he opens to speak. "I've been expecting you." <center><big>*TO BE CONTINUED*</big></center>