Pumpkid Demo

(set: $inv to (a:))  (set: $quests to (a:))\ (set: $Rock to false, $Nerves to false)\ <img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/dce04f70-6810-11ef-b465-a1a8544a5548.gif> <img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/fafadf2b-6810-11ef-8bc7-a1a8544a5548.gif> Greetings and many hellos! Welcome to the Pumpkid Demo! In this game, you are Jax O. Lantern, a pumpkin headed being that is wandering the supernatural woods it calls home. <img src= https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/ffdbaad7-faab-11ee-aade-d93af43c47dc.gif>(<-- You) This is a sample taste of how a larger, longer game would play out. Enjoy meeting and greeting the handful of creatures and beings there are to meet and helping them out with their funny little requests. This is a textbased game, so reading is a must. If you're ready for the task, then your journey awaits. [[ Start Quest-> Game Beginning]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]]  The rustling of drying leaves snaps you out of your daydreaming. You feel the crisp, coolness of the eternal autumn winds prickle against your stem-like arms. The sky's a muted, rich purple with graying clouds smeared across its canvas appearance. It reminds you of soot... How long have you been standing here? //''-Swish-''// You look down at your feet for sprouted roots and find none. Couldn't have been longer than a couple of hours. //''-Swish-''// You look back up at the sky //''-Swish-''// Then around to get your barrings. //''-Swish-''// Where were you going? //''-Swish-''// And what were you doing?//'' -Swish-''// And what is this annoying thing swishing across your gourd?!? You angrily shake your pumpkin skull and feel a sensation of a thick thing slither pass your arms and tangle at your feet. (text-style:"shudder")[[[Freak Out-> Panic]]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] (unless: $inv contains "Round Rock")[\ (set: $inv to $inv + (a: "Round Rock")) You scour the ground with your cut out eye holes for anything sharp and/or pointy. There's some gravel, lots and lots of dirt, grass, twigs, a slug in a dashing bow tie, and a handful of rocks. Gravel is useless, along with the dirt and grass. The twigs are too flimsy and the slug doesn't want to ruin its tie placement. "Do you know how long it took to put this on with no appendages?? Sorry, kid. You're on your own." (align:"=><=")+(box:"X=")[<img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/34b54e54-9b19-11ef-8eaf-45b91a47c0e3.gif>] You hope the rocks could be of assistance but most are too round or too smooth. They make useless cutting tools, but they do look nice and feel cool to the touch. You pocket a couple and move on along the path. [[Keep Wandering->Sign]]]\ (unless: $inv contains "Smooth Rock")[ (set: $inv to $inv + (a:"Smooth Rock")) ](else:)[ <img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/34b54e54-9b19-11ef-8eaf-45b91a47c0e3.gif> Not much has changed in the last minute or two that you were there. The slug is still trugging along looking fabulous. You wonder if it has any styling tips to share. You've already taken all the rocks that interests you. [[Keep Wandering->Sign]]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] Continuing along the path, the vegetable walls that act as your ears pick up the growing audiory sound waves of what could only be the sound of metal on wood. Followed by aggressive sawing, dull ''THUNKS'', and booming ''CLANKS''. The weather worn sign on the side of the path confirms your intial thoughts. Those sounds can only be coming from the Worker's Nook. Home to all those with a knack for creativity and the will to devise. There'll be more than enough sharp tools and devices there to help clear away your bothersome vines. [[Continue to Worker's Nook -> Carpenter's]] [[Wait I forgot something! -> Rock]]

<h2>Pockets</h2> You're carrying: (if: $inv's length is 0) [ Nothing but hopes and dreams and a lot of lint. Should probably clean that out later...] (else:)[ (for: each _item, ...$inv)[\ _item (unless: $inv's last is _item)[, ]\ ]\ ] (click-replace: "Round Rock")[''Round Rock'': A very round rock, eroded to perfection by centuries of rain. It's cool to the touch] (click-replace: "Smooth Rock")[''Smooth Rock'': A very smooth rock, eroded to perfection by centuries of rain. It's cool and calming to the touch] (click-replace: "Bloomed Flowers")[''Bloomed Althaea Flowers'': A small handful of flowers with soft white petals and a purple center. It smells very sweet like marshmallows] (click-replace: "Half Bloomed Althaea Flower")[''Half Bloomed Althaea Flower'': A half opened flower with soft purplish white petals gently wrapped around itself. It smells faintly of marshmallows] (click-replace: "Net")[''Butterfly Net'': Gifted to you by the Young Moss Turtle. Good for catching things with wings] (click-replace: "Butterfly")[''Butterfly'': A beautiful insect with wings too dazzling for words to describe. Trust me, this thing is gorgeous to behold] (click-replace: "Bad Photo")[''Bad Photo'': A terrible polaroid of a river. It is overexposed, blurred, and has a claw partially blocking the lens] (click-replace: "Pretty Photo")[''Pretty Photo'': A pretty polaroid of a river. It perfectly captures the beauty of standing by the river side at a certain time of day.] (click-replace: "Keith")[''Keith'': A cute little river frog you "rescued" from the Mushroom Marsh Woods. He has a beautiful singing voice that is terribly underappreicated by his fellow amphibians] (click-replace: "Dried Glowshroom")[''Dried Glowshroom'': Gifted to you by the Frog Gang. A shriveled mushroom that glows a brillant soft neon green in the moonlight.] (click-replace: "BeeBee")[''BeeBee'': A typical fuzzy bumblebee with a cute little red ribbon wrapped around her waist. Apparently she's the Keeper's favorite bee.] (click-replace: "Eye")[''Eye'': Gifted to you by the Keeper. It's the Keeper's eye! It looks like a typical run of the mill eye. Nothing too special about it.] (link-goto: "Return To Tasks", (history:)'s last)

(set: $Rock to true)  [[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]]\ (set: $inv to $inv - (a:"Smooth Rock"))  (if: $Nerves is true)[\ <img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/98ce83de-a00c-11ef-b48c-5112ecaff615.gif> You hold the smooth rock you found out towards the angry lizard teen as you slowly approach them. Taking careful care to gently clear your throat so that they are not too surprised by your presence. The sound of crackling flames and twigs snapping echoes throughout the workshop and makes the lizard being turn around swiftly. They are surprised by your presence and even more surprised by the rock you're holding out to them. Shakily, you walk closer and closer until their hand is within your reach. With a delicately slow movement, you place the rock between the reptilian’s confused claws. The lizard looks at you then the rock then back at you still confused. You nervously clear your throat again and politely ask for a pair of shears to cut your vines. "Shears?" the lizard questions. "This is a Carpentery. We have saws." They gesture to the nearby circular saw and for some weird reason, you start to feel whoosie. The reptilian notices this and quickly adds, "And scissors," as they pick up a pair off the rainbow splattered sawdusted floor. You smile with your eyes and hold out your hand out for the scissors. "Not so fast," the apprentice quickly holds the scissors away from your reach, "A favor for a favor." [["...?" -> Quest]] ]\ \ (else:)[\ <img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/98ce83de-a00c-11ef-b48c-5112ecaff615.gif> You hold the smooth rock you found out towards the angry lizard teen as you slowly approach them. The lizard apprentice raises a reptilian eyebrow at your gesture. You place the rock into their palm and close their claws around it. The lizard looks at you then the rock then back at you still confused. You take this newly calm moment to ask for a pair of shears to cut your vines. "Shears?" the lizard finally says, "This is a Carpentery. We have saws." They gesture to the nearby circular saw and for some weird reason, you start to feel whoosie. The reptilian notices this and quickly adds, "And scissors," as they pick up a pair off the rainbow splattered sawdusted floor. You reach out to take it but the lizard holds it up high just out of your grasp. You stare at their muted green scaled face somewhat annoyed. The lizard smiles a toothy smile and says, "A favor for a favor." [["...?" -> Quest]] ]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] (unless: $quests contains "Cut")[\ (set: $quests to $quests + (a: "Cut"))] ''(text-style:"expand","rumble")[SNAAAAAAAKKEESS!!]'' You scream mentally into the echoing chambers of your fruity craninum. But wait! They're not moving. Dead perhaps? Hm. No... hm... Something isn't right... Wait a minute. These aren't snakes at all! Silly you. They're vines! Vines that are, you tug at them to determine their source, ''Ouch!'' Attached to your skull. (align:"=><=")+(box:"X=")[<img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/772dade8-9b13-11ef-a208-45b91a47c0e3.gif >] I guess you've been lost in thought longer than you previously guessed. These vines are gonna be a real nuisance if you don't dispose of them. Maybe you could find something sharp nearby and use that? Or continue on your way until you reach a market or your home. [[Look for something sharp-> Rock]] [[Continue along path->Sign]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]]\  (if: $Nerves is true)[ You tumble onto the ground and manage to roll your way into the carpenter's shop. The floor is coated in a thin layer of sawdust with splatters of multicolored paint splotted everywhere. You feel your gourd for any cracks or divets and find none. You also quickly scan the immediate area for any sharp objects and find nothing. All the good stuff must be on the tables. Begrudingly you stand to confront whatever drama you might be dragged into. ''"GAH! It's still not right! This is impossible!!"'' You stare at the back of the frustrated scaled-being as they toss whatever object they held to the ground with a thunderous ''CRASH''. You think that you should cut your losses until you notice the table of sharp tools just behind the angry reptilian.\  (if: $inv contains "Round Rock")[ [[Offer Smooth Rock ->RockAway]] [[Confident Approach -> Quest]] [[Cautious Approach -> Quest1]] ] (else:)[\ [[Confident Approach -> Quest]] [[Cautious Approach -> Quest1]]] ] \ (else:)[\ You knock gently on the door before you take a careful step into the establishment. Taking a quick look around, you see that the mess against the window was a mere drop in the bucket compared to the mess in the shop. The floor is coated in a thin layer of sawdust with splatters of mutlicolored paint splotted everywhere. Splinters of dark and light color wood decorate the tables like pieces of confetti celebrating an aggressive birthday. The source of all this mess and destruction stands at the far end of the room. They angrily swipe a box of nails and screws onto the floor to sing a weird song of disscordant clings and clacks before turning around to look at you. You notice that they're a lizard wearing a gray beanie that is a size or two too big for their little reptilian head. Along with brown worker's gloves that also are a size or two too big for their little lizard claw hands. Actually, the more you observe them, everything they're wearing is a size or two too big for them. They must be an apprentice wearing their mentor's handmedowns. "What? ''What?!'' Can't you see I'm busy having a mental breakdown??"  (if: $inv contains "Round Rock")[\ [[Offer Smooth Rock ->RockAway]] [["..." -> Quest]] ] (else:)[\ [["..." -> Quest]] ] ]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] A cool breeze gently blows past your hollowed skull as you reach a sign confirming your whereabouts. '' Welcome to Marsh ~~ Mal~~ Meadows! '' It practically screams. ''Careful not to trample, spook, or screech''. It continues before ending with a series of images describing the do not's with a big red 'X' covering them. You can't help but wonder how many incidents occured to require the warnings. You continue walking out into the unending field wondering where to start. The flowers are all the same with soft white petals and lilac pistils that grow for what seems like miles. The air is filled with sweetness and butterflies. Little flecks of what seems like fairy dust dances across the soft blowing breeze. It's calming here. You make a mental note to visit again when you're not on a mission. You take a moment to decide on where to start first. You look to your left and see a cluster of trees in the distance, marking the end of meadow.  You look to your right and notice there's a slight incline. Probably leading to the river bank.  Or you can continue further into the field and see if there's anything eye catching.  [[Explore the Left ->Frogs]] [[Explore the Right ->Scorpion]] [[Explore Further ->Turtle]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] The Worker's Nook looks just as busy and chaotic as it normally does. With all types of beings walking this way and that, carrying who knows what to who knows where. With a never ending sound of wood, metal, and ceramics being worked and molded into masterpieces. A carpenter's shop is the first to catch your eye. As you approach the wooden structure, you hear loud shouting and screaming. Real angry, frustrated screaming. Peaking into the window, whatever there was to see is immediately obscured by a mix of sawdust and paint against the glass. You notice that the door is partially opened with a sign that reads, 'All Welcomed, We're Open :)' [[Investigate -> Lizard Apprentince]] [[Check a different shop -> Bump]]

(set: $Nerves to true)\ [[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] You decide you don't want to be involved in whatever craziness is going on in the shop and turn around. There's more than enough shops to choose from with plenty of sharp tools and gizmos that can relieve these annoying vines from your head. As you take a step into the street, someone shouts. (text-style:"bold")["Watch out! Run Away Wagon!!"] You look to see a run away wagon filled to the brim with crushed marble, large pieces of splintered wood, and rusted metal headed straight for you! Quickly, you move out the way back onto the sidewalk. But stumble and lose your balance as your feet fight the nuisance vines that are trying to get tangled around your ankles. You feel yourself fall backwards as the crowded cart speeds pass you. [[Embrace Gravity -> Lizard Apprentince]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] (unless: $quests contains "Beauty")[\ (set: $quests to $quests + (a: "Beauty"))]\ (if: $Rock is true)[<img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/98ce83de-a00c-11ef-b48c-5112ecaff615.gif> "I have a very important project to complete within the next few days," the lizard apprentice explains before gesturing to the mess in the workshop. "As you can see uhm," they take a moment to realize how big the mess they created is, "It's uh....taken quite a toll on me. Driving me crazy actually... But that's because it's really important! And I need to get it just right. Perfectly right! If I do, my mentor will let me run the shop 3 days out of the week instead of a couple of hours on a random day. Like today!" You were wondering how this hot headed apprentince was able to wreck the shop for so long without any push back. You can't help but drift in thought on where the veteran carpenter could be at this time on a day like today. Running menial errands? A dentist appointment? Was the carpenter some being that required dental work? Buying more wood? Wouldn't it be better to have it sent to the shop instead? Are they using this as an excuse to get some R&R? The questions just keep piling in your gourd cradled mind until you realize that the lizard teen is still talking. "-which is why I haven't had time to look for a muse for inspiration. I need something fresh and vibrant. It's too stifling in here. So anything that just screams ''beauty'' should suffice, ok? So how about it? Deal? From one desperate soul to another?" You look at the glove covered claw that's being stretched out toward you. And without any extra effort of thought, you shake it. The lizard teen smiles and directs you to start searching in the nearby meadow. "Meadows are always filled to the brim with pretty things. But remember, it has to be ''beautiful'' alright? I believe in you. I'll clean up in the meantime." You start to regret your decision to agree to this, but a deal is a deal and you are desperate to get rid of these vines asap. A little side quest shouldn't do you any extra harm. ]\ (else:)[<img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/98ce83de-a00c-11ef-b48c-5112ecaff615.gif> You take a confident step toward the raging reptile and ask for a pair of shears to cut your unruly vines with. The apprentice scoffs, "We're all in desperate need of things," they turn their back to you and keep fiddling with the mutilated wood on their workbench before getting frustrated again, "But I suppose we can both benefit from a simple transaction." They turn to look at you, their eyes full of ideas and possiblities. You take a half step back slightly unnerved about what they might ask of you. "I have a very important project that I need to complete within the next few days," the lizard apprentice explains before gesturing to the hacked block of wood behind them. "Nothing I try is right. There's always something off, something missing. I need inspiration! A muse! But I'm busy! I have to watch the shop today and- " They pause and take note of the mess all around them, "And I need to clean up before my mentor comes back. So I propose a favor for a favor," you can feel their sharp slit eyes stare right into your carved eye holes. "Find me a muse. Something fresh and vibrant. Anything that just screams ''beauty'' ok? And I'll give you a vine cut in return for the trouble. So how about it? Deal? From one desperate soul to another?" You look at the glove swallowing the claw that's being stretched out toward you. And without any extra effort of thought, you shake it. The lizard teen smiles and directs you to start searching in the nearby meadow. "Meadows are always filled to the brim with pretty things. But remember, it has to be ''beautiful'' alright? You got this." You start to regret your decision to agree to this, but a deal is a deal and you are desperate to get rid of these vines asap. A little side quest shouldn't do you any extra harm. ] [[Walk to Marsh Meadow-> Meadow]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] (unless: $quests contains "Beauty")[\ (set: $quests to $quests + (a: "Beauty"))]\  <img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/98ce83de-a00c-11ef-b48c-5112ecaff615.gif> You cautiously tip toe over to the box of tools and peer into it. You see boxes of nails and screws, all sorts of screwdrivers, a level, measuring tape, a drill and way too many pliers. Nothing really useful for cutting vines without severely injuring yourself in the process. You gaze at the back of the grumbling lizard being and steel your nerves. You take a cautious step toward the raging reptile and gently clear your throat. The sound of crackling flames and twigs snapping echoes throughout the workshop and makes the lizard being turn around swiftly. They are surprised by your presence and look at you impatiently, "What? ''What?!'' Can't you see I'm busy having a mental breakdown??" You politely ask for a pair of shears to cut your unruly vines with. The apprentice scoffs, "We're all in desperate need of things," they lean against their workbench and crosses their arms, "But I suppose we can both benefit from a simple transaction." You look at them inquisitively waiting for them to go on. "I have a very important project that I need to complete within the next few days," the lizard apprentice explains before gesturing to the hacked block of wood behind them. "But I've hit a wall. Nothing I try is right. I need a muse. Inspiration. I would go out and look for something myself, but I have to watch the shop today. So I propose a favor for a favor," you can feel their sharp slit eyes stare right into your carved eye holes and into your very soul. "Find me a muse. Something fresh and vibrant. Anything that just screams ''beauty'' ok? And I'll give you a vine cut in return for the trouble. So how about it? Deal? From one desperate soul to another?" You look at the tattered glove swallowing the claw that's being stretched out toward you. And with a slight moment of hesitation, you shake it. The lizard teen smiles and directs you to start searching in the nearby meadow. "Meadows are always filled to the brim with pretty things. But remember, it has to be ''beautiful'' alright? You got this." You start to regret your decision to agree to this, but a deal is a deal and you are desperate to get rid of these vines asap. A little side quest shouldn't do you any extra harm...hopefully. [[Walk to Marsh Meadow-> Meadow]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] (unless: $inv contains "Bloomed Flowers")[\ (set: $inv to $inv + (a: "Bloomed Flowers"))]\ (unless: $inv contains "Half Bloomed Althaea Flower")[\ (set: $inv to $inv + (a: "Half Bloomed Althaea Flower"))] As you wander deeper into the meadow, you take extra care not to disturb the bees and butterflies drinking their fill from the endless sweet flowers. You learned your lesson from last time and it was not pretty. Just the thought of it gives you shakes and shivers all over your plant based body. But despite the horrorifying memory replaying in your shaking gourd, you can't help but pluck a flower or two that catches your carved eye holes. They might come in handy for later. Maybe you'll grind them up and steep them into a sweet tea or bake them into a nice treat. The possiblities are endless! (align:"=><=")+(box:"X=")[<img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/91af17d4-9ef0-11ef-95a5-43c229f07495.gif>]\ You reach the deep center of the meadow and notice a slow moving rock wielding a butterfly net. Weird but not the weirdest thing you've come across in your whole existence. You watch it try in vain to capture one of the many butterflies fluttering around it. (if: $quests contains "Bee")[ [[Approach the rock->Turtle2]] [[Turn around -> MeadowBack2]]] (else:)[ [[Approach the rock->Turtle2]] [[Turn around -> MeadowBack]] ]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] You lesuirely walk enjoying the soft, cozy feeling of the grass blades swiping at your legs. The bright scent of sunlight fills your senses. Once you reach the meadow's edge, you stare into the treeline. The trees are lumbering and dense, hardly any sunlight reaches the ground. A good environment for growing bioluminescent 'shrooms, one of the most beautiful things around. You take a step onto the well worn path. The transition from soft marsh grass to the rougher forest dirt feels weird against your bare feet. The air feels cool yet sticky in a weird comforting way. There's soft singing echoing nearby. It sounds hauntingly beautiful. [[Discover the source of the singing ->Frogs2]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] You walk down the incline and see that your hunch was right. Glistening in the radiant mid-afternoon light is a river babbling softly against the bank as if it was whispering the rocks a secret. The air smells like fresh dew and clean dreams. It's beautiful here. Standing at the edge of the bank is a scorpion holding a large polaroid camera ''//-Snap-//'' ''//-Snap-//'' You watch the scorpion remove the freshly made photos from the camera's slot and give them a slight gentle shake. This sparks an idea. [[Approach the scorpion->Scorpion2]] [[Turn around -> MeadowBack]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] You walk over to the rock to try to figure out whatever science or magic allows it to move the butterfly net around like it does. Maybe it'll be useful to the lizard apprentince if it's pretty enough. As you approach, you start to notice all kinds of strange things about the rock. Like how it's weirdly lumpy in certain spots, and that those weird lumps aren't lumps but moss and bits of greenery growing on it. And what you had previously assumed was magical runes etched into it's surface is actually little claws attached to little legs. Actually, the closer you get the more you realize that the rock is definitely not a rock. It's a turtle! And a pretty old looking one at that. [["...?" -> Turtle3]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] You walk back to the start of the meadow. The sun is shining, the air is clean. What shall you do? (if: $inv contains "Net")[ [[ Check on Turtle-> Turtle5]]]\ (else:)[ \ (if: $quests contains "Butterfly")[ [[Return to Turtle -> Turtle4]] ]\ (else:)[[[Explore Further ->Turtle]]]] (if: $inv contains "Pretty Photo")[\ [[Check on Frogs -> Frogs4]]]\ (else:)[\ (if: $quests contains "Keith")[\ [[Return to Frogs -> Frogs3]]]\ (else:)[[[Explore the Left ->Frogs]]]]\ (if: $inv contains "Pretty Photo")[ [[Check on Scorpion -> Scorpion6]]]\ (else:)[ (if: $quests contains "River")[\ [[Return to Scorpion -> Scorpion4]]]\ (else:)[[[Explore the Right ->Scorpion]]]]\  [[Return to the Lizard Apprentince ->Lizard Apprentince2]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] (unless: $quests contains "Butterfly")[\ (set: $quests to $quests + (a: "Butterfly"))]\ The turtle turns to look at you, with the butterfly net held firmly in its beak, and softly smiles. *Mumble Mumble Mumble* it says cheerfully, *Mumble Mumble Mumble* it continues. <img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/543842eb-a0d5-11ef-9935-e56ceb308bc3.gif> You stare at it blankly. It stares back and laughs. Slowly it stretches out its neck and gingerly places the net onto the grass. "Sorry, I forgot my mouth was full. Hello there! Have you also come to enjoy the butterflies?" The turtle repeats in a cheerfully young voice. You make a mental note that the look of a turtle's shell does not equal their age and explain your quest to the turtle. "Beauty you say, huh? Well you're definitely in the right place for that. Everything in this meadow is gorgeously beautiful," the turtle wistfully says as it stares at the fluttering butterflies nearby. "Like those butterflies. I've been trying to catch one for ages. Not to trap it of course!" the turtle sputters, "I just want to view them up close. They're so admirable..." the turtle trails off as it gets dazzled and enamored by fluttering wings. (if: $quests contains "Bee")[\ [[Walk Away -> MeadowBack2]] [[Recover the Turtle's attention -> Turtle4]]] (else:)[\ [[Walk Away -> MeadowBack]] [[Recover the Turtle's attention -> Turtle4]] ]

<h2>Quests</h2> Current To-Do's: (if: $quests's length is 0) [ Enjoy undead life. Explore] (else:)[ (for: each _item, ...$quests)[\ _item (unless: $quests's last is _item)[ ]\ ] ] (click-replace: "Cut")[ ''Cut'' From: Yourself Mission: Find something to cut these unruly vines. Location: Your Gourd ] (click-replace: "Beauty")[''Beauty'' From: The Lizard Apprentice Mission: The concept of Beauty. Find something beautiful and bring it back to the apprentice so they can finish their project. Location: The Carpenter's in the Worker's Nook ] (click-replace: "Butterfly")[''Butterfly'' From: The Young Moss Turtle Mission: Help lure a butterfly close enough so the turtle can admire it Location: Deep within Marsh Meadow ] (click-replace: "River")[''River'' From: The Scorpion Photographer Mission: Find a way to help the scorpion across the river Location: Marsh Meadow's Riverbank ] (click-replace: "Keith")[''Keith'' From: The Frog Group Mission: Get rid of Keith Location: Mushroom Marsh Woods ] (click-replace: "Bee")[''Bee'' From: The Keeper Mission: Find BeeBee and bring her home Location: Mossy Grove ]\ (link-goto: "Return To Tasks", (history:)'s last)

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] <img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/a4a3b7bd-a0d7-11ef-b458-e56ceb308bc3.gif> You stare at the turtle for an extra second or two to see if they'll tune back in to the world themselves. When they don't, you pull your hands into the sleeves of your sweater and flop the ends frantically. The turtle jumps slightly at the sudden movement and looks at you slightly spooked. "Whaa- Oh! Sorry, I got distracted. What were you saying? You need a butterfly? They're pretty quick y'know. Gonna need a more subtle approach if you wanna catch one." You take a moment to think. [[Subtle Approach -> SubtleCatch]] [[Not-So-Subtle Approach -> FranticCatch]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] <img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/98ce83de-a00c-11ef-b48c-5112ecaff615.gif> You walk back into the messy carpenter's shop optimistic and hopeful. The sound of a broom sweeping woodchips and sawdust into a pile echoes all around the room. The lizard pauses to look at you. Is that excitement in their eyes? "What have you got for me?" they say looking at you eagerly. (if: $inv contains "Smooth Rock")[\ [[Offer Smooth Rock ->Rock?]] ] (if: $inv contains "Round Rock")[\ [[Offer Rough Rock ->Rejected]] ] (if: $inv contains "Keith")[\ [[Offer Keith ->Keith?]] ]\ (if: $inv contains "Butterfly")[\ [[Offer Butterfly ->Butterfly?]] ]\ (if: $inv contains "Bloomed Althaea Flower")[\ [[Offer Bloomed Flower ->Rejected]] ] (if: $inv contains "Half Bloomed Althaea Flower")[\ [[Offer Half Bloomed Flower ->Rejected]] ] (if: $inv contains "Bad Photo")[\ [[Offer Bad Photo ->Rejected]] ] (if: $inv contains "Pretty Photo")[\ [[Offer Pretty Photo ->Rejected]] ] (if: $inv contains "Dried Glowshroom")[\ [[Offer Dried Glowshroom ->Rejected]] ] (if: $quests contains "Bee")[\ [[Return to Marsh Meadow-> MeadowBack2]] ]\ (else:)[ [[Return to Marsh Meadow -> MeadowBack]] ]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] (set: $inv to $inv - (a:"Smooth Rock"))  You hold out the rock like a freshly gathered game collectible, in hopes the light will catch it in the right way to make it shine. The lizard seems slightly amused by your pose and takes the rock from you. They look it over and brush their claws against it. Slowly rolling the rock between their palms in a methodical way. "It's not what I'm looking for, but it is calming... Mind if I keep it anyways?" You tell them that you don't mind. You can find plenty more when you want to. Back to the grind. [[Offer something else ->Lizard Apprentince2]] [[Return to Marsh Meadow -> MeadowBack]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] <img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/4fed0938-a0ca-11ef-96f0-e56ceb308bc3.gif> You walk over to the scorpion and notice that it's wearing a cute little hat that barely sits steadily along its cephalothorax. You quitely gush at the adorable sight until a quick dangerous movement near your foot reminds you to keep your distance. The scorpion removes its stinger from the ground, where it nearly struck you, and turns slightly to look up at your startled expression. "Oh dear," it says softly, "Apologies. N-nervous reflex. You're alright, yes?" You nod your gourd up and down as the scorpion inspects you for injuries. [["...?" -> Scorpion3]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] (set: $inv to $inv + (a: "Bad Photo")) <img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/4fed0938-a0ca-11ef-96f0-e56ceb308bc3.gif> The scorpion tilts its head just enough to look confused but not enough for its hat to lose what little grip it had on the scorpion's smooth exoskeleton. "What? Y-you want a photo?" The scorpion positions the camera infront of its eyes. "Sure, I-I guess. You never know when a moment will be your l-last," it laughs anxiously as it makes a gesture for you to take a few steps back. You wave your hands disapprovingly and clarify that you want the photo of the river. "Oh!" the scorpion laughs, "Sure I s-suppose. I have plenty." You watch it carefully claw through its pile of polaroids and hands you a random photo of the river. You thank it and look the photo over. This photo is terrible. It's over saturated and has part of a claw obstructing the scene. You look at the scorpion to see if it's joking. You watch the scorpion innocently reorganize its pictures and gently place them in a protective casing. It is not joking. [["...?" -> Scorpion4]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] (unless: $quests contains "River")[\ (set: $quests to $quests + (a: "River"))]\ <img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/4fed0938-a0ca-11ef-96f0-e56ceb308bc3.gif> You start to ask the scorpion for a better photo when it starts speaking again. "H-hey!" it says a little too loud before lowering its volume, "S-since I g-gave you something, d-do you think could a-assist me with a l-little problem?" the scorpion opens and closes its claws anxiously. You tilt your head and look at the scorpion waiting for it to continue. "I-I need help getting a-across the river. Do you know of a way I could do that?" You take a moment to think and look at the flowing river water. It's calming but seems treacherous to something as small and drownable as the scorpion and its camera. If you had the time you would offer to build a raft for it and you tell it so. "A r-raft? That seems smart," the scorpion glances around at all the reeds and grass blades and starts collecting. You watch the scorpion make a small pile and stare it like it'll magically turn into a raft. [[Walk Away -> MeadowBack]] (if: $inv contains "Keith")[\ [[Offer Help -> Scorpion5]]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] (set: $quests to $quests - (a:"Butterfly"))\ (set: $inv to $inv - (a:"Bloomed Flowers"))\ (unless: $inv contains "Butterfly")[\ (set: $inv to $inv + (a: "Butterfly"))]\ (unless: $inv contains "Net")[\ (set: $inv to $inv + (a: "Net"))] As you watch the butterflies for ideas, you notice them occassionally landing and drinking from the blooming flowers. You turn to look at the moss turtle. You realize that the butterflies hover fairly close to them but not close enough to land. An idea starts rattling sparks in your fruit mind until it spurs you into action. Carefully, you take one of the flowers you plucked earlier and gingerly place it upon the turtle's shell. The turtle watches you as you slowly cover its shell one by one in a small arranged collection of the sweet smelling flowers. You motion for them to be quiet and to stay still as you both wait in the stretching silence. It only takes a minute or two before the youthful moss coated turtle is covered head to tail in the beautiful butterflies. It takes all the turtle's strength to not scream in their excitement. "Ahhhhhhhhhhh," the turtle quietly shouts, "AHHHHHHHHHH," they hoarsely exclaim. "ThankyouThankyouThankyouThankyouThankyou," they whisper, "As a token of my appreciation. I'd like you to have my net. I don't have a use for it anymore and it might help you in your quest." You move slowly, so the butterflies won't be disturbed, and pick up the butterfly net. You nod your thanks to the turtle and bid them a farewell. You as you turn to leave you notice there's already a butterfly tangled in the net. What luck! (if: $quests contains "Bee")[\ [[Walk Away -> MeadowBack2]] ] (else:)[\ [[Walk Away -> MeadowBack]] ]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] Disregarding the young moss covered turtle's advice, you run gourd first into a dazzling fluttering cluster of butterflies. They scatter delicately out of their wonderous formation. You stretch your arms as high as they'll go, waving and shaking them like a looming tree bellowing against high winds. You run left - they dodge right. You run right - they dodge left. You jump high - they fly higher. You go low and somehow trip and tangle yourself in your lengthening vines. The turtle watches you amused and if you listen closely, you can almost hear the butterflies and hidden fairies laughing too. [[Try a Subtle Approach -> SubtleCatch]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] <img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/6c605b23-a0db-11ef-b81d-e56ceb308bc3.gif> You walk back to the deepest part of the meadow the sweet scent of the delicate flowers fills your senses. The moss turtle is still covered in flowers and butterflies completely enjoying the moment and basking in their dream coming true. You wonder if you'll look as content when you're finally vine free. You return to the tasks at hand. (if: $quests contains "Bee")[\ [[Walk Away -> MeadowBack2]] ] (else:)[\ [[Walk Away -> MeadowBack]] ]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] (unless: $quests contains "Keith")[\ (set: $quests to $quests + (a: "Keith"))]\ <img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/7653915e-9cc5-11ef-8a43-9be71066794d.gif> <img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/923ebe38-9cd0-11ef-a324-9be71066794d.gif> <img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/9c1e045c-9ce3-11ef-b513-9be71066794d.gif> <img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/ca7e4bb3-9ce7-11ef-a706-9be71066794d.gif> Luckily, you don't have to wander too far into the dense woods to see what/who has the honey dipped singing voice. After peering thru a collection of bushes, you find yourself in a little clearing occupied by four frogs. Three of them seem to be guarding a small cluster of mushrooms, while the fourth belts the soul soothing tune. It is enchanting. "This song is absolute garbage. I can't believe this is the song he'd choose," whispers a small irritated frog to the larger frog sitting beside them. "You're the one who told him to sing, Tosk," whisper-replied the larger frog as it munched on what seemed to be a large winged bug. "I didn't think he'd actually do it!" whisper-shouts Tosk, "I thought he'd leave to go think of a song like last time! But of course ''*croak*''-ing Keith is always prepared." "*croak*-ing Keith," repeats the hungry frog. "*croak*-ing Keith," echoes the sleepy third frog wearing a flower hat as Keith keeps singing his criminally unappreciated song. "Next time, Fen. We'll go with plan B," states Tosk as they stare daggers at Keith, who is completely oblivious. "Maybe if we're lucky something will just make him go away," offered the hungry large frog named Fen. [[Intervene -> Frogs3]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] (unless: $inv contains "Keith")[\ (set: $inv to $inv + (a: "Keith")) <img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/7653915e-9cc5-11ef-8a43-9be71066794d.gif> <img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/923ebe38-9cd0-11ef-a324-9be71066794d.gif> <img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/9c1e045c-9ce3-11ef-b513-9be71066794d.gif> You take that as a cue to reveal yourself and you do. As you step out of the bushes, Keith's wonderful singing comes to a complete halt as all the frogs turn their attention to you. They stare with their little frog eyes, blinking at different intervals. Who will break the silence first? You or the frogs? You take a step forward. No one moves. Then another step. They don't seem afraid of you but they sit completely still. Almost like they're cosplaying as rocks. Maybe they are scared? You take another step and slowly reach out for Keith. The three frogs look on and say nothing as you scoop Keith into your hands and stuff him in your pockets. No one says a word. [[Calmly Leave -> MeadowBack]]] (else:)[\ <img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/7653915e-9cc5-11ef-8a43-9be71066794d.gif> <img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/923ebe38-9cd0-11ef-a324-9be71066794d.gif> <img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/9c1e045c-9ce3-11ef-b513-9be71066794d.gif> The little frog group quietly stare at you waiting to see what you'll do next. Tosk seems less annoyed, more at ease but wary. Fen watches absentmindedly, more concerned with devouring the insect trapped in her mouth. And the third....you didn't catch its name but it looks sleepy and lethargic. You're not entirely sure if it's aware of its current surroundings. A loud croak spills out your pocket as Keith moves to make himself comfortable. The frogs tense up and look at you spooked. They clearly don't want Keith anywhere near them. [[Calmly Leave -> MeadowBack]]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] (set: $quests to $quests - (a:"River"))\ (set: $quests to $quests - (a:"Keith"))\ (set: $inv to $inv - (a:"Keith"))\ (unless: $inv contains "Pretty Photo")[\ (set: $inv to $inv + (a: "Pretty Photo"))]\ Not being able to stand watching such a sad sight, you offer some help. Keith's help to be specific. You take the little songstress out of your spiderspun pockets and gingerly set him down next to the scorpion's raft supplies to assist. You take a moment to explain the situation to Keith. "A raft?" Keith questions as he looks from you to the scorpion, "It'll be faster if I just ferry you over on my back." You're baffled at how melodic his speaking voice is. Makes you wonder why those frogs didn't want him to hang around them. "W-what? R-really? Are you sure?" the arachnid photographer stammers in surprise. Their little hat wiggling from side to side. "Yeah, it's no problem at all," Keith replies as he hops to the river's edge. The scorpion looks at you gleefully. "Oh thank you thank you thank you!" the little venomous photographer beams as it excitedly dances. "I k-know I already gave you a photo but here. Take as many as you like as a grand thank you," the scorpion continued as it shoves its photo folder into your hands. You don't hesitate to peruse the sections until you get to the photo you've been wanting this whole time. You thank the scorpion as you hand its folder back. The anxious photographer tips its adorable hat to you in farewell then carefully climbs onto Keith's back. Without a moment's hesitation they are off and away. You take a moment to wave goodbye before returning to the tasks at hand. [[Walk Away -> MeadowBack]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] You walk back down the incline and take in the beauty of the light bouncing off the small rippling waves of the babbling river. You can make out the shapeless form of the scorpion photographer and Keith cutting thru the waves. They're almost halfway to the other side. For a moment you think you hear a small scream, but whatever concerns start to form in your gourd quickly dissolve as the smell of dew clogs your senses. It's strong and calming. You make a mental note to come back for a nice picnic when this is all over. You return to the tasks at hand. (if: $quests contains "Bee")[\ [[Walk Away -> MeadowBack2]] ] (else:)[\ [[Walk Away -> MeadowBack]]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] (unless: $inv contains "Dried Glowshroom")[\ (set: $inv to $inv + (a: "Dried Glowshroom"))] <img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/a8e1b2a1-9d5f-11ef-807d-87b13ce2b3a8.gif> <img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/76900f5c-9d63-11ef-bb98-87b13ce2b3a8.gif> <img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/148bc2c0-9d69-11ef-b52d-87b13ce2b3a8.gif> As you tumble out of the bushes once again, the little frog group stares at you with unblinking eyes. You stare at them in return with your unblinking eye holes and reveal what happened to Keith. An immediate sense of relief washes over their little froggie faces. "Thank the mushroom spores!" shouts Tosk as they hop onto one of the mushrooms behind them, "We really didn't want to share our sweet new hangout spot with him." "He talks too much," explains Fen as she follows Tosk's lead, "Always going on and on about algae and overquestioning Millow about their hat of the day." The lethargic frog called Millow ribbits in agreement as it hops onto a mushroom as well. "You need a thank you gift," Millow quietly adds while pulling something out of their little flower hat, "Here." It holds up a dried bioluminescent 'shroom. Even when it's all shriveled it is still a wonder to behold. You thank them and mention that it was just the type of thing you've been searching for. "If you're looking for more beautiful things, you should see the Keeper," Fen suggests. "Yeah! The Beekeeper," Tosk agrees, "They've got the best hangout spot and tons of pretty looking trinkets. Maybe you'll find more 'shrooms there. Take the moss strewn path until you reach a big cottage decorated in fairylights and honeycomb. You can't miss it." The frog group then collectively points in the direction you should walk in. You give them your thanks and follow their directions. [[Walk thru Mossy Grove -> Beekeeper]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] The further you walk the softer the ground gets. No more rough forest dirt grounding at your feet. Only soft moss that gently relieves your hidden aches. The trees slowly swoop over with every passing step. Slowly transitioning into willows that weep glowing flowers that burst open revealing sleeping fairies inside as you pass. You look around in amazement. It's as if the whole area just bleeds beauty. Whatever inspiration the lizard apprentice is looking for will definitely be found here. It isn't long until you come across the cottage the frogs spoke of. [[Approach the cottage -> Beekeeper2]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] The cottage is tall and welcoming. Its dazzling white stone walls stick out in the lush greenery of the illuminated forest. The air is thick with sweetness from the slices of golden honeycomb chunks that decorate the sides. Long glooping strands of honey dribble down into small glass bowls filled with fairy dusted dreams, glowing in shimmering hues of blues and greens. It's gorgeous. You stand before the front door and ring the door bell. The sound of broken glass and clacking bones echo in the air as you wait. ....And you wait.... And you wait... And you wait some more. So you ring the bell again.... and again.... and again. To no avail. Do you have the wrong house perhaps? Is the Keeper stuck in a hole? [[Break In -> KNOCKKNOCK]] [[Check around back -> Beekeeper3]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] Clearly the Keeper must be in some kind of trouble if they're not immediately answering. And what kind of being would you be if you just walked away without trying to assist? Especially when you had the time? You ball up your fists and pound on the door hard. Rattling the door frame and the stones keeping it in place. You bang and shake the door knob hoping something will loosen, but this cottage is unfortunately too well made. As you think about cutting your losses, you feel thick slimy tendrils curl up and around your feet. You gaze down to see dark eldrich-like tentacles crawling out from underneath the welcome mat, tethering themselves to your legs. Unnerved, you move to remove them. Or at least. You try to. And fail spectacularly because your hands are stuck to the door. All that pounding had released a sticky black goo from the door hinges, which was now coating everything in its wake. <img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/d3bdc6fa-a0cf-11ef-856c-e56ceb308bc3.gif> You try to pull yourself free, but every pull pulls you deeper into the door. It's as if the house is trying to devour you whole!! You start to regret all your decisions. Suddenly you hear footstep approaching. [[...!!!!!! -> Scream]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] Maybe the Keeper is outside and too busy to hear the doorbell? You wander to the back of the house to see what you can find. And lo and behold your theory proves true. There, standing in the middle of the backyard surrounded by swarms of bees, is the famed Beekeeper. Dressed in typical beekeeper fashion with some slight modifications to keep their yellow-pink tentacle arms exposed. The sound of buzzing bees is deafening as you approach. Ignoring the residual vibration in your gourd skull, you wave to get the Keeper's attention. [[Jump & Wave -> Beekeeper 4]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] You scream so loud that for a second it feels like your gourd might fracture and burst from the inside out. But the echoing ache is worth it when you feel yourself being pulled free from the inky mess. It's a miracle that your sweater wasn't torn and managled in the process. You quickly thank your rescuer as you wait for your nerves to calm down. "Of course! No problem. Will you be alright?" your savior quickly says, "Good thing I was already walking back, otherwise you'd probably be stuck in the walls by now. Whatever you needed must've been urgent huh?" You nod after catching what little breath you required to remain living and explain your situation. As you do, you notice that your hero is dressed in a typical beekeeper uniform. Except the facial netting is thick and very hard to see through, at least from your perspective. The only give away to what kind of being this person could be is their exposed yellow and pink tentacle arms jutting out their torso. Is this the Keeper you've been looking for? [[...? -> Scream2]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] <img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/f19078fd-a173-11ef-bd4e-1762690e06d6.gif> Luckily it doesn't take much flailing for the Keeper to take notice. When they do, they wave back and make a series of quick complicated motions to the bee swarm. You're amazed at how quickly the bees move to carry out whatever command has been given to them. You're even more amazed at how easy it is to hear yourself think now. Who knew bees could be so deafening? "Hello there! Welcome to my home. I assume you're here because you're in need of something worthwhile, yes?" The Keeper says quickly. Hardly breaking for natural pauses as the words tumble from their mouth. Assuming that they even have a mouth. As you explain your situation, you notice that the Keeper's facial netting is very thick and hard to see through. Practically impossible to tell what kind of being is hidden under all that fabric. But not impossible enough to tell that the Keeper is half listening to you and is clearly very distracted. [["...?" -> Beekeeper5]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] (unless: $quests contains "Bee")[\ (set: $quests to $quests + (a: "Bee"))]\ <img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/f19078fd-a173-11ef-bd4e-1762690e06d6.gif> "Why yes of course! So glad to have you...or at least that's what I usually say. Sorry, hon. I can't grant you a warm welcome. My mind is frazzled with worry." The Keeper starts pacing as they continue, "It's my bees. Well one of my bees. She didn't come back with her sisters. I'm worried. She's hardly ever late. She's my favorite. My little BeeBee. I can already feel my thoughts tangling. My worry is going to consume me. I just know it!" You notice their tentacles start wrapping and unwrapping around themselves. Similar to how one would wring their hands. You've already helped a couple of beings today. What's one more? "What? Huh? Really? You mean it? Oh thank you! Thank you! Thank you! A good deed deserves a good turn. I'll search my wares for anything that could possibly fit the description of what you are looking for. Free of charge of course! Well it was going to be free anyways, but regardless! It'll be doubly free and you'll gain my graditude along with it and that, my new friend, is priceless. Check the Marsh Meadows. The flowers there are the sweetest and make the best tasting honey I've ever tasted." You nod along and slowly turn to leave as the Keeper keeps bombarding you with words of appreciation. As you start to make your way back to the meadow, you faintly hear the Keeper shout something important. "Oh! You should know! All my bees are tagged with a small red ribbon! You'll know it's her when you see the ribbon!! Good luck!!!" [[Return to the Meadow -> MeadowBack2]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] (unless: $quests contains "Bee")[\ (set: $quests to $quests + (a: "Bee"))]\ <img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/f19078fd-a173-11ef-bd4e-1762690e06d6.gif> "Hm? Huh? Oh yes. I'm sorry. I'm listening. Kinda. I'm sorry. I'm distracted. My mind is frazzling with worry. When I was counting my bees before, I noticed one of them was missing. She always comes back with her sisters. She's a slow flier but is usually never this late. Oh my little BeeBee. She's my favorite. What if something caught her? What if she's hurt? Or worse!! I'm sorry. I can't focus but I'll try. Remind me again what you're looking for? I'll try my best to stay present." The Keeper babbles out. You can't help but feel pitiful for the unraveling thing. You've already helped a couple of beings today. What's one more? "Huh? What's that? Really?? You mean it? Oh thank you! Thank you! Thank you! A good deed deserves a good turn. I'll search my wares for anything that could possibly fit the description of what you are looking for, which was what again?" You remind them. "Ah yes! That shouldn't be too hard. And it'll be free of charge of course! Well it was going to be free anyways, but regardless! It'll be doubly free and you'll gain my graditude along with it and that, my new friend, is priceless. Check the Marsh Meadows. The flowers there are the sweetest and make the best tasting honey I've ever tasted. Oh! And look out for a small red ribbon. All my bees are tagged with it. Thank you thank you thank you again. And good luck." Even though you can't see the Keeper's face, you imagine them grinning ear to ear as you walk back the way you came. Assuming the Keeper even has ears. [[Return to the Meadow -> MeadowBack2]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] Back in the meadow, you scan all the possible areas where the missing bee could be located. The meadow is large and expansive and there are bees everywhere. You start to question why you even offered to do such an impossible task when a little speck of red catches your attention. And then another speck. And then another speck. 3 flying red specks all within your view in different sections of the meadow. Which one do you want to check first? [[Speck on the Left -> Left]] [[Speck on the Right -> Right]] [[Speck straight ahead -> Front]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] You decide that left is best and check there. You slowly approach and as you get closer you notice that the speck is flitting about in an insect like way. Excited, you get ready to corner it but notice that the wings are kinda funny looking. It doesn't look like bee wings. In fact, it doesn't look like a bee at all!  It's a ladybug! You feel your excitement wither away. So close and yet so far. Where shall you check next? [[Speck on the Right -> Right]] [[Speck straight ahead -> Front]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] Right is right, as in correct, right? So this must be the right choice. You confidently and carefully approach the speck. As you get closer you notice a slight buzzing sound coming from it. You hope it's a bee buzz. As you get closer you realize, it is a bee buzz. In fact, it's a buzzing bee with a cute little red ribbon around it's cute little bee waist. It's little BeeBee! You call out her name to get her attention. Little BeeBee reacts but seems too entranced with the flowers to pay attention to you. You don't want to risk grabbing her with your hands. The last time you did that to a bee it didn't end well. You're gonna need a hands free way to collect her. (if: $inv contains "Net")[ (unless: $inv contains "BeeBee")[\ (set: $inv to $inv + (a: "BeeBee"))] Luckily that sweet young moss turtle gave you their net. With a well timed swing Little BeeBee is safely trapped within the netting. There won't be a repeat of last time. [[Return to the Keeper -> BeekeeperReturn]] ] (else:)[ [[Turn Back -> MeadowBack2]] ]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] Why decide to make the effort to change direction when what you want is right in front of you? You carefully walk forward towards the speck of your choice and feel yourself get eager as you watch the speck fly up and down. The closer you get the more it becomes clear to you that this is not the bee you are looking for. In fact, it is not a bee at all. It's a pixie wearing a bee inspired outfit shoveling pollen and rolled up flower petals into its little red harvest bag. The pixie glances in your direction but ultimately pays you no mind. The last thing you want to do is disturb it, so you back away quietly. Where shall you check next? [[Speck on the Left -> Left]] [[Speck on the Right -> Right]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] (set: $inv to $inv - (a:"BeeBee")) (set: $quests to $quests - (a:"Bee"))\ <img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/f19078fd-a173-11ef-bd4e-1762690e06d6.gif> You return to the Keeper's place, anxious yet hopeful that your journey is finally nearing its end. You can't help but glance every so often at little Beebee, who's still tangled in your net, just to make sure she's still alive and not horribly injured. Luckily she is a-ok. It's much easier to locate the Keeper this time around because they're waiting for you on their front porch. Before you can even make it halfway up the cobbled moss path, the Keeper is already approaching you. Even though their face is obscured its clear to see how restless they've been waiting for your return. "Do you have her? Is she safe and ok? Is she injured? Where was she?" the Keeper wrings their tentacles nervously waiting for your response. You calmly explain and hand over the net, you don't trust yourself to free her. "Distracted you say? Oh what a relief! It must've been a real pretty flower then," the Keeper effortlessly untangles Beebee from the netting and hands the net back to you. "She gets easily distracted. Especially if it's something really beautiful. Which reminds me," you watch the Keeper expertly move the buzzing BeeBee into its other tentacle and cradle her gently. With their dominant tentacle freed, it slithers under its facial netting like a snake. Wriggling and writhing until you hear a subtle wet sounding (text-style:"blink")[''(text-style:"expand","tall")[POP!]'' ] [[??!?!?! -> BeekeeperReturn2]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] You make your way through the bushes and into the clearing once more. The way the light stipples through the trees and onto the forest floor is a sight to behold. Tosk, Fen, and Millow sit peacefully on their ~~toadstools~~ frogstools. Tosk is basking in the warmth of the sunlight, Fen is munching on an insect, and Millow seems to be taking a little froggie nap. Everything seems perfectly alright and content in their little world. You quietly back away not wanting to disturb them. You return to the tasks at hand. [[Walk Away -> MeadowBack2]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] (unless: $inv contains "Eye")[(set: $inv to $inv + (a: "Eye"))] <img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/fb9b75dc-a174-11ef-b65d-1762690e06d6.gif> You stare at the Keeper horrified. What did they do? Why did it sound like that? Before you can ask for an explaination, the Keeper holds their tentacle out to you and reveals their plucked out eye. So the Keeper does have eyes! Or at least did. That answers that quesiton. "Here you go. This is exactly what you're looking for. Don't worry. I have plenty more." Now you have more questions, but instead of asking them you just take the eye. It feels exactly how you would imagine an eye would feel and yet, not like how you imagined at all. It's not dry but not wet either. It's not entirely liquid but it's not really solid either. The more you stare at it the more you notice golden fleks within the dark colored iris. It's cool but pretty freaky. Not the first eye you've seen and definitely won't be your last. You carefully place the eye within your expansive pockets, thank the Keeper, and continue on your way. [[Return to the Lizard Apprentince -> Lizard Apprentince3]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] You walk back into the messy carpenter's shop optimistic and hopeful. The sound of a broom sweeping woodchips and sawdust into a pile echoes all around the room. The lizard pauses to look at you. Is that excitement in their eyes? "What have you got for me?" they say looking at you eagerly. You pull out the Keeper's eye and hold it out to the adolescent reptilian crafter. The apprentince inspects it before gingerly plucking the eye from your stem-like hands. They hold it within their palms and look deeply into the pupil. It's like they're in a trance. After a minute or two the lizard's eyes refocus and they nod in understanding. "This is exactly what I needed. Thank you. And a promise is a promise," the cold-blooded being grabs a pair of freshly cleaned scissors from their tool rack and hands it to you. "Lemme know if you need help. You can use that mirror over there." [[Cut your vines -> Victory]]

<img src = https://piskel-imgstore-b.appspot.com/img/3addb859-a00e-11ef-97d3-5112ecaff615.gif> Finally! The relief you feel is immeasurable. Who knew that vines could be so heavy? You feel so much lighter, physically and mentally. You go to put the scissors back but something catches your eye. That big hacked mess of a wood block isn't a hacked mess anymore. In fact, it's beautiful. It's one of the most beautiful things you ever laid your eye holes on. The lizard apperentice stands beside you beaming as they also admire their work. You both stand in comfortable silence as you both soak up the moment. It really was true what they say, beauty is in the eye of the bee holder. [[Play again? ->Intro]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] The lizard takes a moment to inspect your offering before ultimately shaking their head. "I mean, it's pretty. But it's not //inspiring//, y'know?" You nod in disappointment. Back to the grind. [[Offer something else ->Lizard Apprentince2]] [[Return to Marsh Meadow -> MeadowBack]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] (set: $inv to $inv - (a:"Butterfly"))  Carefully, you hold the butterfly in your hand and offer it to the lizard. For a moment, it seems promising. The lizard teen seems intrigued. You can almost hear the gears of creativity churing. Perhaps this is it? (text-style:"tall")[''SNAP!''] You stare astonished and aghast. You have just witnessed insecticide. The lizard apprentice has eaten the butterfly. "Delicious," they lick their lips, "Thank you for that." Back to the grind. [[Offer something else ->Lizard Apprentince2]] [[Return to Marsh Meadow -> MeadowBack]]

[[Check Pockets-> Inventory]] [[Check Quests->Quests]] You take Keith out your pocket and hold him carefully in your hand. You watch him look around the room curiously as the Lizard teen looks him over. "Are you trying to offer me an assistant? That's a nice thought but apprentinces don't have assistants. Kinda defeats the purpose of being an apprentince," the Lizard apprentince explains. "Plus there's a height requirement to work here. Froggie here is too short. It'll be an occupational hazard and the last thing we need is another lawsuit." You resist the urge to ask about the lawsuit and just nod as you carefully stuff Keith back into your pocket. Back to the grind. [[Offer something else ->Lizard Apprentince2]] [[Return to Marsh Meadow -> MeadowBack]]