*title Wayhaven Chronicles: Book One *author Mishka Jenkins *scene_list startup chaptertwo chapterthree chapterfour chapterfive chaptersix chapterseven $ chaptereight $ chapternine $ chapterten $ chaptereleven $ chaptertwelve $ chapterthirteen $ chapterfourteen $ chapterfifteen $ chaptersixteen $ chapterseventeen $ chaptereighteen $ chapternineteen $ chaptertwenty $ chaptertwentyone *create charming 50 *create impulsive 50 *create sarcastic 50 *create friendly 50 *create easygoing 50 *create heart 50 *create optimist 50 *create teamplayer 50 *create teamunity 0 *create people 0 *create combat 0 *create science 0 *create deduction 0 *create bybook 50 *create motherr 0 *create mothermet "false" *create mayor 0 *create captainr 0 *create verdar 0 *create mothernewr 0 *create bobbynewr 0 *create agency 0 *create romance "" *create adamr 0 *create nater 0 *create felixr 0 *create masonr 0 *create adamf 0 *create natef 0 *create felixf 0 *create masonf 0 *create adamrom 0 *create naterom 0 *create gender "unknown" *create name "" *create surname "" *create mc_him "" *create mc_his "" *create mc_she "" *create mc_man "" *create mc_son "" *create mc_hair "" *create mc_haircut "" *create mc_eyes "" *create clothes "unknown" *create trousers "" *create shirt "" *create apartment "" *create backstory "unknown" *create adam "" *create a_him "" *create a_his "" *create a_she "" *create a_man "" *create nate "" *create nathaniel "" *create n_him "" *create n_his "" *create n_she "" *create n_man "" *create felix "" *create f_him "" *create f_his "" *create f_she "" *create f_man "" *create mason "" *create m_him "" *create m_his "" *create m_she "" *create m_man "" *create bob_him "" *create bob_his "" *create bob_she "" *create bob_man "" *create bob_mr "" *create bob_petname "" *create bobex "unknown" *create bobrp 0 *create bobmet "false" *create teaminfo "no" *create attraction "unknown" *create ablood "notcollected" *create abloodtest "false" *create bloodtestresult "notknown" *create bloodtransfusion "notknown" *create anchorpin "notfound" *create chanting "notknown" *create nateverdamet "false" *create aashot "false" *create patrol "" *create dphone "left" *create title "Detective" *create murphyfate "" *create bite "none" *create murphyfight "" *create teammet "false" *create showbar "" *create officeinjured "none" *create reveal "" *create tests "" *create motherdeal "none" *create bobbybug "false" *create pastry "unknown" *create sun "false" *create garlic "false" *create crosses "false" *create stake "false" *create senses "false" *create phero "false" *create mirrors "false" *create sparkle "false" *create bloodask "false" *temp keptdr *set keptdr "false" *if not(choice_is_web or choice_is_steam) *temp skip_description *config skip_description false *if skip_description *goto purchased *check_purchase adfree *if choice_purchase_supported and not(choice_purchased_adfree) Your first case as a detective is forcing you to open your eyes to a world bigger than you thought. But maybe it's better to keep them closed. Knowing too much doesn’t help anyone sleep at night! Seems the supernatural didn’t get the memo that nothing exciting ever happens in the little town of Wayhaven. [i]The Wayhaven Chronicles: Book One[/i] is a thrilling 440,000 word interactive fantasy novel by Mishka Jenkins, where your choices control the story. It's entirely text-based—without graphics or sound effects—and fueled by the vast, unstoppable power of your imagination. Experience the big and small moments with a host of characters throughout this exciting twist on the usual supernatural tale—a story which will take you through heart-pounding romance, smile-filled friendships, and shiver-inducing drama. • Play as female, male, or non-binary—with options to be straight, gay, or bisexual.[n/] • Discover the start of distinct and lasting romances with the vampires of Unit Bravo.[n/] • Define and refine relationships with a variety of characters-from friends, family, exes, and enemies.[n/] • Decide how you will fulfill the job of detective, through Deduction, Combat, Science, or People skills.[n/] • Discover the truth of what awaits in Wayhaven in a playstyle that suits your personality.[n/] • Indulge in true moments of romance, friendship, drama, and fun! *if choice_prerelease [i]You can play the first seven chapters of the game for free today. The rest of the game will be available on ${choice_release_date}.[/i] *choice #Sign up to be notified when the game is available. *subscribe {"now": true} *restart #Play the first seven chapters now for free. *goto purchased [i]You can play the first seven chapters of the game for free. Purchase the rest of the game below.[/i] *if choice_is_advertising_supported [i]Purchasing the rest of the game will also turn off in-game advertisements.[/i] *purchase_discount adfree 2020-05-14 $7.99 $4.99 purchased *if choice_is_advertising_supported *page_break_advertisement *if not(choice_is_advertising_supported) *page_break Play Now for Free *label purchased *page_break Somewhere In The Big City Moonlight slices through the beakers on the top of the laboratory counter, a hundred shafts of light bouncing off the pristine, polished surface. Precise lines of glass tubes held in stark white cartons are piled on the centre island. Dr. Ethan Murphy enjoys the small space of his lab, one he has worked hard on making his own. He is grateful for the comforting quiet it brings and is, at that moment, even more thankful for the size of the large counters. They fully hide his crouched, shuddering body as he hunches behind them, biting his lip to stop his shuddering breath giving away his position. "Tut tut, Dr. Murphy, nobody likes a coward." The taunt is followed by the smash of glass, shards of the broken beakers glancing across the linoleum floor. Dr. Murphy squeezes his eyes shut and grips his knees closer to his chest, his teeth biting down into his bottom lip hard enough to draw blood. The squeak of the intruder's shoes on linoleum stops. The air falls silent and heavy, pressing down like a weight on Murphy's tight shoulders. "If you don't want me to find you, Dr. Murphy, you shouldn't make yourself so tempting." The voice echoes from nowhere, a hungered growl from the darkness. Murphy's eyes snap open as a warm drop of blood dribbles from his lip and soaks into his trousers. He wipes the blood from his lips and chokes back a sob. *page_break But it's too late. A hand lurches from the dark and snatches at Murphy, like claws around prey. "Such an irresistible thing, don't you think?" the man whispers, his face shadowed but the glint in his eyes unmistakable. When his tongue laps over the smear of blood on Murphy's hand, the doctor retches and tries to crawl back, yelling as the hand grips his tighter. The crack of bone perforates the silence. "Dear, dear…." He tugs on Murphy's mangled hand, dragging him over the slick surface of the linoleum. "I don't want to break you, doctor." Murphy is yanked up onto his feet. The intruder is the same height as he is, but appears ten feet tall in the gloom. "Shhh…." He places a firm finger on the doctor's lips to stop the trembling cries. Then he takes Murphy's hand in both of his, staring into his eyes with the intense, paralysing gaze only a predator can achieve. "Why don't you relax?" The words reverberate like a haunting echo inside Murphy's head, bouncing from one side of his skull to the other until he sways with dizziness. A swathe of calm seeps from his head down into his neck, following his spine and reaching right down to his toes, until he stumbles back from the suddenness of his muscles relaxing. Murphy smiles at the intruder and takes a deep breath. "Much better," the intruder whispers, before plunging his teeth into Murphy's throat. *page_break [b][i]Meanwhile, the Next Morning in Wayhaven[/i][/b] [b]---[/b] The crime scene is a wriggling mass of spectators by the time I arrive, even this early in the morning. People line the small alleyway, packed so tightly I can't believe they're able to breathe, let alone fight for space to see the end of the street. Revving the engine of my battered, silver hatchback does little to gain anyone's attention, and I realise I can't park unless they move. Not wanting to be late to my very first case as Wayhaven's newly-appointed detective, I… *choice #…beep my horn at them. *set impulsive %+10 *set easygoing %-10 I slam down the palm of my hand on the horn of my car, the sharp beep echoing from the small car with more force than expected. The buzzing crowd finally notices my presence, the bulk of them reluctantly parting. *goto chap1_1 #…park where I am. *set easygoing %+10 *set impulsive %-10 I let out a heavy sigh, pulling a little further to one side of the alleyway. The crowd continues to buzz about in front of the car, some only shifting slightly aside. *goto chap1_1 #…lean out of the window and order them to move. *set charming %-10 *set friendly %+10 I roll down the window of my car and balance an elbow against the door so I can lean out as far as possible. "Hey, detective here. Move yourselves before I mow you down!" My shout doesn't inspire the quick motion that I'd hoped, but the buzzing crowd does reluctantly part. I drive further down the alleyway. *goto chap1_1 #…lean out of the window and ask them to move. *set sarcastic %-10 *set friendly %+10 I roll down the window of my car and balance an elbow against the door so I can lean out as far as possible. "Hey guys, can you move yourselves, please? I'm the detective here for this crime scene." My words don't inspire the quick motion that I'd hoped, but the buzzing crowd does reluctantly part. I drive further down the alleyway. *goto chap1_1 *label chap1_1 Managing to park, I crank on the handbrake, trying to ignore the pained, crunching sound the car makes. Out of habit, I glance into the rear-view mirror, quickly checking my appearance. I brush a hand over my… *choice #…ebony black hair. *set mc_hair "ebony black" I brush a hand over my ebony black hair. Figuring there is little else I can do to procrastinate, I finally force myself out of the car. *goto chap1_2 #…light brown hair. *set mc_hair "light brown" I brush a hand over my light brown hair. Figuring there is little else I can do to procrastinate, I finally force myself out of the car. *goto chap1_2 #…dark brown hair. *set mc_hair "dark brown" I brush a hand over my dark brown hair. Figuring there is little else I can do to procrastinate, I finally force myself out of the car. *goto chap1_2 #…mousey brown hair. *set mc_hair "mousey brown" I brush a hand over my mousey brown hair. Figuring there is little else I can do to procrastinate, I finally force myself out of the car. *goto chap1_2 #…light blond hair. *set mc_hair "light blond" I brush a hand over my light blond hair. Figuring there is little else I can do to procrastinate, I finally force myself out of the car. *goto chap1_2 #…honey blond hair. *set mc_hair "honey blond" I brush a hand over my honey blond hair. Figuring there is little else I can do to procrastinate, I finally force myself out of the car. *goto chap1_2 #…dark blond hair. *set mc_hair "dark blond" I brush a hand over my dark blond hair. Figuring there is little else I can do to procrastinate, I finally force myself out of the car. *goto chap1_2 #…deep red hair. *set mc_hair "deep red" I brush a hand over my deep red hair. Figuring there is little else I can do to procrastinate, I finally force myself out of the car. *goto chap1_2 #…bright red hair. *set mc_hair "bright red" I brush a hand over my bright red hair. Figuring there is little else I can do to procrastinate, I finally force myself out of the car. *goto chap1_2 #…strawberry blond hair. *set mc_hair "strawberry blond" I brush a hand over my strawberry blond hair. Figuring there is little else I can do to procrastinate, I finally force myself out of the car. *goto chap1_2 #…bald scalp. *set mc_hair "dark brown" *set mc_haircut "bald" I brush a hand over my head. Figuring there is little else I can do to procrastinate, I finally force myself out of the car. *goto chap1_2 *label chap1_2 The chill air bites at my skin as soon as I step out of the warm comfort of the car. I shove my hands into the pockets of my coat, shivering at the relief it provides from the sharp cold. Buds may be clinging to the few stark trees lining the alleyway, but it is far from spring yet. It looks as though most of Wayhaven has gathered at the scene, which is more likely true than not, considering the whole town consists of less than a thousand people. As I step up to the blue-and-white-striped barrier, I'm greeted by Officer Len, a part-time volunteer on the scant Wayhaven police force. I wonder for a moment if his hunched posture is from the grisly nature of the crime or just his advanced age. He looks up from his pad, and I can almost hear the creaking in his bones at the motion. I wait as he speaks to greet me, his voice croaking out from his thin lips, partly-hidden by a scraggly grey beard that matches the colour of his skin. Finally, he says… *choice #"Credentials please, miss." *set gender "female" *goto gendercc #"Credentials please, sir." *set gender "male" *goto gendercc #"Credentials, please." *set gender "non-binary" *goto gendercc *label gendercc *if (gender= "female") *set mc_him "her" *set mc_his "her" *set mc_she "she" *set mc_man "woman" *set mc_son "daughter" *goto chap1_3 *elseif (gender= "male") *set mc_him "him" *set mc_his "his" *set mc_she "he" *set mc_man "man" *set mc_son "son" *goto chap1_3 *elseif (gender= "non-binary") *set mc_him "them" *set mc_his "their" *set mc_she "they" *set mc_man "person" *set mc_son "child" *goto chap1_3 *label chap1_3 I let out a long sigh. "Are we really going to do this, Len? You started working as a volunteer long after I joined the force." "Sorry, but it's mayor's orders," he replies. I'm hesitant to open my coat after just managing to get warm, but I pull one side open to yank out my badge and ID. I hand it over, Len not even glancing at it before handing it back. His eyesight may be bad, but even he cannot fail to recognise me. "All good, Detective; step on through." I take back my ID and dip under the barrier Len is struggling to keep raised. As I move away from him, I glance down at my new ID. 'Detective.' It's the first time I've been addressed that way by one of my colleagues. It's strange to hear my new title. It belonged to old Detective Reele for so long that I'm not sure if it fits me quite yet. After all, the only training I've had was the rushed speech I received from the mayor, addressing my 'many merits' and how to show my 'willingness' to take over. The total of my detective experience probably amounts to that hour he spent lecturing me. The promotion was rushed through in time for Reele's retirement party, leaving me spinning on how to react to the whole thing. *choice #I didn't even want the promotion; the captain forced it on me. *set bybook %-16 It was a surprise when the captain offered me the promotion, though it was less 'offered' and more 'forced.' The captain was thrilled enough, needing someone in the station of a senior position so he could go off and play golf with the mayor whenever he wants. I let out a heavy sigh and shake my head at the thought. *goto chap1_photo #I was so excited for the promotion, though I wasn't expecting it. *set captainr +2 *set bybook %+10 The promotion may have come as a surprise, but it was certainly a happy one. The quickness of the whole situation led to whispers about the promotion only being given because the captain needed someone in the station of a senior position, so he could go off and play golf with the mayor whenever he wants. But I'm still proud. I smile at the memory. *goto chap1_photo #I wasn't surprised by the promotion; I've worked hard to get it. *set bybook %+16 *set captainr +2 It didn't come as much of a surprise to get the promotion; I've worked hard to get it. And though some say I was only picked because the captain needed someone in a senior position at the station, so he could go off and play golf with the mayor whenever he wants, I know I got it on merit. I smile at the memory. *goto chap1_photo #I didn't really want it, but I wasn't going to turn it down when offered. *set bybook %-10 *set captainr +1 It wasn't exactly like I wanted the promotion, but I wasn't going to turn it down when it was offered. I know really the only reason I got it was because the captain needed someone in the station of a senior position, so he could go off and play golf with the mayor whenever he wants. But still, pay raise for me. I smile and shake my head at the thought. *goto chap1_photo *label chap1_photo My photo stares back at me from the ID pouch. I glance over my details, my name listed boldly at the top. [Please enter a first name.] *choice *if (gender="female") #Lauren. *set name "Lauren" *goto surnamec *if (gender="female") #Emma. *set name "Emma" *goto surnamec *if (gender="female") #Dinah. *set name "Dinah" *goto surnamec *if (gender="female") #Kira. *set name "Kira" *goto surnamec *if (gender="female") #Surina. *set name "Surina" *goto surnamec *if (gender="male") #Lucas. *set name "Lucas" *goto surnamec *if (gender="male") #Evan. *set name "Evan" *goto surnamec *if (gender="male") #Jason. *set name "Jason" *goto surnamec *if (gender="male") #Aryan. *set name "Aryan" *goto surnamec *if (gender="male") #Sai. *set name "Sai" *goto surnamec *if (gender="non-binary") #Alex. *set name "Alex" *goto surnamec *if (gender="non-binary") #Ainsley. *set name "Ainsley" *goto surnamec *if (gender="non-binary") #Val. *set name "Val" *goto surnamec *if (gender="non-binary") #Jules. *set name "Jules" *goto surnamec *if (gender="non-binary") #Sam. *set name "Sam" *goto surnamec #None of these. *goto input_name *label input_name Input name. *input_text name Your name is $!{name}, is that right? *set name "${name}" *choice #Yes. *if ((name = "Angel")or(name = "angel")) The name 'Angel' is used already during the story, so it may confuse the narrative to have the same name. Are you happy to proceed? *choice #Yes. *goto surnamec #Enter a different name. *goto input_name *if ((name = "Adam")or(name = "adam")) This name is already used by a character in the game, so it may confuse the narrative to have the same name. Are you happy to proceed? *choice #Yes. *goto surnamec #Enter a different name. *goto input_name *elseif ((name = "Ava")or(name = "ava")) This name is already used by a character in the game, so it may confuse the narrative to have the same name. Are you happy to proceed? *choice #Yes. *goto surnamec #Enter a different name. *goto input_name *elseif ((name = "Nate")or(name = "nate")) This name is already used by a character in the game, so it may confuse the narrative to have the same name. Are you happy to proceed? *choice #Yes. *goto surnamec #Enter a different name. *goto input_name *elseif ((name = "Nathaniel")or(name = "nathaniel")) This name is already used by a character in the game, so it may confuse the narrative to have the same name. Are you happy to proceed? *choice #Yes. *goto surnamec #Enter a different name. *goto input_name *elseif ((name = "Natalie")or(name = "natalie")) This name is already used by a character in the game, so it may confuse the narrative to have the same name. Are you happy to proceed? *choice #Yes. *goto surnamec #Enter a different name. *goto input_name *elseif ((name = "Nat")or(name = "nat")) This name is already used by a character in the game, so it may confuse the narrative to have the same name. Are you happy to proceed? *choice #Yes. *goto surnamec #Enter a different name. *goto input_name *elseif ((name = "Felix")or(name = "felix")) This name is already used by a character in the game, so it may confuse the narrative to have the same name. Are you happy to proceed? *choice #Yes. *goto surnamec #Enter a different name. *goto input_name *elseif ((name = "Farah")or(name = "farah")) This name is already used by a character in the game, so it may confuse the narrative to have the same name. Are you happy to proceed? *choice #Yes. *goto surnamec #Enter a different name. *goto input_name *elseif ((name = "Morgan")or(name = "morgan")) This name is already used by a character in the game, so it may confuse the narrative to have the same name. Are you happy to proceed? *choice #Yes. *goto surnamec #Enter a different name. *goto input_name *elseif ((name = "Mason")or(name = "mason")) This name is already used by a character in the game, so it may confuse the narrative to have the same name. Are you happy to proceed? *choice #Yes. *goto surnamec #Enter a different name. *goto input_name *elseif ((name = "Tina")or(name = "tina")) This name is already used by a character in the game, so it may confuse the narrative to have the same name. Are you happy to proceed? *choice #Yes. *goto surnamec #Enter a different name. *goto input_name *elseif ((name = "Bobby")or(name = "bobby")) This name is already used by a character in the game, so it may confuse the narrative to have the same name. Are you happy to proceed? *choice #Yes. *goto surnamec #Enter a different name. *goto input_name *elseif ((name = "Rebecca")or(name = "rebecca")) This name is already used by a character in the game, so it may confuse the narrative to have the same name. Are you happy to proceed? *choice #Yes. *goto surnamec #Enter a different name. *goto input_name *else *goto surnamec #Enter a different name. *goto input_name *label surnamec [Please enter a surname.] *choice #Langford. *set surname "Langford" *goto chap1_4 #Kingston. *set surname "Kingston" *goto chap1_4 #Batra. *set surname "Batra" *goto chap1_4 #Lin. *set surname "Lin" *goto chap1_4 #Greene. *set surname "Greene" *goto chap1_4 #None of these. *goto input_surname *label input_surname Input surname. *input_text surname Your surname is $!{surname}, is that right? *choice #Yes. *set surname "${surname}" *goto chap1_4 #Enter a different name. *goto input_surname *label chap1_4 "Finally here then, Detective $!{surname}." I glance up at the sound of the familiar voice, a smile already on my face. Officer Tina Poname strides towards me, my old partner grinning at me as she nears. "Not much of a surprise they're all gathered here," she says, gesturing to the crowd behind us. I look over my shoulder at the bustle of people, sunlight glinting off the phones held ready to take whatever pictures they can. "This is probably the biggest thing that's happened for years," I reply with a shrug. She nods in response, brushing back a few brown curls that bob in front of her hazel eyes. "I can't help but notice none of the fancy-dancy silver spoons have bothered to show up." Her nose wrinkles as she speaks, the freckles splattered over her rosy cheeks becoming more pronounced with the expression. "Don't suppose they care what happens to us normal folk, as long as no one touches their mansions. But anyway, how's the first day of your promotion going?" *choice #"Depends on how gruesome the murder is." *set optimist %-16 "Depends on how gruesome the murder is," I reply, shoving my hands deeper into my pockets. She purses her lips and sighs. "Then it's going to be a terrible day, I'm afraid." "It's that bad?" "I'd say so, but then I've never actually seen a murder before." She dares a glance down the street at the scene, though it's half hidden by white-clad crime scene technicians. The techs all busy themselves placing down yellow tags and measuring out every inch of space. There's the occasional bright flash as they take photos. *goto chap1_5 #"I was hoping it would be quieter." *set optimist %+16 "I was hoping it would be quieter," I admit, shoving my hands deeper into my pockets. She purses her lips and sighs. "You and me both. I thought you'd be mostly stuck in your office, bored." "Guess we better head down there." I gesture to the crime scene down the street, though it's half hidden by white-clad crime scene technicians. The techs all busy themselves placing down yellow tags and measuring out every inch of space. There's the occasional bright flash as they take photos. *goto chap1_5 #"I wish my career didn't start with a death." *set heart %+16 "I kind of wish my career didn't start with a death," I admit, shoving my hands deeper into my pockets. She purses her lips and sighs. "Yeah. Not that you should take it as an omen or anything." With a strained laugh, she dares a glance down the street at the crime scene, though it's half hidden by white-clad crime scene technicians. The techs all busy themselves placing down yellow tags and measuring out every inch of space. There's the occasional bright flash as they take photos. *goto chap1_5 #"I'm pleased to be able to put my mind to something." *set heart %-16 "I'm pleased to be able to put my mind to something, at least," I admit, shoving my hands deeper into my pockets. She gives a small smile. "Yeah. To be honest, I thought you'd mostly be stuck in your office, bored." "You and me both." I return the smile. "Well, I guess we better…" I gesture to the crime scene, though it's half hidden by white-clad crime scene technicians. The techs all busy themselves placing down yellow tags and measuring out every inch of space. There's the occasional bright flash as they take photos. *goto chap1_5 *label chap1_5 "Excuse me!" A voice stops us before we move. "I need to know what is going on. I demand to know!" Tina's grip on her belt tightens and I let out a drawn breath. "I'm the landlord of these apartments." The man, an older gentleman in a crisp, grey suit, sweeps an arm upwards at the soaring, crumbling building beside us. *choice #"Not exactly something to be proud of, sir." *set sarcastic %+16 *set impulsive %+16 "That's not exactly something to be proud of, sir," I say in reply. The man's face scrunches into a ball of red anger at my words. Tina tries to stifle a laugh before laying a hand on my shoulder. "I'll deal with them. It's not your job to calm the riff-raff any more, Detective." I throw her a grateful nod as she moves towards the landlord with a stern frown. Her tall, statuesque figure is hidden behind the stiff, unshapely, dark blue uniform; her pretty features contrast against the heavy belt and boots she wears. *goto tinachoice #"You're a businessman, not a policeman, so please stay back." *set charming %-16 *set friendly %-16 "You're a businessman, not a policeman, so please stay back," I call. The man's face stiffens at my words and he attempts to splutter a reply. *if (gender= "non-binary") "$!{mc_she}'re right, sir," Tina calls to him, before laying a hand on my shoulder. "I'll deal with them. It's not your job to calm the riff-raff any more, Detective." *if ((gender= "male")or(gender= "female")) "$!{mc_she}'s right, sir," Tina calls to him, before laying a hand on my shoulder. "I'll deal with them. It's not your job to calm the riff-raff any more, Detective." I throw her a grateful nod as she moves towards the landlord with a stern frown. Her tall, statuesque figure is hidden behind the stiff, unshapely, dark blue uniform; her pretty features contrast against the heavy belt and boots she wears. *goto tinachoice #"Demands will get you nowhere." *set easygoing %+16 *set friendly %-16 "Demands will get you nowhere," I reply. The man's face scrunches into a knot of crimson anger. "Demands won't, but I guess I'll still have to deal with him," Tina says, laying a hand on my shoulder. "Plus, it's not your job to calm the riff-raff any more, Detective." I throw her a grateful nod as she moves towards the landlord with a stern frown. Her tall, statuesque figure is hidden behind the stiff, unshapely, dark blue uniform; her pretty features contrast against the heavy belt and boots she wears. *goto tinachoice #"I'm sorry, sir, but we can't give out details at this time." *set easygoing %+16 *set friendly %+16 "I'm sorry, sir," I reply, my tone as light and polite as I can make it. "But we can't give out details at this time." Tina places a hand on my shoulder. "You go on ahead; I'll deal with him. It's not your job to settle this lot any more, Detective." I throw her a grateful nod as she moves towards the landlord with a stern frown. Her tall, statuesque figure is hidden behind the stiff, unshapely, dark blue uniform; her pretty features contrast against the heavy belt and boots she wears. *goto tinachoice #Ignore him. *set impulsive %-16 *set friendly %-16 I turn my back further on the man, hearing his angry attempt at a spluttered retort as I do so. Tina groans before laying a hand on my shoulder. "You go on ahead; I'll deal with them. It's not your job to calm the riff-raff any more, Detective." I throw her a grateful nod as she moves towards the landlord with a stern frown. Her tall, statuesque figure is hidden behind the stiff, unshapely, dark blue uniform; her pretty features contrast against the heavy belt and boots she wears. *goto tinachoice *label tinachoice If I'd known her before becoming such good friends as partners… *choice *if (gender="female") #…I might have made a move—I'm only attracted to women. *set attraction "gay" *goto liattract *if (gender="female") #…I wouldn't have made a move—I'm only attracted to men. *set attraction "straight" *goto liattract *if (gender="female") #…I might have made a move—I'm attracted to men and women. *set attraction "bisexual" *goto liattract *if (gender="male") #…I might have made a move—I'm only attracted to women. *set attraction "straight" *goto liattract *if (gender="male") #…I wouldn't have made a move—I'm only attracted to men. *set attraction "gay" *goto liattract *if (gender="male") #…I might have made a move—I'm attracted to men and women. *set attraction "bisexual" *goto liattract *if (gender="non-binary") #…I might have made a move—I'm only attracted to women. *set attraction "straight" *goto liattract *if (gender="non-binary") #…I wouldn't have made a move—I'm only attracted to men. *set attraction "gay" *goto liattract *if (gender="non-binary") #…I might have made a move—I'm attracted to men and women. *set attraction "bisexual" *goto liattract *label liattract *if ((gender ="female")and(attraction ="straight")) *set adam "Adam" *set a_him "him" *set a_his "his" *set a_she "he" *set a_man "man" *set nate "Nate" *set nathaniel "Nathaniel" *set n_him "him" *set n_his "his" *set n_she "he" *set n_man "man" *set felix "Felix" *set f_him "him" *set f_his "his" *set f_she "he" *set f_man "man" *set mason "Mason" *set m_him "him" *set m_his "his" *set m_she "he" *set m_man "man" *set bob_him "him" *set bob_his "his" *set bob_she "he" *set bob_man "man" *set bob_mr "Mr" *set bob_petname "angel" *goto chap1_6 *elseif ((gender ="female")and(attraction ="gay")) *set adam "Ava" *set a_him "her" *set a_his "her" *set a_she "she" *set a_man "woman" *set nate "Nat" *set nathaniel "Natalie" *set n_him "her" *set n_his "her" *set n_she "she" *set n_man "woman" *set felix "Farah" *set f_him "her" *set f_his "her" *set f_she "she" *set f_man "woman" *set mason "Morgan" *set m_him "her" *set m_his "her" *set m_she "she" *set m_man "woman" *set bob_him "her" *set bob_his "her" *set bob_she "she" *set bob_man "woman" *set bob_mr "Miss" *set bob_petname "angel" *goto chap1_6 *elseif ((gender ="female")and(attraction ="bisexual")) *set adam "Adam" *set a_him "him" *set a_his "his" *set a_she "he" *set a_man "man" *set nate "Nate" *set nathaniel "Nathaniel" *set n_him "him" *set n_his "his" *set n_she "he" *set n_man "man" *set felix "Farah" *set f_him "her" *set f_his "her" *set f_she "she" *set f_man "woman" *set mason "Morgan" *set m_him "her" *set m_his "her" *set m_she "she" *set m_man "woman" *set bob_him "him" *set bob_his "his" *set bob_she "he" *set bob_man "man" *set bob_mr "Mr" *set bob_petname "angel" *goto chap1_6 *elseif ((gender ="male")and(attraction ="straight")) *set adam "Ava" *set a_him "her" *set a_his "her" *set a_she "she" *set a_man "woman" *set nate "Nat" *set nathaniel "Natalie" *set n_him "her" *set n_his "her" *set n_she "she" *set n_man "woman" *set felix "Farah" *set f_him "her" *set f_his "her" *set f_she "she" *set f_man "woman" *set mason "Morgan" *set m_him "her" *set m_his "her" *set m_she "she" *set m_man "woman" *set bob_him "her" *set bob_his "her" *set bob_she "she" *set bob_man "woman" *set bob_mr "Miss" *set bob_petname "handsome" *goto chap1_6 *elseif ((gender ="male")and(attraction ="gay")) *set adam "Adam" *set a_him "him" *set a_his "his" *set a_she "he" *set a_man "man" *set nate "Nate" *set nathaniel "Nathaniel" *set n_him "him" *set n_his "his" *set n_she "he" *set n_man "man" *set felix "Felix" *set f_him "him" *set f_his "his" *set f_she "he" *set f_man "man" *set mason "Mason" *set m_him "him" *set m_his "his" *set m_she "he" *set m_man "man" *set bob_him "him" *set bob_his "his" *set bob_she "he" *set bob_man "man" *set bob_mr "Mr" *set bob_petname "handsome" *goto chap1_6 *elseif ((gender ="male")and(attraction ="bisexual")) *set adam "Ava" *set a_him "her" *set a_his "her" *set a_she "she" *set a_man "woman" *set nate "Nat" *set nathaniel "Natalie" *set n_him "her" *set n_his "her" *set n_she "she" *set n_man "woman" *set felix "Felix" *set f_him "him" *set f_his "his" *set f_she "he" *set f_man "man" *set mason "Mason" *set m_him "him" *set m_his "his" *set m_she "he" *set m_man "man" *set bob_him "him" *set bob_his "his" *set bob_she "he" *set bob_man "man" *set bob_mr "Mr" *set bob_petname "handsome" *goto chap1_6 *elseif ((gender ="non-binary")and(attraction ="straight")) *set adam "Ava" *set a_him "her" *set a_his "her" *set a_she "she" *set a_man "woman" *set nate "Nat" *set nathaniel "Natalie" *set n_him "her" *set n_his "her" *set n_she "she" *set n_man "woman" *set felix "Farah" *set f_him "her" *set f_his "her" *set f_she "she" *set f_man "woman" *set mason "Morgan" *set m_him "her" *set m_his "her" *set m_she "she" *set m_man "woman" *set bob_him "her" *set bob_his "her" *set bob_she "she" *set bob_man "woman" *set bob_mr "Miss" *set bob_petname "angel" *goto chap1_6 *elseif ((gender ="non-binary")and(attraction ="gay")) *set adam "Adam" *set a_him "him" *set a_his "his" *set a_she "he" *set a_man "man" *set nate "Nate" *set nathaniel "Nathaniel" *set n_him "him" *set n_his "his" *set n_she "he" *set n_man "man" *set felix "Felix" *set f_him "him" *set f_his "his" *set f_she "he" *set f_man "man" *set mason "Mason" *set m_him "him" *set m_his "his" *set m_she "he" *set m_man "man" *set bob_him "him" *set bob_his "his" *set bob_she "he" *set bob_man "man" *set bob_mr "Mr" *set bob_petname "angel" *goto chap1_6 *elseif ((gender ="non-binary")and(attraction ="bisexual")) *set adam "Ava" *set a_him "her" *set a_his "her" *set a_she "she" *set a_man "woman" *set nate "Nat" *set nathaniel "Natalie" *set n_him "her" *set n_his "her" *set n_she "she" *set n_man "woman" *set felix "Felix" *set f_him "him" *set f_his "his" *set f_she "he" *set f_man "man" *set mason "Mason" *set m_him "him" *set m_his "his" *set m_she "he" *set m_man "man" *set bob_him "him" *set bob_his "his" *set bob_she "he" *set bob_man "man" *set bob_mr "Mr" *set bob_petname "angel" *goto chap1_6 *label chap1_6 I shake away the thought, turning to head towards the crime scene. It's not far before I stumble to a stop, holding up my hands to keep balance as a technician walks in front of my path. The woman clicks her tongue at me before continuing to bend down and retrieve a piece of trash, carefully storing it in a clear plastic bag and sealing the top. I move forwards once more, my path like a dance as I make my way through a maze of yellow tags and disgruntled technicians. I avoid coming up against the wall, which is slick with something I don't even want to think about. Thankfully, I make it past the busiest part to find Doctor Turner crouched over the body. He looks up at me and frowns. "Sorry this has to be your first case, $!{name}." "Yeah…." "It's pretty amazing to think I delivered you as a baby and now here you are, as a peer." His pride in me is dulled somewhat due to our meeting over a dead body. The gloomy light of the morning makes the grey peppering his short, black hair seem lighter, and his deep brown skin a little more aged, than usual. A quiet punctuates the air between us. Dr. Turner returns to looking over the still figure at his feet. *choice #Look closer at the body. *set science %+10 I look closer at the body, though I can't get a clear view of the victim as they're on their front. "Hold on, I'll turn them over for you. Think the city boys are done," Turner says. I note the glare he throws towards the crime scene techs. Wayhaven is too small and quiet a place for those types of people, so when a major crime happens they are sent down to aid from the big city. It's the first time this has happened in my lifetime, and the city techs and small town people obviously aren't mixing well. Turner places his hands beneath the body before rolling it over. I wince a little at the dull thud that sounds as it topples over completely, a reaction noted by the keen, if ageing, doctor. He and I both lean to look closer. It's a woman; she has lengths of blonde hair matted together and deep bruises marring her cold, freckled skin. Her eyes are—thankfully—closed, though it doesn't make her look peaceful. My gaze scans the woman, though I don't have to look far to find something unusual. Deep, ragged gashes run down the lengths of her forearms; the skin around the torn wounds is stained deep crimson and purple. *choice #Turn away from the wounds. *set heart %+10 I turn away from the wounds, my mind whirling with the thought of what she must have suffered. "Not easy seeing your first body, is it?" Doctor Turner says quietly, his wrinkled face creased deeper in sympathy. *goto chap1_7 #Clench my jaw and hold my gaze. *set heart %+6 I clench my jaw at the sight of the wounds, but I continue to stare at them in case they might reveal something. "Not easy seeing your first body, is it?" Doctor Turner says quietly, his wrinkled face creased deeper in sympathy. *goto chap1_7 #Continue looking without issue. *set heart %-10 I continue looking over the wounds without issue, hoping they might reveal something. "You're braver than I was when I saw my first body," Doctor Turner says with a half-smile. *goto chap1_7 #"Do you know who the victim is?" *set deduction %+10 "Do you know who the victim is, doctor?" "I haven't had a proper look at them yet. I had to wait until those city boys were done," he says, and I note the glare he throws towards the crime scene techs. Wayhaven is too small and quiet a place for those types of people, so when a major crime happens they are sent down to aid from the big city. It's the first time this has happened in my lifetime, and the city techs and small town people obviously aren't mixing well. Turner places his hands beneath the body before rolling it over. I wince a little at the dull thud that sounds as it topples over completely, a reaction noted by the keen, if ageing, doctor. I don't recognise the woman spread on the trash-lined street before me, her blonde hair matted and her freckled, pale skin marred with bruises. Neither, it seems, does the doctor. "You don't know her?" I ask. "Nope," he replies. "I don't think she can be from Wayhaven. I see to pretty much everyone's health here, and I have never seen her before." I give a nod of understanding and look back at the lifeless woman. *choice #Turn away from her. *set heart %+10 I turn away from the woman, my mind whirling with the thought of what she must have suffered. "Not easy seeing your first body, is it?" Doctor Turner says quietly, his wrinkled face creased deeper in sympathy. *goto chap1_7 #Clench my jaw and hold my gaze. *set heart %+6 I clench my jaw at the sight of her pale form, but I continue to stare at in case it might reveal something. "Not easy seeing your first body, is it?" Doctor Turner says quietly, his wrinkled face creased deeper in sympathy. *goto chap1_7 #Continue looking without issue. *set heart %-10 I continue looking over the woman without issue, wondering who she might be. "You're braver than I was when I saw my first body," Doctor Turner says with a half-smile. *goto chap1_7 #"Can they be covered yet? Give them a little peace." *set people %+10 "Can we cover them yet?" I ask with a frown. "Give them a little peace." "I think they're far from needing peace in this life," he replies. "We better check their identity. I couldn't roll them over until the city boys were done." I note the glare he throws towards the crime scene techs. Wayhaven is too small and quiet a place for those types of people, so when a major crime happens they are sent down to aid from the big city. It's the first time this has happened in my lifetime, and the city techs and small town people obviously aren't mixing well. Turner places his hands beneath the body before rolling it over. I wince a little at the dull thud that sounds as it topples over completely, a reaction noted by the keen, if ageing, doctor. A woman lays spread before us, her cold, freckled skin marred by bruises. *choice #Turn away from her. *set heart %+10 I turn away from the woman, my mind whirling with the thought of what she must have suffered. "Not easy seeing your first body, is it?" Doctor Turner says quietly, his wrinkled face creased deeper in sympathy. "Well, anyway, I don't think she can be from Wayhaven. I see to pretty much everyone's health here, and I have never seen her before." *goto chap1_7 #Clench your jaw and hold your gaze. *set heart %+6 I clench my jaw at the sight of her pale form, but I continue to stare in case it might reveal something. "Not easy seeing your first body, is it?" Doctor Turner says quietly, his wrinkled face creased deeper in sympathy. "Well, anyway, I don't think she can be from Wayhaven. I see to pretty much everyone's health here, and I have never seen her before." *goto chap1_7 #Continue looking without issue. *set heart %-10 I continue looking over the woman without issue, wondering who she might be. "You're braver than I was when I saw my first body," Doctor Turner says with a half-smile. "I don't think she can be from Wayhaven. I see to pretty much everyone's health here, and I have never seen her before." *goto chap1_7 *label chap1_7 "I just can't believe there's been a murder. Here. In Wayhaven." My words come out in a confused mumble. "I know what you mean. The last time there was violence in this town was back in my grandfather's day," he says, shaking his head. His thin-framed glasses wriggle down his nose; he pushes them back up and shrugs. "Can you give me the time of death?" I ask. "That's not my call to make," he replies, bristling slightly with his words. "That's your man's job back at the lab." He doesn't bother to hold back the disdain in his voice, obviously not pleased at having to give responsibility to another 'city boy.' "I'm only here to make sure the body is really dead." *choice #"Make sure 'she' is dead. She was a person, not just a body." *set people %+6 *set bybook %-10 "Make sure 'she' is dead," I correct him. He frowns in confusion. "Pardon?" "She was a person, not just a body." Turner nods and gives a warm smile of apology. "Of course; you're right." He turns to face the techs behind him, their mask-covered faces giving them an eerie look. "You can take her away now." *goto chap1_8 #"Hopefully it won't take long to find out more about it." *set deduction %+6 *set bybook %+10 "Hopefully it won't take long to find out more about it." "Yeah," he says, giving a tense smile. "An unsolved murder isn't the kind of thing you want hanging around you at the start of a career." I throw him a stare and he chuckles slightly. "Sorry." He turns to face the techs behind him, their mask-covered faces giving them an eerie look. "You can take the body away now." *goto chap1_8 #"The quicker we can clear this up, the better." *set bybook %+18 "The quicker we can clear all of this up, the better." I fold my arms. "I don't want an unsolved murder to be the thing I'm remembered for in this town." "I'm sure you'll be fine," he says. "How hard can it be to find the murderer in a town this size?" I arch a brow, not sure I have as much confidence as he does. He turns to face the techs behind him, their mask-covered faces giving them an eerie look. "You can take the body away now." *goto chap1_8 #"At least we can move her out of the sight of that crowd." *set bybook %-10 "At least we can move her out of sight of the crowd now," I say, glancing back to glare at the mass of spectators. "You can't blame them," Turner says, catching my attention once again. "People are curious." "Their morbid curiosity isn't to my liking." He offers a warm smile before turning to the tech guys behind him, their mask-covered faces slightly eerie. "You can take the body away now." *goto chap1_8 *label chap1_8 He then strides away down the street to where his black sports car is parked. "Good luck with it all, $!{name}," he calls back with a slight wave of his hand. *page_break "Find out anything useful from the doc?" Tina asks as she moves back to my side. We both watch for a moment as the techs move forward to throw a white cloth over the victim. "We'll know more when Verda takes a look at her," I reply. "Are you okay getting statements from the witnesses?" "Sure," she replies. "I've already started on it." I give a nod of appreciation. "Take Douglas from the station if you need help." "I'd have better luck getting help from a parrot than from that boy," she scoffs. She moves away, her pad flipped open in preparation. With the crowds, the technicians, and the sheer amount of rubbish still littering the alleyway, I'm not sure how much more I can get from the crime scene. I begin to head out of the street and back towards my car. "Officer $!{surname}—I mean, Detective!" My shoulders instantly hunch at the voice, and I roll my head from side to side to release the sudden tension before turning to face the source of the call. "Bobby Marks," I say. "Why am I not surprised to find you here?" Bobby, being the only journalist in the small town, leaps on any kind of gossip ${bob_she} can—whether it be true or not. This is probably the closest to real news ${bob_she}'s ever had. Bobby also happens to have a reputation as a giant pain in the ass. Still, as far as my relationship with ${bob_him} goes… *choice #…I've only met ${bob_him} a few times. *set bobex "nothing" I've only met Bobby a few times, but I do know ${bob_she} uses bribes to find out extra information from some of our volunteers, as well as wriggling ${bob_his} way into people's personal lives to report to everyone in town. *choice #I really don't like people who are happy to spill other's secrets for profit. I really don't like people who are willing to spill other's secrets for profit, and Bobby falls exactly into that category. Our professional relationship is not exactly friendly because of it. *goto chap1_9 #Annoying though ${bob_she} may be, ${bob_she} doesn't bother me much. *set bobrp +2 As annoying as Bobby can be, ${bob_she} really doesn't bother me much. We bump into each other now and then, but neither of us pays much mind to the other. *goto chap1_9 #I can handle someone like Bobby, but I don't like having to. *set bobrp +1 I've dealt with Bobby a few times now, but each time only makes me like ${bob_him} just that little bit less. I can't see today being any different. *goto chap1_9 #Bobby's just doing ${bob_his} job. *set bobrp +3 Bobby's just doing ${bob_his} job, the same way I am. The few times we've bumped into each other, I can't say I've formed much of an opinion of ${bob_him}. *goto chap1_9 #…unfortunately, ${bob_she} also happens to be my ex. *set bobex "love" $!{bob_she} also happens to be my ex. I thank myself daily for getting out when I did. The ${bob_man} would do anything ${bob_she} can to get ahead, including stealing all of my essays in college and using them as ${bob_his} own—while we were dating! As if the bribes to find out extra information from some of our volunteers aren't enough, Bobby also likes to wiggle ${bob_his} way into people's personal lives and report it to everyone in town. *choice #But the past is the past, and I have no issue with ${bob_him} now. *set optimist %+10 *set bobrp +3 The past is the past, and neither of us can change that. We may not have much of a personal relationship any more, but we can keep it civil in a professional one. At least, I can, anyway. *goto chap1_9 #It's hard to be around ${bob_him}, but I won't let ${bob_him} see that. *set optimist %+6 *set bobrp +1 It's hard to be around Bobby, but I won't ever let ${bob_him} see that. The few times we've bumped into each other, I try to just ignore ${bob_him} completely before the memories resurface. *goto chap1_9 #The grudge I hold for ${bob_him} will never leave. *set optimist %-10 The grudge I have for Bobby is one that will never shift. To think I once trusted ${bob_him}! Ugh…I let out a quiet groan in embarrassment of my past self. *goto chap1_9 #I won't give ${bob_him} the pleasure of even thinking about ${bob_him} any more. *set optimist %+10 *set bobrp +2 I won't give ${bob_him} the pleasure of even thinking about ${bob_him} any more. $!{bob_she}'s out of my mind and memories. Even if it still niggles a little sometimes. *goto chap1_9 #…${bob_she}'s an ex-friend. *set bobex "friend" $!{bob_she} also happens to be my ex-friend. I thank myself daily for ending that friendship when I did. The ${bob_man} would do anything ${bob_she} can to get ahead. $!{bob_she} even used our so-called friendship to print a story about me in the college paper, using information I had given ${bob_him} in confidence! And as if that wasn't enough, I know ${bob_she} bribes our volunteer workers to find out extra information, as well as wiggling ${bob_his} way into people's personal lives and reporting it to everyone in town. *choice #But the past is the past, and I have no issue with ${bob_him} now. *set optimist %+10 *set bobrp +3 The past is the past, and neither of us can change that. We may not have much of a personal relationship any more, but we can keep our professional relationship civil. At least, I can, anyway. *goto chap1_9 #It's hard to be around ${bob_him}, but I won't let ${bob_him} see that. *set optimist %+6 *set bobrp +1 It's hard to be around Bobby, but I won't ever let ${bob_him} see that. The few times we've bumped into each other, I try to just ignore ${bob_him} completely before the memories resurface. *goto chap1_9 #The grudge I hold for ${bob_him} will never leave. *set optimist %-10 The grudge I have for Bobby is one that will never shift. To think I once trusted ${bob_him}! Ugh…I let out a quiet groan in embarrassment of my past self. *goto chap1_9 #I won't give ${bob_him} the pleasure of even thinking about ${bob_him} any more. *set optimist %+10 *set bobrp +2 I won't give ${bob_him} the pleasure of even thinking about ${bob_him} any more; ${bob_she}'s out of my mind and memories. Even if it still niggles a little sometimes. *goto chap1_9 *label chap1_9 $!{bob_she} grins at me as ${bob_she} approaches, ${bob_his} phone held out like a microphone. "What's happened here? Can you tell me—" "No, I can't," I reply curtly, pushing the phone back as ${bob_she} thrusts it closer. "Nothing at all?" "No, nothing at all," I repeat, dipping beneath the barrier and heading for the sanctuary of my car. *if (bobex = "love") "Not even for an old friend?" I shudder at the way ${bob_she} says 'old friend,' once again reminded of my error in judgement in college when we dated. *choice #"No, definitely not." *set impulsive %-6 *if ((bobrp = "0")or(bobrp = "1")) "No, definitely not," I answer, trying to hold back the sneer from my face. I apparently don't manage to hide it very well, gauging by the triumphant smile ${bob_she} throws me. $!{bob_she} is obviously pleased at getting under my skin once more. *if ((bobrp = "2")or(bobrp = "3")) "No, definitely not," I answer. $!{bob_she} steps closer anyway, in obvious hope ${bob_she}'s gotten under my skin enough to make me crack. "Come on now, $!{name}," Bobby coos. "I'm sure there's something you can tell someone you know as well as me." "Goodbye, Bobby," I say with finality, marching the last few paces to my car. I yank open the door and sink into the silent solace of the front seat. Bobby continues to shout muffled pleas through the window, so I turn on the radio and strap on my seatbelt. I rev the engine, loud enough to be sure no one doubts my resolve to run them over if they don't move. The sea of spectators quickly parts as I reverse out of the alley. *goto chap1_10 #"If I had anything, you would be the last person I'd tell." *set impulsive %+6 *if ((bobrp = "0")or(bobrp = "1")) "If I had anything, Bobby, you'd be the last person I'd tell," I answer, trying to hold back the sneer from my face. I apparently don't manage to hide it very well, gauging by the triumphant smile ${bob_she} throws me, obviously pleased at getting under my skin once more. *if ((bobrp = "2")or(bobrp = "3")) "If I had anything, Bobby, you'd be the last person I'd tell," I answer. Still, ${bob_she} steps closer, obviously hoping ${bob_she}'s gotten under my skin enough to make me crack. "Come on now, $!{name}," Bobby coos. "Don't let our professional relationship be affected by our personal one." "Goodbye, Bobby," I say with finality, marching the last few paces to my car. I yank open the door and sink into the silent solace of the front seat. Bobby continues to shout muffled pleas through the window, so I turn on the radio and strap on my seatbelt. I rev the engine, loud enough to be sure no one doubts my resolve to run them over if they don't move. The sea of spectators quickly parts as I reverse out of the alley. *goto chap1_10 #"Since we're such 'old friends,' you should believe me when I say no." *set sarcastic %+6 *if ((bobrp = "0")or(bobrp = "1")) "Since we're such 'old friends,' you should believe me when I say no," I answer, trying to hold back the sneer from my face. I apparently don't manage to hide it very well, gauging by the triumphant smile ${bob_she} throws me, obviously pleased at getting under my skin once more. *if ((bobrp = "2")or(bobrp = "3")) "Since we're such 'old friends,' you should believe me when I say no," I answer. $!{bob_she} steps closer anyway, in obvious hope ${bob_she}'s gotten under my skin enough to make me crack. "Come on now, $!{name}," Bobby coos. "You wound me with that kind of talk." "Goodbye, Bobby," I say with finality, marching the last few paces to my car. I yank open the door and sink into the silent solace of the front seat. Bobby continues to shout muffled pleas through the window, so I turn on the radio and strap on my seatbelt. I rev the engine, loud enough to be sure no one doubts my resolve to run them over if they don't move. The sea of spectators quickly parts as I reverse out of the alley. *goto chap1_10 #"You know I can't say anything." *set sarcastic %-6 *if ((bobrp = "0")or(bobrp = "1")) "You know I can't say anything," I answer, trying to keep a calmness about me. I apparently don't manage it, judging from the triumphant smile ${bob_she} throws me, obviously pleased at getting under my skin once more. *if ((bobrp = "2")or(bobrp = "3")) "You know I can't say anything," I answer, but ${bob_she} steps closer anyway in obvious hope ${bob_she}'s gotten under my skin enough to make me crack. "Come on now, $!{name}," Bobby coos. "You wound me with such a cold reply." "Goodbye, Bobby," I say with finality, marching the last few paces to my car. I yank open the door and sink into the silent solace of the front seat. Bobby continues to shout muffled pleas through the window, so I turn on the radio and strap on my seatbelt. I rev the engine, loud enough to be sure no one doubts my resolve to run them over if they don't move. The sea of spectators quickly parts as I reverse out of the alley. *goto chap1_10 *elseif (bobex = "friend") "Not even for an old friend?" I tense at the way ${bob_she} says 'old friend,' once again reminded of my error in judgement in college when I thought our friendship had meaning. *choice #"No, definitely not." *set impulsive %-6 *if ((bobrp = "0")or(bobrp = "1")) "No, definitely not," I answer, trying to hold back the sneer from my face. I apparently don't manage to hide it very well, gauging by the triumphant smile ${bob_she} throws me, obviously pleased at getting under my skin once more. *if ((bobrp = "2")or(bobrp = "3")) "No, definitely not," I answer. $!{bob_she} steps closer anyway, in obvious hope ${bob_she}'s gotten under my skin enough to make me crack. "Come on now, $!{name}," Bobby calls. "I'm sure there's something you can tell someone you know as well as me." "Goodbye, Bobby," I say with finality, marching the last few paces to my car. I yank open the door and sink into the silent solace of the front seat. Bobby continues to shout muffled pleas through the window, so I turn on the radio and strap on my seatbelt. I rev the engine, loud enough to be sure no one doubts my resolve to run them over if they don't move. The sea of spectators quickly parts as I reverse out of the alley. *goto chap1_10 #"If I had anything, you would be the last person I'd tell." *set impulsive %+6 *if ((bobrp = "0")or(bobrp = "1")) "If I had anything, Bobby, you'd be the last person I'd tell," I answer, trying to hold back the sneer from my face. I apparently don't manage to hide it very well, gauging by the triumphant smile ${bob_she} throws me, obviously pleased at getting under my skin once more. *if ((bobrp = "2")or(bobrp = "3")) "If I had anything, Bobby, you'd be the last person I'd tell," I answer. Still, ${bob_she} steps closer, obviously hoping ${bob_she}'s gotten under my skin enough to make me crack. "Come on now, $!{name}," Bobby calls. "Don't let our professional relationship be affected by our personal one." "Goodbye, Bobby," I say with finality, marching the last few paces to my car. I yank open the door and sink into the silent solace of the front seat. Bobby continues to shout muffled pleas through the window, so I turn on the radio and strap on my seatbelt. I rev the engine, loud enough to be sure no one doubts my resolve to run them over if they don't move. The sea of spectators quickly parts as I reverse out of the alley. *goto chap1_10 #"Since we're such 'old friends,' you should believe me when I say no." *set sarcastic %+6 *if ((bobrp = "0")or(bobrp = "1")) "Since we're such 'old friends,' you should believe me when I say no," I answer, trying to hold back the sneer from my face. I apparently don't manage to hide it very well, gauging by the triumphant smile ${bob_she} throws me, obviously pleased at getting under my skin once more. *if ((bobrp = "2")or(bobrp = "3")) "Since we're such 'old friends,' you should believe me when I say no," I answer. $!{bob_she} steps closer anyway, in obvious hope ${bob_she}'s gotten under my skin enough to make me crack. "Come on now, $!{name}," Bobby calls. "You wound me with that kind of talk." "Goodbye, Bobby," I say with finality, marching the last few paces to my car. I yank open the door and sink into the silent solace of the front seat. Bobby continues to shout muffled pleas through the window, so I turn on the radio and strap on my seatbelt. I rev the engine, loud enough to be sure no one doubts my resolve to run them over if they don't move. The sea of spectators quickly parts as I reverse out of the alley. *goto chap1_10 #"You know I can't say anything." *set sarcastic %-6 *if ((bobrp = "0")or(bobrp = "1")) "You know I can't say anything," I answer, trying to keep a calmness about me. I apparently don't manage it, judging from the triumphant smile ${bob_she} throws me, obviously pleased at getting under my skin once more. *if ((bobrp = "2")or(bobrp = "3")) "You know I can't say anything," I answer. $!{bob_she} steps closer anyway in obvious hope ${bob_she}'s gotten under my skin enough to make me crack. "Come on now, $!{name}," Bobby calls. "You wound me with such a cold reply." "Goodbye, Bobby," I say with finality, marching the last few paces to my car. I yank open the door and sink into the silent solace of the front seat. Bobby continues to shout muffled pleas through the window, so I turn on the radio and strap on my seatbelt. I rev the engine, loud enough to be sure no one doubts my resolve to run them over if they don't move. The sea of spectators quickly parts as I reverse out of the alley. *goto chap1_10 *elseif (bobex = "unknown") "Goodbye, Bobby," I say with finality, marching the last few paces to my car. I yank open the door and sink into the silent solace of the front seat. Bobby continues to shout muffled pleas through the window, so I turn on the radio and strap on my seatbelt. I rev the engine, loud enough to be sure no one doubts my resolve to run them over if they don't move. The sea of spectators quickly parts as I reverse out of the alley. *goto chap1_10 *label chap1_10 *page_break *set bobmet "true" It'll be a while before Soloman Verda, Wayhaven's only pathologist, has anything to report, so I decide to take a quick brunch. I drive the car around to the swanky, modern side of town. The redbrick factories that make up every foundation and building in Wayhaven have all been given a coat of fresh white or classy grey paint in this area. Tidy shop fronts line the streets, each with a scripted, scrolling shop name running across the top of the door. The Square is the centre of this modern hub, and I pull up to park beside the bakery. Getting out, I try not to break my ankle on the aesthetically pleasing, but treacherous, cobblestone street. Thankfully, the wet, slushy blanket of leaves that covers the roads of Wayhaven have long ago been cleared away from the Square. I doubt the leaves even had a chance to touch the ground before someone was plucking them up and throwing them out. The bakery is surprisingly empty. I stumble to a stop inside the doorway as a waft of hot air, lined with the scent of fresh bread, embraces me. "Good morning, $!{name}." Haley, the bakery owner, greets me with a grin, her ivory cheeks flushed red and a ring of white-blonde hair just visible beneath a red-and-white chequered chef's hat. "What can I get you?" I stare at the curved display and the pastry goodies spread behind it, the fresh warmth of them steaming the glass. *choice #"Just a coffee." *set pastry "coffee" "I better just have a coffee, Haley. Thanks." She gives a nod and turns to the machine, the bitter, fresh scent of the coffee beans instantly filling the small shop. After a moment, she turns back and places the paper cup down on the counter. "On the house." *goto chap1_11 #"Just a cup of tea." *set pastry "tea" "I better just have a tea, Haley. Thanks." She gives a nod and turns to the machine, the hot, aromatic scent of tea instantly filling the small shop. After a moment, she turns back and places the paper cup down on the counter. "On the house." *goto chap1_11 #"Just a water." *set pastry "water" "I better just have a water, Haley. Thanks." She gives a nod and turns to the counter behind her, the enticing scent of the pastries still filling the small shop. After a moment, she turns back and places the bottle down on the counter. "On the house." *goto chap1_11 #"Coffee and a pastry." *set pastry "coffeepastry" "I'll have a coffee, please." My gaze flickers to the pastries, their scent enticing me closer. "And one of those." She gives a smile and turns to the counter behind her, the bitter smell of coffee beans mixing with the pastries, making my stomach rumble. After a moment, she turns back and places down the paper cup and bag on the counter. "On the house." *goto chap1_11 #"Tea and a pastry." *set pastry "teapastry" "I'll have a tea, please." My gaze flickers to the pastries, their scent enticing me closer. "And one of those." She gives a smile and turns to the counter behind her, the aroma of hot tea mixing with the pastries, making my stomach rumble. After a moment, she turns back and places down the paper cup and bag on the counter. "On the house." *goto chap1_11 #"Water and a pastry." *set pastry "waterpastry" "I'll have a water, please." My gaze flickers to the pastries, their scent enticing me closer. "And one of those." She gives a smile and turns to the counter behind her. After a moment, she turns back and places down the bottle and paper bag on the counter. "On the house." *goto chap1_11 *label chap1_11 "Are you sure?" She nods. "I heard you're gonna need it—what with that murder and all." She grimaces and wipes her hands on her apron. "Yeah, guess word gets around quick." "That shouldn't surprise you," she says, chuckling. "It's worse than when we were in school." I nod in agreement. There's a saying in Wayhaven that if you don't know what's going on, you just have to ask the person next to you. Insular is an understatement. "At least I know it's you out there protecting us," she says with a genuine smile. I give a slow nod. I joined the police force because… *choice #…I wanted to help people and make them feel safe. *set backstory "help" *set people %+30 *set teamplayer %+10 I joined the force because I want to help people and make them feel safe. Though, I'm coming to realise that it isn't the uniform people respond to, it's the way I act as a person. I didn't imagine that the worst crimes I would have to deal with would be vandalism and graffiti. Well, there was that time Mila Evans knocked her tennis ball through Jake Marshall's window, but that was all an accident. Still, it's nice to know that I am reassuring someone. *goto chap1_haley #…it was the best career in Wayhaven that could put my mind to use. *set backstory "mind" *set deduction %+30 *set teamplayer %-10 Joining the force seemed like the best opportunity for putting my mind to use. How was I to know the worst crimes I would have to deal with would be vandalism and graffiti? Well, there was that time Mila Evans knocked her tennis ball through Jake Marshall's window, but that was all an accident. Seems like this murder will certainly give my brain a workout, though. *goto chap1_haley #…with my family so against the army, the police was the next best thing. *set backstory "army" *set combat %+20 *set teamplayer %+16 My family had been so against me joining the army that the police seemed like the next best thing. The things I've had to deal with since joining haven't exactly pushed my skills. But how was I to know the worst crimes I would have to deal with would be vandalism and graffiti? Well, there was that time Mila Evans knocked her tennis ball through Jake Marshall's window, but that was all an accident. This murder seems like it will keep me on my toes, though. *goto chap1_haley #…nothing happens in Wayhaven; it seemed like an easy job. *set backstory "easy" *set teamplayer %-16 *set deduction %+8 Everyone knows nothing ever happens in Wayhaven. Nothing. Joining the force seemed like an easy job, and so far it has been. The worst I've had to deal with is vandalism and graffiti. Well, there was that time Mila Evans knocked her tennis ball through Jake Marshall's window, but that was all an accident. Seems like this murder isn't going to be a walk in the park, though…. *goto chap1_haley #…it gave me a badge, and that badge gains me free stuff and favours. *set backstory "badge" *set teamplayer %-16 *set bybook %-10 I got a badge with the job, and that badge gets me free stuff…and favours. I could hardly let that opportunity pass me by. It's paid off, as the worst crimes I have had to deal with has been vandalism and graffiti. Well, there was that time Mila Evans knocked her tennis ball through Jake Marshall's window, but that was all an accident. Seems like I won't be getting a free pass on investigating this murder, though. *goto chap1_haley #…I like a job with structure and defined rules. *set backstory "structure" *set deduction %+10 *set teamplayer %+8 I wanted a career with defined rules and a structure in place; the police force seemed the best option for that. How was I to know the worst crimes I would have to deal with would be vandalism and graffiti? Well, there was that time Mila Evans knocked her tennis ball through Jake Marshall's window, but that was all an accident. Guess I'll have to dust off the book detailing the procedure for investigating murders. *goto chap1_haley #…this job allows me to use my scientific skills. There were no other jobs like that in the city. *set backstory "science" *set science %+30 *set teamplayer %-8 I thought this job would at least allow me some access to the science side of things. There were no jobs available in the city like that, so this was a compromise. How was I to know the worst crimes I would have to investigate would be vandalism and graffiti? Well, there was that time Mila Evans knocked her tennis ball through Jake Marshall's window, but that was all an accident. This murder, while unfortunate, is going to stretch my science skills. *goto chap1_haley #…I had a rather rebellious youth. It was either the police force or jail time. *set backstory "rebel" *set bybook %-10 *set teamplayer %-16 I had a pretty rebellious youth. That trouble came back to bite me when I was faced with the choice of going to prison…or joining the force in order to 'temper my attitude.' I chose the police, and it's worked out pretty well, surprisingly. The worst crimes I've had to deal with are vandalism and graffiti. Well, there was that time Mila Evans knocked her tennis ball through Jake Marshall's window, but that was all an accident. It's probably better that someone like me is solving this murder, and not someone with a weaker stomach. *goto chap1_haley *label chap1_haley I grab up my goods, coming out of my thoughts. "Thanks for this." With a grateful nod, I leave the shop and attempt to traverse my way over the cobblestone once again. I'm just about to sip my drink when my phone buzzes, Verda's name highlighted on the screen. With a sigh, I put down my things, start the engine, and make my way over a couple of blocks to the station. *page_break [b][i]Back at the Station[/i][/b] "Morning, Douglas," I call as I push open the heavy glass door, pleased to be back in the familiar setting of the station. It was once a factory, but the insides have been completely refurbished into a bright, modern work area. The walls are mostly made of large windows, and the work stations are efficient but open. The young officer, seated behind the grey, faux-marble front desk of the station, scrambles to shove his cell phone into his pocket. Instead, he only manages to drop it on the floor. We both stare at the item as it spins on its back before slowing to a stop. Douglas shifts his wide-eyed gaze to me, both of us realising work had been far from his mind while I'd been out. I thin my lips in thought, suddenly presented with how to deal with the mayor's son now that I'm in charge of the station. *choice #No one upsets the mayor, and I'm not foolish enough to do it either. Give Douglas back the phone. *set mayor +1 *set bybook %-8 With my shoulders tensed, I force a smile onto my face and bend down to pick up the phone. "Here you go, kid," I say, handing it back to him. He eyes me for a long moment before his youthful features crease into a bright smile. "Thanks, Detective!" Then he scuttles back to his chair, his long bangs flopping in front of his face, the light blond hair almost lost against his pale skin. I shake my head and let out a long, drawn breath before making my way towards the pathologist's lab. *goto chap1_12 #Mayor's son or not, he still has to follow the rules. Take the phone. *set dphone "taken" *set bybook %+8 I let out a long, drawn-out breath before bending down to retrieve the phone. "I think I'll be holding onto this until you learn the difference between work time and free time." I slip it into my jacket pocket, watching as Douglas's youthful features drop in despair. I shake my head as he slumps back into his chair, his long bangs covering his eyes; the light blond hair almost matches his pale skin. Putting the moment out of my mind, I move towards the pathologist's lab. *goto chap1_12 #I'm not going to parent the kid; that's the mayor's job. Let him have the phone. *set bybook %-8 I let out a long, drawn-out breath and begin moving towards the pathologist's lab. I watch his long bangs flick into his eyes as he watches me for a moment, the light blond hair almost lost against his pale skin. "Pick up the phone, kid," I call as I pass, hearing Douglas' pleased reply, then his footsteps as he scrabbles to retrieve the object. *goto chap1_12 #I need to be able to rely on my own people not to be distracted at work. Hold onto the phone. *set dphone "taken" *set bybook %+8 "Really?" I ask, putting on my best disappointed voice. The young man turns away with a pout. I bend down and retrieve the phone, slipping it into my jacket pocket. "I need to be able to know you have the station covered while I'm out, Douglas." "I know," he says, like a child being chastised, which I realise he sort of is. "I'm sorry, Detective." "I'll keep it safe until the end of the day." He doesn't argue, only slumps back into his chair with a heavy sigh. His long bangs cover his puppy-dog expression, the light blond hair almost lost against his pale skin. I shake my head and begin moving towards the pathologist's lab. *goto chap1_12 *label chap1_12 *page_break As I push open the doors to the staircase that leads down to the basement lab, I wonder if how I dealt with Douglas was the right move. The all-powerful Mayor Friedman doesn't like any insult to his name…so Douglas must be a real disappointment. Still, Douglas is kind enough, just young and not great at actually remembering to focus on his work. I shake the thought away as the chill of the basement sinks into my skin. My gaze flashes over the 'no food or drink sign' nailed to the wall just a few feet from the lab, and I grip my drink. *choice #Throw it away. *set bybook %+10 *set impulsive %-8 *set easygoing %+8 *if (pastry="coffee")or(pastry="tea") Reluctantly, I throw the paper cup and its contents into the nearby bin, knowing the rules are there for a reason. *if (pastry ="water") There's not much warmth I can leech from the water bottle anyway, so I throw it away, knowing the rules are there for a reason. *if (pastry="coffeepastry")or(pastry="teapastry") Reluctantly, I throw the paper cup and its contents into the nearby bin, knowing the rules are there for a reason. *if (pastry ="waterpastry") There's not much warmth I can leech from the water bottle anyway, so I throw it away, knowing the rules are there for a reason. Now the chill really sets in, and I shiver as I finally reach the pathologist's lab. *goto chap1_13 #Keep hold of it. *set bybook %-10 *set keptdr "true" *set impulsive %+8 *set easygoing %-8 I keep walking past the sign, clutching my drink tighter. *if ((pastry ="coffee")or(pastry ="tea")) The warmth of it seeps into my fingers, and I'm glad I chose a warm beverage before visiting the chill lab. *goto chap1_13 *if ((pastry ="coffeepastry")or(pastry ="teapastry")) The warmth of it seeps into my fingers, and I'm glad I chose a warm beverage before visiting the chill lab. The pastry crumbs don't exactly look professional though, so I brush them away quickly before moving on. *if (pastry ="water") There's not much warmth I can leech from the water bottle, but still, at least it's something to keep my hands occupied. *goto chap1_13 *if (pastry ="waterpastry") There's not much warmth I can leech from the water bottle, but still, at least it's something to keep my hands occupied. The pastry crumbs don't exactly look professional though, so I brush them away quickly before moving on. *goto chap1_13 *label chap1_13 I bump the heavy door open with one hip, pacing into the clean room behind. White-tiled walls shine all around. The shimmering silver machines dotted about the edges of the room are not very welcoming. "I don't know how you work down here," I say, spying Verda sitting at his metal desk to one corner. The slender, short man isn't even wearing gloves, just a suit and a simple white medical coat. He turns and gives a grin, the expression making his dark brown eyes shimmer even in the dull, electric light. "This is the first time I've really had to work," he says, running a hand over his styled brunette hair that he always has highlighted, the colour complimenting his light brown skin. "Mostly I just deal with the overflow of natural deaths Doctor Turner can't manage." *if (keptdr = "true") He stands from his chair and moves closer, his gaze shifting to the drink in my hands. "You know you're not supposed to have that in here." I arch a brow, my own focus moving to the steaming mug of coffee on his desk. "And neither are you." He smiles, the expression bright and full of cheer. *if (keptdr = "false") I arch a brow, my focus shifting to the steaming mug of coffee on his desk. "Hey, I threw my drink away!" "That's 'cause you're someone who's better at following the rules than I am. Something you should be proud of. I picked up too many bad habits working in the city." He smiles, the expression bright and full of cheer. I snap out of my thoughts, our attention back on the white sheet on the table. The woman's head and shoulders are the only things visible. "You haven't started the autopsy yet?" He shakes his head. "No, but…" He purses his lips, a shadow of a goatee framing them. "I found something you might need." He spins around, lifting an evidence bag off the nearby counter. Inside is a cell phone. "They couldn't find this on her at the scene," I say, taking the bag and looking over it. "It was in her boot." We both stare down at the woman, her skin now a grey-white, her lips so pale they seem to have sunken back and disappeared. *choice #"We really need to find her identity so we can inform her family." *set heart %+10 *set verdar +1 *set teamplayer %+8 "We really need to find out more about her identity," I say, letting out a saddened breath. "I need to be able to inform her family." "Yeah, I don't envy you that job," Verda replies, his shoulders sagging. "But I'm glad you care about that kind of thing. More than most detectives would want to do, back in the city stations." I half-smile at him, appreciative of the compliment. *goto chap1_14 #"We really need to find her identity so I can find the killer." *set heart %-10 *set teamplayer %-8 "We really need to find her identity," I say, my expression tightening at the thought. "I need to get a start on finding the killer." "I'm sure you'll do fine, Detective," Verda replies, his shoulders sagging slightly. I frown a little at his less than enthusiastic reply. *goto chap1_14 #"I hope the rest of the people in Wayhaven are safe." *set heart %+10 *set verdar +1 *set teamplayer %+8 "I hope the rest of the people in Wayhaven are safe," I say, rolling my lips together in worry. "I don't like the idea of a killer wandering around our streets." "Agreed," Verda replies, his shoulders sagging. "Though I'm glad to hear that it's a concern of yours. Most of the detectives in the city don't seem to care for much except solving cases in order to add merits to their names." I half-smile at him, appreciative of the compliment. *goto chap1_14 #"If I can solve this, my career will be off to a good start." *set heart %-10 *set teamplayer %-8 "If I can solve this, at least my career will be off to a good start," I say, glancing up. I notice Verda's brow shift into a frown at my words, but he masks it with a smile. "Finding the killer should be good as well," he says. "Getting them off the streets to keep people safe." I give a nod in response. *goto chap1_14 *label chap1_14 "There's not much I can tell you at the moment," Verda continues. "Though I did notice bruises around her wrists and ankles." "She was tied down?" I ask, the thought making my chest tight. "So it would seem…." His voice trails off in obvious sympathy for the poor woman. My hand tightens around the cell phone, and I bring it up to turn it on through the evidence bag. The phone flashes to life and I give a sigh of relief to find it's not PIN-protected. Flicking through the call log, there are the usual names: home, work, but then only a very few other numbers. The texts are pretty standard too, though—again—very few of them. "She obviously didn't get out much," Verda says, as he glances over the phone too. *choice #"I can sympathise. I don't exactly get much of a social life in this job." *set optimist %-8 *set friendly %-12 "I can sympathise," I say, continuing to look through the phone. "It's not exactly easy balancing this job and a social life." "It can be done," Verda replies with a chuckle. "But it's hard work." "Why am I not surprised you manage to find time to get out and about?" I throw him a grin. He shrugs, then moves back towards his desk. "Life can't be all work, Detective." *goto chap1_15 #"Poor girl. She might have been less of a target if she hadn't been so isolated." *set optimist %+8 *set charming %+12 "Poor girl," I say, flicking my gaze to the lifeless woman before back to the phone. "She might have been less of a target if she hadn't been so isolated." "Maybe," Verda says with a shrug. "But that might not have been why she was targeted." "True," I say, shivering at the thought of the woman's fate. *goto chap1_15 #"I can't blame her; being that sociable is overrated." *set optimist %-8 *set charming %-12 "I can't blame her; being that sociable is overrated," I say, continuing to flick through the phone. Verda chuckles. "Life shouldn't be all about work, Detective." "But it doesn't need to be all socialising either." He arches a brow, then grins. "That's true. To each their own, I guess." *goto chap1_15 #"It's strange to think there are some who wouldn't want to go out more and know people." *set optimist %+8 *set friendly %+12 "It's strange to think there are actually some out there who don't want to get out and know others," I say with a shrug. Verda chuckles. "Everyone is different. To each their own, as they say. Though I have to say, it's not exactly an easy thing sometimes. You never know what kind of work she did. She may not have had the chance." I smile. "That's true." *goto chap1_15 *label chap1_15 The conversation is halted as I go through the photos on her phone. A few catch my attention. "Something wrong?" Verda asks. "No, it's just…" I stare at the pictures closer. They're blurred as though taken in motion, but the stained walls and cracked metal beams are familiar. "I recognise where these pictures were taken, and they seem to be the last photos she took." "You think she managed to capture where she was murdered?" "Possibly," I reply, shutting off the phone and frowning. "Looks like it's from the old Farris Warehouse at the edge of town. Tina and I had quite a few patrols up there. It's falling to pieces, but the teenagers still insist on risking their necks by going in it." "Ah, to be youthful once more," Verda says, to which I can't help but laugh. "Will you go over to the warehouse now?" "I will, after I've done some paperwork," I reply, moving to the doorway and glancing back at him. "Alone?" "I've got my radio if I need backup, but I'm pretty sure Tina checked it out already the other day. I can't imagine some deranged murderer is still hanging about in there." He frowns in concern. "Be careful, Detective." *choice #"You worried about me, Verda?" *set charming %+6 "You worried about me, Verda?" I ask, throwing him a smirk. "You're about the best person I've worked for," he replies with just as much of a smile. "I don't fancy having to get used to someone new." My laughter echoes about the room as I make my way out, shaking my head and feeling much better than I have since finding out about the case. *finish Next Chapter #"I am the model of careful." *set sarcastic %+6 "I am the very model of careful, Verda," I say with a bright smile. He rolls his eyes, but gives a chuckle. "I hope that proves true." My smile lingers as I leave the room, feeling much better than I have since finding out about the murder. *finish Next Chapter #"Thanks for your concern, but I'll be fine." *set friendly %+6 "Thanks for your concern, Verda, but I'll be fine," I reply, with a genuine smile. "I hope so," he says. "Don't like the idea of you wandering about a place like that alone." "I can handle it." I give him a final nod of farewell before leaving the room, feeling much better than I have since finding out about the murder. *finish Next Chapter #"It's my job to do these things, safe or not." *set friendly %-6 "It's my job to do these things, whether they're safe or not," I reply. "I know," he says, glancing down for a moment. "But I don't want it to be you on this table." He gestures to the cold, silver table where the victim lays. "And I don't want anyone else on that table, so it's up to me to stop this." He gives an understanding nod. I smile in return and leave the room, feeling much better than I have since finding out about the murder. *finish Next Chapter