(http://i.imgur.com/doDO6bk.png)
A stormy night...
A concrete doorway...
A fresh mind...
(http://i.imgur.com/1bFwm9q.png)
Who is this?
Current
(http://i.imgur.com/iDySH2D.png)
Hat
Nylon rain poncho
Sweatshirt
Ambiguous pants
Wool socks
Hiking shoes
Flashlight
Backpack
Digital camera
Bone arm
(http://i.imgur.com/TkSeFjL.png)
The hike was longer than you bargained for, and night had fallen before you knew it. The storm overhead which had been threatening all day finally broke, and before long, it was a torrential downpour. But just when the search seemed hopeless, you spotted the concrete doorway in the hillside. Elated, you entered, finally relieved of the rain...
(http://i.imgur.com/EUsYa0Z.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/Blfw8ea.gif)
Hat
Nylon rain poncho
Sweatshirt
Ambiguous pants
Wool socks
Hiking shoes
Flashlight
Backpack
Digital camera
As a first action, we must of course find our requisite Noir-Brand Saturday Night Special.
Chilled from the rain, you can't help but think how nice it would be to have a drink right now, and lament that the ingredients needed to mix your Saturday Night Special all lie back home. Then again, alcohol probably wouldn't be the wisest thing to bring when hiking out so far alone.
Oh look, we already have a flashlight. Let's use that.
A flashlight, however, is indispensable on any trip outdoors, or any exploration of abandoned places, and you never leave home without yours. Commending your own good sense, you flick on the bream and see what lies inside...
(http://i.imgur.com/xBkYQ5e.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/Blfw8ea.gif)
Hat
Nylon rain poncho
Sweatshirt
Ambiguous pants
Wool socks
Hiking shoes
Flashlight
Backpack
Digital camera
Saturday Night Special is a slang term for an inexpensive and poorly made firearm, common through the early-to-mid 20th century.
Saturday Night Special is a slang term for an inexpensive and poorly made firearm, common through the early-to-mid 20th century.
I know. There is a reason for this.
Okay then. I am in support of this.
Well then.
Check out the elevator to the right.
You slowly pass your light over the walls to see more...
(http://i.imgur.com/90YqNCr.gif)
(http://i.imgur.com/XN68XSH.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/Blfw8ea.gif)
Hat
Nylon rain poncho
Sweatshirt
Ambiguous pants
Wool socks
Hiking shoes
Flashlight
Backpack
Digital camera
Then, try the big giant switchy thing.
inb4 object duality and Problem Sleuth shoutouts.
inb4 object duality and Problem Sleuth shoutouts.
I only know what the second one is, and I haven't read it
Ponder the ineffable mysteries of alcoholic beverages. Specifically, what you left home, yes?
Then, try the big giant switchy thing.
A big, pricey bottle of tequila. Just waiting to be used. Add some grenadine, cola, and bam! Saturday Night Special. It's a bit of a guilty pleasure, as you're afraid if you told anyone you drank it, they'd think it was absolutely disgusting. Oh well. You think you owe yourself one if you have to walk back in this rain. Anyways, that definitely looks like a switch over there...
(http://i.imgur.com/lykU3Qc.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/9ro1wEV.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/tiZUELe.gif)
(http://i.imgur.com/lykU3Qc.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/Blfw8ea.gif)
Hat
Nylon rain poncho
Sweatshirt
Ambiguous pants
Wool socks
Hiking shoes
Flashlight
Backpack
Digital camera
Flip the big switchy thing.
Hmm, perhaps one more try...
(http://i.imgur.com/9ro1wEV.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/tiZUELe.gif)
..same result. Well, at least you're pretty sure that's the "on" position now.
The power seems to work (due to the sparks). That light is just broken. And the other light is missing.
That shouldn't stop the elevator from working unless the generator is actually broken.
That wire leads into a room, go and investigate in there.
(http://i.imgur.com/1Dejq1Z.png)
There's that other fixture further up the tunnel, but on closer inspection, it seems the tube is missing entirely on that one. However, the wire seems to come from that room off to the side. Promising... you move your flashlight to your other hand and peek inside...
(http://i.imgur.com/DtoUdmY.gif)
(http://i.imgur.com/Blfw8ea.gif)
Hat
Nylon rain poncho
Sweatshirt
Ambiguous pants
Wool socks
Hiking shoes
Flashlight
Backpack
Digital camera
Investigate the generator!
+1
...But yeah +1 to the generator.
You step forward to inspect the generator. As you tread further from the entry tunnel, the sound of the pouring rain grows fainter, though the air isn't any warmer. You wish you had more layers on, though at least the poncho kept you mostly dry.
(http://i.imgur.com/BguawNl.png)
It's a generator, alright, though you can't find any indication of brand or model. Looks portable sized. You can see two rows of outlets above what looks like an indicator light. On top, there's a switch with an O and | on it, currently flipped to |, along with a big twist cap. There's a big cable running up the wall to a box, from which some cables run past a chain-link gate. Looks like there's some old paint over the box, which just about still reads "AUX POWER."
On one side of the generator, there's one of those big rectangular gas cans lying on the floor. On the other, looks like there's another row of outlets, with a fat cable leading over to a desk.
(http://i.imgur.com/Blfw8ea.gif)
Hat
Nylon rain poncho
Sweatshirt
Ambiguous pants
Wool socks
Hiking shoes
Flashlight
Backpack
Digital camera
Go back to the surface and buy bolt cutters to open the gate.
The sight of the gate makes you wish you had a pair of bolt cutters, or even wire cutters. However, then you think of their sheer inaccessibility and your stomach sinks. The long trek back to town, through that storm, after which it'd probably long after midnight anyway...
Ah well, you can still take a look through the gate. It looks like there's a decent sized space behind the elevator. The big cable runs along, then down the wall and behind a big machine, which might be the elevator's winch or motor, and then joins up with a big bundle of cables that run down under the elevator, presumably continuing down the shaft.
Check the can next to the generator.
Having taken a good look into the obstructed area, you turn your attention to the gas can lying by the generator. You poke it with your foot, feel some weight shift inside. You kneel down and, holding your light aloft with your other hand, loosen the cap and pick up the can to smell.
(http://i.imgur.com/NxQfQQQ.png)
Yup. Smells like gas.
(http://i.imgur.com/Blfw8ea.gif)
Hat
Nylon rain poncho
Sweatshirt
Ambiguous pants
Wool socks
Hiking shoes
Flashlight
Backpack
Digital camera
*Gas can
> Fill ye Generator (with the Gas Can).
Also for specifics--not ALL the gas in it (since I bet we can use it for later for various reasons). Mayhap around half of what we feel is in there (ie if at 2/3rds, use around 1/3rd).
+1
You unscrew the cap on top of the generator (and the rest of the way off the can), and start filling its tank. The can feels about two-thirds full, so you pour half of that in and stop. By your very rough estimate, not knowing the specs of this generator, or what all is plugged into it, that should be enough for about twenty minutes. You figure you can put the rest in later, if need be, plus having some gas might be handy. For now, you set the can down back where you found it and flip the generator's switch...
(http://i.imgur.com/ALmvN9L.png)
Chkk CHUGGG
BrrMMrrMMmmmm
mmmMMMMMMmmmm....
(http://i.imgur.com/s1oPSkC.gif)
The generator settles into a clacking hum, though not loud enough to drown out the rain even from here.
Wall symbol, wat.
Come to think of it, that scrawling on the wall looks pretty odd. Is it supposed to be a peace sign? A pentagram? Some kind of marker for construction that never happened?
Search the desk.
Then check the desk.
But you spare no further thoughts on the graffiti, as the desk has suddenly become even more interesting.
(http://i.imgur.com/mHJyaoA.png)
The drawers seem to be a bit stuck, but not locked, so you figure you could probably force them open if you pulled hard enough.
(http://i.imgur.com/Blfw8ea.gif)
Hat
Nylon rain poncho
Sweatshirt
Ambiguous pants
Wool socks
Hiking shoes
Flashlight
Backpack
Digital camera
Open da drawer. Then try and activate power to elevator.
Well, let's see what's in those drawers. You start from the bottom, in case one of them gets stuck open...
△ Despite your best efforts, you can't pull the bottom drawer open.
△ You try to pull the middle drawer unstuck...
(http://i.imgur.com/9G3dToS.png)
△ Next you give the top drawer a good yank...
(http://i.imgur.com/CZZDmT2.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/Blfw8ea.gif)
Hat
Nylon rain poncho
Sweatshirt
Ambiguous pants
Wool socks
Hiking shoes
Flashlight
Backpack
Digital camera
("Reasonably Finite" is probably a good word for it. You've got a medium-sized backpack, pockets, and hands, and you might be able to figure other ways to carry things)
Retrieve Arm(s)
Err o_o Those are some suggestions.
> Check if arm is real bone or fake bone.
That's... hmm. You pick up the arm to see if it's real.
(http://i.imgur.com/iFl0IEw.png)
As you touch it, for a moment you'd swear it feels warm. But it was only for a moment, perhaps just a passing fancy. Huh. Well, it's a bit of an off-yellowish, whitish color. Feels glossy, yet slightly bumpy, that kind of smoothness that feels damp without being so. As far as you can remember, this is the color of real bone, but don't they also go bleached after a while? It's hard to say for sure if it's real. Though it is odd how the bones seem to stick together without any visible means of connection. No wires, no dried out icky connective tissue.
Open da drawer. Then try and activate power to elevator.
Having opened the drawers and taken a look inside, you take a look at the monitors. None of them seem to show much, aside from the one in the bottom center. You try some of the switches on the big analog board below them to see if anything happens.
(http://i.imgur.com/EQMMuo0.png)
The camera numbers changed, though still nothing but static. The systems check thing also doesn't seem to have changed, though perhaps everything's already on? After all, you're pretty sure that generator had "Aux Power" over it, and that looks like it has the same status symbol as everything else.
What's in the clipboard in the middle drawer?
What are those items in the middle one? Inspect/store in bag of detective-holding!
Well, enough checking the electronics for now. You take out the more mundane objects from the desk to examine them...
(http://i.imgur.com/XMaz4Sv.png)
The clipboard looks pretty beat up, possibly water damaged (also, didn't it look smaller in the drawer?). It's made of some kind of processed wood, like most clipboards, that may once have been smooth. Clipped in are a couple of yellowed, faded scraps of paper on which you can't discern any marks.
The baseball is old and hard, shriveled and faded to a uniform grey. It's got the unmistakable texture of old leather. It almost makes you feel a bit nostalgic. The baseballs were almost always real leather, when you were a kid.
See if you can remove the top and middle drawers to see and access the bottom drawer.
If the bottom drawer has a leg in it, this desk probably cost an arm and a leg.
GM: Do we have a...say, 'reasonably finite inventory'? :P Because I'd also be adding: "Get a drawer for/in your inventory."
An idea occurs to you. If you can't get to the bottom drawer by force, why not be clever? With some tugging, you're able to remove the top two drawers. Also, inexplicably, an idea strikes you to hold one of the drawers in your arms like some kind of bin. It's a bit hard to hold the flashlight like this, but you manage.
(http://i.imgur.com/65FJYV2.png)
You kneel down to see what's in there...
(http://i.imgur.com/BUtAn5S.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/Blfw8ea.gif)
Hat
Nylon rain poncho
Sweatshirt
Ambiguous pants
Wool socks
Hiking shoes
Flashlight
Backpack:
-Digital camera
Metal drawer: (2H)
-Bone arm
-Weathered clipboard
-Old baseball
That's more likely it.
Try to escape.
(http://i.imgur.com/BUtAn5S.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/lUl8g50.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/BUtAn5S.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/GKpEs8K.png)
Nope
(http://i.imgur.com/SagYQA2.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/Cm2HCV4.gif)
(http://i.imgur.com/GusOGPu.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/rJOHFRt.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/ioBku76.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/bkZlQkL.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/Blfw8ea.gif)
Hat
Nylon rain poncho
Sweatshirt
Ambiguous pants
Wool socks
Hiking shoes
Flashlight
Backpack:
-Digital camera
Metal drawer: (2H)
-Bone arm
-Weathered clipboard
-Old baseball
Drop the metal bin, m-
(http://i.imgur.com/uGGDB5o.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/YxRTtJw.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/qsyID0c.png)
-aking sure it makes a noise on the floor without spilling the contents and observe if that apparition reacts immediately.
(http://i.imgur.com/h1dyfvk.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/jLNZ7Oq.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/nkcRrQe.gif)
(http://i.imgur.com/a5pOjs6.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/TXPNWVH.png)
CLANG
Well, it didn't seem to... what the hell?
○ It definitely started moving before you did. And then you felt something surprising and unpleasant.
Then take out the digital camera and capture 2 still images of it and the map behind it, the first without a flash and the second with flash on. See if it reacts.
Despite some new misgivings, you try your next experiment. After all, it didn't just murder you then. At least, you hope not.
(http://i.imgur.com/zUxJOp6.png)
The camera has some trouble focusing due to the lighting, but it doesn't seem to react. Also, that pattern seems to have disappeared from the wall. Oh well. You try with the flash.
(http://i.imgur.com/RBO7v8g.png)
Then finally ask if it could repeat what it said and capture that in video with audio.
"So, uh, could you repeat-"
(http://i.imgur.com/sDRWevC.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/Ba3Cyz5.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/UfhEyfV.png)
"Awesome. Thanks"
(http://i.imgur.com/Blfw8ea.gif)
Hat
Nylon rain poncho
Sweatshirt
Ambiguous pants
Wool socks
Hiking shoes
Flashlight
Backpack
Digital camera
However, it's worth a shot if we can get back outside in the rain where we came from, is that way clear?
It kinda really looks like there's a concrete wall where the doorway used to be. The sound of the rain is muted...
The metal bin can come in handy used as step stool, (elevator) door stop, or impromptu sled.
I say pick it back up, it might come in handy along with the other items in it.
Noir should still be curious about this place, and still alive and have not really had a real threat other than maybe the "woescape" on the bottom bin drawer, and the unpleasant probing. Ok maybe threatening from a certain point of view.
I believe arm gestures seem better. We would not like to offend what seems to be us being the interloper instead of this being being an interloper towards a seemingly human construction. :P
Say, "I do not understand." Offer a way to communicate starting with Yes or No gestures.
+1 to this method and words, but I'd really appreciate more voices chiming in here. :P
...Say, doesn't that right arm seem like a blade or something?
After brief consideration, you decide you pick up the drawer again, since that's probably faster than taking things out at the moment...
(http://i.imgur.com/bNjZ0Id.png)
As you do so, you hear those sounds again. "I don't understand," you say as you stand back up. "Hey, maybe we could use-"
(http://i.imgur.com/52hW7fG.png)
"...gestures? Uh.. nod your head for yes-"
(http://i.imgur.com/PIzqggM.png)
"...move it side to side for no..."
(http://i.imgur.com/4DSliFg.png)
"...do you understand...?"
(http://i.imgur.com/Hl8ecgl.png)
I say pick it back up, it might come in handy along with the other items in it.
I think we should exercise our running talents while backpedaling, while announcing our peaceful intent. o_o
Turn off the flash, too, first, since I guess the entity doesn't like it being shined on its featureless face.
Also I believe we should express our character's observant skills: "I notice the field around your right arm." or something like that to strike up a conversation.
It's getting a bit too close for your comfort. Trying to reduce any apparent threat you might possess, you switch off the light and step backwards.
You renew your efforts to strike up a conversation "I notice the field around your right arm..."
(http://i.imgur.com/HEwwGzJ.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/JcKljzT.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/Blfw8ea.gif)
Hat
Nylon rain poncho
Sweatshirt
Ambiguous pants
Wool socks
Hiking shoes
Flashlight
Backpack:
-Digital camera
Metal drawer: (2H)
-Bone arm
-Weathered clipboard
-Old baseball
Ok, so given how the sounds seem repetitive, I can say it's repeating a warning or something that you usually intone so the other entity gets a meaning. We sadly can't understand it! 12 letter word(s?) with 8 different iterations. I do hope it can be translated into English. :P
(Well, there's this gif: http://i.imgur.com/90YqNCr.gif )
(Or, to be gentler on the browser and restrictions, I'll give you this: )
Not quite to scale
Thank yooouuuu
At this point, the feeling to go "Ahhh" and "run" but the only way is away from the dude, and go back in the room.
Perhaps, iirc, there is a gate area for the generator--was it locked or chained?
Let's get back to the place with No escape (woescape can't be the word since it seems the whole sentence is traced and connected, so the most evitable idea under error with reason is "No escape" given the strokes).
I mean we can always push the desk right? ._. After warning our probably paranoid idea of a restraining order if they approach like that while mentioning we can talk this out!
...I do however deeply believe we should get the power on, and find a way deeper in, to get out. :P
((@HugoLuman: You can use the {tt} function to space things equally.
[tt]
All the words
You would like to be spaced equally
Up here!
[/tt]
| Generator] Chain-link gate
|Desk |
| |
|___________| Elevator
Entrance Switch Room|_| |
[_________|____________________|_|_____|
Edit: I also notice that after the first picture, the distance between steps it's taking is the same. Oh my .___. There's also a very subtle and slight size variation between the first four symbols and the last 8. Guessing those mean 2 words but we can scarcely notice. If that's true, the first word ends in the same 2 symbols. I can't form any D: word from it!
Maybe the whole thing is backwards :^
We need more suggestions here. :P
(Sorry for brevity, just barely missed posting this update before camping.)
At this point I say we turn our light on and continue doing what we do. Either this being is going to try to kill us, or it's not. I would have liked to try to use the skeleton hand on the handprint back in the hallway, but we can do that pater probably. In the mean time, we should do a thorough check of the room to make sure we didn't miss anything.
Keeping a steady mind, you decide not to let this deter you from exploring. After all, it's the only way to find a way out of this predicament. You switch your light back on...
(http://i.imgur.com/mgVeEcV.png)
And sidestep into the room...
(http://i.imgur.com/ZcX1Clp.png)
Oh, what about that circular symbol on the wall by the desk?
Touch it with the skeleton hand to see if more symbols popup.
I like this idea, but keep a close eye on Glowguy.
That symbol does look kinda like the patterns the thing left on the wall. Though unlike them, it doesn't seem to have faded or changed since. You decide to combine weird and weird and see what happens. Setting the drawer down, you take the skeletal arm in your now free hand...
(http://i.imgur.com/3ohPhNf.png)
The whole arm still stays together as you move it, though it doesn't seem to do much on touching the lines. For a moment you think you feel warmth in the bone, but the sensation is fleeting.
(http://i.imgur.com/Blfw8ea.gif)
Hat
Nylon rain poncho
Sweatshirt
Ambiguous pants
Wool socks
Hiking shoes
Flashlight
Bone arm
Backpack:
-Digital camera
Check the desk's keyboard controls and compare if the symbols match with any of the dude's.
(http://i.imgur.com/4hMhEr7.png)
You take another look at the keyboard thing
(http://i.imgur.com/BGcZ2Bu.png)
○ As before, you don't see any symbols, or even labels on any of the keys. Looks like there might be some scotch tape residue under some of them, but there's nothing else left of whatever might have been taped there.
(http://i.imgur.com/eJQ8Ypc.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/Blfw8ea.gif)
Hat
Nylon rain poncho
Sweatshirt
Ambiguous pants
Wool socks
Hiking shoes
Flashlight
Bone arm
Backpack:
-Digital camera
Leave skele-arm on desk; maybe the guy wants it. Be ready to hop over the desk and run back into the hallway if the guy seems like he is going to trap us behind the desk.
+1
+1
You set the arm back in the drawer...
(http://i.imgur.com/13Crtbe.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/JLkAroB.png)
"You.. uh... you want that arm back?"
(http://i.imgur.com/OBRFauW.png)
◈ You sidestep away from the hand coming down, just barely. After seeing the screens flicker off after whatever it did passing through them, you feel you'd not want it touching you.
(http://i.imgur.com/Blfw8ea.gif)
Hat
Nylon rain poncho
Sweatshirt
Ambiguous pants
Wool socks
Hiking shoes
Flashlight
Bone arm
Backpack:
-Digital camera
o_o
Whoever said the elevator went into the plot, I think we crashed into it so hard that the scenery had to swap out to be safe from the impact.
> Listen to the tones! What do we think/what're our thoughts right now?
Always making it an imperative when we're unsure, to check our character's thoughts. They're important too! :D
It's the opening of one of your favorite songs. Helps, with the boredom while you're waiting to see-
Oh
(http://i.imgur.com/1WJrSCi.png)
Hello, imaginary friends.
(http://i.imgur.com/Blfw8ea.gif)
Your very own Junior Investigator Shirt
Your very favorite long pants:
-Pocket lint
-3 whole quarters
Your white socks with the little animals on the bottom
Your special red shoes with the velcro
Check the couch cushions for lose change.
Good idea, Mr. Beardsly! That should pass some time. Hopefully mama won't be too upset about messing up the cushions...
(http://i.imgur.com/mzopbOd.png)
A quarter and a nickel!
That's nice cuz it rounds things out. Well, thanks for the good idea Mr. Beardsly! What to do now though? There's still some waiting... well, how have you been doing, imaginary friends?
(http://i.imgur.com/Blfw8ea.gif)
Your very own Junior Investigator Shirt
Your very favorite long pants:
-Pocket lint
-A whole entire dollar! (in quarters)
-A nickel
Your white socks with the little animals on the bottom
Your special red shoes with the velcro
Yeah, can you remind us what we are waiting for?
Well, that's easy. We're waiting to see papa
(http://i.imgur.com/TZv8lG9.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/JAKHTmO.png)
Mama says we need to wait out here until she comes out though...
(http://i.imgur.com/Blfw8ea.gif)
Your very own Junior Investigator Shirt
Your very favorite long pants:
-Pocket lint
-A whole entire dollar! (in quarters)
-A nickel
Your white socks with the little animals on the bottom
Your special red shoes with the velcro
Did you see where the creepy doctor went? Like outside, through the front door maybe?
Oh, um, just out into the hall. But he's probably on the way out. He never stays around very long after...
Did you see where the creepy doctor went? Like outside, through the front door maybe? Can you look through the window? What do you see?
(http://i.imgur.com/bBG15gj.png)
Well, out there's the garden, in the back yard...
"Sammy"
(http://i.imgur.com/ovURA88.png)
"You can come in now"
(http://i.imgur.com/7GGjwW0.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/Blfw8ea.gif)
Your very own Junior Investigator Shirt
Your very favorite long pants:
-Pocket lint
-A whole entire dollar! (in quarters)
-A nickel
Your white socks with the little animals on the bottom
Your special red shoes with the velcro
(http://i.imgur.com/5hkm5oB.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/UTyBWsL.gif)
Unnnhhhhh....
(http://i.imgur.com/L57cgku.png)
What a strange... you remember hearing...
And pick an unambiguously happy song to be your new favourite musical work.
No way. That song was so smooth, and you really began to appreciate the lyrics when you got ol- wait, where did that thought come from? Where is this?
Hat
Nylon rain poncho
Sweatshirt
Ambiguous pants
Wool socks
Hiking shoes
Flashlight
Backpack
Digital camera
Bone arm
"Sorry but that would be us, beings beyond the vale of your reality who have Decided to assist you, although we aren't quite sure what that Requires."
You swear you almost hear Old Abe... boy, talk about a blast from the past. You must be getting residual memories from that dream.
What were we doing again?
You are somewhere dark and creepy with weird energy beings. Maybe now is the time to prove "no escape" wrong?
It's as if you hear more voices from your childhood mixed up in the situation... but these seem like the right track. Right, time for some assessment.
Perform a quick sweep of the area--check the flashlight and yourself for any permanent damage,
+1
(http://i.imgur.com/VGAyN94.png)
Climbing to your feet, you dust yourself off and start taking stock of the situation. You retrieve your flashlight and the bone arm from the floor and, after brief inspection, put the latter in your backpack.
○ You seem to be alright, aside from a sore spot on your right elbow where you must have landed on it. Your flashlight still seems to be working fine.
See if we can determine what woke us up. Check of there is anyone else around - look first, then sit still and listen.
It's hard to know how long you were out for, especially (and you curse yourself slightly for this) since you didn't bring a watch. In fact, you've never bothered to buy a new one since the last one you lost... but it's no good to worry about that now.
○ As far as you can tell, there is no one else around, though you think you can hear a faint... something... in the distance...
Perform a quick sweep of the area--check the flashlight and yourself for any permanent damage, then check the surrounding area for familiarity.
Turn off the light, and accustom your eyes to the minimal light given off by the various electrics (unless you sense something).
The light makes you a target much more than it allows you to see right now.
Once accustomed, investigate your surroundings.
Hey, that's not a bad... Hmm. A thought occurs to you. It seems there's other sources of illumination nearby, and you're still feeling a paranoid after what happened. Perhaps you should see how much you can make out with those alone, and reduce the risk of drawing attention to yourself. You switch off your light, step forth...
(http://i.imgur.com/IKGVVaQ.png)
...and wait for your eyes to adjust...
(http://i.imgur.com/JarVdAo.gif)
(http://i.imgur.com/GAFpI2g.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/Blfw8ea.gif)
Hat
Nylon rain poncho
Sweatshirt
Ambiguous pants
Wool socks
Hiking shoes
Flashlight
Backpack
Digital camera
Bone arm
Look up the elevator shaft. Hope you don't see anything.
(http://i.imgur.com/LQmJlLM.png)
The terrifying thought of an otherworldly figure flying down the elevator shaft after you crosses your mind. However, looking up with your now adjusted eyes, you see only the somewhat less disconcerting sight of a very deep darkness. It almost gives you vertigo...
Knowing that the white figure isn't bio-luminescent (we're also unsure if it's biological for that matter), Inspect those tubes and begin following the railing. Is the floor of the same material as the one above? Staleness of the air?
You don't know if you'd be able to see it, anyways... probably best not to stay there for too long. Or at least not stand around staring at one spot.
○ The walls and floor both look like concrete, though they seem to be in better condition than those above. The wall behind you has some lines, but they look like pouring creases rather than cracks. The floor seems entirely smooth, while the side walls and ceiling seem to form a big curve. There's a sort of rough texture to them, like that of spray-on concrete. You allow yourself a small moment of pride on the research you've done for your urban exploration.
○ The air smells a bit damp, with that slight sort of burnt, dusty note that reminds you of an underground parking structure. There's also that sort of cold, tinny hint, like on a winter morning... but it doesn't seem stale exactly.
Plato's Garden; a reference to his philosophy, perhaps? "The Allegory of the Cave"? Something to do with shadows? Chains?
Look around and make sure there aren't any prisoners - without the flashlight. Light might get you beaten to death.
Prisoners? That's an odd thought...
(http://i.imgur.com/t1Uu1Cr.png)
Well, reminiscent of classical philosophy, perhaps... You look around. There really doesn't seem to be anyone else in here. Or much at all. A crate and maybe a floodlight on the other end of the room, and next to you, this pipe and that... thingy...
Investigate the doohickey, keeping an eye out for trouble from deeper in, and your back towards the areas you have been.
Could be over-cautious, but it pays to be sure.
Also lay a hand on the pipe to determine its temperature and lay an ear on it to hear if it is currently transporting anything.
Knowing that the white figure isn't bio-luminescent (we're also unsure if it's biological for that matter), Inspect those tubes and begin following the railing. Is the floor of the same material as the one above? Staleness of the air?
+1
Well, closest things first. What is all this? You start with placing your hand on the pipe.
(http://i.imgur.com/07jcPqo.png)
It feels a bit warm. Huh. Like it almost might be vibrating softly... but it's hard to tell just from feel. Maybe giving it a listen?
(http://i.imgur.com/oNkvPSl.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/Ie3hyRp.gif)
○ It almost sounds like... whispers. Distinct from the ones in your head, though.
Next, the "doohickey." Looks like it's got a tap, some big glass tubes, some strange markings. You reach out to investigate further.
(http://i.imgur.com/ECukkom.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/zZsWR05.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/BlSzUFu.gif)
(http://i.imgur.com/aQWH6Sw.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/uHNWhRw.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/Blfw8ea.gif)
Hat
Nylon rain poncho
Sweatshirt
Ambiguous pants
Wool socks
Hiking shoes
Flashlight
Backpack
Digital camera
Bone arm
Also that symbol above the doohickey seems to be just like the 'sight' symbol. Observe with scrutiny/check out the inside.
+1
(http://i.imgur.com/1JA2pMU.png)
Looks like there's some symbols inscribed on the top pipe, and a couple more painted on the top panel of the big box part. One of the painted symbols looks very similar to the one you saw up above. Wait...
'sight' symbol
○ You think you hear... or remember hearing... one of your childhood imaginary friends. Auntie Yellow telling you it's a symbol for "sight."
Touch the tubes, what's the physical description of the feeling?
+1
(http://i.imgur.com/h6ao31P.png)
Feels like smooth glass. Definitely warm, too, and it almost feels like it's gently vibrating. For good measure, you feel the bodywork of the device. Feels like cold, solid metal, though probably mostly hollow.
Anyway, for now, turn away from the device, and check out that door. Have a look through it to see if anything is amiss or threatening. If not, take a look at the crate.
To be sure, our area is illuminated right? Both the doorway and our current area thanks to those tubes?
(http://i.imgur.com/n2VK6Nu.png)
The tubes at least seem to make the surrounding area a bit brighter. Perhaps it's time to take a look at the rest of this antechamber. You head over to the doorway on the other end.
(http://i.imgur.com/LXmHL1Q.png)
It's dark in there. Just glancing in, there don't seem to be any lights on further in, at least not nearby. You can see a wall about 5 feet distant, so you'd guess it's a corridor running off to either side. You can swear you hear some kind of music, too. Very faint, off in the distance to one side.
Since both door and crates are covered by the others, let's check those lamps (facing Plato's Garden).
(http://i.imgur.com/HmkSFdp.png)
Looks like a fairly standard floodlight. It's rather hard to make out color with your night vision, but you'd reckon the scratched paint on it is probably yellow. It doesn't look like it's in very good condition, though. You can't really speak as to the status of its actual lights, but the wiring seems to be missing. Ah well. Next, you turn to the crate
It's a big, heavy-duty plastic looking thing.
◈○ With a bit of welly, you pull the lid open. Must've been shut for a while to be that stuck.
(http://i.imgur.com/0L6OnC7.png)
You have to adjust your angle to let more light in, then wait a bit while your eyes adapt again, but soon you can kinda make out the contents.
(http://i.imgur.com/PAg8DoH.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/Blfw8ea.gif)
Hat
Nylon rain poncho
Sweatshirt
Ambiguous pants
Wool socks
Hiking shoes
Flashlight
Backpack
Digital camera
Bone arm
Guess that is where the guy who wanted to kill us came from.
Think about what the chances are of this place having done weird experiments with the wired chalk stuff(?), and it led to them trapping themselves in here.
(http://i.imgur.com/nkcRrQe.gif)
From this, i think there are 4 more stats
Copy the sight symbol onto the notepad. Both of us (me and Noir) should try to focus on it and ourselves.
Scribe the following image next to (on both sides), above, and beneath the sight symbol and repeat the process, trying to focus on different combinations of ourselves and the symbols:
_
|_
Write down this series of symbols (replace the asterisks with dots) and focus on them/ourselves:
__ _ _
[The two leftmost symbols on the strange device] |*| |_ |*
Repeat the process with the sight and might runes (adjacent to each other).
Scribe the two leftmost runes on the strange device onto the piece of paper in reverse order and repeat the process.
Alright, you think you get it. You're not sure it will do anything, but suppose it can't hurt to try.
(http://i.imgur.com/WLxLI9H.png)
Concentrating on it doesn't seem to do anything. You try adding some more symbols
(http://i.imgur.com/Q94cX0F.png)
Concentrating still doesn't seem to do anything. Neither does concentrating on both it and any of the distinct voices. Are you voices sure you're concentrating, too? Well, guess you'll try the next set, though you're pretty sure that set of symbols isn't quite right. You copy off the pipe for good measure.
(http://i.imgur.com/1JA2pMU.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/KKrOwF3.png)
Nope. Try and focus as you might, it doesn't really seem to do anything. Also...
Repeat the process with the sight and might runes (adjacent to each other).
Might rune? Which one's that? You decide to put a pin in this for now, and put your new notepad and pencil away, along with the bone arm.
I'm personally guessing we can't find things out unless we be proactive.
Forward! Advance towards the music! (As in proceed into the next room)
(http://i.imgur.com/suuX2vj.png)
As you head towards the darker tunnel, you can make out the music a little more clearly. It sounds kind of brassy, and a little sad. You step through the doorway.
(http://i.imgur.com/CKMfPkQ.png)
○ You can make it out a lot better in here. It sounds like... a saxophone? Definitely a saxophone. Sounds like mostly sharp notes, too.
(http://i.imgur.com/Blfw8ea.gif)
Hat
Nylon rain poncho
Sweatshirt
Ambiguous pants
Wool socks
Hiking shoes
Flashlight
Backpack
Digital camera
Bone arm
Graph paper notepad
Mechanical pencil
Manila folder (contents unknown)
Approach cautiously, I guess.
What sort of music is that?
(http://i.imgur.com/ysMLi4y.png)
Looks like the lights in the direction the music's coming from stop after a bit. Still, you approach cautiously, taking care to tread as silently as possible. The music seems to repeat itself after a short time, though it sounds perhaps like a slightly different permutation.
(http://i.imgur.com/2CpuoAW.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/feSyyQj.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/Blfw8ea.gif)
Hat
Nylon rain poncho
Sweatshirt
Ambiguous pants
Wool socks
Hiking shoes
Flashlight
Backpack
Digital camera
Bone arm
Graph paper notepad
Mechanical pencil
Unopened manila folder (contents unknown)
Key? :-X :-[
I'm not familiar with terms but I read all the notes as if in piano or by flute. Do you mean the clef? I'm not that knowledgeable in music.
It does seem like the mystery figure is using some kind of saxophone or something though.
Key, or clef
Oh.
Isn't this the G-clef?
(http://i.imgur.com/2CpuoAW.png)
Edit: I'm trying to replicate the song (offline) but I haven't found any 'programs' that could both save and play it online :I
It's quite a nice tune there!
(SV mirror) (https://forums.sufficientvelocity.com/posts/7210476/)
What sort of key is that even?
Find this out
○ Lowest note sounds like a C maybe? You're not super well-versed in keys or scales, at least not enough to name this one by ear. Maybe you guys could help with that?
Keep your back to the light and continue scrutinising the apparent source of the song, unless it makes any sudden moves.
Greet the creature making the music.
...
Make a Perception roll if that's the best approach.
Really unsure if we're being rude interrupting a person's music, but best just announce ourselves because given the lighting and such, we're clearly visible. Although that darkness is pretty palpable. Wondering if that creature has an aura or something, or it's just the bad lighting conditions :P
Given that the last... person(?)... you met here tried to slice you, cautious observation does seem prudent.
○ There's just not enough light to make out anything further. Though the darkness doesn't look unnatural. Whoever or whatever's there, they seem pretty wrapped up in that music. Guess you might as well test the waters. There's plenty of room to run, at least.
"Ahem"
(http://i.imgur.com/U7xmOkt.png)
"Hmm?"
(http://i.imgur.com/AWE9bOg.png)
"Who's there?"
(http://i.imgur.com/Blfw8ea.gif)
Hat
Nylon rain poncho
Sweatshirt
Ambiguous pants
Wool socks
Hiking shoes
Flashlight
Backpack
Digital camera
Bone arm
Graph paper notepad
Mechanical pencil
Unopened manila folder (contents unknown)
I meant key as in, like, C Major (which it is not because all of those sharps...).
It's treble clef.
Well yeah, I know that, but isn't the lowest note usually indicative of the key? Again, not quite well-versed in what all the keys are.
...I'm having a peculiar feeling that it only sees in darkness. However strange that may sound, given that it probably didn't notice us with the light as our backdrop.
That said, that's a really cute image of that creature. Either that or it's the eyes. :P
Greet it cordially and casually, introduce your name and where you are, maybe even what you are. Be forward and calming.
Also that music is nice.
This is apparently the first creature that didn't want to kill us, seemingly! Hello new friend!
It speaks our language, this is good.
I'd tell them your name and that you are someone that got trapped here, and ask them the same question.
"Hey there! My name is Noir, pleased to meet you. I think I've gotten trapped down here. Erm... that's some nice music you were playing. Can I ask who you are?"
"Hmm? A new name? And a new voice. Guess we haven't met before, then." The voice sounds like a hoarse, raised whisper, or that of a man with a very bad cold.
(http://i.imgur.com/TNMRdZV.png)
"So, you're new? Were you made today?"
(http://i.imgur.com/Blfw8ea.gif)
Hat
Nylon rain poncho
Sweatshirt
Ambiguous pants
Wool socks
Hiking shoes
Flashlight
Backpack
Digital camera
Bone arm
Graph paper notepad
Mechanical pencil
Unopened manila folder (contents unknown)
"... I'm new here, yeah."
+1 to Derm's comment, since somehow he's posted in the other forum than here. :P
Also probably mention that "I'm not from here and would like help knowing more about this place".
...Worded in Noir's way of speaking.
Because I'm very tired and can't think of anything better at the moment. :/
E: Also those three line strokes. That's really nice representing someone in thought.
Double edit: Wait, being curious helps more it seems.
2x Edit: ...This really reminds me of 'we're possibly talking to a spirit or other entity'. A construct spirit? Am leaving the suggested words unedited up there because I really get the impression that it's a simple rather than an innocuous question.
"I'm new here, yeah," you answer. "Which is to say, I'm not from here, but I did come down here and I'm not sure if I can get back. So, I could really use some help."
"Down here? From above? Is someone making them up there now? Hmm, don't think the Antibody would allow that... or could you mean you came from outside? No, he most surely wouldn't allow that..."
Maybe ask?
This, and Derm's suggestion, all before mine if possible. :P
Edit: I checked the inventory if we could use anything and the only thing that comes theoretically to mind is the flashlight.
Mention that you'd like to use a flashlight (or something) to see better; if it's an affirmative, use flashlight on nice orange eyed creature. If an inquisitive response is had, respond openly in turn.
Brushing aside your confusion at this for now until you can properly formulate a question, you turn towards a different question. "Hey, do you mind if I shine a light?"
(http://i.imgur.com/zghNBlY.png)
"Go ahead," says the voice.
(http://i.imgur.com/2lmuYhy.png)
"Hmm, when you say 'down'... do you mean from up the hall? Oh, but didn't you ask something before then...?"
(http://i.imgur.com/Blfw8ea.gif)
Hat
Nylon rain poncho
Sweatshirt
Ambiguous pants
Wool socks
Hiking shoes
Flashlight
Backpack
Digital camera
Bone arm
Graph paper notepad
Mechanical pencil
Unopened manila folder (contents unknown?)
(Also, can I get some feedback on the game so far?)
Also Antibody? ...Must be the guardian up there that sealed our curiosity in. So it WAS hostile and had a death-sword-of-anti-spirit-ing.
Wonder if those glyphs translate to anything along that theme?
Compliment his style and clothing, along with the nice saxophone. Say an agreement to 'down the hall', then redirect the questioning to asking it for a nice tour around, or a guide, or some details for familiarizing oneself with the place.
"Yes, actually, to both," you say, though ○ not entirely sure what 'up the hall' might imply. "Being new here and all, I have a lot of questions. For starters, could you give me directions? And nice clothes and sax, by the way."
(http://i.imgur.com/24BusAJ.png)
"Hmm. Thanks, I guess. You really are fresh, aren't you? Niceness and sanity... I suppose someone should teach you. Alright,"
(http://i.imgur.com/21EN0S3.png)
"Welcome to the Garden. Home of unnatural things. You and me and everyone down here, we're not real,"
(http://i.imgur.com/B0KaBZr.png)
"Just sick jokes of what is. And that's why we can't leave. Don't belong out there. In other words, you're stuck here with the rest of us broken things. Some a lot more broken than others. So I just keep to myself and out of trouble. It's a real mess down here, and they're always messing with the directions. This bit tends to stay, though, and maybe some others. Just a real mess asides. But I guess you could find something to keep you busy if you look around. Or maybe you'd just get lost..."
(http://i.imgur.com/24BusAJ.png)
"Hmm, Noir was it? Nice name. I don't think anyone ever gave me a name."
(http://i.imgur.com/Blfw8ea.gif)
Hat
Nylon rain poncho
Sweatshirt
Ambiguous pants
Wool socks
Hiking shoes
Flashlight
Backpack
Digital camera
Bone arm
Graph paper notepad
Mechanical pencil
Unopened manila folder (contents unknown?)
"Well... are you a girl?"
"A girl? No, I don't think so."
(http://i.imgur.com/3sJnrr1.png)
"Oh. Well, in any case, I shall call you... Citrine."
(http://i.imgur.com/wtncowj.png)
"..."
(http://i.imgur.com/wtncowj.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/mcxTVFr.png)
"Thank you. That was very nice of you. Hmm.... maybe I should practice introducing myself..."
(http://i.imgur.com/24BusAJ.png)
"My name is Citrine... hello... may I help you?"
Get a nearby layout of the area. Until where is their estimate of 'change' and 'unchange'. Mention the glowing-pipe mechanism you saw earlier, and then ask for help in learning what the symbols you saw, mean.
"Well yes, actually. I hope... Could you give me a basic layout of this area? Erm, keeping in mind that you said the directions... changed? What did you mean by that?"
"Oh... hard to say, to be honest. Hard to tell in this world... whether it's the place or just me. Pretty sure someone's messing with directions... but maybe I just wasn't built to tell directions that well. Pretty sure there's always this hall, though, and always the Forbidden Doors at this end and always the Entrance to the Garden in the middle. You must have passed that on the way down this hall after being born. But I wouldn't go in there. Sounds like they built you thinking about the world above, and if you go in there where the way up is, you'll just get sad thinking about it.... Hmm, but past here, I dunno. Lots of empty halls and empty rooms. You can probably find a bed no one's claimed yet."
"Actually, I've been through the entrance. There was this machine with glowing pipes and strange symbols. Can you tell me about that, or what the symbols mean?"
(http://i.imgur.com/21EN0S3.png)
"These pipes? Hmm. They're for Memory. Or was it soul? Sometimes they connect to.. hmm.. sinks, I think. Memory sinks... Heard them called that. They say it's very important to be Remembered. The symbols though... hmm..."
(http://i.imgur.com/24BusAJ.png)
You think you hear an apologetic sigh, but it's difficult to tell with that whispery voice. "I am sorry, I don't think I know how to teach you to read."
(http://i.imgur.com/Blfw8ea.gif)
Hat
Nylon rain poncho
Sweatshirt
Ambiguous pants
Wool socks
Hiking shoes
Flashlight
Backpack
Digital camera
Bone arm
Graph paper notepad
Mechanical pencil
Unopened manila folder (contents unknown?)
(SV Mirror) (https://forums.sufficientvelocity.com/posts/7640311/)
"It's ok--I just need to know the meaning of symbols."
"It's ok - I just need to know the meaning of symbols."
(http://i.imgur.com/LZpqrlT.png)
"Hmm... I don't know how to say off the top of my head..."
"What if I show you some?" You take out the graph paper and show Citrine what you've written down:
(http://i.imgur.com/KKrOwF3.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/fwNltYZ.png)
"Not sure about the ones on the left... don't think they mean anything on their own. Don't recognize that combination either... hmm, but the bit on the right says "Fëa" I think."
Try to remember what lettering was from that 'entity' upstairs, and then write it down--show it to Citrine.
Or at least try to detail what happened up there and that you saw words form. Ask the possible meaning.
Hopefully we can decode from there.
Well, you're pretty sure there were symbols around his hand, but you don't remember seeing anything else. Just those strange noises it made... "That, er, Antibody upstairs. There were some symbols around its hand. Do you know what they mean?"
"Sorry. I've only ever seen the Antibody from a distance..."
[X] Invite him to come along with you. More hands and eyes are always welcome, and perhaps he can translate for you.
"Well, thanks for everything, Citrine. So, uh, would you like to come with me? I could really use a guide, and someone to translate."
"Sorry, but I'd better stay here. Don't want to get into trouble. But thank you too, very much..."
(http://i.imgur.com/Blfw8ea.gif)
Hat
Nylon rain poncho
Sweatshirt
Ambiguous pants
Wool socks
Hiking shoes
Flashlight
Backpack
Digital camera
Bone arm
Graph paper notepad
Mechanical pencil
Unopened manila folder (contents unknown?)
As may have been surmised, I want to provide mysteries and puzzles and have the players figure things out for themselves. However, I'll give you this hint: as the voices, you can tell/show things Noir, or remind her.
(SV mirror) (https://forums.sufficientvelocity.com/posts/7950465/)
I'm under the impression that those symbols aren't individual letters by themselves now ._.
Ask what Citrine means by trouble.
"Trouble?"
"Oh, you know. Things moving in the dark."
"Ah... er... I'll keep that in mind. Thanks."
Time to move on then. Is there a passage to the south? If not, return the way you came.
Yeah, there is a passage around the corner here. Though you're not sure if it's actually "South." Hmm, I really should start keeping track of these things. In any case, it's a new direction, so, finished here for now, it's time to go explore.
"Oh, and Noir,"
(http://i.imgur.com/w7VEEN7.png)
"Good luck."
(http://i.imgur.com/u0qzZaj.png)
A short distance down this corridor, you find a branching corner. There don't seem to be any lights on this way up ahead, at least not that you can see.
(http://i.imgur.com/D9fdhUx.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/Blfw8ea.gif)
Hat
Nylon rain poncho
Sweatshirt
Ambiguous pants
Wool socks
Hiking shoes
Flashlight
Backpack
Digital camera
Bone arm
Graph paper notepad
Mechanical pencil
Unopened manila folder (contents unknown?)
Wait...
This is...
Is that...
How can...
That... that looks like... him?
You can barely form a coherent thought, there are just too many questions racing through your brain right now. In fact, it takes several seconds to realize your mouth is hanging open, and your left hand is twitching.
Check behind the picture/around the folder for what seems to be a passcode for "Dr. Norte's door"
Failing that, check the first door!
Now that I recall where we found that, I really wonder whose...arm we have in our inventory. (Maybe it works with DNA scans :P)
+1
+1, Remember to look on back of paper/photo.
However, perhaps the voices are right. It's time to get ahold of your emotions and surprise and turn your investigative faculties to the matter at hand. There could be some answers to this new conundrum close at hand.
(http://i.imgur.com/A36RZn2.png)
You turn over the baffling photo to check for clues. No such luck, but you do uncover the last paragraph. You move on to the next items
(http://i.imgur.com/CXQPl9X.png)
(http://i.imgur.com/qvxrAMJ.png)
Well, that's disappointing. But what was that other suggestion?
Now that I recall where we found that, I really wonder whose...arm we have in our inventory. (Maybe it works with DNA scans :P)
(http://i.imgur.com/4iGIRA2.png)
You suppose that might be a possibility. But where would you scan such a thing? It looks like the locks are, respectively, a card reader and a keypad.
(http://i.imgur.com/Blfw8ea.gif)
Hat
Nylon rain poncho
Sweatshirt
Ambiguous pants
Wool socks
Hiking shoes
Flashlight
Backpack
-Digital camera
-Bone arm
-Graph paper notepad
-Mechanical pencil
Manila folder
-Torn journal entry
-Photograph...
--Paperclip