A Godly Quest

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<<set $Hestia to false>>\ <<set $Apollo to false>>\ <<set $Ares to false>>\ <<set $logs to false>>\ <<set $flint to false>>\ <<set $steel to false>>\ <<set $axe to false>>\ <<set $sword to false>>\ <<set $godaxe to false>>\ <<set $shield to false>>\ <<set $bow to false>>\ <<set $lyre to false>>\ <<set $medbag to false>>\ <<set $flax to false>>\ So it is said by the Oracle of Delphi: //Shadow looms and powers wane The godly beings no more sane. Olympus raze or Olympus stand The ultimate power is in the ragged hand.// For many years, the knowledgeable analyzed these lines searching for the meaning Delphi intended. Today, you will learn the meaning of these words. You live the life of a simple farmer who wants to live a simple life: that was your supposed destiny. Yet you have always felt that there was more you were meant for. Today, you will venture from home and fulfill the prophecy. Will you be the savior of Olympus, or its ultimate destruction? The choice is yours on your [[quest|A Godly Quest]].

You roam along a path in the forest behind your home. You have been working in the fields all day and are looking for a peaceful rest in your favorite grove. However, upon entering the grove, you find that there are already three women there. You cautiously approach them, as each of them is elderly. At their feet sits a single, large basket of thread. The woman on the right holds a pair of scissors in her hand. “Welcome, stranger.” Each says in unison. “You have been chosen for a momentous quest. One that will have implications for the future of humanity.” You stand, dumbstruck. How do you respond to the women? <<if $Hestia is false>>[[“I am but a simple farmer. How can I accomplish anything of merit?”|The Humble Approach]]<<else>>“I am but a simple farmer. How can I accomplish anything of merit?”<<endif>> <<if $Apollo is false>>[[“I have known my destiny for a while, I am ready for the quest!”|The Destined Approach]]<<else>>“I have known my destiny for a while, I am ready for the quest!”<<endif>> <<if $Ares is false>>[[“What reward is there for completing the quest? Is it worth my time?”|The Arrogant Approach]]<<else>>“What reward is there for completing the quest? Is it worth my time?”<<endif>> <<if $Hestia is true and $Apollo is true and $Ares is true>>The Fates look at you. Well, adventurer, you have come so far. You have done your deed with the three gods who currently needed your help. For good or for ill, you have come this far. It is time that you learned why you were put through all of this. It is time that you learn the [[purpose]] of the quest.<<endif>>

The gods do not choose based on societal status, but by strength of heart and character. It is clear that the gods have chosen well in you. Before you begin your quest, though, we must know your name? <<textbox "$name" "" "$name, the gods favor you">>

Ah, we were forewarned that one would already be aware of their destiny. It is clear what path lies before you, as only one god could allow such foresight. Before you begin your quest, though, we must know your name? <<textbox "$name" "" "$name, the gods have foreseen you">>

<<set $fight to 0>>\ Your arrogance demonstrates your ability to work with few. There is one god who will put you in line. You will be assisting in restoring Lord [[Ares]]' power. What is your name? <<textbox "$name" "" "$name, the gods pity you">>

We have known you, $name, and are pleased that you will be assisting the gods. On your quest, you will be assisting Lady [[Hestia]], who is in trouble and needs your help to restore her power. When you go from this place, you will be on your own. Yet we sense in you the potential for greatness. [[Go forth|Hestia’s Quest]], and weave your fate within our threads; try not to sever your thread.

<center><img src = "Hestia-5-color-drawing.jpg"></center> Hestia, the forgotten Olympian, gave up her seat on Mt. Olympus so that Dionysus could take the throne. This provided a balance on Olympus between the gods and the goddesses. Hestia is the representation of the hearth and home, and can be found anywhere where the fires of home burn brightest within us. [[Back|$name, the gods favor you]]

The world spins under your feet. When the world stops spinning, you are no longer in the forest, nor are the three ladies standing in front of you. You are alone in a house, standing next to a [[fireplace]] with a fire burning in it. To your left, you notice a way to go [[upstairs]], to the right is an entrance to the [[kitchen]], and in front of you is a door that leads [[outside]]. You feel a power within the house. Could Lady Hestia be here?

<<if $logs is false and $flint is false and $steel is false>>An empty fireplace. A cold draft blows from outside. This seems out of place in a place that is supposed to be dedicated to Lady Hestia. [[Return to the main room|Hestia’s Quest]]<<endif>>\ <<if $logs is true and $flint is false and $steel is false>>The fireplace has logs in it. The draft has stopped, but the hearth is still cold. [[Return to the main room|Hestia’s Quest]]<<endif>>\ <<if $logs is false and $flint is true and $steel is false>>The fireplace is empty. You look at the flint in your hands and begin to have an idea. [[Return to the main room|Hestia’s Quest]]<<endif>>\ <<if $logs is false and $flint is false and $steel is true>>The fireplace is empty. You look at the steel in your hands and begin to have an idea. [[Return to the main room|Hestia’s Quest]]<<endif>>\ <<if $logs is true and $flint is true and $steel is false>>The fireplace has logs in it. The draft has stopped, but the hearth is still cold. You look at the flint in your hands, and know you ar5e close to lighting a fire. You are just missing one thing. [[Return to the main room|Hestia’s Quest]]<<endif>>\ <<if $logs is true and $flint is false and $steel is true>>The fireplace has logs in it. The draft has stopped, but the hearth is still cold. You look at the flint in your hands, and know you are close to lighting a fire. You are just missing one thing. [[Return to the main room|Hestia’s Quest]]<<endif>>\ <<if $logs is false and $flint is true and $steel is true>>You have the methods of making a fire, but nothing to make the fire with. Where might you find some fuel for the fire? [[Return to the main room|Hestia’s Quest]]<<endif>>\ <<if $logs is true and $flint is true and $steel is true>>The logs are in the fireplace and you have flint and steel in hand. Do you want to light the fireplace? [[Light the fireplace->Hestia’s Saved]] [[Refuse to light the fireplace->The Fall of Home]] <<endif>>\

You climb the stairs and find yourself in a large bedroom. You ignore the apparent lack of a bathroom anywhere in the house that you could see and begin looking around the room for anything that might help you find Lady Hestia. You see the [[bed]], a [[bedside table]], and a [[dresser]]. You can also descend the [[stairs|Hestia’s Quest]] again.

You enter the kitchen and take a look around you. Nothing seems to immediately stand out. There is no sign of Lady Hestia, yet you feel a sense of importance in this room. In the middle of the room, you see a [[table]] with some odds and ends laying on it, some [[drawers]] that can be opened, and something laying on the [[counter]]. There is also the [[door|Hestia’s Quest]] back into the main area of the house.

You decide to leave the house. You are unsure where you are, but you can tell you are far from home. You look around, hoping desperately to find Lady Hestia. Yet she does not seem to be anywhere around and you can feel your connection to her fade. It is clear that her presence is stronger [[inside|Hestia’s Quest]]. All you see is an [[axe]] leaning against the wall and some nearby [[woods]].

You use the flint and steel to create friction, thus creating sparks. The sparks catch the logs in the fireplace on fire, and a warmth immediately begin to fill the house. “Thank you, noble $name. Due to you determination and kindness, you have relit the fire of my hearth. Though this hearth stands only as a representation for my primary hearth on Olympus, where there is a hearth, there is a home. You have strengthened my connection to all homes and given me back the power that had been drained from me. The gods will forever be in your debt, $name, and will not forget the deed you have done today. You have chosen to remain humble, and know the true strength of home. Now, you must return to yours. When you are ready, I can send you [[home]].

You decide not to light the fireplace. Despite all you have done to find these objects, you decide that it isn’t worth lighting the fireplace and restoring Hestia’s power. You toss leave the logs in the fireplace, but toss aside the flint and steel. Suddenly, the house gets very cold. The subtle, yet warm power you felt earlier is gone. You find yourself standing outside of your house, but it feels different. You already feel a lack of expected warmth. You feel as if you no longer belong here. In fact, thinking of any place you that you belong. You sit down with your family, but you feel no more attached to them or this place than any other person or place. Weeks pass, and the news reaches your house: Hestia has faded away. Everyone is afraid, it has been a long time since a god has faded. Most often it is the minor gods who are rarely thought of. Hestia, though, is a major god and the fact that she is gone shakes your world to the core. Everyone wonders how this has happened, and what it means for the future. You don’t don’t what it means for the future, but you certainly know how it happened… [[FIN|Hestia Bad End]]

You search through the odds and ends on the table, but find nothing of importance. Just some odd scraps of paper. Do you want to take some of the paper? [[I’ll take a piece.]] [[Best leave it alone.]]

You search through the drawers, but only find the types of items you would expect to find in a kitchen drawer. An odd fork stands out to you. Do you want to take the fork with you? [[I’ll take a fork.]] [[Best leave it there.]]

On the counter, you find a piece of steel that seems out of place. Do you want to pick up the piece of steel? [[I’ll pick it up.]] [[Best leave it where it is.]]

You take a piece of paper and turn to examine the rest of the [[kitchen]].

You leave the paper on the table and turn to examine the rest of the [[kitchen]].

You take a fork and turn to examine the rest of the [[kitchen]].

You leave the fork in the drawer and turn to examine the rest of the [[kitchen]].

<<set $steel to true>>\ You pick up the steel and turn to examine the rest of the [[kitchen]].

You leave the steel on the counter and turn to examine the rest of the [[kitchen]].

The bed looks very comfortable. Would you like to lay down and take a nap? [[Yes]] [[No]]

On the bedside table, there is a lantern that has obviously been used. Laying next to the lantern is a piece of flint! Do you want to pick up the flint? [[Take the flint.]] [[Better not.]]

You go to the dresser and start going through it. The only thing out of place you find is a knife. Do you want to take the knife with you? [[Take the knife.]] [[Not today, Satan.]]

<<set $flint to true>>\ You pick up the piece of flint. Turning it over in your hands, you wonder if you can use it to help your quest. You turn to examine the rest of the [[upstairs]].

You leave the flint where it is and turn to examine the rest of the [[upstairs]].

You pick up the knife and turn to examine the rest of the [[upstairs]].

You decide that you have no purpose for a knife and choose to leave it where it is. You turn to examine the rest of the [[upstairs]].

You start to lay down, but then shake your head. This is no time to be napping! Lady Hestia needs your help! You turn to explore the rest of the [[upstairs]].

Probably for the best. Lady Hestia still needs your help. You turn to explore the rest of the [[upstairs]].

You look closer look at the axe. It doesn’t seem to be anything special. Do you want to take it with you anyways? [[Take the axe]] [[I don’t need it]]

<<if $axe is false>>You go to the woods and look around. There is a tree that is dying and on the verge of collapse. It looks like a few good hits with an axe would knock it over. [[Go back|outside]]<<endif>>\ <<if $axe is true>>You go to the woods and look around. You see a tree that is dying and on the verge of collapse. It looks like a few good hits with an axe would knock it over. You look at the axe in your hand. Do you [[cut the tree down]] or [[let it die naturally]]? <<endif>>\

<<set $axe to true>>\ You pick up the axe. You don’t know what you’ll do with it, yet, but you have it if you need it. You can either [[go back inside|Hestia’s Quest]] or head towards the [[woods]].

You leave the axe leaning against the house. You can either [[go back inside|Hestia’s Quest]] or go to the [[woods]].

<<set $logs to true>>\ You decide to cut the tree down. You say a quick prayer to Pan, apologizing for harming nature, and then start swinging your axe. A few good hits later, the tree falls and you start chopping the tree into logs. Once the job is done, you put the axe down, leaving it for the next person who may need it. You head back to the [[house|Hestia’s Quest]] and go inside. <<set $axe to false>>\

You decide to leave the tree where it is and go back [[inside|Hestia’s Quest]].

You find yourself standing outside of the door to your house. You enter to find your family all sitting around the table, a hot dinner just being served. In the fireplace, a gentle fire crackles. For a moment, you believe that you see a face in the fire - the face of Lady Hestia, smiling at you - but it is gone before you can take a closer look. “Oh, $name, we were so worried about you!” Your mother says as she rushes over, pulling you tight against her in an embrace. You hug her back, smiling. “I’m alright, mom.” You say feebly. “So what’ve you been up to all day that had you disappear on us?” You father says, beckoning you over to the table, indicating you should take your place. You sit down, and begin telling the tale of your day. As you finish, and your family chatters about how you earned favor with a god, you take a moment to look around your humble abode. You can’t help but smile. It’s not much, but it’s certainly home. [[FIN|Hestia Good End]]

<<set $Hestia to true>> Congratulations. You have reached the end of Hestia's Quest and successfully saved Lady Hestia. May your hearth forever burn bright! However, there are other gods to help. If you wish, you may [[return to the forest|A Godly Quest]] and continue the quest. Or, if you wish, you can [[end the story here]]. Be warned, if you choose to the end the story, you will have to start over, and all of your progress in the story will be lost.

<<set $Hestia to true>> Lady Hestia has faded away. The world is a darker place and it is entirely your fault. You have brought this upon yourself. However, you can redeem yourself. There are other gods who need your help. If you wish, you may [[return to the forest|A Godly Quest]] and continue the quest. Or, if you wish, you can [[end the story here]]. Be warned, if you choose to the end the story, you will have to start over, and all of your progress in the story will be lost.

Lord [[Apollo]] told us of an individual with a touch of destiny in them. However, we were not expect you to be so aware of what would await you, $name. This can make your journey easier, but can also make it much more difficult. Do not attempt to fight your fate, $name, for the greatest heroes have died attempting to alter the threads of destiny. When you are ready, you may [[begin|Apollo’s Quest]] your quest.

<center><img src="Apollo.jpg"></center> Though Apollo is best known for his job of driving the sun across the sky, this is only one of the many ideas that Apollo represents. Apollo is also the god of medicine, prophecy, and the arts. Those who follow Apollo are artisitically inclined in some way, and often accept the path that life has chosen for them. [[Back|$name, the gods have foreseen you]]

<<if $bow is false and $lyre is false and $medbag is false>>The world spins under you. When the world settles, you find that you are no longer standing in the woods, but in the middle of an amphitheater standing next to three people. You question them about what is happening. “It’s the annual tribute to Lord Apollo!” One of the men says, holding an obviously broken lyre. “Yet we are unable to honor him with our broken tools!” The second says, holding a bow with a broken bowstring. “Will you help us, brave adventurer? It would appear you have been sent to aid us!” The third exclaims, showing you his empty medicine bag. You agree to help the individuals, and look around the amphitheater to try and discern where you might find what these individuals need. You can [[search the stands]], you can [[go backstage]], you can [[search outside the amphitheater]], or you can [[search the lower floors]].<<endif>>\ <<if $bow is true and $lyre is false and $medbag is false>>"Thank you, kind adventurer!" The bowman says. "With this new bowstring, I will be able to perform a shot worthy of Lord Apollo! I am in your debt!" He bows to you, and you know you must go in search of the tools to help the other two. You can [[search the stands]], you can [[go backstage]], you can [[search outside the amphitheater]], or you can [[search the lower floors]].<<endif>>\ <<if $bow is false and $lyre is true and $medbag is false>>"Thank you, kind adventurer!" The musician says. "With this new lyre, I will be able to perform a song worthy of Lord Apollo! I am in your debt!" He bows to you, and you know you must go in search of the tools to help the other two. You can [[search the stands]], you can [[go backstage]], you can [[search outside the amphitheater]], or you can [[search the lower floors]].<<endif>>\ <<if $bow is false and $lyre is false and $medbag is true>>"Thank you, kind adventurer!" The healer says. "With this full medicine bag, I will be able to perform a healing worthy of Lord Apollo! I am in your debt!" He bows to you, and you know you must go in search of the tools to help the other two. You can [[search the stands]], you can [[go backstage]], you can [[search outside the amphitheater]], or you can [[search the lower floors]].<<endif>>\ <<if $bow is true and $lyre is true and $medbag is false>>The bowman is warming up his bow and the musician is tuning his lyre, but the healer stands dejectedly waiting for his tools. You can [[search the stands]], you can [[go backstage]], you can [[search outside the amphitheater]], or you can [[search the lower floors]].<<endif>>\ <<if $bow is true and $lyre is false and $medbag is true>>The bowman is warming up his bow and the healer is preparing for a healing, but the musician stands dejectedly waiting for his tool. You can [[search the stands]], you can [[go backstage]], you can [[search outside the amphitheater]], or you can [[search the lower floors]].<<endif>>\ <<if $bow is false and $lyre is true and $medbag is true>>The musician is tuning his lyre and the healer is preparing for a healing, but the bowman stands dejectedly waiting for his tool. You can [[search the stands]], you can [[go backstage]], you can [[search outside the amphitheater]], or you can [[search the lower floors]].<<endif>>\ <<if $bow is true and $lyre is true and $medbag is true>>All of the men stand at the ready, happily holding their newfound tools. "Oh great adventurer, you have truly saved us! We can now pay proper tribute to Lord Apollo! With my bow, and his lyre, and his medicine bag, we will put on a performance that even Lord Apollo cannot ignore! As the one who gathred all of the tools, all we now require is your blessing on this tribute." The bowman says, looking at you anxiously. [[Give the blessing on the tribute|Apollo Saved]] [[Refuse to give the blessing on the tribute|The Fall of the Arts]] <<endif>>

You move up into the stands, but realize quickly that there are a lot of seats to search through in order to see if anything was left here that may help your quest. Do you want to search the [[left section]], the [[right section]], the [[middle section]], or the [[upper section]].

Backstage, you find a lot of weird odds and ends. Among the odds and ends are a serious of boxes filled with a wide number of things. You notice three boxes that, at a glance, seem to be promising to help you fulfill your quest. You may also [[return to the main stage|Apollo’s Quest]] to continue your search elsewhere. [[Search box one]] [[Search box two]] [[search box three]]

<<set $flax to true>>\ Outside of the amphitheather, you find yourself in a field of flax. You might be able to use this to help you out! You pick some flax and put it in your pouch for later, then return to the [[amphitheater|Apollo’s Quest]].

<<if $flax is false>>On the lower floors, you find an out of place spinning wheel. It seems to serve no purpose beyond allowing an amphitheater employee to make string out of some flax. [[Return to the main floor|Apollo’s Quest]]<<endif>>\ \ <<if $flax is true>>\ <<set $bow to true>>\ <<set $flax to false>>\ On the lower floors, you find an out of place spinning wheel. You pull the flax you gathered out of your pouch, sit down at the spinning wheel, and make a string that will allow the bowman to properly use his bow. You [[return|Apollo’s Quest]] to the main floor to tell him the news.<<endif>>

You give the blessing on the tribute, and take your place in the stands to watch the ceremony. The bowman shoots skillfully, the musician plays masterfully, and the healer saves multiple afflicted individuals perfectly. "Thank you, $name." You hear said from beside you. You turn to find someone sitting there who had not been there a moment before. "Lord Apollo, I presume?" You say reverently, but with certainty. He nods. "Without you, I would have lost my power. I would have faded away. Yet you did what you had to do. You stayed on the path, even though you could have fought your destiny. Not that I provided you with many options to do that, here. No, those who are destined to complete a task always do so, no matter the choices they make. It is only the time that matters." You both sit in silence for a few minutes, watching the ceremony. "Lord Apollo, I hate to ask, but can I be sent home? Though I was destined for this, home is where I belong." He nods. "If you are ready, I will send you [[back|home2]]."

"You...you won't give the blessing?" The bowman asks. "No, surely that is a mistake." The musician declares. "Of course you will give the blessing, right?" The healer asks hesitantly. [[I've changed my mind, I'll give the blessing|Apollo Saved]]. [[No, I absolutely refuse]].

Box one, upon closer inspection, holds nothing but some costumes Search the other boxes [[backstage|go backstage]]

<<set $medbag to true>>\ Box two holds a lot of bandages, salves, and other useful healing items. You take as many as you can hold and run to give the items to the [[healer|Apollo’s Quest]].

You open the lid of box three and immediately slam it shut. There are some things that should never be revealed to the world. Search the other boxes [[backstage|go backstage]].

In the left section of the stands, you find a bag that has been left by an audience member. Search the bag? [[Search it]] [[Leave it alone]]

In the right section of the stands, you find a bag that has been left by an audience member. Search the bag? [[Search it]] [[Leave it alone]]

In the middle section of the stands, you find a bag that has been left by an audience member. Search the bag? [[Search it]] [[Leave it alone]]

<<set $lyre to true>>\ In the upper section of the stands, where people rarely sit, you find an old man holding a lyre. "I know, it seems silly that I'm sitting here with this lyre." The old man says, you sit next to him. "I just want to feel useful again. In my younger days, I was an acolyte of Lord Apollo's. I was the most renowned musician in all of Greece. I was hoping that I could recover some of that, but I'm far too old for that, now. You had better take this lyre. I'm sure you can find a better use for it than I can." The old man give you the lyre and shuffles off sadly. You feel a twinge of guilt taking the man's lyre, but you also need to complete your quest. You [[return to the main stage|Apollo’s Quest]] to give the musician this lyre.

You search the bag, but find nothing that you think would be useful on your quest. [[Return to your search|search the stands]].

You choose to leave it alone and return to the [[stands|search the stands]].

You find yourself standing outside of the door to your house. You enter to find your family all sitting around the table, a hot dinner just being served. In the fireplace, a gentle fire crackles. Above the mantle hangs a bow - a gift from Lord Apollo. “Oh, $name, we were so worried about you!” Your mother says as she rushes over, pulling you tight against her in an embrace. You hug her back, smiling. “I’m alright, mom.” You say feebly. “So what’ve you been up to all day that had you disappear on us?” You father says, beckoning you over to the table, indicating you should take your place. You sit down, and begin telling the tale of your day. As you finish, and your family chatters about how you earned favor with a god, you take a moment to look around your humble abode. You can’t help but smile. It’s not much, but it’s certainly home. [[FIN|Apollo Good End]]

<<set $Apollo to true>> Congratulations. You have reached the end of Apollo's Quest and successfully saved Lord Apollo. May the arts be forever strong in you! However, there are other gods to help. If you wish, you may [[return to the forest|A Godly Quest]] and continue the quest. Or, if you wish, you can [[end the story here]]. Be warned, if you choose to the end the story, you will have to start over, and all of your progress in the story will be lost.

All three of the performers disappear. The amphitheater immediately turns to a ruin. You can sense that the arts have died. There is no music, there is no showmanship, and there is no healing. You are returned home, but it is a solemn return. All that is beautiful in the world has gone. Your father no longer strums his lyre, your mother no longer knows how to heal, and your brother no longer shoots his bow. Every trace of the arts, and those events blessed by Apollo, is gone. A few weeks pass and the news reaches your home. Apollo has faded. Everyone is afraid, it has been a long time since a god has faded. Most often it is the minor gods who are rarely thought of. Apollo, though, is a major god and the fact that he is gone shakes your world to the core. Everyone wonders how this has happened, and what it means for the future. You don’t don’t what it means for the future, but you certainly know how it happened… [[FIN|Apollo Bad End]]

<<set $Apollo to true>> Lord Apollo has faded away. The world is a darker place and it is entirely your fault. You have brought this upon yourself. However, you can redeem yourself. There are other gods who need your help. If you wish, you may [[return to the forest|A Godly Quest]] and continue the quest. Or, if you wish, you can [[end the story here]]. Be warned, if you choose to the end the story, you will have to start over, and all of your progress in the story will be lost.

<<if $Hestia is true and $Apollo is true and $Ares is true>>You have missed something important! You cannot end the story now; please go back to the [[start|A Godly Quest]]. <<else>>\ You have chosen to end the story here. Whatever your results, that is the state you have left the world in. Have all of the gods faded, or only some of them? Does it matter now. END <<endif>>

Due to my scholarly interest in mythology, it only made sense for me to attempt to create a story that immersed my reader/player in the daily life of a Greek, attempting to save the gods they worship. In the initial planning phases, this story would incorporate personalization that, based upon the reader/players responses a series of questions, would align the reader/player with a specific deity that most matched their views. However, it quickly became apparent that such an endeavor was beyond the current scope of what I could accomplish. Thus, I narrowed it down to three choices, all of whom I felt I could connect to a single response, which the reader/player chooses when they speak to the Fates at the beginning. The challenge I faced was how to approach each of the deities. Each has a very different personality and, therefore, a very different way they would need saved. This is why, to save Hestia, the reader/player must go about their daily home life: they must make a fire after cutting down wood, by using the flint and steel that they can find in the home. On the Apollo path, I decided that I did not want to give too many options. While I liked the reader/player having choices, the purpose of the Apollo path is to demonstrate a connection with destiny: you do not choose where you end up or how you get there. You just do. Finally, the Ares path. This one gave me the most pause - and I mean that quite literally. I knew almost immediately that I wanted a series of fights in this section, but it quickly became apparant that, once again, I was envisioning too complex of a project. So I made a simple counter, with a passage that loops. Every time you click "keep fighting," you quite literally are looped to the exact same passage. All that changes is the counter, and the text that is shown based on a series of "if" statements. This counter took me the longest time to figure out, because it never seemed to count right and the numbers were always off, giving me the wrong results. This chewed up most of my time. If I were ever to expand this story, I already have ideas. At the moment, the endings are basically the same. Everything is designed simply to have you unlock this page. A further development of this story/game would develop variables further, rewarding the player for rescuing all the gods and punishing them for letting the gods fade. Taking some inspiration from Toby Fox's video game "Undertale," I had even considered adding in items that could be used to kill the gods personally, which would put the reader/player on a path to Olympus in a war against the gods, which would create an entire new section of the story. Whether or not I accomplished the goal of making the reader/player feel invested in the fate of the gods, and therefore "their" fate, I hope I created an enjoyable experience that caused at least a little frustration when fighting to save Ares.

<center><img src ="Ares.jpg"></center> Ares (known as Mars in Roman mythology), is the Greek god of war. Though he was respected in Greek times, he was seen as the uncontrollable aspects of war and, therefore, was less trusted than the goddess Athena (who represented military strategy and wisdom). To earn the respect of Ares, and potentially save him, your best hope is to prove your prowess in combat. [[Back|The Arrogant Approach]]

<<if $sword is false and $godaxe is false and $shield is false>>The world spins under your feet. When the world stops spinning, you find yourself standing in the middle of an arena. In front of you there are three clear cases. Inside each case, you see the toolss Lord Ares is known to use: a sword, an axe, and a shield. You attempt to open the cases, but they are sealed tight. "WARRIOR! WELCOME TO THE ARENA!" A voice from above booms. You turn to face them and find that you are not alone. There are hundreds of spectators here, all sitting around looking at you. The voice that just shouted is behind a veil, so you cannot tell who it is. [["How do I open these cases?"]] [["Are you that ugly that you need to hide behind a veil?"]] [[Remain silent.]]<<endif>>\ <<if $sword is true and $godaxe is false and $shield is false>>You hear the click of the first lock opening. You can't focus too much on it, though, because more creatures are coming for you. [[Back to the fight|Arena Battle]].<<endif>>\ <<if $sword is true and $godaxe is true and $shield is false>>The second lock unlocks. You have to hold out for one more lock, then you can grab Ares' weapons and get out of this arena! [[Back to the fight|Arena Battle]].<<endif>> <<if $sword is true and $godaxe is true and $shield is true>>The third and final lock unlocks. All of Ares' weapons are available to you. The veil falls and you see Lord Ares sitting in the chair. It has been him the whole time. You pick up his weapons and must make the final choice: [[present him with his weapons|Ares Saved]] or [[defy him|The Rise of Eternal War]]. <<endif>>

"You open these cases by fighting through my hoardes of monsters. Fight enough of them and you unlock all the cases. Are you ready to begin the fight? The first monster jumps at you unexpectedly and the fight [[begins|Arena Battle]]!

"SO, YOUR ARROGANCE WAS NOT UNDERSTATED! WE WILL BREAK YOU OF THAT! I SAW YOU ADMIRING THE WEAPONS IN THAT CASE!THEY ARE YOURS IF YOU CAN WIN EACH FIGHT HERE IN THE ARENA! WIN EVERY FIGHT AND YOU WILL RESTORE LORD ARES' POWER! LOSE ANY AND...YOU WILL REGRET IT! WHAT SAY YOU, WARRIOR?" [[Let the fights begin!]] [[I've faced tougher challenges, you won't beat me!]]

"HAVE YOU NOTHING TO SAY!?" The voice booms, echoing across the arena. It is clear remaining silent is not an option. [[Respond|Ares' Quest]].

<<set $fight to $fight + 1>>\ SO BE IT! ENTER THE [[FIGHT|Arena Battle]] AND TAKE OUT YOUR FIRST MONSTER!

<<set $fight to $fight + 1>>\ YOUR ARROGANCE BETRAYS YOU AGAIN! BEGIN YOUR [[FIGHTS|Arena Battle2]]!

<mark>Number of monsters killed is $fight</mark> <<set $fight to $fight + 1>>\ <<if $fight is 10>>\ <<set $sword to true>>\ <<endif>>\ <<if $fight is 20>>\ <<set $godaxe to true>>\ <<endif>>\ <<if $fight is 30>>\ <<set $shield to true>>\ <<endif>> <<if $fight is 1>>\ You slay your first monster. There are many more already flooding into the arena. You can either [[keep fighting|Arena Battle]] or [[check the boxes|Ares' Quest]]. \ <<endif>>\ <<if $fight gte 2 and $fight lte 30>>\ Another monster falls to your sword. You must [[keep fighting|Arena Battle]] or [[check the boxes|Ares' Quest]]. <<elseif $fight is 31>>The final monster falls. No more creatures enter the arena. You should go [[check the boxes|Ares' Quest]]. <<endif>>

<mark>Number of monsters killed is $fight</mark> <<set $fight to $fight + 1>>\ <<if $fight is 30>>\ <<set $sword to true>>\ You hear a click, as though a lock has unlocked <<endif>>\ <<if $fight is 40>>\ <<set $godaxe to true>>\ You hear another click. <<endif>>\ <<if $fight is 50>>\ <<set $shield to true>>\ <<endif>> <<if $fight is 1>>\ You slay your first monster. There are many more already flooding into the arena. You can either [[keep fighting|Arena Battle]] or [[check the boxes|Ares' Quest]]. \ <<endif>>\ <<if $fight gte 2 and $fight lte 50>>\ Another monster falls to your sword. You must [[keep fighting|Arena Battle]] or [[check the boxes|Ares' Quest]]. <<elseif $fight is 51>>The final monster falls. No more creatures enter the arena. You should go [[check the boxes|Ares' Quest]]. <<endif>>

You kneel before Ares and present him with his weapons. He looks at you, surprised, and takes his weapons. "This is unexpected, $name. I expected you to defy me and to attempt to take my weapons. More, I expected attempted to eliminate me completely. And so I suppose I must thank you for choosing the humble path at this moment, though it was not an easy choice for you." Lord Ares takes his weapons and his shield. He slings the shield across his back, sheathes the sword, and places the ax in a loop on his belt. You have done well, and now it is time for you to return [[home|home3]].

You decide to spite Lord Ares one last time and refuse to present his weapons to him. "I thought so. Arrogant from beginning to end. I know that I will fade, now, but before I do, I have one final decree: the land shall face eternal war! Never again will you know peace!" He declares, slamming his fists into the ground before disappearing. You immediately feel more aggressive before appearing at your home. Your family are all fighting each other. Your brother has a black eye, your father has a broken leg, and your mother is swinging a frying pan. A few weeks pass and the news reaches your home. Ares has faded. Everyone is afraid; it has been a long time since a god has faded. Most often it is the minor gods who are rarely thought of. Ares, though, is a major god and the fact that he is gone shakes your world to the core, what hasn't been ravaged by war. Everyone wonders how this has happened, and what it means for the future. You don’t don’t what it means for the future, but you certainly know how it happened… [[FIN|Ares Bad End]]

You find yourself standing outside of the door to your house. You enter to find your family all sitting around the table, a hot dinner just being served. In the fireplace, a gentle fire crackles. Above the mantle hangs a sword - a gift from Lord Ares. “Oh, $name, we were so worried about you!” Your mother says as she rushes over, pulling you tight against her in an embrace. You hug her back, smiling. “I’m alright, mom.” You say feebly. “So what’ve you been up to all day that had you disappear on us?” You father says, beckoning you over to the table, indicating you should take your place. You sit down, and begin telling the tale of your day. As you finish, and your family chatters about how you earned favor with a god, you take a moment to look around your humble abode. You can’t help but smile. It’s not much, but it’s certainly home. [[FIN|Ares Good End]]

<<set $Ares to true>> Congratulations. You have reached the end of Ares' Quest and successfully saved Lord Ares. May the tide of battle always flow in your favor! However, there are other gods to help. If you wish, you may [[return to the forest|A Godly Quest]] and continue the quest. Or, if you wish, you can [[end the story here]]. Be warned, if you choose to the end the story, you will have to start over, and all of your progress in the story will be lost.

<<set $Ares to true>> Lord Ares has faded away. The world is a darker place and it is entirely your fault. You have brought this upon yourself. However, you can redeem yourself. There are other gods who need your help. If you wish, you may [[return to the forest|A Godly Quest]] and continue the quest. Or, if you wish, you can [[end the story here]]. Be warned, if you choose to the end the story, you will have to start over, and all of your progress in the story will be lost.<mark>Number of monsters killed is $fight</mark> <<set $fight to $fight + 1>>\ <<if $fight is 10>>\ <<set $sword to true>>\ <<endif>>\ <<if $fight is 20>>\ <<set $godaxe to true>>\ <<endif>>\ <<if $fight is 30>>\ <<set $shield to true>>\ <<endif>> <<if $fight is 1>>\ You slay your first monster. There are many more already flooding into the arena. You can either [[keep fighting|Arena Battle]] or [[check the boxes|Ares' Quest]]. \ <<endif>>\ <<if $fight gte 2>>\ Another monster falls to your sword. You must [[keep fighting|Arena Battle]] or [[check the boxes|Ares' Quest]]. <<endif>>\ <<if $fight eq 30>>The final monster falls. No more creatures enter the arena. You should go [[check the boxes|Ares' Quest]]. <<endif>>

Well, $name, we hope that, by the end of your journey to assist Lord Ares, you will learn a little humility. When you are ready, you may [[begin the quest|Ares' Quest]].

<center><h1><strong>A Godly Quest</strong></h1></center>\ <center><h2><strong>A Twine Adventure by Alexander Hagood</strong></h2></center> <center><h3><strong><u>[[START|A Quest Awaits]]</u></strong></h3></center>