@@.pulse;Ugh!@@ <<timed 1s>>\ The sudden smell of fried meat hits you like a punch in the nose. Your stomach turns. The idea of eating meat makes you naueseus. And pissed off. Just wow! Abuelita knows you're a vegetarian! Why can't she honor that fact instead of always forcing meat on your plate! Your stomach @@.pulse;heaves.@@
Your mood was already funky as a dirty gym sock and now--once again--you're feeling low-key depressed.
//My life is trash. Obviously the whole True Name Day promise about finally being able to make my own choices is a load of crap.//
[[A new name changes nothing.|Air103]]
<</timed>>
//Hello $name. It's me.//
What? [[Me, who?|Angel, who?]]
Nope! [[Not today.|Chapter 1: The Call]]
You watch as Abuelita shuffles about the tiny kitchen. She looks very thin and frail. You suppose she hasn't been eating properly. Unfortunately, your little garden in the backyard has been totally picked over, and the drought hasn't helped. Maybe if you tell Auntie Imani (who is not really your aunt but more like your godmother) about your food struggles, she could spare some fresh veggies and fruit from her garden. She's got a magical way with plants, even in the middle of the water shortage.
Despite this food insecurity, Abuelita has cooked you a very special True Name Day breakfast: a cup of mint tea, a soft-boiled egg, a piece of toast with jalepeno pepper jam and cinnamon baked apples. Abuelita is so good to you and you are grateful--fixing you breakfast is definitely a sweetheart move.
Just as you take a sip of tea, a major aftershock from the earlier terraquake hits.
You grab Abuelita's hand and try to keep calm. Luckily, you both are sitting down. Thank goodness nothing breaks as your little house sways and shakes. The only damage is spilt tea.
WTF! Having two big quakes on your True Name Day. [[That has to be a bad omen, right?|Terra103]]
Abuelita has cooked all of your favorites...corncakes with honey, sausages, scrambled eggs. You sit down at the table as she dishes the food onto your plate, and your stomach rumbles in anticipation. <<timed 4s>>Just then, the aftershock of the quake hits.
Your abuela stumbles and nearly falls to the floor, but you jump up and catch her. Just in time. You hold on to Abuelita as the room continues to tilt and sway. Your plate of food crashes to the floor. Filled with fear and adreneline, you hold your breath, praying for the danger to end.
Seconds later, you exhale. The quake is over. It is eerily quiet.
Abuelita sighs with relief. But you are furious, thinking about what could have happened. Abuelita is so frail. What if she had fallen and broke a hip or hit her head? Your hands curl into fists.
What if you hadn't been here to catch her?
[[Continue|Fire103]]
<</timed>>
<<set $angel to false>>
<<set $backpack to true>>
<<set $drone to "no">>
<<set $name to "">>
<<set $myangel to "">>
<<set $YoungLove to 0>>
<<set $small_town_girl to 0>>
<<set $drugtrip to 0>>
<<set $sleep to 0>>
<<set $campstarlight to false>>
<<set $truenameday to false>>
<<set $keyfob to false>>
<<set $moonphase to "New Moon">>
<<set $meditate to 0>>
<<set $monkeymind to false>>
<<set $elementpower = 0>>
<<set $gift to "nope">>
<<set $bestfriend to "Alone">>
<<set $metexplorers to false>>
<<set $bestfriend to "Alone">>
<<set $bestfriendchoice to false>>
<<set $challenge to false>>
<<set $MyMoon to "Water Moon">>
<<set $intuition to 0>>
<<set $balance to "You tend to be driven by emotional swings. You haven’t learned to use the power of feeling to tap into your inner magic and core strength.">>
<<set $trait1_description to "The last few years of your life have been traumatic and filled with uncertainty about the future and the dangers of the changing environment. You are often filled with anxious energy.">>
<<set $confidence to "You don't understand how to control elemental power (Level $elementpower/ 100) and are unsure of your abilities.">>
<<set $selfaware to "You haven't taken the time to develop a sense of your true direction and purpose. Do you even know what you like, beyond the superficial?">>
You heave a sigh--disgusted with your life and tempted to pull the blanket over your head and go back to sleep. Then you remember.
Today will be different.
Today is your 14th birthday and therefore your ''True Name Day.''
//''Finally'', you are allowed to make your own choices, starting with your name://
<<textbox "$name" $name>> \
<<button "Enter your chosen name">>
<<set $name to $name.trim()>>\
<<if $name is "">>
<<replace "#name-error">>Enter your True Name!<</replace>>
<<else>>
<<goto "Beginnings101">>
<</if>>
<</button>> \
<span id="name-error"></span>
You feel restless. But also kind of uneasy. What do you do?
[[Walk to Commerceville Main Street|Hometown]]
[[Walk to the Cemetery|FamilyCemetery]]
[[Take a Nap|Commerceville_Sleep]]You walk into <<linkreplace "town">>Commerceville<</linkreplace>> and you automatically head to the <<linkreplace "plaza">>sad, little town square<</linkreplace>>. You notice an older couple chatting idly on a bench with their fingers intertwined, their feet carefully avoiding the filth of dirty food wrappers on the ground. And over there, you see some of your friends hanging out. There by the old fountain. <<if $intuition gte 1>><<set $intuition = $intuition - 1>><</if>>
Oh! And isn't that Dono skateboarding over by the fast-food joint? Seeing them makes you smile. Cause lately between the two of you, there have definitely been some romantic sparks flying.
What do you want to do next?
[[Go hang out with your friends|OldFriends]]
[[Wave and keep walking|FamilyCemetery]]<<if $truenameday is false>>You are at the town cemetery. You walk around the outer path three times in a counter-clockwise direction, just like always. It's a old superstition that's supposed to protect you from the witch that lives in the ancient tombs. The one that sells potions made from the bones of the dead.
<<timed 5s>>Then you cut through to the center of the graveyard to where your family is buried.
<<next 3s>>You remove the wilted flowers and the weeds that have grown since your last visit.
<<next 3s>>You collapse on the ground between the graves of your mother and your little <<linkreplace "brother.">> brother, who was just a toddler when he died in the car crash.<</linkreplace>>
<<next 3s>>You weep, not knowing what else to do.
It was a mistake to come here.
You walk home and [[take a nap.|Commerceville_Sleep]]
or
You dry your eyes, take a deep breath and [[meditate.|RelaxLevel101]]
<</timed>>
<<else>>Yes, to camp! But your stomach is in knots. Shouldn't you feel better about this? Probably it wasn't a good idea to flip a coin about such an important decision.
You leave the party and walk to the town cemetery to visit your family. You walk around the outer path three times, just like always. But the night is creepy. You notice the dark dirt of recently disturbed graves.
You cut through to the center of the graveyard where your mother and brother are buried. You stand there and talk to your mother. You ask her advice.
You take a deep breath and [[meditate.|RelaxLevel101]]
<</if>><<if $truenameday is false>>
Your mood always lightens when you see your friends. You walk over to where Zora and Titus are hanging out by the old town <<linkreplace "fountain">>fountain that's been dry since seems like forever, all because of the Great Drought<</linkreplace>>. You grin when Doro sees you and runs over.
[["You wanna smoke?"|Drug Trip]] Titus says, while he rolls up a joint.<<set $drugtrip = $drugtrip + 1>>
[["Let's go hang out at the corner store,"|YoungLove]] Dono says, with a charming smile.
[[Suddenly you're very tired and want to go home|Commerceville_Sleep]]
<<else>>Your head is spinning. You rush out of Imani's house and start walking. You don't care where you go, just away from Abuelita's sad eyes and all that Camp Starlight crap. <<if $intuition gte 1>><<set $intuition = $intuition - 1>><</if>>
What a rollercoaster of a day! The worst part is that Dono left the party while you were talking about...whatever. You decide to head for the town plaza. Hopefully you can catch up with Dono and your other friends there.
The dull murmur of the night is oppressive as you walk across town. You walk fast. Basically because you sense somebody behind you.
You don't see anyone. It's just an uneasy feeling.
As you turn the corner, you can see the town plaza up ahead. You breathe a sigh of relief. You'll be safe there, you think.
But then... you hear heavy footsteps pounding behind you, moving fast and closing in.
You gasp and take off running!
[[Continue|OldFriends 2]]
<</if>>
@@.pulse;You're late!@@ <<timed 2s>>You quickly change into the white linen tunic and hemp sandals that are traditional for the ritual and then rush to the evening ceremony at Imani's house. As you travel through town, a barrage of sound and sight overwhelm your senses. The streets are crowded with factory workers--the day shift heading home and the night shift just getting started. The city's merchants are anxious to go home too, and are rudely turning out last-minute, indecisive customers. A blond woman carrying a baby argues with a sharp-featured man about the price of spoiled produce. An old man with a dark-red afro sweeps debris from the sidewalk into the gutter. All around there's the rolling clang of security gates sealing fast, as the merchants close up shop.
Soon it will be sunset, when the ceremony is scheduled to begin, so you hurry along.
Even though True Name Day is a really ancient tradition, your mother said it was an important rite of passage. Now that your time has come, Abuelita insisted you participate. Despite the fact that none of your friends are doing it. You tried getting out of it, saying, "No one believes in rites of passages these days."
"That's not true," Abuelita countered. "Commerceville is not the center of the universe."
But you didn't give in so easily. "Your own people don't even practice the indigenous traditions anymore," you rebutted. And Abuelita grew quiet. You quickly dropped the debate. Probably because neither of you wanted to think about Abuelita's son--your father. For sure you didn't. But still, for the rest of that day he was living rent free in your head, you thinking about how he ran away after the car accident.
But all of that is in the past. And here you are! Your BIG DAY!
Imani's husband (you call him Uncle Josh) opens the front door and rushes you out to the backyard where Abuelita and a small group of friends are waiting. Imani's walled garden is filled with green plants, purple and white flowers, insects buzzing and the twinkling of fairy lights.
Imani, Abuelita's <<linkreplace "best friend">>deep and mysterious friend with the multi-colored dreadlocs (who everyone suspects is a witch)<</linkreplace>>, stands in front of a towering elm tree, ready to officiate.
It's time for your [[True Name Day Ceremony.|TrueNameDay102]]
<</timed>>
<<if $truenameday is true>><<set $sleep to 5>><</if>><<set $sleep to $sleep +1>>\
<<if $sleep lte 3>>You're agitated. Your mind is whirling. But you eventually fall into a restless sleep.
Some time later, you are startled out of a <<linkreplace "familar dream.">> panicky nightmare where you're trapped underwater and surrounded by fire.<</linkreplace>>
There's a loud thumping coming from the kitchen. //What is that?//
[[Go investigate.|InvestigateThump]]
Who cares? [[Go for a walk.|FamilyCemetery]]
[[You meditate.|RelaxLevel101]]
<<elseif $sleep gt 5>>Sometimes you have bad dreams and other times you just can't sleep. Every night. Every day. You toss and turn and can't stop thinking dreaming thinking dreaming. Did you make a mistake? All over town there are swarms of blood flies. You can't stop thinking about them. You just want to stop the madness in your head. [[You go looking for your friend, Titus.|Drug Trip]]
<</if>><<if $gift is "nope">> <<goto "OpenGift">><</if>><<if $FireGirl is true>>
//Órale!// As you lace up your new runners, an unusual electric sensation you’ve never felt before--like a quiet storm--thrums in your chest. Is it excitement? Adreneline? Foreboding? You cannot tell. But the gift card says mystical Auntie Imani (who is not really your aunt but more like your godmother) has blessed the sneakers, so who knows what to expect?
Outside, you bounce on your toes and walk back and forth on the pavement in front of your house. The sneakers feel good. Real good. Sooo... feeling a sudden burst of energy, you begin to run.
The sneakers feel sick on your feet, so you run faster, just testing them out and having fun with it. Several blocks later, you let out a loud shout of exhilaration. "Yaaas!" you exclaim, face breaking into a big grin. "I've missed this kick-ass feeling!"
Pacing yourself, you settle into a long-distance runner's rhythm. It's been a long time since you've felt this good. Your mind clears and you're in the zone.
After a few kilometers, you notice that your body is feeling pretty amazing. Especially since you've basically done nothing more physical than watching telenovas and eating chips for the past year. Now, your feet feel like they're on cushions of air. Each time they connect with the terra, energy pulses up your legs and flows into your core. Powerful! You're running faster than ever and you haven't trained since the car crash. How can that be?
But the seriously magical part? Your body feels tireless. Maybe a little thirsty. But no fatigue! Insane!
You break into a full-on sprint. <<set $gift to "sneakers">>
<<elseif $AirGirl is true>>It's true you've always loved music, but you've never owned an instrument. So this is an exceptional gift! You take your silver flute and music book out to the backporch. When you place your mouth on the lip plate and blow lightly, an unusual electric sensation you’ve never felt before--like a quiet storm--thrums in your chest. Is it excitement? Anxiety? Foreboding? You cannot tell.
The silver flute produces a clear, sweet tone. "That sounds pretty," you murmur, also pleased with the way the instrument fits in your hands. You re-read the gift card explaining how the flute was blessed by Auntie Imani (who is not really your aunt but more like your godmother). "It //must// be magic," you say, quite seriously. Because everyone knows Imani is mystical AF.
You thumb through the music book, checking out the lesson plan. "Seems easy enough," you note, then you flip back to the first lesson and get started.
The notes of the silver flute are pure and ethereal. Just playing it makes your heart feel joyful. After the first lesson you take the next one too, where you learn a simple song. You practice for a long time before you finally take a break. Then you take in huge gulps of air, filling your lungs, breathing deeply and fully.
Suddenly, you feel a swirly sensation in your brain. You shake your head, trying to clear the dizzy feeling. Noticing a quick movement out of the corner of your eye, your attention snaps to a big black crow perched on a tree branch in the yard. The bird is ruffling its feathers and watching you intently. Your eyes sparkle as you lift the silver flute to your lips. The notes of the little melody you just learned float out from your flute. You are playing for the black bird and the sound is magical.
The crow turns its head to the side and stares you in the eye. Three times it rasps, "$name. $name. $name."
You gasp. The crow flies away.
You grin and turn to Lesson Three. <<set $gift to "silver flute">>
<<elseif $EarthGirl is true>>What a weird gift! You take the mysterious seeds, a small glass of water, and the rest of the stuff out to the backporch. When you place a few seeds in the palm of your hand, an unusual electric sensation you’ve never felt before--like a quiet storm--thrums in your chest. Is it excitement? Anxiety? Foreboding? You cannot tell.
//Plant just one seed in the pot//, the gift card instructs. It says they're heirloom seeds...definitely not the nefarious GMO seeds peddled by the Mama Terra killing conglomerates. No, these seeds have been harvested and blessed by Auntie Imani herself!
You plant one black seed in the dark, rich soil. Carefully, you place the rest of the seeds aside. "I'm feeling some magic beanstalk vibes," you say, as another shiver runs up your spine. "Now what-in-the-world is gonna grow from this little black seed? Hopefully something life-changing."
You water the seed--just a little, like the gift card says--and are astonished to see a green sprout immediately pop out of the soil. "How can that be?" you exclaim, though no one is around to answer. Within five minutes, the plant is half a meter tall, with one yellow pod dangling from the stalk. You wait, and when you're sure the plant is done with its magical growth spurt you carefully remove and open the pod. Inside there's a red sphere the size of a pea.
You pop the red thingee in your mouth--because, magic right? A juicy burst of flavor ignites on your tongue. "Tastes sweet like a rassleberry," you laugh. Suddenly, a vision flashes into your mind with a powerful clarity. You close your eyes and the scene is crystal clear.
You see an ancient grove of oak trees, swaying in the breeze. Like in a movie, you see yourself running past the enormous trees over to a crystal blue lake. In the vision you looked kind of scared. And you're wearing a $favorite_color backpack. You gasp in a rush of excitement. Abruptly the vision disappears.
//Was that the future?//
You open your eyes and plant another black seed...wondering what happens next. <<set $gift to "magic seeds">>
<</if>><<set $truenameday to true>><<set $elementpower = $elementpower +5>>
[[You lose track of time.|TrueNameDay101]]
After the two of you enjoy a tasty home-cooked breakfast, Abuelita gives you one of her warm, loving hugs, along with the wrapped gift you saw on the counter. Awww! She really is a sweetheart. Of course you immediately open the gift!
"It's a silver flute!" You examine the intricate engravings of birds and forest animals on the stem of the instrument.<<set $gift to "silver flute">> "Wow, it's beautiful! Like a work of art. Thank you, Abuelita! I love it! I've always wanted to play an instrument."
"You are welcome, //mi ceilo.// Remember...for this flute to become the gift you truly deserve you must practice. It comes with a lesson book, see right here." Abulita pushes a spiral bound book into your hands. "You will discover something very special about this flute. You see...it has been specially blessed by your Auntie Imani."
Hmm. Auntie Imani?? Now //that's// interesting. What do you say next? <<set $intuition = $intuition +1>>
Of course, Abuelita. [[I'll practice now.|StartQuest]]
or
I'm feeling a little tired. [[I'll practice later.|HomeLoop]]After breakfast, Abuelita gives you a big hug and the wrapped gift you spotted earlier. "Happy True Name Day," she says, looking at you proudly.
Of course you immediately open it! <<set $gift to "mystery seeds">>
"Hmm." You pull a small cotton pouch from the box. Curious, you untie the drawstring. "Oh. It's filled with some black seeds."
"Those are very special seeds cultivated by Auntie Imani," says Abuelita.
"Um. That's... cool," you say hesitantly, pulling a small $favorite_color ceramic pot and a bag of rich, black soil out of the box. "Looks like I've got the whole kit here."
Abuelita nods. "Your auntie says the seeds don't require much water and grow very fast. Very fast, indeed. You must plant one right away."
"What kind of seeds are they?" You eye the plain brown pouch with no label or clue as to what the seed would become. And if the mysterious Auntie Imani has anything to do with this...
Your grandmother just shrugs and smiles in that goofy way of hers. "Plant one and see."
You (inwardly) roll your eyes. <<set $intuition = $intuition +1>>
Thank you Abuelita. [[I'll plant them now.|StartQuest]]
or
I'm kinda tired. [[I'll plant them later.|HomeLoop]]You sip your herbal tea and in no time at all you are able to soothe yourself to calmness.
And Abuelita's breakfast? It's legit! You usually help out in the kitchen, but today was a special surprise. So you are SO grateful that you are able to eat this amazing breakfast with her. Plus--even though folks don't know--your Abuelita's got jokes! Soon she has you cracking up about the smoking hot actors on the telenovela she loves.
Then she announces that since school's out, it's time for you to have an adventure.
An adventure? What!? Can you say coincidence?!
That's when Abuelita gives you a big hug and the wrapped gift you spotted earlier. //Of course// you immediately open it!
"Hey! A new pair of sneakers!" <<set $gift to "sneakers">> You admire the cool $favorite_color waves on the shoes. They even have the new performance-minded cushiness that all the celebrities are sporting.
"I remember you were on the track team at school before the accident..." Abuelita pauses and wipes away a tear. "Well, anyway...I hope these help you to be strong again."
"Thanks, Abuelita!" You give her a long hug, but all the while what you're thinking is: //It's gonna take more than a crispy pair of kicks to make me feel strong.//
"This gift is very special," Abuelita adds in a mysterious, woo-woo manner. "Auntie Imani has blessed them. So you have to put them on now."
"Auntie Imani?" You almost laugh but catch yourself. Auntie Imani is wild, but that only makes the gift more...interesting.
"Try them on," Abuelita insists. "You must go out for a run."
You're not in the mood for a run. [[Give the sneakers a try later.|HomeLoop]]
or
You give Abuelita a kiss on the cheek and [[lace up the sneakers.|StartQuest]]
<<silently>><<set $campstarlight to true>><<set $roadtrip to false>>
<<set $moonphase to false>><<set $bestfriend to "Alone">>
<<set $keyfob to true>><<set $mealtime to false>>
<<set $selfaware to "You don’t have a good sense of your direction or purpose, but you realize there is more to the world than what you have been taught in school. You are curious to learn about what is beyond the veil.">>
<<set $trait1_description to "You are a Novice Explorer 1 and are excited to begin your journey and discover the world of magic. You value $trait1_name and hope to grow in this area while at Camp Starlight.">>
<<set $selfaware to "People wonder when you will learn to tune into your intuition, for even now you have not improved communications with your spirit guides. You are sometimes closed to receiving help and guidance.">>
<</silently>>
You examine the green keyfob, labeled with a number and the name of your cabin--//Oak Grove//. You take a deep breath, not sure if you're ready to take this next step. But then you square your shoulders, grab your stuff and walk along the Starlight Trail towards your cabin.
[[Continue|Camp Starlight Checkin 2]]
<<first>>You walk into the kitchen. Your friend Dono is sitting at the table, making a lot of noise and messing around with your giftbox from Abuelita. "How long have you been here?" you demand. They shrug.
You snatch the box out of their hands, feeling suddenly possessive. You sit down at the table and admire the $favorite_color and gold gift wrapping. "Open it," says Dono. You read the attached card, but for some reason you don't want to open the gift in front of Dono.
Also...you're kinda feeling bad about the way you blew off Abuelita at breakfast. She's been nothing but kind and you just served up nasty attitude. You never even thanked her properly for breakfast and the gift.
"C'mon. Let's hang out," says Dono, winking at you and looking like a snack. You are definitely crushing on them.
What do you do?
Hang out with [[Dono?|YoungLove]]
or
Tell Dono to [[leave.|StartQuest]]
<<finally>>
You walk into the kitchen. Your friend Dono is sitting at the table messing around with your giftbox from Abuelita. //Deja vu!!//
You hear a high pitch noise in your ear and suddenly think: Hey! This has been going on for long enough.
[[Open the gift!|StartQuest]]
<</first>><<if $truenameday is true>> <<set $YoungLove = $YoungLove +1>><</if>>
<<set $YoungLove = $YoungLove +1>>\
<<if $YoungLove lte 1>>Dono is beautiful, with copper skin and long black hair. The two of you spend the day together. When they hold your hand, your stomach flips.
Sweet! This could be an [[epic romance.|Dono]]
or
Hold up! You need to open [[Abuelita's gift.|StartQuest]]
<<elseif $YoungLove is 2>>When Dono kisses you good-night, it feels wonderful. The next day, Titus and Zora say you make a perfect couple. [[#CoupleGoals|Dono]] \
<<elseif $YoungLove gte 3>> Yep. Everyone says you and Dono are meant for each other. You both are ambitious and trying to do something with your lives. And what a relief being with somebody who totally gets you. The perfect couple.
[[Five years pass.|Dono]]
<</if>>
You need to relax. You close your eyes and use the relaxation technique your mother taught you.
<<timed 3s>>Inhale for 4 counts <<fadeout 1s>>One<</fadeout>> <<next 2s>><<fadeout 2s>>Two<</fadeout>><<next 2s>><<fadeout 2s>>Three<</fadeout>><<next 2s>><<fadeout 2s>>Four<</fadeout>>
<<next 1s>>Retain the breath for 4 counts
<<next 4s>>Exhale for 6 counts
<<fadein 1s 3s>>\<<fadeout 5s 6s>>\
Exhale through the nose. Nice and slow. Steady.\
<</fadeout>>\<</fadein>>
<<next 7s>><<nobr>>Good. Continue to breath fully. Deeply.<</nobr>>
<<fadein 1s 3s>>\
<<fadeout 5s 6s>>\
After practicing this breathwork for 2-3 rounds, your mind will be calmer. It's a nice vibe.
<</fadeout>>\
<</fadein>>
<<next 8s>><<nobr>> Breathwork helps you relax when you're feeling upset or tense. In calmness, imagine a golden light surrounding you, filled with love and peace.
<<if visited () is 1>><<set $intuition = $intuition + 1>>//Receive: +1 Intuitive Whisper//<</if>>
[[Continue|RelaxLevel102]]
<</nobr>><</timed>>
<<if $intuition gte 1>><<set $intuition = $intuition - 1>><</if>><<if $truenameday is true>> <<set $drugtrip = $drugtrip+ 2>> <</if>>
<<if $drugtrip lte 1>>You start hanging out with Titus more, getting high after school and whenever. Right now your head is spinning. Finally the endless thoughts in your mind cease. Instead, you see colors. Red. Orange. Yellow.
[[You pass out.|Commerceville_Sleep]] Someone takes you home.
<<elseif $drugtrip is 2>>C'mon Titus!! Pass it already. [[It feels good not to think.|Dono]]
<<elseif $drugtrip gte 3>>
More time passes. Sometimes it passes fast. Sometimes not. Whichever way it passes, turns out Dono can be a LOT. And sure, you understand that life and love and relationships are complicated. So not having to think all of the time is nice...<<timed 10s>>
You take another hit on the bong. <<next 2s>>"Oh, yeah Titus. I remember now...I was telling you my dream. See...when I was young, I had the same dream all the time. Over and over. See...I'm trapped in the water and the water is on fire. And I never learned how to swim. Man, I remember it so vividly! The wild thing is...the dream came back again. Just last night." <<next 7s>>
You cough and lie back on the sofa, head spinning. "Back then, when I was a kid, I thought I would grow up and make a difference in the world," you say. <<next 3s>>"But then...I made a few mistakes. Just life, you know?"<<next 2s>>
"I hear you," says Titus.
<<next 5s tn8>>"Gods, I'm bored! Pass it already! Sometimes you be hogging it, Titus."
And I really wanna [[stop thinking.|Small_Town_Girl]]
<</timed>>
<</if>>You use the keyfob to open the door and enter the cabin. Inside, it doesn't look like what you expected. It's not dark and rustic-looking, like the cabins you've seen on TV. It's more modern than that--but also cozy.
The main room is an open-space that's light-filled and comfortable-looking. The walls are painted green and tan, there's a skylight, and the ceiling is dotted with stickers that look like stars. A row of lockers (in alternating colors of rust, green and tan) and a dressing area take up an entire wall. Above the lockers are narrow windows and a long bookshelf that you'd have to climb a stepstool to reach. It's filled with brightly coloured books and little potted plants. There are green oversized pillows on the floor and yoga mats in the corner.
You count three bunkbeds in the cabin and each bunk (upper and lower) is enclosed for privacy. Pods! You grin--cause they look cool! Like little spaceship capsules. Along the back wall are built-in cabinets and a single bed that's currently occupied by a older, brown-skinned girl. She looks about eighteen or twenty years old and she's smiling at you. That must be the Guide assigned to your cabin.
That would be Stella. [[Talk to her.|Talk to Stella]]
You grin. "If it's anything like the $gift you gave me this morning..."
They laugh. "Even better!" Auntie Imani leads you to a quiet room filled with comfortable seating, ethnic rugs covering the floor, and bookcases crowded with small drums, candles, books and interesting-looking artifacts. Your curiousity is piqued by a small statue of a goddess with a sword in one hand and a severed head in the other.
"$name, I have something for you." Abuelita hands you a shiny brochure with a picture of a dark blue lake surrounded by tall trees and a range of mountains in the distance.
"What's this?" Glancing down at the brochure, you frown, sensing something unexpected is about to happen. When Abuelita doesn't reply, you look up sharply. She's beaming like a divine messenger sent to deliver the good news.
"That's a brochure for Camp Starlight," Auntie Imani finally responds.
The creases in your forehead deepen. "And what exactly is Camp Starlight?"
"It's an overnight camp for extraordinary girls," Abuelita says proudly. "Girls like you. Girls with //special// talents."
Auntie Imani walks over and takes a seat in a wingback chair next to the fireplace. "Why don't we all sit down," she invites, waving her hands at the sofa and chairs. You take a seat in the wingback chair opposite her. Abuelita perches on the edge of the sofa, wringing her hands. Your pulse quickens as your uneasiness grows.
"I know the Director at Camp Starlight," explains Auntie Imani, once you have settled. "Actually, for the past five years I've helped build the program. So I was able to arrange for your admittance on short notice. I did so because I believe you're a good candidate, based on your success with the $gift. I've always sensed you have talent, $name."
"Huh? What do you mean?"
Aunt Imani lowers her voice and says, "Magic is a natural part of life and a part of every living being. But just like we only use a small percentage of our brain power, few people know how to unlock the power of magic. Before she died, your mother helped you learn the basics, and now you have the opportunity for formal training. To cultivate your gifts."
[[What is happening here?|The_Call102]]
<<if $YoungLove lte 1>>Dono is really special. You wonder if your [[mother|FamilyCemetery]] would have liked them. You hope so.
<<elseif $YoungLove is 2>>Sometimes life moves fast. Before you know it, it's time to go back to school. But at least now you have Dono. You fall in love and the two of you are inseparable. It's hard to imagine life without them. Even Abuelita has started to like them, and that's saying a lot! [[Everything is great!|YoungLove]]
<<else>>\
"I love you," says Dono. "Let's move in together." <<set $drugtrip to 3>>
[[Yes.|Drug Trip]]
[[No.|Drug Trip]]
<</if>>
<<silently>><<set $balance to "Figuring out and then prioritizing activities that bring you joy is important to bringing balance to life. Also, spending time in nature always helps.">><<set $trait1_description to "When experiencing a loss of control about your life, the best choices result in a lifestyle consistent with your values. Have you tried to figure out what you like, beyond the superficial?">>
<<set $confidence to "Power derives from purpose. Each of us has an innate purpose to fulfill. Unfortunately it is easy to get side-tracked.">><<set $selfaware to "Some of our daily choices numb our chance to experience self-awareness and joy.">><</silently>>
And just like that, another five years go by.
Things in your life have changed--both big and small. Abuelita died from the new flu. Oh, how it hurts to think about that. What a horrible horrible time. And now, every night the mad dogs completely take over the streets. During the day, the stinging from the swarms of blood flies is terrible.
The good news is that you and Dono have a daughter now. She's almost a year old and just starting to walk. You can already tell she's going to be smart.
Yeah, the world is still on fire and crazy and churning...but you and Dono have adjusted. You have a great job in the growing <<linkreplace"field of disaster-recovery.">>business of locating and burning dead bodies after a climate or man-made disaster.<</linkreplace>> It's kinda toxic, but hey...whatever. Dono has just been promoted to supervisory inspector at the new weapons factory in town.
[[Things are fine.|CommercevilleGirl]]
<<set $FireGirl to true>><<set $MyMoon to "Fire Moon">><<set $elementpower = 1>>The Fire Moon. Your mom always said the season of Fire Moon was a special time. And your mom...she was magical. She knew about the world beyond the veil. Many times when she was still alive, she would read your palm and speak of your future. You remember she said:
//For you, my daughter, I see a life of great potential. Your palm thrums with the element of fire. Magic is in your blood. Your spirit is strong and fierce like that of a wolf. Sí...you are a protector. There is much physical vitality in your lifeline and you will attract adventures like a magnet attracts a handul of sewing needles.//
//Therefore you must be mindful. Ahh..already you are brave but also reckless. I see how many times you leap before you look. Know this: avoid the pain of the needle by listening to your inner guide--sí, I tell you now that you have a spirit guide. Esto es cierto. Learn to listen to the wise voice of your intuition instead of that frantic voice of your fear. You have freedom of choice but when you are walking on your highest path, you are a bold and powerful being of light.//
"//Qué vida//," you moan. What a life! Sighing, you look out of your bedroom window, feeling surrounded and suffocated by your polluted hometown. Worse, your mind keeps returning to the car accident two years ago, and how you lost your family.
It's not fair. <<set $balance to "You tend to be moody and driven by emotional swings. You haven’t learned to use the power of feeling to tap into your core strength.">><<set $trait1_description to "The last few years of your life have been traumatic and filled with uncertainty-- about the future and the dangers of the changing planet. You are sometimes furious at the world and often act impulsively. Knowing how to translate your intense feelings into power is the next step in your evolution.">>[[Continue.|FireFortune2]]
<<set $EarthGirl to true>> <<set $MyMoon to "Terra Moon">><<set $elementpower = 1>>The Terra Moon. Your mom always said the season of the Terra Moon was a special time. And your mom...she was magical. She knew about the world beyond the veil. Many times, when she was still alive, she gave you tarot card readings. You remember her telling you of your great potential. She said:
//You are like the fabled Huntress--a protector of Mama Terra--here to restore honor to her. You will always have a powerful connection to nature and beauty. And because you are resourceful you will always have much to give. The paradox is that in truly serving others, we are also served. In giving we receive. Always remember--abundance is your right, so if you don't experience abundance, allow your spirit guides to point you towards your greatest good.//
//Yes, Goddess has blessed you with many gifts. Magic is in your blood. Now it is your job to discover those unique gifts. You must have the courage to walk the path of your highest good. You must be optimistic as you sow your seeds. Courage and grounded optimism allow your vision to become a future reality. You always have freedom of choice, but if you nurture your intentions, then you will see them grow.//
You sigh. Fine. Whatever. But standing in front of your bedroom window looking out at the polluted landscape and the toxic factories of Commerceville, you just wish your mom was here. <<set $balance to "When you start thinking negative thoughts, you can easily get lost in your mind, being pessimistic and worrying. A little more optimism would balance things out and allow you to tap into your inner magic and core strength.">><<set $trait1_description to "The last few years of your life have been traumatic and filled with uncertainty--about the future and the dangers of the changing planet. You are often moody but usually bury the expression of your true feelings behind a poker face. But there is power in your feelings. Knowing how to translate your feelings into power is the next step in your evolution.">>
[[Continue|TerraFortune2]]
And so it goes. The years rush past in a blur. Life's a bore, mostly. But yeah. It's fine.
The children have lots of on-line homework and stuff, so you have more time for yourself. Mostly you watch TV. Sometimes you watch that telenovela that Abuelita once loved. You miss her.
On the weekends you catch up on sleep. Lately you don't feel so good. It's like your bones ache but the doctors never find anything wrong. Like most people, you can't go outside anymore. The doctors say it's not safe.
Yeah. It is what it is. <<notify>>Character Profile Updated<</notify>>
[[Such is life.|The End:Dead Girl]]
"Welcome to Camp Starlight!"
As you enter the Administration Office, you are warmly greeted by a dark-skinned woman wearing a beautiful green and gold sari. She introduces herself as Doctor Chandra, the Owner and Director of Camp Starlight. After you introduce yourself and she politely inquires about your travels (and you just as politely say they were fine), Doctor Chandra pulls up your admission documents on her comm device. You hold your breath, figuring she must be reviewing your survey results.
<<if $intakescore lte 50>> "Hmph. Based on your survey, you will need to work hard to catch up, $name. But Elder Imani tells me you are up to the challenge."
<<else>> "Based on your survey, you have a decent foundation, $name. If you work hard you will leave Camp Starlight with new insights and abilities. And Elder Imani tells me you are up to the challenge.""<</if>>\
Your mind starts to spin, trying to understand what she means. //How can she possibly assume anything from that random ass survey?// Meanwhile, Doctor Chandra seems to be waiting for a response. You stand up straight and nod. "Yes, ma'am. I'm definitely ready," you tell her, trying to sound confident.
Satisfied, Doctor Chandra assigns you to a cabin. "Your Cabin Guide is named Stella," she tells you, adding a stern warning for you not to lose the keyfob, which unlocks the cabin door and your locker. Luckily, it's attached to a lanyard you can wear around your neck.<<set $keyfob to true>>
"Off you go now," she says, cheerfully waving you out of the door. "This evening you'll have dinner with the other girls in your cabin. Remember to adhere to the Camp Rules. Enjoy your time here. Peace and Blessings to you, $name."
[[Continue|Camp Starlight Checkin]]
<<if $talisman gte 1>>
Go north to [[Cabin|Talisman Cabin]]
Go west to the [[Lakeside Trail]]
Go to the [[Library]]
Go south to the [[Woodland Trail]]
<<else>>
You stand at the crossroads of the Starlight Trail. The dirt trail branches off in numerous directions. $bestfriend says to take the Woodland Trail. That's the way to Clover Field and where you'll find the Prana Yurt.
Go north to [[Cabin|Talisman Cabin]]
Go west to the [[Lakeside Trail]]
Go to the [[Library]]
Go south to the [[Woodland Trail]]
<</if>>
You are on the Lakeside Trail.
Directly east is blue and beautiful Lake Starlight. You see Stella out on the long, wooden dock with a muscular young man in black swim trunks.
You can also see the Boat House and the Fire Pit. On the other side of the lake is an old white mansion partially hidden behind a grove of tall oak trees.
There's no sign of a yurt. This is not the right way. Go back to [[Starlight Trail]]
As you run along the trail, the air becomes cooler and filled with birdsong.
[[Clover Field]]
<<if visited () is 1>><h2>Chapter Three</h2>
It's late afternoon when the car jostles and bumps up a gravel-covered driveway, creating a cloud of dust. A forest of trees surround you, but on the left there's a sign on a wooden post. It reads: <b>Welcome to Lake Starlight.</b>
Auntie Imani pulls the car into a small parking lot. "Finally," you mutter, jumping out of the car, relieved to be done with the endless road trip. You close the car door and jog around the parking lot, then jump up and down and stretch. Just trying to get loosened up after being in the car all day long.
Suddenly, you hear a low, ominous growl. Your skin prickles. In front of you stands a grassy field and woods. Holding your breath, you look over your shoulder. Auntie Imani is still in the car. Beyond the car... more woods. Then you freeze. There. Stealthily stalking out of the shadows. A mad dog. And it's the biggest one you've ever seen.
You exhale and a croaking jumble of sounds rasp from your throat. The mad dog's eyes narrow at you. It pulls back its lips, baring sharp fangs. It's standing between you and the car. Between you and Auntie Imani.
Your eyes look for an escape. Or a weapon. Then, from a different direction, another heart-stopping snarl. Two more giant dogs emerge from the woods. Yikes! It's a pack and they're hunting you! You shout for help. <<set $panic to "flight">>
<<else>>
The dogs are approaching. You can run towards the field and the woods, directly ahead of you. What will you do?
<</if>><<if $FireGirl is true>>
<<if $intuition gte 1>>[[Use 1 Intuitive Whisper|Whisper Hounds]]<</if>>
You've got your sneakers on. [[Run!|Fastfire Escape]]
or
Don't move. [[Be very still!|The Hounds]]
<<elseif $AirGirl is true>><<if $intuition gte 1>>[[Use 1 Intuitive Whisper|Whisper Hounds]]<</if>>
[[Run!|Airy Escape]]
or
[[Be very still!|The Hounds]]
<<else>><<if $intuition gte 1>>[[Use 1 Intuitive Whisper|Whisper Hounds]]<</if>>
[[Run!|Terra Escape]]
or
[[Be very still!|The Hounds]]
<</if>><h2>Chapter Four</h2>
Camp Central is a modern lodge-like structure located on Starlight Trail. The lodge is large enough for camp assemblies, a small performance stage and--of course-- the dining hall. Signs throughout the building point to nearby camp locations such as the Library, Lakeside Trail and Loch Garden.
Once inside the lodge, Stella leads everyone through oversized barndoors to an outdoor covered patio with wonderful scenic views. She stands in front of a picnic table with the sign 'Oak Grove Cabin' on top. "This is where you girls will eat all your meals," she announces.
There are dozens of campers --no, explorers--from the other cabins milling about the dining hall and the outside patio. You see Madison and wave. She's leading a group of explorers towards a reserved table. You notice the girls in Madison's group are older--two or three years more than you and your cabin mates. Before you can get a better sense of them, your focus is pulled back to Stella. Because she's explaining the meal routine, and you're really hungry.
"Elder O'Boyle is in charge of everything inside of Camp Central," Stella says, "including growing our food and cooking our meals. The food here is great, so don't be picky and annoying. Try new things! I know you girls are going to love it! Now head back into the lodge to queue up for breakfast. I'll be waiting for you here."
You queue up to the buffet line and find out that Stella was right. Fresh melon and peach slices. French toast with rassleberry jam. Taomeal porridge. You and Lilo laugh together, hungry and happy, both of you loading up your plates. And once you dig in...it's confirmed. Everything tastes yum! In the past two days you have eaten better than you can remember for a long, long time.
Just as you're finishing breakfast, Doctor Chandra comes out on the deck and welcomes everyone to the first day of camp. "Good morning Explorers!"
All the explorers answer in singsong unison, "Good morning Doctor Chandra."
"Welcome to your first day of Camp Starlight," she says. "We have an exciting, magical day planned for you." The entire camp explodes into cheers, banging their tin mugs on the wood tables. It is a wonderful, exuberent kind of din.
Doctor Chandra calmly holds up her right arm with her forefinger extended.
"That's the signal for quiet," Stella whispers to the table as she raises her hand in the same manner. The other Elders and guides are doing it too. When all is quiet, Doctor Chandra continues with her welcome-to-camp speech. It's a lot of information about rules and stuff.
"Boring," complains BB. You steal a quick glance at her end of the table. She was acting cool and everything on the hike, but after your interactions with her yesterday, you're wondering if you can trust her.
After several minutes talking about curfews and swim lessons, Doctor Chandra finally gets to the finish line. "Lastly, be sure to read the daily announcements and stay informed. All announcements will be posted here at Camp Central. Now... on to the good stuff!" Doctor Chandra claps her hands three times. "Once you break into teams of two, your guides will provide you with an Activity Sheet. Why? Because in following with tradition, today is the Talisman Challenge!"
The older explorers burst into another loud cheer, complete with banging tin mugs. You exchange glances with your cabin mates from Oak Grove. Except for Daanis and BB, they look as confused as you.
"This place is strange," says Ashelle, shaking her head. BB whispers something in her ear and Ashelle nods.
"What's a talisman?" Marie whispers to you.
You shrug. "No idea."
Doctor Chandra explains, "The Talisman Challenge is a chance for you to explore the mystery and magic of Lake Starlight. You will receive a talisman as a prize when you do well in this challenge, so remember... first impressions count!"
The murmurs of excited girls grow louder. Stella raises her voice over the noise so everyone at her table can hear. "A talisman increases your elemental power when offered to the elements during the New Moon Ceremony," she explains.
Your eyes widen. More power? This Talisman Challenge sounds really important. And you don't feel prepared. The breakfast you just ate sinks down to the pit of your stomach like a bucket full of rocks.
Doctor Chandra raises her forefinger again and the excited conversation on the patio stops. "Listen closely, girls. Each of you have the opportunity to work with a partner from your cabin during the challenge. Quickly now, choose your partner."
Who would you like to partner with? <<set $mealtime to "dinner">>
<label><<radiobutton "$bestfriend" "Alone">> BB doesn't seem to like you. It's tense. Maybe you can partner with her and mend some bridges?</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$bestfriend" "Daanis">> Daanis? She's so mysterious. Maybe it would be a good idea to get to know her better?</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$bestfriend" "Alone">> Ashelle seems nice and sympathetic. And maybe she can help you sort out your dreams?</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$bestfriend" "Lilo">> Lilo is fun and charming. Maybe it would do you good to spend time around all that positive energy?</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$bestfriend" "Marie">> Marie is a force of nature. Maybe being in proximity to her power will up your game?</label>
Who do you [[choose?|Bestfriends]]You run into the Library. It is a lush space with potted trees, hanging baskets with flowering plants, and fresh air circulated by the ceiling fans. The walls are covered with bookshelves that reach the ceiling, with polished wood ladders attached.
There’s an information desk in the middle of the room, and you are surprised to see Ashelle there. She's talking to a dark-skinned woman. //Is that the Oracle?//
But you are supposed to be at the Prana Yurt. You are wasting time here.
Return to the [[Starlight Trail]]
You reach a wide green field filled with oversized clover. Just ahead is the [[Prana Yurt]].
<<unset $moontime>>/%this will reset timer%/
<<set $moontime to Date.now()/%this will start timer for 1 hour%/
If visited 1 time then set $moonphase to "Crescent Moon"
If visited 2 time then set $moonphase to"Half Moon"
If visited 3 time then set $moonphase to "Waxing Moon"
If visited 4 time then set $moonphase to "Full Moon"
Time is running out. Tonight will be the <<$moonphase>>
[[Enter Oak Grove]] But a few moments later...a big grin lights up your face. You blink, lift your head and sniff the air like a predator. "Yaaas!" <<notify>>Character Profile Open<</notify>>
You smell breakfast.
You jump out of bed, put on your vacay clothes, then burst into the kitchen where your spunky little grandmother is fixing you a special ''True Name Day'' breakfast.
You wrap Abuelita in a big hug and spin her around. She laughs and playfully bops you on the head with her wooden spoon. Good times!
And hey--isn't that a wrapped gift on the counter? [[Even better!|Fire102]]You're giving yourself a quesy stomach from all those scary thoughts, so you drag yourself out of bed, get dressed in your vacay clothes, and enter the kitchen.<<notify>>Character Profile Open<</notify>>
There--to your surprise--you find your sweet grandmother happily fixing you a special ''True Name Day'' breakfast. And hey...isn't that a [[wrapped gift|Air102]] on the kitchen table?Just then Abuelita looks at you with loving concern, blissfully unaware of what she's done. You take several deep breaths to calm your nerves. Sad! So so sad how no one EVER listens to you. What are you going to do?
You frown at Abuelita and [[go back to your room.|Commerceville_Sleep]]
or
You have breakfast with Abuelita but [[refuse to eat the meat. |Air104]]"//Híjole!// This planet is a hell-hole," you cry, raking your hands through your hair. Your anger is intense and it rushes into your head, causing your temples to pound.
"I'm okay, //mi cielo,//" Abuelita says in her calm, soothing voice. "I'll fix you another plate. Sit down and drink your tea."
"I just can't take it anymore!"
"Take a deep breath, //mi cielo//." Abuelita massages your shoulders. "Calm down."
You take several deep breaths. What are you going to do?
Self-soothe and calm yourself enough to [[have breakfast with Abuelita.|Fire104]]
or
Storm [[back to your room.|Commerceville_Sleep]]
Your stomach growls. You are crazy hungry--as usual--so you jump out of bed, put on your vacay clothes, then burst into the kitchen where your sweet grandmother is fixing you a special ''True Name Day'' breakfast.<<notify>>Character Profile Open<</notify>>\
And isn't that a wrapped gift on the counter? [[Yeah, it is!|Terra102]]
"By the pricking of my thumbs," you intone loftily, "something wicked this way comes."
"What was that, //mi cielo//?"
"Nothing Abeulita."
You sigh. With all the problems in life, it's hard to figure out a way forward. If only you could be like Momma and see the future in tarot cards. If only you had a talent that could get you out of Commerceville.
You catch yourself before you sigh again. All the //woe is me// will stress out Abuelita, who Goddess knows is doing the best she can. You should be enjoying this special breakfast, but your insides feel like they're coated in slimy lemon juice and the taste is //nasty//.
All you really want to do is go back to bed. You rub your belly with your hand, wondering what to do.
Drink your tea and give your [[breakfast to Abuelita|Terra104]]
or
Go [[back to bed.|Commerceville_Sleep]]Hours later, you wake up in the dark.
You're not sure where you are. But in a flash you remember. //Lake Starlight.//
You listen to the sounds inside and outside of the cabin. No one else is awake. It's early. Pre-dawn. Right away, your mind starts churning--thinking and worrying. After about five minutes of the churning, you finally catch yourself. //Oh yeah...what is this called again? Monkey mind?//
You use the breathing technique you've been practicing to keep the thoughts from racing around your mind. You enter into a state that is not awake, but also not asleep.
[[Continue|Angel Second Chance]]
Friends and family encircle you, each holding a flaming white candle. You stand before Auntie Imani--who looks majestic in her colorful robes and headscarf--as she leads everyone in song, honoring you. And then...<<timed 6s>>somehow what happens next seems important. <<next 3s>>
Auntie Imani looks you in the eye and speaks these words: <<next 4s>>
<blockquote>Dearest One. You are a unique and creative being with a special purpose in this realm. Today you begin to know yourself. To choose for yourself. There are three secrets to this knowing and choosing: </blockquote>\
<blockquote>1. Knowing yourself means refusing to let others do your thinking and creating for you. How? Now it is time to learn what YOU like, rather than what society has told you to like.</blockquote>\
<blockquote>2. Knowing yourself means un-learning any //belief// that defines who you are because of your gender or your skin color or your hair texture or perceived limitation. Un-learn any //belief// which says that you should play nice and stay in the places assigned to you.</blockquote>\
<blockquote>3. Knowing yourself means creating! Learn to create and your life will be a joy. How? For too long girls have been taught that following your intuition is silly. But I say...use your feelings AND your brain to create many a wondrous thing.</blockquote>\
All together this will unlock the secrets to a life of //magic//. \
So today, your true journey begins. Now. Tell us, we who are gathered to celebrate you: What have ''YOU'' choosen as your [[true name|TrueNameDay103]]?
<</timed>>@@.pulse;My name is $name!@@
<<timed 2s>>You smile with pride. You really like your name. Your creation. You feel a small trill of energy shoot up your spine. <<set $elementpower = $elementpower + 5>><<set $happiness = $happiness + 20>>
Next, one of your neighbors sings a beautiful song about love and courage, and Abuelita cries, and Uncle Josh passes out cold apple cider and Auntie Imani makes a toast. Then everyone hugs you and congratulates you and cheers with anticipation at the feast that has been prepared.
You must admit, this day has turned out //way better// than you expected.<<set $truenameday to true>> Your friends are here. And you have sooo many questions for Abuelita and Auntie Imani. About your $gift. About magic!
But first...[[Let's Eat!|TrueNameDay104]]
<</timed>><<if $monkeymind is true>><<goto "MonkeyMind 2">><</if>><<set $monkeymind to true>>Wait a sec. What's Monkey Mind?
//Well...have you ever had so many thoughts whirling around your brain that it makes your head hurt? Or you can't fall asleep?//
Yeah.
//Right. It's like when one thought leads to another. And another. And on and on. That's called// Monkey Mind. //It's that voice inside your head that's always chatting and judging. The voice that chitters like a monkey, right? And like a monkey, it jumps around a lot--one subject to the next.//
I get it.
//Sometimes you just want the chittering to stop. Your mind wants to rest. And I'm just saying... learning how to meditate brings a feeling of peace to your soul. And that quiets the monkey mind.//
//And it helps you tap into your magic.//
[[Continue|MonkeyMind 2]]<<if $fruit is "grapes">>You pop a grape into your mouth. "Wow. These $fruit are hitting kinda different," you say. "Best I've ever tasted."\
<<else>>You bite into the $fruit. "Wow. This $fruit is hitting kinda different," you say. "Best I've ever tasted."<</if>>
Auntie Imani smiles. "Thanks. Josh and I spend a lot of time in the garden. It's our sanctuary. They say that tearing out your lawn and growing your own food is one of the most radical actions you can take to save Mama Terra. This summer Josh is going to start beekeeping, too."
You nod and stare out of the car window as you munch your $fruit. You notice that whenever the highway takes you within ten kilometers of a mid-sized city, pollution turns the sky grey and the landscape to ruin. It's really messed up to see the gradual transition from gated enclaves of expensive homes and manicured trees over to decaying, scorched terra--the skeletons of dead plants fading into arid dust.
It reminds you of the conversation a few weeks ago, when you and Abuelita were over Imani's house for dinner. Auntie Imani remarked that once upon a time a tribe of men decided they wanted absolute authority over Mama Terra and all the women, children, plants and animals on the planet. And ever since that time those men have ruled by fist and force.
Uncle Josh replied, saying, "As a species we've been trapped like this--unchanged in this way-- for thousands of generations. So now we're finally at a critical juncture. Because all this super-fast chaos is //forcing// us to take an evolutionary leap to the next level. We must, if we're to survive as a species."
"Yes," agreed Auntie Imani. "A leap to reveal what is beyond the veil."
//An evolutionary leap. Beyond the veil.// You remember sitting at the dinner table that evening with all of those adults and thinking how even though we fight water wars and the planet teeters on the brink of destruction, no one at your school ever teaches about those //for real// issues. In fact, the school said it was insubordination when you said--during a discussion about classic literature, mind you--that it was the glorification of colonial beliefs in the assigned "classic" novel that is //literally// killing the planet. You'd gotten detention for that rant.
Huh. Looking out of the window at the devastation in the lands where angry men rule, your hands curl into tight fists. Your eyes fill with big angry tears.
//Get a hold of yourself!// You quickly swipe your tears away. You steal a glance over to Aunt Imani, who's been unusually quiet. You clear your throat. You want to ask her about magic and your $gift.
[["Auntie Imani, why do people say you're a witch?"|RoadTrip103A]]
[["Auntie Imani, my gift is magical, right?"|RoadTrip103A]]
<h2>Chapter Two</h2>\
<<set $roadtrip to true>><<set $meditate = $meditate + 20>>\
Early the next morning you and Auntie Imani head for the north region called Tokranta, where Camp Starlight is located. A full day journey. You wave good-bye to Abuelita as the car pulls away. She's crying a bit but trying to put on a brave face. So are you.
Your sleeping bag and suitcase are in the trunk, filled with the camping essentials on the list provided by Camp Starlight. Last night, Abuelita presented you with a new $favorite_color backpack, which is on the floor between your legs. \
<<if $FireGirl is true>>Inside you have a flashlight, a waterbottle, a journal, the Camp Starlight Information Packet and some snacks. You are wearing your $gift. \
<<else>>Inside you have a flashlight, your $gift, a waterbottle, a journal, the Camp Starlight Information Packet and some snacks. <</if>>
The heavy morning traffic on the highway creeps along, so as you pass it, you get a long look at the regional prison that opened last moon. It's where the government keeps the man-made monsters, mutants and AI cyborgs locked up. "That's just sick," says Auntie Imani, shaking her head.
Other than that comment, you both ride along in silence.
After an hour or so, as the car travels further away from Commerceville, the air becomes less polluted. You gaze out of the window with a little bit of wonder. You can actually tell that the sky is blue. You've only ever seen that color in the movies. Huh. Suddenly hungry, you rustle around in your backpack for a snack. Maybe some fruit from Auntie Imani's garden?
What's your favorite type of fruit? <<cycle '$fruit' autoselect>>?
<<option "apple" "apple">>
<<option "peach" "peach">>
<<option "mango" "mango">>
<<option "grapes" "grapes">>
<</cycle>>
[[Continue|RoadTrip102]]
"Time to get on the road," says Aunti Imani, startling you out of a deep thought.
Once everything is packed up and you're buckled in, she drives for about ten minutes before turning the car down a long, winding rural road. "Just another hour," she says, "and we'll be at Lake Starlight."
Tall, majestic trees line both sides of the road, creating a dark green canopy. You stare out of the car window, enjoying the cool colors of nature and the chill music Auntie Imani is playing.
<<if $AirGirl is true>>Inspired, you take out your silver flute and try to play along with the vibrational music. It's a lot easier than you thought. You improvise a bit and the notes seems to flow through you effortlessly.
Auntie Imani is swaying along with your music. "That sounds good, $name. You really have a gift."<<set $elementpower = $elementpower + 5>><</if>>
[[You feel peaceful.|Chapter 3: Welcome to Camp]]You're asleep for a long time, dreaming of water. And fire. Suddenly a crack of thunder startles you awake. You rub your eyes and look around. Finally you gasp, "It's raining?!"
The car is pulled over in a rest area on the side of a narrow mountain road. You see Auntie Imani standing outside in a torrent of rain, eyes closed and chanting while holding two wide mouth pottery jars, filling them with rainwater.
You throw open the car door and stand on the grass at the side of the road, mouth open and arms lifted toward the sky, literally drinking in the rain. You've never been outdoors in a rainstorm like this one. The occassional showers that fall in Commerceville are acidic. Sometimes it can even burn your skin. But you can't ever remember seeing a downpour with sheets of rain in your whole entire life. It's pure. And powerful. And beautiful. You peel off your t-shirt and the water pours over your heart and soul. How refreshing! You turn your face up to the sky and laugh.
Eventually, the downpour tapers off. Now you can better see the surroundings. All around you, all of the trees, the endless fields...it all looks so GREEN.
[[Continue|Tokranta101]]
<h2> Chapter One</h2>\
This journey is about magic. Real magic. And evolutionary change.
Fifteen years ago, in <<linkreplace "this realm">>another time and another place in the twenty-four emanations of the multiverse, <</linkreplace>> there was a rather //alarming// season of chaos. At the time, the chaos unleashed seemed prophetic.
Not so coincidentally, that's when you were born. Right in the middle of:
[[An uber-tornado during the Air Moon|AirFortune]]
[[A massive landquake during the Terra Moon|TerraFortune]]
[[A furious hellstorm during the Fire Moon|FireFortune]]
<h1>Lake Starlight Book 1</h1>
<h2>Prologue</h2><<nobr>>
You are frightened out of a familar nightmare by a powerful rumbling. Whoa!
<<timed 2s>><<shake>>Another QUAKE!<</shake>>
<<next 2s>>Your head whirls as the ground sways. You grip tight the sides of the bed, afraid for your life.
<<next 2s>><<shake>>[[What's Happening?|Prologue102]]<</shake>>
<</timed>>
<</nobr>>
<<first>>Then abrubtly...it's over. The shaking ends. You snap your fingers and the window blinds lift. The grey light of dawn fills the room.
"Just another terrifying wakeup call," you mumble, peppering the comment with a healthy dose of scorn. Terraquakes! Droughts! Firestorms! It's always something. For you, this morning's terraquake is another cry for help from a dying planet. Too bad nobody's listening.
Still uneasy, you savagely kick the blanket off the bed and squeeze your eyes shut. You've been awake less than five minutes and already there's drama. It's like everyday brings more chaos and bad news. Man-made monsters on the loose. Teenage girls in mind-control cults. Packs of mad dogs. You send up a prayer to the powers-that-be. //This isn't right! It isn't fair. Please will you just fix things so we can move past all this madness?//
After that you doze off, really not wanting to rise up and start the day. But, eventually a high pitch sound in your ear startles you awake. You grimance and open your eyes, giving up on getting any more sleep. With a yawn you sit up and take a long look around your bedroom. You shake your head and sigh. The childish toys. The tangled-hair dolls. The ripped and faded posters on the [[flaking walls|Color Quiz]]. Damn! Even your bedroom is cringe! \
<<then>> \
<<if $favorite_color is "pink">> <<set $chakra to "heart">>
<<elseif $favorite_color is "red">> <<set $chakra to "root">>
<<elseif $favorite_color is "orange">> <<set $chakra to "sacral">>
<<elseif $favorite_color is "yellow">> <<set $chakra to "solar">>
<<elseif $favorite_color is "green">> <<set $chakra to "heart">>
<<elseif $favorite_color is "sky blue">> <<set $chakra to "throat">>
<<elseif $favorite_color is "dark blue">> <<set $chakra to "third-eye">>
<<elseif $favorite_color is "purple">> <<set $chakra to "crown">>
<<elseif $favorite_color is "black">> <<set $chakra to "solar">>
<</if>>You realize--of course--that it'll take more than a coat of $favorite_color paint to get rid of the childish vibes in your bedroom. After all, you've slept here ever since you were a baby. But it's time for a change. This bedroom no longer fits //who you are//.
[[Who you're becoming.|Say My Name]]
<</first>><<if $truenameday is true>>Finally, you have clarity.
[[Continue|Chapter 2: RoadTrip101]]
<<elseif $gift is "nope">>
Feeling calm and centered now, you remember the gift Abuelita left for you in the [[kitchen.|InvestigateThump]]
<<else>>
Hm. You can't stop thinking about your $gift. You know what you need to do now.
[[Go Home|StartQuest]]
<</if>>
"Camp Starlight starts tomorrow evening, $name," says Abuelita, eyes sparkling. "Your mother would be so proud."
"The camp is based at Lake Starlight, north of here in Tokranta," Auntie Imani explains. "It's a long drive so I'm heading there first thing in the morning. You will ride with me, if you choose to go."
"W-wait. But...but what about--?" You're speechless and sputtering, eyes searching Abuelita's face. Finally you clear your throat and say, "This is crazy. I can't just leave you alone all summer to go to magic camp!"
"Don't worry. I'll take care of her while the two of you are gone," a deep voice says. You'd been too distracted to notice that Uncle Josh had entered the room. He sits beside your grandmother and puts his arm around her shoulder. "Your grandma is going to stay here and we're going to be inseparable."
Abuelita giggles, still beaming.
You blink and shake your head. "No. It's my True Name Day. I was gonna celebrate tonight with my friends."
[[This is happening too fast.|The_Call103]]
Considering the drought and food shortage, Abuelita and Auntie Imani have thrown down <<linkreplace "a feast!">>an amazing spread of international food including curried chevren, pole beans, guacumole and chips, vegan lasagna, cucumber salad, tamales, sweet potato pie and ginger cookies. Yum!<</linkreplace>> For once, there's enough food for everyone. You laugh, thinking that your friend Dono probably showed up just for the free food.
Whatever. Everything is delicious. You feel sooo happy!
"We have another surprise for you," say Auntie Imani and Abuelita.
[[A surprise!|The_Call101]]Auntie Imani looks at you like you are half-crazy.<<timed 2s>> "If you liked your $gift," she says, a little menancingly, "then going to Camp Starlight is the next logical step you're to take on your journey."
You're confused. Funny how just this morning you were praying for an adventure. An escape. But now...
Abuelita grabs your hand and looks into your eyes. "It's a great opportunity, $name. Once in a lifetime. But the choice is yours. If yes, there is much to do to prepare. You must decide now."
What do you choose?
<<if $intuition gte 1>>You're not sure. [[Use 1 Intuitive Whisper|Whisper The_Call]]<</if>>
Say yes to [[Camp Starlight!|Chapter 2: RoadTrip101]]
Have fun and [[Celebrate True Name Day.|OldFriends]]
Who knows? Toss a coin and leave it to [[Chance]].
<</timed>> Greetings Explorers. Welcome to Camp Starlight!
We extend a warm welcome to our returning explorers and to the new families joining us for the first time. We pride ourselves on the fact that we are offering purpose-filled adventures for young women during this most uncertain time, all while providing a safe, fun-filled summer full of magic and memories.
Camp Starlight started five years ago. Since then over 200 young women have learned to engage in our multiverse in a new and unique way, making lifelong allies along the way. Our camp has the infrastructure and resources to develop each camper's unique talents and all of our age-appropriate activities honor the rhythm of the Moon and the Four Elements - Terra, Water, Fire and Air.
We encourage all campers to try new things because we know that evolution springs from challenge. All of us want to grow in big and small ways, and we strive to assist all campers to do so.
We look forward to a wonderful experience. Please familiarize yourself with the camp rules. Failure to follow the rules may result in your immediate departure from Camp Starlight. And that would be a shame.
<u>Camp Rules</u>
1. Obey directions of Elders and camp guides at all times. If you follow this rule, everything else will flow in Divine Order.
2. Explorers are expected to attend all assigned activities and report on time.
3. Explorers are responsible for keeping up with their assigned keyfob, which is used to access your cabin, locker and other authorized locations.
4. After evening activities have ended, explorers are to remain in their assigned cabin until sunrise, unless otherwise directed.
Quite Sincerely,
Dr. Anita Chandra
Camp Starlight Director & Physician
P.S. Click [[here|CampSurveyQ1]] to complete the survey before you arrive at Camp Starlight.
<<if $angel is false>> Suddenly, you hear a high-pitched sort of whine in your right ear and wonder what it could be.
[[How annoying.|Post Survey 2]]
<<else>><<if visited () is 1>>//Hey there, $name. It's nice to see you relax. You remember me, right? It's $myangel.//
//I'm always here.//
//You're doing great with your breathwork so now I'm going to give you a tip. Ready?// <</if>>
//The next time you get stressed or depressed or your mind starts to race, remember this breathing technique. It really helps. As a matter of fact, you may notice that practicing breathwork is a good way to improve your intuitive abilities. And that's going to be important on this journey.//
//So in the future, just observe what happens when that [["monkey mind"|MonkeyMind]] kicks in.//
<</if>>
<<if visited () is 1>><<set $intuition = $intuition + 1>><</if>>You need to relax. Close your eyes and use the relaxation technique your mother taught you. Ready?
<<timed 3s>>Inhale for 4 counts <<fadeout 2s>>One<</fadeout>> <<next 2s>><<fadeout 2s>>Two<</fadeout>><<next 2s>><<fadeout 2s>>Three<</fadeout>><<next 2s>><<fadeout 2s>>Four<</fadeout>>
<<next 2s>>Retain the breath for 4 counts
<<next 5s>>Exhale for 6 counts
<<fadein 1s 3s>>\<<fadeout 5s 6s>>\
Exhale through the nose. Nice and slow. Steady.
<</fadeout>>\<</fadein>>
<<next 7s>><<nobr>>Good. Continue to breath fully. Deeply.<</nobr>>
<<fadein 1s 3s>>\
<<fadeout 5s 6s>>\
Welcome to Meditation 101.
<</fadeout>>\
<</fadein>>
<<next 8s>><<nobr>> In this calm state of being, allow a golden light filled with love and peace to fill your heart.<</nobr>>
[[Continue|MeditateLevel102]]
<</timed>>"What's up, everybody! I'm Lilo!" The vibrant girl has a lilting accent, a smooth tan complexion, sharp cheekbones and a tiny crystal sparkling in her nose. "So here's my story: I was born on the island of Cuxo but my mother moved us to Tokranta a few years ago. She was a pirate until a typhoon destroyed her ship, and that's when we moved here. Before that, we were living on her boat, mostly in the waters around Cuxo. We were free. Ruled by no country, tamed by no man."
Except for the crunching of kale chips, the room is silent, listening to Lilo's curious tale.
"My other mom's a mermaid, and she would visit me at the beach in Cuxo," Lilo continues, her hands artfully punctuating her words like a practiced storyteller. "So those were good times--going surfing and diving and having both moms close. That's when I learned to be a deep-diver into the darkness beyond the veil. But that's all in the past. Now the oceans are so polluted--and the undersea vessels hunt them--so the mermaids don't visit me anymore. Now my mermaid mom lives way way below the surface, where she's safe. Here in Tokranta, it's just me and my pirate mom."
Despite this wildly tragic story, Lilo's voice is strong and fun-loving, and she's grinning like she's still surfing the waves. Like she's the frigging luckiest girl in the world.
"Hmm, what else? Oh! I was born during the Water Moon. //Obviously!// Aaaand... I brought my drum with me to camp." Lilo laughs and deep dimples appear on her cheeks. "But no musical show-and-tell for tonight cause Doctor Chandra asked me to join the drumming circle tomorrow during the New Moon ceremony! Lucky me, right?"
Lilo finishes her introduction with another happy laugh and sway of her hips. Her vibe is awesome! Everybody claps and cheers for her. <<set $explorer to "Marie">><<set $metexplorers to true>><<notify>> Explorer Profiles Unlocked<</notify>>\
[[Who's next?|Stella's IceBreaker4]]
It would be sweet if your grandmother finally allowed you to paint your bedroom. Every morning you dream about it. And now that school is out for the semester break, for sure you're gonna paint it your favorite colour:
<label><<radiobutton "$favorite_color" "pink" checked>> Pink.</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$favorite_color" "red">> Red</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$favorite_color" "orange">> Orange</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$favorite_color" "yellow">> Yellow</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$favorite_color" "green">> Green</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$favorite_color" "blue">> Blue</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$favorite_color" "purple">></label> Purple
<label><<radiobutton "$favorite_color" "black">> Black</label>
<<return "Back to Your Bedroom.">>
//Me. Your guide on this journey. At least until you figure your way around.//
[[I must be dreaming|MyAngel]]<<set $angel to true>>//Well, yes. Perhaps. That's very astute actually. Do you remember that song you used to sing to your little brother? Merrily merrily merrily merrily. Life is but a dream.//
//But I digress...//
//You may not realize it, but you have a purpose to fulfill, $name. That's why you're where you are. Mostly it's really hard to figure out what that purpose is, because <<linkreplace "everybody is">>your family, teachers, and society are<</linkreplace>> always telling you what and how you should be. But here's a fact... the multiverse is always changing. Evolving. That means if you don't like the way things are going in your life, there's always an opportunity for you to ride the wave of change to a new way of being. This could be one of those opportunities.//
//And now that we've officially met, $name...how about giving ME a name?//
<<textbox "$myangel" $myangel>> \
<<button "Enter name">>
<<set $myangel to $myangel.trim()>>\
<<if $myangel is "">>
<<replace "#name-error">>Please!<</replace>>
<<else>>
<<goto "Chapter 1: The Call">>
<</if>>
<</button>> \
<span id="name-error"></span>
"Ha! I was wondering when you would ask me that," says Auntie Imani, as she carefully passes a convoy of autonomous eighteen-wheelers filled with fossil fuel.
You shrug. "Well the last twenty-four hours have been...umm...different."
Auntie Imani glances at you. "Huh. I bet you could even say it's been surreal," she chuckles.
You nod vigorously. "That. Exactly."
"My grandmother, she was a midwife with an urban garden filled with yarrow, ginger, yellow balm, mint...all kinds of medicinal herbs. She even healed with what folks call weeds." Auntie Imani pulls her locs to the side as she shakes her head in exasperation. "Weeds they call them! Ha! Strong, healing plants growing in vacant lots or out of the cracks in the pavement. Back then, people didn't have a pill to take for every ailment. So folks relied on herbal remedies and the wisdom of wise women--"
"Wait Auntie!" you interrupt. "That's dope and all, but that's not the kind of magic I'm talking about."
"Okay! Be patient. I'm getting to that."
You sigh and rub your forehead, telling yourself to chill out. It was going to be a long ride.
Auntie Imani checks the mirrors and passes a slow moving car. Then she says, "True magic is being able to manifest miracles in the natural world using your creative spirit. Or being able to see events that are distant-- in either space or time. Those that understand how to access the quantum field will understand magic."
"Yeah. I remember my mom saying stuff like that. Stuff about the quantum field of the unmanifested."
"Your mom was a wise woman," Auntie Imani says with affection in her voice. "Never forget that."
You feel a lump growing in your throat, so you remain silent. Listening.
Auntie Imani continues, "Anyway...men who can do this--access the quantum field--these men are called wizards, mages, and magicians. Women who do the same thing? Well...we're called witches. And witches are ridiculed, run out of town, and burned at the stake."
"Oh!" You grimace. "That's harsh."
"Yeah. It is." Auntie Imani looks over at you and purses her lips. "So yes, $name. Magic is real. But maybe not in the way that you imagine. Not like in the movies. And by the way...if you want to call yourself a witch, that's cool. Whatever you decide to call yourself is a personal decision. Being from Commerceville I tend to tread lightly and call myself an herbalist. Trust...even that gets me hella grief from the town's medical establishment. Just like my grandmother."
"Well I hate to break it to you," you confide, "but all the kids at school say you're a witch."
"Yeah. I know. The bottom line is, what people call witchcraft today will be called quantum physics in the future."
You nod and look out of the window at the passing scenery. Then you [[remember.|RoadTrip103B]]
You use Auntie Imani's comm device to read the Camp Starlight Welcome Letter and submit the [[survey.|CampLetter]]
<<set $intakescore to 0>>
<u>Camp Starlight Placement Survey</u>
Question 1: How often do you meditate?
<label><<radiobutton "$intake1" "2" checked>> On Occassion</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$intake1" "10">> Once a day</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$intake1" "15">> Each morning and also when I need to align and power-up</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$intake1" "1">> Never</label>
[[Next Question|CampSurveyQB]]
<<silently>>
<<set $chance to random(1,3)>>
<<if $chance is 1>> <<goto [[FamilyCemetery]]>>
<<elseif $chance is 2>><<goto [[RelaxLevel101]]>>
<<elseif $chance is 3>><<goto [[OldFriends]]>>
<</if>>
<</silently>>
<<set $AirGirl to true>> <<set $MyMoon to "Air Moon">><<set $elementpower = 1>>\
The Air Moon. Your mom always said the season of the Air Moon was a special time. And your mom...she was magical. She knew about the world beyond the veil. Many times when she was still alive, she would read the aura surrounding your body and tell you of your great potential. You remember she would say:
//Your aura is so bright. The colors are a sign that you are creative and unpredictable. I see in you, my daughter, how you are sometimes clever and dreamy, like an absent-minded scientist. And other times you are like a rebellious rock star. But always you are a sensitive, free-spirit. Always with so many interesting ideas in your mind, yes? So smart. And also a little judgmental, is this not so?//
//Now listen closely, sweetheart...this is important. You must learn to quiet your racing thoughts and understand the difference between intuitive guidance and fear. Only then will you will discover your true purpose. For magic is in your blood and your spirit guide will point you towards your highest path. You have freedom of choice, but when traveling on your highest path you are a positive force in the multiverse.//
Yeah, Mama. Sure. Blah. Blah. Blah. <<set $balance to "You tend to over-think things. You can easily get lost in your mind fretting about the past or worrying about the future. This prevents you from tapping into your inner magic and core strength.">> <<set $trait1_description to "The last few years of your life have been traumatic and filled with uncertainty-- about the future and the dangers of the changing planet. You are sensitive and feel things deeply. Knowing how to translate your feelings into power is the next step in your evolution.">>
[[Continue|AirFortune2]]
<<set $talisman to 0>><<set $mealtime to false>><<set $challenge to true>>\
<<if $bestfriend is "Daanis">>"I've got your back, Daanis." Your feel a sudden sense of relief.
"Good," says Daanis. " Let's head to the Prana Yurt for the first activity. It's over by the Clover Field. We can't be late, so...c'mon. I'll race you there!"
<</if>>
<<if $bestfriend is "Lilo">>
“I would love some of your luck to rub off on me,” you admit to Lilo. You examine your Activity Sheet. “It looks like our first activity is at the Prana Yurt.”
Lilo pumps her fist in the air. “C'mon! I'll race you there!”
<</if>> <<if $bestfriend is "Marie">>Marie’s face lights up in response. A warm breeze catches the loose strands of her hair, blowing it gently around her face. And seriously...you swear a sweet scent of jasmine has appeared in the air. Even the red eyes of Marie's snake necklace are glowing. Strangely, you feel pleased with yourself to have been the cause of her happy vibe.
Marie takes your hand, leads you over to a giant elderwood tree and you both sit in the coolness of its shade.
<<if $EarthGirl is true>> “Your Moon is Terra, right?” she asks, smiling at you as she nibbles on a leaf from a nearby dandelion.
“Yeah,” you answer cautiously. You can feel the hypnotizing waves of Marie's aura and have the urge to shake it off.
"Yes, I thought so," says Marie, half closing her eyes. “Therefore we will connect and ask for the blessing of our Mother.” You just stare at Marie, until she lifts her eyes and blinks at you from beneath long dark lashes. “Close your eyes and let your hands connect with Mama Terra," she instructs, smiling warmly.
You shake your head to clear the fog from your brain and press your hands into the terra. You inhale. You sigh on the exhale and feel a wave of calmness pulsing up through your fingertips. Despite your earlier objections, you find yourself wanting--no, needing-- the feeling of grounding and centering. It feels good. After a few minutes of quiet connection, your chest hums with the warmth of power growing inside of you.
Finally, you feel ready to begin the challenge.
<<elseif $FireGirl is true>>I suck at meditation and centering,” you say, feeling exposed. “I’m better at physical things and--.”
Marie shushes you. “Shh. I will lead us. You are the Fire Moon, yes?” she asks, brushing away the leaves where you both are sitting.
You nod, speechless and captured by Marie’s positive energy waves. //Órale!// She is extra.
“Yes, I thought so. So then we will connect with the source of your internal fire. Bring your awareness to your Power Center." She guides your right hand to the area slightly your above your naval. “Here. That is the energy center right above your naval. It is called the Power Center. Close your eyes now and visualize a yellow ball of fire under your hand. Let your belly contract as you exhale.”
You close your eyes and take a several deep breaths. Despite your earlier objections, you find yourself wanting--no, needing to center and tap into your Power Center. As you do, you feel heat growing. You feel the power inside of you growing. It is is feeling you are beginning to crave. Finally, you feel ready to begin the challenge.
<<else>>
“You are Air Moon, I can tell. How wonderful for us Air Girls to be together, yes?”
You nod and giggle, definitely captured by Marie’s positive energy waves. “I guess so. But...how in the world do you and Stella do that?”
Marie gives you a mischievous smile. “Do what?” she asks innocently, while brushing away the leaves where you both are sitting.
You shake your head, close your eyes and take a deep breath. Despite your earlier objections, you find yourself wanting--no-- needing to center.
“Let us begin,” whispers Marie. “Here now we honor the spirits of Air and ask the blessing of the Four Winds of Change. To the wind of the east, we honor you for bringing us light and the renewal of spring. To the wind of the south, we honor you for the fullness and abundance of a joyful summer. To the wind of the west, we thank you for abundance of the autumn harvest. To the wind of the north, feel our gratitude for the wisdom that comes with the silence of winter."
A soft breeze rises to carress your cheek. You smile with a lightness and the sweet feeling of power growing inside of you. Now, you feel ready to begin the challenge. "Let's go!" you say.
Marie jumps to her feet. "We can't be late, so...c'mon. I'll race you there!"
<</if>><</if>>
[[Continue|Starlight Trail]]
"What about my $gift?" you ask.
<<if $gift is "silver flute">>"Is your flute in that backpack or in the trunk?"
You pat your new $favorite_color backback. "Right here."
"Good. I know that you pick up new skills fast, $name, but as you know...there's more to that flute than meets the eye. Now. Let me hear you play."
You take the flute out of its case and play a series of complex and rapid scales for Auntie Imani. Flawless. You've been practicing and are pleased when she looks impressed.
"Yes, indeed. That is nice," Auntie Imani says. "Once you get to camp, go to the Studio and get lessons. Elder Rodrigues will teach you. Because let me warn you, if you don't learn to control this magic, it can take a dangerous turn."
"Dangerous? Like how do you mean?"
Auntie Imani sighs. "When you play, you must be in harmony with the elements, especially the element of air, because that's the elemental magic of your flute. Disharmony is dangerous and you could call up something dark and stormy if you aren't careful."
You cut your eyes at her and snap, "Well nothing bad better happen cause my grandmother needs me back in Commerceville. I told you I shouldn't go, but nooo! You all acted like--"
"Relax, $name," she interrupts. "I don't want you to worry about your grandmother while you're at camp. Your Uncle Josh really is going to take care of her. I promise. She'll be fine."
"Yeah, right!" You bite your tongue, trying hard to be respectful. Your mouth feels dry. You pull your water bottle from your backpack and chug big gulps.
Auntie Imani smirks. "Now. Check out the etchings on the flute."
You heave a sigh. "Yes, I know. Little birds and cute animals."
Auntie Imani steals a quick glance at you. "Is that all you see?" she asks sharply, eyes returning to the highway. "Look again, $name."
The flute is beautiful, and you've admired it at least a hundred times. Now though, you notice something different. Along the length of the flute there are lines and markings that look like some sort of ancient alphabet. "Where did those come from?" you exclaim. "That wasn't there before! Was it? What is this?"\
<<elseif $gift is "sneakers">>"I see you're wearing them."
"Yeah. Sounds weird but it's cool how they make me feel."
"Good. Keep them close, $name. When you get to camp you'll be taking classes from Elder Q. Because as cool as those shoes seem, it's powerful magic and if you don't learn how to control it...bad things can happen."
"Oh yeah? Bad things like what?"
"Like maybe you get too cocky and end up hurting yourself," she replies. "Or worse."
"Yeah, well nothing's gonna happen," you say, with a quick shot of temper. "Like I told you last night, Abuelita needs me. So nothing's gonna happen."
"Ok. But I don't want you to worry about your grandmother while you're at camp. Josh is going to take care of her. I promise. She'll be fine."
"She better be." Your mouth feels dry. You grab your water bottle and chug big gulps.
Auntie Imani smirks. "Now. Check out the inside lining of your shoe."
"What?" You unlace and remove the right shoe and then examine it closely. You shrug. "What exactly am I looking for? The shoe size?"
"Lift up the inner sole. Yeah. That's right."
Confuzzled, you discover lines and markings that look like some sort of ancient alphabet. "//Vaya//...what is it?" you ask.\
<<elseif $gift is "magic seeds">>"Are they in that backback?"
"Yep." You pat your backback. "Right here."
"Uh huh. So your grandmother told me you planted a pole bean, sweet potatoes and an avocado tree in your garden last night. In the future, don't go planting those seeds willy nilly, $name. Only plant the seeds in the $favorite_color pot. That keeps the intention and growth under control."
"But that's what I did," you protest. "First I grew them in the pot and I only transplanted the plants to the raised beds after the growth burst stopped. I used the seeds to make sure my grandmother has enough food while I'm gone."
Auntie Imani smiled. "That was kind. You know, your mom always said you have a natural connection to Mama Terra. I can see that now. But also, I don't want you to worry about your grandmother while you're at camp. Josh really is going to take care of her. She'll be fine. I promise."
You exhale, relieved about Abuelita and also that you hadn't screwed things up with the seeds. All of the sudden your mouth feels dry. You take out your water bottle and chug big gulps.
"Nevertheless," Auntie Imani continues, "when you get to camp, you'll be taking classes from Elder O'Boyle in the Loch Garden. Because as cool as those seeds seem, it's powerful magic and if you don't learn how to control it, unexpected things can happen."
"Ok. I understand. It was only with the first seed that something weird happened. The other seeds just grew normal food."
"That speaks to your intentions," she responds. "So what happened with the first seed?"
You explain how you ate the berry and describe the vision that followed.
Auntie Imani looks thoughtful. "Sounds like your intention was different for the first seed and the berry unlocked something magical. How many seeds are left?"
"Like...five."
"That's fine. Can you take the seeds out for a second?" she asks. You unzip your backback and pull out the pouch. Auntie Imani nods her head. "Carefully now...look at the inside lining."
You look inside the little pouch, careful not to spill any of the precious seeds. You notice faint lines and markings that look like some sort of ancient alphabet. "Wait!" you exclaim. "These markings weren't here before! Were they? What are they?"<</if>>
"Runes."
"Runes? What the heck is that?"
"I guess you'll find out soon enough, $name. Once we get to Camp Starlight all will be revealed. Speaking of camp...did you submit the Camp Starlight Information Survey last night?"
"Nope." You shake your head. "Didn't have time."
"No problem," she replies. "You can use my comm device to [[do it now.|RoadTrip104]]
The air is still. All is quiet. Panic and fear are in the past. There's no more pain.
You feel nothing. But...you do sense yourself... //floating?// Yes. You understand that you are definitely //floating// above and outside of the physical realm. You are no longer a part of that physical body that you see lying there.
You have passed to the other side of the veil.
You feel a sharp sense of regret. Like you may have had unfinished business. But that feeling quickly passes. No worries. You simply feel light.
Yeah. You feel light. You see light. You hear light. As a matter of fact, you ARE the light.
You wish you could tell someone that there is truth to that ancient saying: when one door closes you should look around for an open window.
[[SAD END|Credits]]
<b>//Because it's all about the choices one makes.//</b><<if $panic is "fight">>
No!! What were you thinking? This is a fight you cannot win. Silly rabbit.\
<<elseif $panic is "flight">>
No! This was a bad decision. Not. Fast. Enough. Silly rabbit. Still you push harder. Run harder. You scramble and dodge through the thicket of trees. Your lungs burn and snot runs down your face. You look back over your shoulder, terrified. When your foot catches on the root of a thick eldertree, you trip and fall. Hard.
<<else>>
Oh no!
<</if>>
[[Fade to black.|The End:Dead Girl]]
You hear a sharp whistle. The three giant dogs stop snarling at you. They sit down on their haunches, tails wagging and looking all happy with their tongues hanging out. WTF?!
Meanwhile you're backing away, step by step, slowly moving in the direction of the car. It still seems so far away.
"Sorry about that," a friendly voice calls out. A tall woman with ivory skin, thick eyebrows, and shiny black hair strolls over. "The wolf hounds were just testing you. We're patrolling the grounds and they're in high-spirits this afternoon. Just having some fun."
Your legs buckle and you collapse to the ground. //Did she just say having some fun? Really?//
Untroubled by your close encounter, Auntie Imani casually opens her car door and rushes over to hug the woman. "It's sooo good to see you, darling Q," she says. "Sorry we couldn't talk after the lunar eclipse last month, but I've been so busy preparing for camp. "
"Awww... I've missed you," the lady coos back, the two of them now hugging and swaying like they're at a family reunion. Meanwhile your heart is still racing.
Those monster-sized dogs acted like they were gonna rip your throat out! Now they look all innocent and friendly, tails wagging and looking like they're grinning at you. You are pissed! Breathing deeply, you work on trying to calm down. But a prickling on your skin makes you look up and over to the edge of the woods.
There's a fair-skinned, flame-haired girl standing right at the edge of the parking lot, with a drawn bow. The arrow is aimed directly at you.
[[Continue|The Hounds 2]]Everyone sits down on the floor in a circle. Yikes! It feels like you've just walked into your school cafeteria, only worse. Energetically the room is being blasted with an intense combo of curiosity and judgment and dismissal. Ugh. Everyone is sizing each other up, and honestly...you're doing it, too.
So just like in school, you visualize a protective shield around your body. Your mom used to call it a [[magical shield.|Magic Shield]]
<<set $challenge to true>><<set $talisman to 0>><<if $bestfriend is "Alone">>Uh oh! BB and Ashelle have already teamed up. Too bad. Ashelle shrugs and starts to say something to you, but BB pulls her away, turning to glare at you over her shoulder. You roll your eyes.
Since Marie and Daanis just teamed up, that leaves you with Lilo. You stand up straight, take a breath, and shake it off.
<<set $bestfriend to "Lilo">>\ <</if>>
Alright! So you're teamed up with $bestfriend! Game on!
You try to psyche yourself up, because that boost of confidence from right after you woke? Well that is //long// gone. The scary thing is, you have zero clue about what to expect in this Talisman Challenge. Your pulse is racing. Your mind is over-thinking the situation-- just like what happened during last night's ice-breaker.
Stella gives you and $bestfriend a copy of your team's Activity Sheet. Same with your cabin-mates. Then she claps her hands three times to get everybody's attention.
"In the Talisman Challenge you have four hours and you need to collect at least one talisman," she explains. "After the bells ring for the second time, the challenge ends. Remember...you collect a talisman by visiting an Elder and completing the assignment given. You have to follow the directions on your Activity Sheet precisely, so no fooling around! Remember you're a team! When you hear the bells ring in a few moments, that's your signal to begin. Got it?"
Everyone else nods, but you ask, "What happens if we don't win any talisman during the Challenge?"
Stella's eyes widen dramatically. "Don't waste your energy being negative, $name. You and $bestfriend have got this! And here's a hint...as long as you follow the order of things, you can develop any strategy you want in order to win a talisman.”
Stella pats you on the shoulder as she leads you and your cabin mates outside to the Starlight Trail. With a dramatic flourish of her hands she announces, "This is the spot where you begin the Talisman Challenge."
Just then, the bells ring three times in a pleasing, melodic tone. Stella calls out, "Good luck!" Then she takes off, skipping down the trail towards Lake Starlight.
<<if $bestfriend is "Lilo">>You take a deep breath and examine your Activity Sheet, trying to analyze possible strategies. Lilo swings her arm around your shoulder and pulls you in. “Hey $name, I can see you’re kinda nervous," she whispers, leaning close to your ear. "Let me clue you in on a little secret.”
“Uh. Sure.”
Lilo steps back, hands on hips, and grins. Her dimples are so deep they nearly cave in her cheeks. "When I was a kid, my mom--the one that's a pirate, name’s Zephyr--well she took me out on raiding parties with her all the time. It was wild! Sometimes we'd jack up the rich colonizers who'd be boozing it up on their yachts. She said we were giving them an awesome story to tell back home, see?"
You raise an eyebrow. “If you say so.”
"Yeah. But mostly we sailed round the islands diving for treasure. You know... like things that fell overboard or contraband that was ditched. I have a sixth sense about that sorta thing...where the hidden treasure is buried. The jeweled timepieces, the golden rings, the waterproof bags with bundles of cash. Zephyr calls me her lucky charm." Lilo tosses her waist-length hair over her shoulder and the luminescent pearls that are entwined seem to glow.
"But here's the thing," Lilo continues, eyes sparkling. "All those treasure hunting vibes came to a fast-ass halt on the day my mermaid mom surfaced right up next to Zephyr's ship and sussed out what was what. I mean, Mystic was over-the-top pissed-off! Said Zephyr was endangering me. Never seen my mom that mad--she damn near capsized Zephyr’s boat. Would have too, if I hadn’t been on board.”
You scrunch your face, looking at Lilo skeptically. “Are you for real?”
She looks confused. “What? Whatcha mean am I for real?”
You shake your head. “Nothing. Go on.”
“Huh. Well my point is...I couldn't go out with Zephyr after that and she have nothing but bad luck.”
“Why? Cause you weren’t on the boat? That’s what you mean?”
“Obviously, $name." Lilo pauses to sashay her hips and snap her fingers. "Cause that’s what I do, no see? I bring the luck. That’s why every little thing is gonna be alright with us today. Bottom line, our strategy is I bring the luck and--"
"Say what?" you interrupt.
"I bring the luck," Lilo repeats. "That means whatever magic it is you're bringing to the party is gonna get magnified by ten. Probably more. So we got this! Now what ya say?”
<<if $intuition gte 1>>[[Use 1 Intuitive Whisper|Whisper Talisman 1]] <</if>>
Trust Lilo. [[Say yes.|The Talisman Challenge]]
Convince Lilo to try a [[different strategy.|Talisman Angel]]<</if>> \
\<<if $bestfriend is "Marie">> You take a deep breath and examine your Activity Sheet. Marie stands in front of you, her waves of light brown hair twisted up in a sophisticated bun and held in place with bejeweled combs. She asks, “Are you ready, $name?”
“Uh...yeah. Definitely. Let’s do this!”
“Hm.” She gazes at you with a dreamy sort of look in her dark eyes. “I’m not so sure. You’re giving off some jumpy vibes at the moment.”
You scoff, putting on a confident front. “What vibes? I’m fine.” You look around quickly, seeing that the other explorers have already taken off down the Starlight Trail. You feel your pulse quicken, worried about falling behind. “Let's get going. Our Activity Sheet says our first assignment is at the Prana Yurt.”
Marie raises a perfect eyebrow, looking skeptical. “Well...I have the feeling that if we take just a few moments to center ourselves, the day will flow smoother," she says slowly. "There’s a story my maman once told me about my grandmere's harem of twenty men and twenty women and how one day grandmere's snake familiar hid in--"
“A harem?” you interrupt, voice dripping with incredulity. "Are you for real?"
Marie looks amused. “Oh. You doubt me, yes?”
You shake your head quickly, remembering that Stella was pretty firm about not wasting time. “No, no. It doesn’t matter. Can we just get going?”
She shrugs. “My point is this... taking a moment to center is never a bad strategy. That's my advice, but it's your decision, $name.”
<<if $intuition gte 1>>[[Use 1 Intuitive Whisper|Whisper Talisman 1]] <</if>>
“Okay, Marie,” you agree. [[Let’s center.|The Talisman Challenge]]
Convince Marie to [[get started|Talisman Angel]] on the Challenge.\<</if>>\
\<<if $bestfriend is "Daanis">> You take a deep breath and examine your Activity Sheet. Daanis immediately starts off, quickly walking down the dirt trail and leaving you behind.
“Wait a sec,” you call out, tucking the Activity Sheet into your backpack. But you’re talking to Daanis's back, so you jog along the trail until you catch up and then turn to face her so she can see your lips. “Daanis. Wait. We need to discuss our strategy.”
"Strategy?" Daanis rolls her eyes. “Ok. Sure. So let’s hear your ideas on strategy.”
Your eyes widen. “Well. I-I-I’m not sure,” you stutter, feeling put on the spot. “But Stella was hinting we need a strategy, right?”
Daanis shrugs. “I have no idea what Stella was trying to say, but I do know that we should play to our strengths. And honestly--I have no idea what your strengths are. Do you?”
<<if $FireGirl is true>> You look down at your sneakers. Somehow you doubt they will be much help for the Talisman Challenge. And without them, you’re not sure what magic you’ve got. But hey! You're confident that no question you’ve got something! There’s a fiery energy in your core that energizes you from your toes to the ends of your hair. ¡A huevo! Something magic is there!
“Well, I know that my Moon Element is Fire,” you tell Daanis. “And I honestly feel something inside of me wanting to ignite.”\
<<elseif $EarthGirl is true>> You think about your magic seeds. Somehow you doubt they will be much help for the Talisman Challenge. But without them, you’re not sure what magic you’ve got. Yet...you’re confident you’ve got something. There’s a pulsing inside you when you place your palm on a tree trunk or sink your fingers into the terra. Something magic is there.
“Well, I know that my Moon Element is Terra,” you tell Daanis. “And I honestly feel something inside of me wanting to blossom.” \
<<else>>You think about your silver flute. Somehow you doubt it will be much help for the Talisman Challenge. But without it, you’re not sure what magic you’ve got. However...you’re confident you’ve got something. There’s a tingling inside of you when you are quiet and listen to the wind, or hear the birds singing in the trees. Something magic is there.
“Well, I know that my Moon Element is Air,” you tell Daanis. “And I honestly feel something inside of me wanting to take flight.” <</if>>
After a few moments of silent consideration, Daanis pats you on the shoulder. “Look, $name, I was born here. This is the land of my ancestors. I’ve got a relationship with the land and its magic. So...how about our strategy is, you follow my lead and we go with the flow. The main thing is we have each other’s backs? Is that alright with you?”
<<if $intuition gte 1>>[[Use 1 Intuitive Whisper|Whisper Talisman 1]] <</if>>
Say yes to her [[strategy.|The Talisman Challenge]]
Convince Daanis to develop a [[realistic strategy.|Talisman Angel]]
<</if>><<silently>><<set $elementpower = $elementpower + 5>><<set $drone = "yes">>
<<set $confidence to "You are excitable and confident but sometimes you leap before you look. You are instinctual and action oriented. People consider you a bit of a wildcard and not much of a team-player. You enjoy flexing but still don't understand how to control elemental power (Level $elementpower /100).">><</silently>>
With a surge of adreneline, you race through an open field heading toward the woods in the distance. You feel the magic in your sneakers racing through your body! You push yourself faster. But you feel a cold eerie chill on your neck. The mad dogs are gaining on you.
You enter the woods and leap over a boulder, spring off your right foot and scramble up a tall tree like a cat. You feel a nip at your heel, but your sneakers grip the tree trunk like claws. You grab for the closest tree branch with both hands and haul yourself up and out of reach. Your body is buzzing as you look down at the three hounds circling the tree, barking and lunging at you. "//Vamos!// You puppies are too slow," you laugh and point at them mockingly.
Still trying to catch your breath, you suddenly see a flash of silver from the corner of your eye. You swivel your head, hyperaware and on the lookout for danger. Nothing is there. But you get a weird feeling that you're being watched. Then you hear a sharp whistle.
The mad dogs immediately stop barking. They sit down on their haunches, tails wagging.
"Well that was fun," a friendly voice laughs. It belongs to a woman with dark eyes and straight black hair pulled into a long tail. "We're out patrolling the grounds and next thing I know you take off running like a demon. Naturally my wolfhounds got caught up in the chase." She laughs again as she pets the three hounds.
Fun? Really? Those dogs were going to rip your throat out. At least it seemed that way. Now though, not so much. Come to think of it...you guess the chase //was// kinda exciting.
The woman cranes her neck, looking up at you in the tree. "Hello up there! I'm Elder Q, the martial arts and parkour instructor here at Camp Starlight. Come on down from the tree, $name. You're safe."
You nervously climb down and stand in front of Elder Q, feeling proud of your successful escape, but also a little sheepish. Like maybe you're already in trouble and you just arrived. You bring hands to heart center and bow deeply, mumbling a polite greeting.
"Nice to meet you, $name. And let me introduce you to the Hounds of Starlight. The best security force you could ask for. The two black wolfhounds are Benza and Koto, and the reddish-brown wolfhound with the white muzzle is Inari." Then Elder Q's eyes narrow and her tone turns a lot less friendly. "You know, you're really cocky now you've got those sneakers on, aren't you? Because I'm guessing if you weren't wearing them you wouldn't have had the audacity to run, huh? Anyway, know that my hounds were just playing around with you. Otherwise..." She huffed out a breath.
"Agghhh!" You shriek as one of the hounds sticks her snout up your butt. Elder Q laughs at your expression.
"Easy, now $name. Let's head back. Elder Imani is worried, I'm sure." Elder Q and the hounds take off running back to the parking lot.
Running at full speed, you can barely keep up. Guess they've got some magic going on too. Anyway, your mouth feels parched. Like maybe your body needs water or something, so you ease off to a more comfortable pace.
Halfway to the parking lot you spot a pale, flame-haired girl with a bow and arrow, leaning against a tree and scowling at you. You scowl back harder, thinking: //Never let 'em see you sweat.// But even as you leave the girl behind, you peer up into the tree canopy. You can't shake the feeling of being watched.
When you finally reach the parking lot, Auntie Imani is embracing Elder Q. "Oh, its sooo good to see you, darling Q," she exclaims.
You grab your water bottle and drain it. Auntie Imani turns and shakes her head at you. "Well, that was dumb," she says wryly. "Don't make me regret giving you those shoes."
You put on a sad face, but you're still pumped up on magic and inside you feel great. She turns back to her conversation with Elder Q.
"I've missed you," Elder Q coos, the two of them hugging and swaying like they're at a family reunion. "It's good to see you, my friend. And actually $name--and her sneakers of course--showed some impressive skills. With some training she'll be freerunning and doing parkour with the pack in no time."
Meanwhile the wolfhounds look like they're grinning at you with their razor sharp teeth.
"Well hello girls!" Auntie Imani says, scratching the two black dogs behind the ears. "Oh yes, no no of course I didn't forget about you, little spoiled Inari! How are my babies?"
//Babies? Huh!// The wolfhounds look like a herd of small ponies. One of them--the one she called "little" Inari-- is snuggling his gargantuan head betweeen Auntie Imani's breasts.
Just then, a curvy teenager with pinkish-colored skin and blue hair exits from the large stone cottage near the parking lot. She jogs straight over to Auntie Imani, pushing a trolley cart. "Greetings Elder Imani," she calls out. "Guess what? I'm baaaack!"
"Madison! Glad to see you made it. And my goodness, you've grown at least a ten centimeters since last year."
"Yeah, isn't it awesome!" Madison releases the trolley cart and bows deeply to Auntie Imani. She's wearing a lightweight, longsleeved shirt with a Camp Starlight logo. "I've been making and drinking the tonics, just like you taught me," she proclaims. "I'm so grateful to you, Elder. Now my moon cycle is easy like a walk in the woods. And I just keep getting stronger."
Auntie Imani looks pleased. "Good. We'll talk more tomorrow, I'm sure. For now...I want to intoduce you to $name. Can you help her get checked in?" Auntie Imani eyes you with some concern. She pulls your suitcase out of the trunk and sets it by your feet. "I think $name is a little shook from meeting the Hounds."
The girl chuckles. "Yeah. I saw. Greetings. I'm Madison." She nods her head with hands together at heart center. Her hands are covered with black rings and tattoos. "I'm one of the Camp Guides here and also your official welcoming committee!"
"Greetings," you say, returning the half-bow, otherwise at a loss for words.
Madison grabs your suitcase and sleeping bag. "Follow me," she says, guiding you across the parking lot to the cottage. "This is the Administration office where you check in. It's also the Infirmary, just in case of... you know...you need some first aid or something."
You look back at Auntie Imani and Elder Q. They are laughing and loading gear and luggage from the car trunk onto the trolley cart. Auntie Imani smiles at you and waves good-bye. "We'll catch up after breakfast tomorrow," she calls. "You'll be fine."
You shoulder your backpack and follow Madison. "Gee thanks," you mutter under your breath, feeling uneasy and abandoned.
[[Enter Administration Office|Camp Office]]Question 3: What is the first thing that comes to your mind when you think of the word "snake"?
<label><<radiobutton "$intake2" "1" checked>> Back-stabber</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$intake2" "11">> Primal Energy</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$intake2" "11">> Transformation</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$intake2" "2">> Evil</label>
[[Next Question|CampSurveyQ3]]
Question 4: In what Moon Season was your Cabin Guide born?
<label><<radiobutton "$intake3" "1" checked>> I've never met my Cabin Guide.</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$intake3" "3">> Terra Moon</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$intake3" "15">> Air Moon</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$intake3" "2">> Water Moon</label>
[[Next Question|CampSurveyQ4]]
<<silently>>
<<set $intakescore = 0>>
<<if $intake1 is "2">><<set $intakescore = $intakescore +2>>
<<elseif $intake1 is "10">><<set $intakescore = $intakescore +10>>
<<elseif $intake1 is "15">><<set $intakescore = $intakescore +15>>
<<elseif $intake1 is "1">><<set $intakescore = $intakescore +1>>
<</if>>
<<if $intake2 is "2">><<set $intakescore = $intakescore +2>>
<<elseif $intake2 is "11">><<set $intakescore = $intakescore +11>>
<<elseif $intake2 is "10">><<set $intakescore = $intakescore +10>>
<<elseif $intake2 is "1">><<set $intakescore = $intakescore +1>>
<</if>>
<<if $intake3 is "1">><<set $intakescore = $intakescore + 1>>
<<elseif $intake3 is "3">><<set $intakescore = $intakescore +3>>
<<elseif $intake3 is "15">><<set $intakescore = $intakescore +15>>
<<elseif $intake3 is "2">><<set $intakescore = $intakescore +2>>
<</if>>
<<if $intake4 is "1">><<set $intakescore = $intakescore + 1>>
<<elseif $intake4 is "5">><<set $intakescore = $intakescore +5>>
<<elseif $intake4 is "10">><<set $intakescore = $intakescore +10>>
<<elseif $intake4 is "15">><<set $intakescore = $intakescore +15>>
<</if>>
<<set $trait1_description to "You are starting to think about your purpose and how you intend to show up in the world.">>
<</silently>>
Thank you for completing the survey. Your answers will be helpful in determining your camp assignments. Your intake number is $intakescore.
//Intake number? What does that even mean?//
[[Continue|Post Survey]]The grey monochrome of your past has transformed into a world of vivid colour. You stand on the side of a small rocky mountain overlooking a fresh, verdant valley. This is what the First People call the Emerald Realm of the Lake Goddess.
You turn around in a full circle. There's colour and beauty all around. A lush green valley below. Endless fields of grazing chevren and yellow wildflowers. A shimmering blue lake in the distance that snuggles up to a forested hill and white-capped mountains. You know from the Camp Starlight brochure that there are hundreds of lakes in this region. You just didn't expect it to be so beautiful. So unspoiled.
Auntie Imani puts the pottery jars in the car, walks over to you, and slings a wet arm around your shoulder. "Welcome to Tokranta."
[[Continue|Tokranta102]]
Who knew that a rainstorm could be so exhilarating?
You dig in your suitcase for a dry t-shirt and slip it over your head. Aunt Imani changes her clothing too. "Time for lunch," she announces. She spreads a cheerful red tarp over a large flat boulder, while you grab a bag of provisions from the car trunk. Then you both warm up under the bright rays of the sun, just emerging from behind the clouds.
You pull sandwiches, a container of green jacort root slices, and a variety of colourful fruit from the bag, arranging everything neatly on the tarp. "Can I ask you another question?" you say to Auntie Imani.
She grabs a reddish-orange mango and peels back the tender skin with her teeth. "Sure. Ask away."
"What's the big deal about the season of the Moon I'm born in? What difference does it make for magic?"
"Good question," she nods approvingly, biting into the mango and wiping juice from her chin. "At a superficial level, it somewhat affects your personality. But for those of us concerned with magic, our Moon element signifies much much more."
You listen, wide-eyed, as you bite into a sandwich.
"Now...as you know, there are five elements --fire, water, earth, air, and spirit. The first four elements determine your Moon season. Each of the four may grant you power-- if you are ready."
"Ready?"
"Yes. The elements do not give their power easily. You don’t approach like a begger. If you wish to gain use of its power you must impress the element."
"I see," you say, when you really don't.
"Of course, the element you are most attuned with --your Moon element-- will be your greatest source of magic. Do you remember having a physical reaction when you first tried out your $gift?"
[[Yeah, I do.|Tokranta103]]
You remember the feeling. "It was exhilarating."
<<if $AirGirl is true>>
Auntie Imani nods. "That's the feeling you get when you're in alignment with your power source. So I'm not an Air Moon like you, but I can give you some advice. Air Moons have an eclectic, psychic sort of magic. But because they rely on their mindfulness, they absolutely have to practice quieting their thoughts. A quick intellect is a given for Air Moons, but it is what lies beyond thought which summons our magic."
"Well what does lie beyond thought?"
"That's unique to each of us, so that's for you to learn, $name. But it always has to do with deep feeling. At your ceremony yesterday, I told you to figure out what YOU like, remember? Whenever you are in the middle of an activity, do a check-in with yourself. If you feel uplifted, make a mental note of that. If what you are doing makes you feel dead inside, note that as well. Do more of what makes you feel uplifted. I'm not talking about surface emotions. I'm talking joy. Peace. Love. Go deep and find that positive feeling and focus there. That's a good start."
<<elseif $EarthGirl is true>>
Auntie Imani nods. "That's the feeling you get when you're in alignment with your power source. So like you, I was born during the Terra Moon, so I can give you a little advice. Stay connected to Mama Terra. Like right now for instance. Notice how I removed my shoes and my bare feet are touching the terra? There are energy centers in our feet we can use to connect to Mama Terra. Everyone has energy centers, but we Terra Moons are sensitive people who need to physically commune with and protect nature. Yes, Terra Moons have a tactile and passionate sort of magic."
You take off your shoes and imitate Auntie Imani. Closing your eyes, you visualize energy rising up from Mama Terra and into your body through the soles of your bare feet. You're not sure, but //maybe// you feel something?<<set $elementpower = $elementpower + 5>>
"At your ceremony yesterday, do you remember when I told you to figure out what YOU like?" asks Auntie Imani.
"Uh huh." You open your eyes and look over at her.
"Whenever you are in the middle of an activity, do a check-in with yourself. If you feel uplifted, make a mental note of that. If what you're doing makes you feel dead inside, note that as well. Then do more of the uplifting things. Simple, eh? But I'm not talking about surface emotions. Look for the deep feeling. Joy. Love. Harmony. That's the starting point in how to tap into your magic."\
<<elseif $FireGirl is true>>
Auntie Imani nods. "That's the feeling you get when you're in alignment with your power source. So I'm not a Fire Moon like you, but I can give you some advice. Fire Moons have bold personalities that use a lot of power. Your magic burns energy, more so than other Moons. So it's important you replenish. Drink lots of water. And make sure you generate your power in a way that make you feel uplifted."
"Like what? I don't get it."
"Like having fun in a good way, $name. Dancing. Or playing. That generates power, believe me. At your ceremony yesterday, I told you to figure out what YOU like, remember? Whenever you are in the middle of an activity, do a check-in with yourself. If you feel uplifted, make a mental note of that. If what you are doing makes you feel dead inside, note that as well. Do more of the stuff that uplifts you. I'm not talking about surface emotions either. Go deep and find a positive feeling and focus there. What brings you joy? Or peace? That's the starting point in how to tap into your magic." <</if>>
"But how does the elemental power thing work exactly?" you ask. "I mean...how do I //gain// power?"
"You study. You learn new skills. You practice. You grow. You'll get a chance to do all that at Camp Starlight."
"Hm." You nod sleepily and stretch out under the heat of the sun, daydreaming about power. Wondering what you would do if you had it.
[[Continue|Tokranta104]]<<if $angel is false>>Another one of those high pitch tones suddenly pierces your ear and you instinctively curl up in a ball and cover your head. The sound is so screetchingly high that it's painful, but thankfully it stops after several seconds. You peer up at Auntie Imani, who is mid-crunch into a bite of jacort root and looking down at you with alarm.
"Did you hear that?" you ask, your face still contorted.
She frowns and looks around, scanning the surrounding area. "Hear what?"
"That high piercing sound."
"Oh," she shrugs, sounding matter-of-fact. "That happens sometimes, when you're new to raising your power levels. It's vibrational. It eases once you've figured out how to work with your spirit guide."
"What?" You sit up, suddenly wide awake. "Am I supposed to have a spirit guide?"
She chuckles. "Of course. Everyone has spirit guides. The question is, are you in tune with their vibration? You have to raise your vibration to become aligned with the presence of spirit guides. You do this through meditation and attuning to the frequency of love and harmony. Looks like you have some catch-up work to do once you get to Camp Starlight." \
<<else>>//Ahh! The eternal question...what would I do with power?//
Huh?
//Good question to think about, since you have a bit of it now...looks like you are hovering around Level $elementpower. Whether you are able to get more depends on how you use what you've got. Understand?//
Level $elementpower? What does that even mean?
//It means you can't do much, especially without your $gift. But it's a start.//
What? Who are you?
//My name is $myangel. I've been called a guardian angel, but for some that can be a limited way of perceiving. I'm one of your spirit guides. Your meditations have allowed your vibration to become aligned with my presence. For I am attuned to the frequency of love and harmony. But you and I...we've been together forever. You don't remember, but I'm the one that helped you out of the car. Just before the crash?//
What do you mean? I don’t remember that.
//No. Of course not. Nor our previous conversations, I suspect. You may not remember this encounter either. Or else you will think it was a dream caused by the nutbutter sandwich you just ate. But here's the thing... You're in the dark and stumbling around to find the path that calls to you from deep within. I know the urgency you feel. I know your wish for a guide. You being here is no coincidence. Time to get on the road.// <</if>>
[[What?|Tokranta105]]
Stella rises to her feet and stands in front of the group. "Here's the deal: Each of us is on a journey. We've each been called to Camp Starlight in order to grow and learn and to serve our soul's purpose. We each have a story. Maybe it's about where we're from. Maybe why we're here. Sooo...for our ice-breaker you're going to show-or-tell us whatever it is you want to share about yourself. At a minimum, say your name, your Moon element and... whatever else. Okay? I'll start. So here goes...
"My name is Stella and I was born in the season of the Air Moon. I was born in Tokranta and came to Lake Starlight five years ago when the camp first opened. I was an explorer, just like you are now. I remember being so nervous, but the experience changed my life. I discovered my calling as a teacher and vision guide. This is where I first experienced the world beyond the veil. But I still have a lot to learn from the Elders and my Spirit Guides, so I am blessed by Goddess to be here. And I can already tell that I'm going to love being your Camp Guide and hanging out with you girls. Oh! And by the way...I am an //amazing// hairstylist! That's right! Braids, twists, wash-and-go, trims, you name it! So you Oak Grove ladies are going to be looking on point. ALL! DAY! LONG! Do you feel me?!"
Together, all of you yell out, "Yessss!" Then Stella shouts for everybody to jump up and she teaches you a super-fun cheer routine that involves lots of booty shaking and kicking and jumping and spinning around while shouting: "Oak Grove cabin, Pump it up! Oak Grove cabin, Pump it up!" Everybody is laughing and jumping and hi-fiving each other and when you all finally collapse on the floor in exhaustion, your body is buzzing with positive energy.
Wow! That was awesome! Stella is awesome! By the time everyone settles back into the circle, you can't wait to offically meet the rest of your cabin-mates. <<set $explorer to "Lilo">>
"Who wants to go next?" asks Stella, still trying to catch her breath.
The girl with the waist-length locs jumps to her feet.
[[Lilo|Meet Lilo]]Stella now says, "Divine Goddess, we invite your presence in our new home and our new circle. We ask for your protection and compassion as we learn together and serve together in this circle of sisterhood. //Ashe//."
A few minutes pass in silent medition. You can only describe what you're feeling as //peace//. Then...
"When you are ready, allow your awareness to return to the circle and open your eyes." Stella's voice is soft yet firm. You sigh, open your eyes and gaze around the circle. The five other girls look serene. You feel the same way. The energy in the room is one hundred percent better!
Plus, you smell pizza!
You glance over your shoulder and see Stella standing by the cabin door, with a box of pizza in each hand. She rejoins the circle, placing the pizza boxes into the center, followed by two bowls filled with sliced fruit and kale chips. "Dig in!" she announces, while passing out cloth napkins.
You grin and grab a slice of pizza, happy and relieved that Stella is the leader of your cabin. She's got a soothing way about her and seems like a natural leader.
Stella looks around at each of you--everyone's munching and smiling--with a nod of approval. "Now like I was saying," she declares with a wink and a smile, "we're doing an icebreaker.
"And it's gonna be FUN..."
[[Continue|Stella's IceBreaker3]]On mornings like this you feel like crying... except you're sick and tired of crying. Instead, you reach for the book on your bedside table. It's your favorite. Your mom wrote it years before she died--//Myth, Magic & Goddess//.
At bedtime, she used to read the colorful myths and heroic tales to you and your brother. Her voice was a lullaby for your soul. Fondly, you run your fingers over the book's cover, then open to the [[Dedication.|Book Dedication]] Reading her loving words aloud makes you feel better. Like you can feel your mom's energy. You only wish you could talk and laugh with her again.
"I miss you Mama," you whisper aloud, imagining she can hear you. "But I'm glad at least that school is over and I'm on semester break. There's something weird happening at school and it scares me. These girls started a cult and it's freaky. Like mind control or something. They gather in a circle and I can feel them trying to push evil thoughts into the room. Only the teachers don't feel anything. And they just don't care. I hate it.
"And now we have mad dogs on the streets. //Mad dogs!// Mama Terra is being murdered by ecocide and nobody cares. So when I think about my highest path, it makes my stomach hurt. Like where am I supposed to find it? My highest path, I mean? Will there be a signpost or a tour-guide or something?"
You shake your head and try to shut out the terrifying thought that's circling in your mind: //What if I'm just a small town crazy girl who talks to her dead mother? What if I'm stuck in this stinking toxic town for the rest of my life? Always being scared? Never having adventures?//
//If only I could figure a way to make life better.//
Myriad thoughts roil through your mind like a windstorm, whirling from the terraquake this morning to the smooth texture of Abuelita's guacamole and over to how incredible it would feel to be a musician performing on an entirely different planet where people were kind. Then in a flash you're thinking about the wildflowers you left at the cemetery last week and the witch that lives in the tombs. Until finally...your mind replays the memories of your awful past, along with your scary predictions for a grim future.
Ugh! [[Life sucks!|Air101]]
On days like this, you feel desperately tired of it all--like you're living your life in monochrome. Like you don't belong and you never will.
You glance over to your bedside table where you keep your treasure. A book your mom wrote before she died--//Myth, Magic & Goddess//. At bedtime, she used to read the colorful myths and heroic tales to you and your brother. Her voice was a lullaby for your soul. Fondly, you run your fingers over the book's cover, then open to the [[Dedication.|Book Dedication]] Reading her loving words aloud makes you feel better. Like you can feel your mom's energy. You only wish you could talk and laugh with her again.
"Oh Momma! Things aren't going so great," you whisper out loud. "I try to make things better, but nothing works. At least school is over and I'm on semester break. There's something weird happening there though. These girls started a cult...like mind control or something. They gather in a circle and I can feel them trying to push evil thoughts into the room. Only the teachers don't feel anything. And they don't care anyway. I just hate it. And now we have mad dogs on the streets. //Mad dogs!// Mama Terra is suffering and nobody cares that she's being murdered by ecocide. So what can I do?"
You flop down on the bed, feeling a deadness in the pit of your gut. "Momma, you remember how you always talked about how I should walk on my highest path? Well...how am I suppose to know when I'm on my highest path? Is there gonna be a signpost or something?"
You shake your head in disgust. "What's wrong with me? I mean, besides how I'm living in a chemical-dump of a town." You try to shut out the terrifying thought that's circling in your mind: //What if I'm just a small town crazy girl who talks to her dead mother? What if I'm stuck in this stinking toxic town for the rest of my life? Always bored? Never having any adventures?//
//If only I could figure out a way to make things better.//
But then...[[suddenly you smell food!|Terra101]]
On days like this, you absolutely feel like raging. Your anger is like a solar flame igniting your core. When you're not mindful, your emotions can burn hot and wild. Over the last year though, you've gained some maturity and can self-soothe through the tough times.
You glance over to your bedside table where you keep your only book. Reading it brings you a certain calmness. Your mom wrote it before she died--//Myth, Magic & Goddess//. At bedtime, she used to read the colorful myths and heroic tales to you and your little brother. Her voice was a lullaby for your soul. Fondly, you run your fingers over the book's cover, then open to the [[Dedication.|Book Dedication]] Reading her loving words aloud makes you feel better. Like you can feel your mom's energy. You only wish you could talk and laugh with her again.
"Things aren't going so great Mami," you whisper. "I feel so helpless. So alone. Remember how you told me I'd have adventures in my life? But what kind of adventure can I have in this town? My school sucks. This town sucks. Now we've got mad dogs running the streets and swarms of blood flies not far behind, breeding on their feces and stinging the bambinos. Some days I can't even go outside. It's bad, Mami, how the world is getting murdered by ecocide and how nobody cares. I mean, is this supposed to be my highest path? Cause maybe I'm lost and need a tour guide or something! Or...am I just doomed to be out here on my own?"
The only response is deafening silence.
You shake your head in disgust. "Ay! I'm just a small town crazy talking to my dead mother! What's wrong with me? What's wrong with this world? People say give it time, but...nobody cares."
//If only I could figure out a way to make things better.//
[[You bury your head into the pillow and scream.|Fire101]]Question 5: Which statement is both true AND is most in alignment?
<label><<radiobutton "$intake4" "1" checked>> I never dream.</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$intake4" "5">> I usually can't remember my dreams after I wake up.</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$intake4" "10">> I dream about fire and water.</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$intake4" "10">> I dream about flying.</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$intake4" "15">> I often write down my dreams in a notebook.</label>
[[Next Question|CampSurveyQ5]]
<<set $spiritanimal to false>>Who is your spirit animal?
<<if $FireGirl is true>>
<label><<radiobutton "$spiritanimal" "Crow" checked>> Crow</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$spiritanimal" "Coyote">> Coyote</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$spiritanimal" "Spider">> Spider</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$spiritanimal" "Deer">> Deer</label>
<</if>><<if $AirGirl is true>>
<label><<radiobutton "$spiritanimal" "Crow" checked>> Crow</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$spiritanimal" "Deer">> Deer</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$spiritanimal" "Bat">> Bat</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$spiritanimal" "Spider">> Spider</label>
<</if>> <<if $EarthGirl is true>>
<label><<radiobutton "$spiritanimal" "Coyote" checked>> Coyote</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$spiritanimal" "Crow">> Crow</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$spiritanimal" "Spider">> Spider</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$spiritanimal" "Raccoon">> Raccoon</label>
<</if>>[[Next|CampSurveyScore]]Written and Produced by Summers Via EarthYou go find Abuelita, who gives you a big hug and watches as you //finally// open your gift. <<if $FireGirl is true>>
"Hey! A new pair of sneakers!" <<set $gift to "sneakers">>
"I remember you were on the track team at school before the accident..." Abuelita pauses and clears her throat. "Well, anyway...I hope these help you to be strong again."
"Thanks, Abuelita!" you say, but what you're thinking is: //It's gonna take more than a crispy pair of kicks to make me feel strong.//
"This gift is very special," Abuelita adds in a mysterious, woo-woo manner. "Auntie Imani has blessed them. Try them on. Now. You must go out for a run."
"Auntie Imani?" You almost laugh but catch yourself. Auntie Imani has a wild reputation, but that only makes the gift more...interesting.
<<elseif $AirGirl is true>>
Oh! Sweet! It's a beautiful silver flute, with pretty engravings of birds and animals along its delicate body. <<set $gift to "silver flute">> "Wow, it's so pretty!" you exclaim. "Thank you, Abuelita!"
"You are welcome, my dearest. I know how much you love music. And you will discover something very special about this $gift. It has been specially blessed by Auntie Imani."
Abulita pushes a spiral bound book into your hands. "It comes with a lesson book, see right here."
Hmm. Auntie Imani?? Now //that's// interesting.
<<elseif $EarthGirl is true>><<set $gift to "magic seeds">>
Hm. It's a small cotton bag filled with <<linkreplace "seeds.">>black seeds along with a large, $favorite_color ceramic pot and a bag of rich, black soil.<</linkreplace>>
"These are very special seeds cultivated by Auntie Imani," says Abuelita.
"That's cool. Auntie Imani has mad gardening skills."
Abuelita continues, "The seeds don't require much water and grow very fast. Very fast, indeed. You must plant one right away."
"What kind of seeds are they?" You eye the plain brown pouch with no label or clue as to what the seed would become. And if the mysterious Auntie Imani has anything to do with this...
Your grandmother just shrugs and smiles in that goofy way of hers. You (inwardly) roll your eyes.
<</if>>
[[Continue|StartQuest]]<<silently>>
<<set $EarthGirl to true>>
<<set $gift to "magic seeds">>
<<set $name to "Dakota">>
<<set $elementpower to 5>>
<<set $drone to "yes">>
<<set $bestfriend to "Lilo">>
<<set $happiness to 0>>
<<set $spiritanimal to "Crow">>
<<set $intakescore to 36>>
<<set $angel to true>>
<<set $backpack to true>>
<<set $myangel to "Harmony">>
<<set $campstarlight to true>>
<<set $truenameday to true>>
<<set $keyfob to true>>
<<set $moonphase to "New Moon">>
<<set $monkeymind to false>>
<<set $metexplorers to false>>
<<set $intuition to 1>>
<</silently>>
[[Start Test|The End:Dead Girl]]"Welcome to Oak Grove Cabin." The girl has stunning hazel eyes and a soft smile. "I'm Stella, your Cabin Guide! And I'm a hugger! Is it okay if I hug you?"
You nod and Stella envelopes you in a warm hug that immediately gives you safe vibes. "I'm so glad to have you in my cabin, $name. Trust, it's going to be a transformative experience."
Next Stella gives you a quick tour of the cabin--there's a bathroom with two toilets, two showers, two sinks, and a closet with linen, cleaning supplies and an electric kettle. You've been assigned an upper bunk and a locker for your clothing and other stuff.
"I know the first day at camp and being away from home can be overwelming," Stella says. "Do you have any questions for me? Anything you need?"
[[Continue|Stella and Drone]]
<<if $EarthGirl is true>>Something feels off. You leave the trail and step onto the leafy floor of the woods. You walk silently. Trying to become one with the forest.
You stand beside a giant elderwood tree and place your palm on its trunk. You imagine sending the tree a feeling of oneness and harmony. In return, you get a welcoming tingle in your hand. You grin, knowing that was a true connection. What a thrill!
You bend down and sink your fingers into the soil. You sigh happily, feeling the vibration of Mama Terra through your fingertips. But suddenly you have the sensation of being watched. Then an image of silver wings flashes in your mind. You gasp, surprised at the sudden image projected in your mind. But the image disappears so fast, it's a struggle not to let it fade away from your memory.
Your eyes narrow as you consider what that means.
<<silently>><<set $elementpower = $elementpower + 10>><<set $drone = "yes">>
<<set $confidence to "You have a quiet sureness. You are careful and believe in the wisdom of measuring three times and cutting once. You are aware of your intuitive side but are not always in control of your emotions, which then limits your magic. You enjoy experimenting but lack the skills and training needed to control elemental power (Level $elementpower /100).">><</silently>>
<<elseif $AirGirl is true>>Something feels off. You realize you're holding your breath. Slowly and silently you release it.
You step off of the path and into the woods.
In the stillness that follows, a slight breeze brushes along your cheeks. A now familiar swirly sensation rises inside your head. You close your eyes, tuning in to the sounds and scents being carried by the wind.
Strange. There's nobody else on the path or in the woods, yet you're picking up a strong intuition. A feeling of being watched. You frown when a faint whirring sound is brought to your ears by the wind. Your eyes pop open. Your mind starts to spin as you consider what it all means.<<silently>><<set $elementpower = $elementpower + 10>><<set $confidence to "You are intelligent and sometimes strategic, but still find it challenging to keep a cool head. You are more aware of your intuitive side but still must learn to control your racing thoughts. You are curious but don't yet have the skills and training to control elemental power (Level $elementpower /100).">><<set $drone = "yes">><</silently>><</if>>
Finally, you retrace your steps and continue along the trail until you reach the small cabin that will be home for the summer. <<notify>>Character Profile Updated<</notify>>
[[Continue|Enter Oak Grove]]<<if $elementpower gte 1 and $metexplorers is false>>
<<link "Character Profile" "Character Profile">><</link>>
<</if>>
<<if $metexplorers is true>>
<<link "Character Profile" "Character Profile">><</link>>
<<link "Meet the Explorers" "Explorer Profiles">><</link>>
<</if>><<nobr>>
<h3>Lilo Keanu</h3>
<ul>
<li>Moon Element: Water</li>
<li>Magic: Explorer Level II Drum & Trance Shaman</li>
<li>Spirit Animal: Dolphin</li>
<li>Relationship: You share a cabin</li>
</ul>
<p class="description">Lilo has BIG personality and is very clever; at times even a bit of a trickster. She has a smooth tan complexion, sharp cheekbones and waist-length, sun-bleached locs. She is a traveler; an explorer. Because of this, she hasn't made deep, grounding friendships with other humans. Lilo wears her mermaid mother's saltwater pearls threaded through her locs, which are said to amplify her powers. Lady luck is on Lilo's side.</p>
<</nobr>><h3>To My Darling Children</h3>
//May your inner fire spark your creative light;
May warm breezes bring you whispers of wisdom;
May gentle currents guide you on your highest path;
May Mama Terra show you the meaning of love;
May you be awake even as you dream.//
<<return>><<if $campstarlight is "false">>
<<set $trait1_description to "You are often filled with nervous energy.">>
<<set $balance to "You tend to be driven by emotional swings. You haven’t learned to use the power of emotions to tap into your core strength.">>
<<set $confidence to "You don't understand how to control elemental power (Level $elementpower /100) and are unsure of your abilities. You have self-doubt and sometimes lack the confidence to act.">>
<<set $selfaware to "You don’t have a good sense of your direction or purpose, or even what you like, beyond the superficial.">>
else
<<nobr>>
<h3>Marie Bayou</h3>
<ul>
<li>Moon Element: Air</li>
<li>Magic: Explorer Level II Psychic & Incantations</li>
<li>Spirit Animal: Snake</li>
<li>Relationship: You share a cabin</li>
</ul>
<p class="description">Marie is a self-assured psychic with an advanced social conscious and the ability to enchant. Her identity is heavily influenced by family expectations--Marie's female ancestors were powerful sorcerers. She has had initial training in the ways of witchcraft and is confidently intuitive. She is a force of nature who dances with the wind.</p>
<</nobr>><<nobr>>
<h3>Daanis Deepwater</h3>
<ul>
<li>Moon Element: Terra</li>
<li>Magic: Explorer Level II Medium & Whisperer </li>
<li>Spirit Animal: Fox</li>
<li>Relationship: You share a cabin</li>
</ul>
<p class="description">Daanis is of the Indigenous Tokranta Nation, which has long been terrorized by colonizers. She has long black hair, grey eyes, is partially deaf and an excellent lip reader. Dannis doesn't trust easily, and is a no-nonsense, mysterious loner who is connected to the Tokranta land and committed to protecting it.</p>
<</nobr>><<nobr>>
<h3>Ashelle Sabo</h3>
<ul>
<li>Moon Element: Water</li>
<li>Magic: Explorer Level II Oracle & Dreamweaver</li>
<li>Spirit Animal: River Trout</li>
<li>Relationship: You share a cabin</li>
</ul>
<p class="description">Ashelle is a small, proud girl with dark, flawless skin and a striking work of art tattoed on her scalp. This is a source of power for her. Ashelle has experienced trauma in her life and while this had made her a compassionate being, she is hurting inside. She is a talented songtress, a channel for mystery’s poetry and an interpreter of dreams. </p>
<</nobr>>
<<nobr>>
<h3>BB O'Boyle</h3>
<ul>
<li>Moon Element: Fire</li>
<li>Magic: Explorer Level II Fire Summoner</li>
<li>Spirit Animal: Bee</li>
<li>Relationship: You share a cabin. She doesn't seem to like you.</li>
</ul>
<p class="description">BB is spirited and courageous, arrogant and self-assured. She gets her red hair and green eyes from her father, who is an Elder at Camp Starlight. This fact cramps BB's rebellious nature since she is being guided to be of service and less self-centered. Nevertheless, you never have to guess where you stand with BB, as she will always let you know. She is a skilled huntress and a girl of action. </p>
<</nobr>><<nobr>>
<h3>Stella Parker</h3>
<ul>
<li>Moon Element: Air</li>
<li>Magic: Guide Level II Empath</li>
<li>Spirit Animal: Owl</li>
<li>Relationship: She is the Guide and Leader of your cabin</li>
</ul>
<p class="description">The Guide of Oak Grove Cabin is a petite woman with beautiful shoulder-length braids, hazel-colored eyes, and a nuturing nature. Stella lives in Tokronta and came to Camp Starlight five years ago as an explorer. With the help of the Elders, she developed into a gifted empath but she is still developing her leadership skills. She definitely can work some magic when it comes to doing hair. </p>
<</nobr>><<if $metexplorers is true>>
<div align="center"><h1>Explorer Profiles</h1></div>
<div align="center"><<link "Return" $return>><</link>></div>
<div class="container">
<div class="card profile-card">
<img src="https://i.postimg.cc/02QQFxFw/Stella-jpg.jpg" style="width:100%">
<<link "Stella Parker">><<script>>
Dialog.setup("Stella Parker");
Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Stella Parker").processText());
Dialog.open();
<</script>><</link>>
</div>
<div class="card profile-card">
<img src="https://i.postimg.cc/TYQSsvmB/Lilo-jpg.jpg" style="width:100%">
<<link "Lilo Keanu">><<script>>
Dialog.setup("Lilo Keanu");
Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Lilo Keanu").processText());
Dialog.open();
<</script>><</link>>
</div>
<div class="card profile-card">
<img src="https://i.postimg.cc/Fs9FcmN6/Marie-jpg.jpg" style="width:100%">
<<link "Marie Bayou">><<script>>
Dialog.setup("Marie Bayou");
Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Marie Bayou").processText());
Dialog.open();
<</script>><</link>>
</div>
<div class="card profile-card">
<img src="https://i.postimg.cc/q7gxv9Nh/BB-jpg.jpg" style="width:100%">
<<link "BB O'Boyle">><<script>>
Dialog.setup("BB O'Boyle");
Dialog.wiki(Story.get("BB O'Boyle").processText());
Dialog.open();
<</script>><</link>>
</div>
<div class="card profile-card">
<img src="https://i.postimg.cc/2S7prLP9/Daanis-jpg.jpg" style="width:100%">
<<link "Daanis Deepwater">><<script>>
Dialog.setup("Daanis Deepwater");
Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Daanis Deepwater").processText());
Dialog.open();
<</script>><</link>>
</div>
<div class="card profile-card">
<img src="https://i.postimg.cc/MTTbXgXf/Ashelle-jpg.jpg" style="width:100%">
<<link "Ashelle Sabo">><<script>>
Dialog.setup("Ashelle Sabo");
Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Ashelle Sabo").processText());
Dialog.open();
<</script>><</link>>
</div>
</div>
<<else>>
<div align="center"><h2>Explorer Profiles</h2></div>
<div align="center"><<return "Close">></div>
<div class="container">
Undiscovered Character
</div>
<</if>><<set $talisman to 0>><<set $challenge to true>>\
<<if $bestfriend is "Lilo">>You don’t want to hurt her feelings, but Lilo’s idea is not technically a strategy. “I don't think we should rely on luck,” you tell Lilo. “Plus, we were assigned to teams for a reason. Like maybe we're supposed to divide and conquer? I mean...It seems like we should be strategizing a REAL plan.”
She shrugs. “Ok. So what's your idea?”
You grimace. “Ummm. I'm still thinking.”
“Huh. Well here’s the thing, $name. I’m not into making big chess moves and whatnot. I get that you're a big thinker and that’s cool. So you take your time and figure it out. I'm gonna head over to the Prana Yurt.”
<<elseif $bestfriend is "Marie">>Admittedly, your mind is racing and you are quite nervous about the Talisman Challenge. But a shot of adrenaline improves performance, right?
You sigh. “Marie, what would really make me feel better is just getting started. We’re already behind everyone else. I mean, look around. Everybody else has already taken off.”
A sudden, stiff breeze rises, blowing through the tree leaves and whipping Marie’s hair around her face. “Fine,” she says, tucking a lock of hair behind her ear. “But fair warning, $name. Keep your weird vibes in check and away from me.”\
<<else>>“I...just think we must be assigned to a team for a reason,” you explain to Daanis, feeling confident in your logic. You don’t want to offend, but her idea is not //technically// a strategy. “We should be strategizing a real plan. Together. You know--”
“Listen, $name," Daanis interrupts. "I didn’t ask to team up with you because I don’t know you from a forest rat. And to be honest...from what I’ve seen so far, I just threw you a lifeline. So--you don’t wanna have my back, fine! It’s every explorer for herself.” <</if>>
“No,” you protest. “No, $bestfriend! I didn’t mean it that way.”
But $bestfriend has already turned and walked away and you’re just babbling to the wind. You sigh and consult your Activity Sheet again. Right. You're supposed to meet Elder Imani at the Prana Yurt.
When you look up, $bestfriend has vanished. You start jogging, trying to catch up with her. But which way did she go?
[[Continue|Bad Vibes Crossroads]]
You and $bestfriend race to the Prana Yurt, a large tent-like structure on the edge of Clover Field.
You get there first and see Auntie Imani--correction--Elder Imani. It feels like weeks since you last spoke to her, but it was only yesterday. You dash over to greet her.
After receiving a long, reassuring hug, you rejoin $bestfriend, sitting down with all the other explorers amongst the thick, green clover.
"Good morning explorers," says Elder Imani. She's dressed in an elegant, multi-colored tunic and her long locs are piled in an intricate twist at the top of her head. She looks radiant and regal, as usual.
"Good morning Elder," the explorers respond.
Elder Imani paces back and forth in front of the seated group. "Today you are going to learn one of the basic tenents of magic," she lectures. "You will then take that knowledge and create a simple but effective self-care potion. One that will come in handy this summer at Camp Starlight."
You breath a sigh of relief. A simple potion sounds do-able, especially working on a team with $bestfriend.
Elder Imani continues. "To begin, you must understand how to call forth the spirits of the elements.
[[The Four Elements|The Four Elements]]
Before sunrise, Stella leads everyone on a hike to Emerald Hill, a high grassy slope overlooking Lake Starlight and the camp. You set off from the cabin in single file down the Starlight Trail, each girl with a backpack and flashlight, walking silently through the soft colours of early morning. Then Stella turns off the main trail, guiding you towards a steep hill. You feel the ground beneath your feet rising as you leave the dense wood and start the ascent.
There are tall grasses, all kinds of wildflowers, thick bush, and small pines on either side of the narrow trail. All around you hear the rustle of small creatures in the underbrush.
It's a tough climb up, and your leg muscles are really getting a work-out. Your heart is beating fast and you take big inhalations to keep up your stamina. Stella sets a quick pace. You feel present and alive.
By the time you reach the top of the hill, it is dawn. You are dripping with sweat and panting like a tired dog, but once you catch your breath and check out the view, it's totally worth it.
A snow-capped mountain range looks so close, it seems like you can reach out and touch the cold. You see the entire camp spread below like a miniature village filled with a dozen or more cabins, dirt trails snaking in and out of the woods, and a huge field of green. But eventually, all eyes are drawn to the magnificant Lake Starlight. Dark blue waters for as far as the eye can see. A lake considered sacred by the great civilization who once inhabited this land.
There's a clearing at the top of the hill and you all sit down facing the lake. Then you see your first //true// sunrise ever. It's a stunning watercolor mix of pink, orange, and lavender swoops and swirls, coloring the lake and sky in glorious mirror images. You drink from the water bottle in your backpack and enjoy the morning songs of the birds.
There is much to admire from this vantage. The woods and the surrounding land are green and lush. On the far side of the sparkling lake, you can just make out the white shape of a large mansion behind a grove of massively tall trees. You also take the chance to steal glances at your cabin mates.
Lilo and BB are both sprawled out on the grass, arms and legs spread wide, half sleep. //That tracks,// you think wryly. Stella and Ashelle are eyes closed and meditating. Marie is softly smiling, glowing, arms open in gratitude to the rising sun. In return she is being bathed in its powerful rays like a golden goddess.
Your eyes shift to Daanis. She's sitting upright and nodding her head, staring into the underbrush. You follow her gaze and are startled by what seems like a pair of bright eyes peering out of the bushes.
You blink to sharpen your vision, but then you no longer see anything out-of-place. Just colourful wildflowers and fragrant rosemary bushes. You snatch your eyes back over to Daanis. Now she's sitting cross-legged and meditating, eyes closed.
You decide to meditate, too.
[[Continue|Field Meditation]]Madison confidently leads everyone inside the Prana Yurt. Once there, she points out a long rectangular table covered with carefully labeled jars, dried herbs, pots and equipment, and lots and lots of bottles. "The [[insect repellent potion|Grimoire]] is extremely important since you'll be hiking in the woods and stuff," Madison says. "Trust me, you'll wanna use it everyday here at Camp Starlight. For this assignment, you can work alone or with your partner."
You and $bestfriend nod at each other, silently agreeing to work together.
Next Madison points out a basin and a pottery jar filled with <<linkreplace "Goddess water.">> blessed rainwater infused with flowers, herbs and spices.<</linkreplace>> After she gives you tips on circle casting and fire starting, she hands you a basket filled with measuring cups, spoons and a big bag of seasalt. You wash your hands with the Goddess water and use some of the salt to cleanse and purify a small cast iron cauldron.
"You're going to be using that little cauldron all summer," says Madison, "so clean it good and make sure it doesn't have any residue inside."
Everyone nods. Then Madison says, "I just want to add one more thing from my personal experience. Elder Imani already advised about expressing gratitude, but I'm telling you...for me, having a gratitude practice has been the most important part of my practice. Whenever I'm anxious or scared or living in fear, being thankful is hard. So trust me, I get it. But if you want to experience magic, you won't forget. "
Finally, you and $bestfriend return outside the yurt with your cauldron and a basket full of fire-starter materials, herbs, oils, and the bag of salt. You claim a space on the bare terra surrounding Clover Field to do the assignment. First, you must [[cast a sacred protection circle|Cast Circle]].
Elder Imani is wrapping up her lecture and you listen carefully. "Now then, with this background on the elementals in mind, your assignment will be to call on the Four Elements and gain their help as you brew a special insect repellent potion. Madison will give you additional instructions inside the yurt."
Luckily, Elder Imani has provided the recipe in the Camp Starlight [[Grimoire]].
Madison confidently leads everyone inside the Prana Yurt. She points out a long rectangular table covered with carefully labeled jars, dried herbs, pots and equipment, and lots and lots of bottles. "The insect repellent potion you're gonna brew is important since you'll be hiking in the woods and stuff, " she says. "You'll wanna use it everyday here at Camp Starlight."
Everyone nods and Madison continues. "For this assignment, you can work alone or with your partner."
You steal a glance at $bestfriend, but she doesn't seem to notice. Her attention is on Madison, who continues with instructions about circle casting and fire starting and a lot of other stuff. So much stuff that you're finding it difficult to take it all in. You pull out your journal and start to take notes.
Madison points out a basin and a pottery jar filled with <<linkreplace "Goddess water.">> blessed rainwater infused with flowers, herbs and spices.<</linkreplace>> She also gives you several measuring cups, spoons and a big bag of seasalt. You watch what others are doing and basically follow along. You wash your hands with the Goddess water and use some of the salt to cleanse and purify a small cast iron cauldron.
"You're going to be using that little cauldron all summer," says Madison, "so clean it good and make sure it doesn't have any residue inside." The rest of what Madison says is just a blur.
$bestfriend queues up to gather the recipe ingredients and materials. She looks very sure of herself and doesn't even glance your way. You shrug. Actually, you don't mind working on your own, but you're a little flustered about being late and missing most of Elder Imani's lecture.
As you join the end of the queue, Elder Imani appears by your side and hugs an arm around your shoulders. She's dressed in an elegant, multi-colored tunic and her long locs are piled in an intricate twist at the top of her head. She looks radiant and regal. "How did your first night at Camp Starlight pass?" she asks.
You grimace and shrug. Elder Imani's smile fades and she gives you a tight hug. "I know this is all new and happening fast, $name. But I've always sensed something magical about you. Here and now is exactly where you are meant to be." She pauses and her eyes dart here and there, looking at the other explorers milling about in the yurt. She turns to you and asks, "Who is your partner for the Talisman Challenge?"
You don't meet her eye as you mumble sullenly. "$bestfriend."
Elder Imani casts a look at $bestfriend, who is leaving the yurt, carrying a basket full of materials for the assignment. Elder Imani's face creases with concern as she intuitively takes in everything that you have NOT said. She rubs your shoulder kindly. "Once you start to draw your sacred protection circle," she advises, "don't pause or stop, even for just a moment. Any pause will create a break in the circle. Concentrate well."
Your stomach lurches but you nod.
[[Continue|Talisman Bad Vibes 5]]
<<silently>><<set $trait1_description to "You are often stubborn and unable to sort through your emotions. It is also difficult for you to accept help.">><<set $selfaware to "You find it difficult to identify your strengths and weaknesses in various circumstances. You are unaware of how your behavior impacts those around you. You may wish to ask yourself: what are the values and aspirations guiding my day-to-day actions?">><<set $balance to "It is difficult for you to know the difference between a gut feeling of fear and one of intuition.">><</silently>>\
You run left from the Starlight Trail to the Lakeside Trail, looking for $bestfriend and the Prana Yurt. You reach the lake and see Stella out on the long, wooden dock with a tall young man in black swim trunks.
You also see a colorfully-dressed Tokranta woman standing on a elevated platform in front of the Boat House. You recognize her from breakfast this morning. She's an Elder and she's lecturing a crowd of explorers gathered around her. Your eyes widen. It looks like they've already started on the assignment! Yikes!
Your heart is pounding as you look around for $bestfriend. You don't see her and there is definitely no yurt in sight. This is not the right place. You groan and start to run full speed back to the Starlight Trail.
This time you follow the sign to the Woodland Trail. After racing along for about 200 meters, you see a clearing ahead. Yes! There's a green field and a large, tent-like structure at the edge. You stop for a few seconds and gulp some air, then take off running again. This is it! The Prana Yurt!
[[Continue|Talisman Bad Vibes 3]]You are quietly attentive, watching and listening as Elder Imani lectures the small group of explorers. Counting you and $bestfriend, there are six girls. From the looks of the group, everyone is a first-time attendee at Camp Starlight--just like you. But you don't have time to check them out. Not while Elder Imani is laying down some wisdom.
"Before you begin the assignment," says Elder Imani, "I will teach you first about the nature of the elements: water, terra, air and fire.
"First is Water. All that lives requires water to survive. Water spirits are shapeshifters so many of you born in the Water Moon are skilled illusionists. And because our tears symbolize the Water element, expressing our sorrow and our joy, Water Moons may be able to influence the realm of emotions. Today you will call on Water for its cleansing and purifying qualities.
"Next you will meet Terra, as you create your sacred circle of protection. The spirits of Terra are nuturing and therefore expect to be honored in return. If you are a Terra Moon you may find a symbiotic harmony with Mama Terra's forests and fields, rocks and valleys. Terra spirits will help you become grounded and strong, like our bones give structure and strength to our bodies. Today you will use salt--a symbol of Mama Terra--for grounding and protection during your ritual.
"Next is Air, and its magic is often associated with the mind and psychic abilities, yes? Sometimes stormy and sometimes carefree, Air spirits require a shift in perspective in order to access their power. Our breath is a symbol of air and can be a subtle yet powerful way to see the world more clearly. In this assignment, you will meet Air as you use your breath to call to the elements, to cast your circle, and to spark your fire."
Elder Imani pauses here and looks at each girl in the group of inexperienced explorers. "A word to the wise, girls: don't improvise with the incantation I will give you. You are still too young and ignorant in the ways of magic. Write down and speak these words three times."
Elder Imani speaks the incantation, and you and the others carefully write it down in your journals.
Then she continues. "Finally we have Fire, whose spirits are spicy and invite you to ignite your passions and connect to your desires. Fire is the warmth and light of our spirit. Those born during the Fire Moon have a wild side, for the flames are intense, with the abililty to both create and destroy. In this assignment, you will call on the spirits of Fire to bring the magic of trasmutation to your potion."
Elder Imani pauses and again looks at each one of the girls seated amongst the field of giant three-leaf clovers. "Are there any questions before we begin?" she asks, tilting her head to the side.
Everyone looks wide-eyed and nervous, but it seems there are no questions.
"Excellent," she says, clapping her hands. "With this background on the elementals in mind, your assignment will be to call on the four elements and gain their help as you brew a special insect repellent potion. If and when the elements respond, be sure to express your gratitude, or it may be the last time you recieve their help. Now. Madison will show you the recipe and give you additional instructions inside the yurt."
[[Continue|Imani's Talisman 1]] <div align="center"><h2>Lake Starlight Grimoire</h2></div>
<h3>Recipe for Insect Repellent Potion</h3>
<p class="description">This potion protects from blood-sucking and venemous insects and arachnids, while causing no harm to pollinators. The potion must be brewed within a sacred circle of protection to elevate the effectiveness beyond the mundane.</p>
<ul>
<li>Half a liter of Loi Spirit gently reduced in an iron cauldren</li>
<li>Add 2 pinches of Elderwood tree bark to the Loi Spirit. Stir and remove from heat. </li>
<li>Add 4 spoons eucalyptus oil and stir</li>
<li>Slowly stir in 2 spoons each of the following: Rose geranium oil, Lemongrass oil, Mint oil, Rosemary oil.</li>
</ul>
<div align="center"><<return "Close">></div>
"Once you start to draw the circle," $bestfriend cautions, "if you stop, even for just a moment, it'll make a break in the circle. That'll allow outside energies into our protected space. So be fluid! Okay, $name?"
Your stomach lurches but you nod. You close your eyes, take three deep breaths and see a three-dimensional circle of protection in your mind's eye. //I can do this,// you think. Three times you stand in the center and draw a large circle on the ground. Each time in one continuous clockwise motion: first with a stick; next with scented oil; finally with salt. When you are done you blow out a breath of relief.
"Nice work," says $bestfriend, as she sits down cross-legged inside the circle. You join her, close your eyes, breathe deeply, and center your mind on the next steps. In a few minutes, you hear $bestfriend stand. You rise too. She flawlessly recites the prayer that calls on the elements for protection of your circle, whispering, "Spirits of Terra, Air, Fire, and Water. We call on thee. Attend our rite and protect and consecrate our circle. Above, below, and within." She repeats the chant twice more.
The two of you stand silent for a moment, until you sense a quiet power forming and growing. $bestfriend inhales deeply. "You feel that, $name?"
You nod, grinning. What you feel, rather than hear, is a quiet hum in the air and an answering thrumming in your veins. "I feel the magic," you whisper to $bestfriend, "and it feels awesome."
"Before we call on Fire, we need the okay from Elder Imani," $bestfriend reminds you in a hushed voice. She signals to Elder Imani, who is wandering amongst the explorers and supervising the assignment. When Elder Imani walks over to your circle, $bestfriend says, "We're ready to start our fire."
Madison arrives quickly with a notepad and pencil, tracking everyone's progress towards the ultimate prize--the talisman. Then Elder Imani walks around the perimeter of your circle. Suddenly she stops, raises both hands to her chest, and pushes her exhale towards your sacred circle. You hear a whoosing sound, but both the white salt and your inner circle are undisturbed. Elder Imani smiles. "Good job, girls. You may proceed."
[[Continue|Imani's Talisman 2]]You watch $bestfriend from the side of Clover Field as she successfully completes her assignment and is awarded a talisman from Elder Imani. You feel a roiling in your stomach. Camp Starlight was your one shot at learning about the world beyond the veil and you've blown it! You hang your head, defeated.
You slowly walk the path to the Camp Administration Office to find Doctor Chandra. You just want to go back to Commerceville. <<notify>>Character Profile Updated <</notify>>
[[Continue|Book One Interlude]]<<silently>><<set $talisman = 1>><<set $elementpower = $elementpower + 15>>
<<set $power to "You are still a Novice but you are growing and learning how to control your elemental power ($elementpower /100).">><<set $selfaware to "You are learning that you must choose (and sometimes re-choose) wisely in order be intentional in your personal journey. You are beginning to identify your desires, talents, emotions, beliefs, and challenges.">>
<<if $trait1_name is "Adaptability">><<set $trait_description to "You are actively working on improving your skills, experience and intuition so that you can be more creative. You want to learn how to tap into your creativity in order to adapt to any situation you find yourself in.">>
<<elseif $trait1_name is "Equanimity">><<set $trait_description to "You are all about balance--knowing it is best to have an equal share of intuition and wisdom guiding your decisions. You are actively working on the areas of your life needing improvement and welcome feedback. Your goal is to always be cool, clear-headed and in control of any situation.">>
<<elseif $trait1_name is "Strength">><<set $trait1_description to "Being brave and unflappable is important to you. You are actively working on defining your purpose in the world and being firm in your principles. You want to be stronger and more confident in achieving your purpose and goals.">>
<<else>><<set $trait1_description to "You feel deeply about righting the injustices on the planet. You are actively working to develop your skills and define your purpose. You want to be a compassionate and purposeful leader--always giving it your all.">>
<</if>><<notify>> Character Profile Updated<</notify>>
<</silently>>
Congratulations! You now have a bottle of insect repellent in your backpack!
Even better, Elder Imani awards you and $bestfriend each with a talisman. It's a odd-looking green wooden coin. On one side is a quadrant with engravings of the four elements. On the other side are the words "Starlight" and a rendering of a constellation.
"Your first Talisman represents a milestone in your journey to reclaim the power and magic that have always been yours," says Elder Imani. "It is an important step in cutting your ego bonds, connecting with mystery, and discovering your soul's purpose."
Your skin tingles as you hold the talisman in your palm. You realize this is a sign of your power growing and finally, you are AWAKE.
You realize that you are still at the beginning of the Talisman Challenge-- and the beginning of this journey--but you feel much more self-aware and balanced.
[[Continue|Book One Interlude]]
It works! After several failed tries, a flame grows in the nest of grass! Soon the fire is crackling under both cauldrons inside of your sacred circle. You give $bestfriend a big high five, feeling a combination of relief, gratitude and happiness!
[[Continue|Imani's Talisman 3]]With a surge of adreneline, you run! You sprint towards the nearby field.
<<if $angel is true>> But then...an inner voice tells you to STOP.
You listen. You obey. You stop cold in your tracks. The mad dogs surround you, growling like monsters from your nightmares.
You call on the spirits of Air to [[come to your aid.|The Hounds]]
<<else>><<goto [[Panic:Fight or Flight]]>>
<</if>>
With a surge of adreneline, you run! You sprint towards the nearby field.
<<if $angel is true>> But then...an inner voice tells you to STOP.
You listen. You obey. You stop cold in your tracks.
The mad dogs surround you, growling like monsters from your nightmares.
You call on the spirits of Terra to [[come to your aid.|The Hounds]]
<<else>><<goto [[Panic:Fight or Flight]]>>
<</if>>
<<if $FireGirl is true>>That ice-breaker has left you shook. And that BB...ugghh! //¡Me está cargando el payaso!// Your head is starting to pound--right at your temples--and you know it's a sign that you need to deal with your anger. Quickly. Before things get out of hand. You imagine how disappointed Abuelita will be if you go raging and get sent back home. Even though it's obvious to you that you don't fit in. Everybody else seems so...magical.
//Lo que sea.// You quickly gather your toiletries and dash into the bathroom. Then you take a long cold shower. You visualize washing away your angry energy and letting it go down the drain. That seems to help. When you finally skulk back into the main cabin, Stella gives you a hug and a cup of chamomile tea. That also makes you feel a little better.
Moving about in a daze, you basically ignore everybody else as you sip the hot tea and unpack. You set up the space inside your little bunkbed capsule. There's a light to read by and a little shelf for a personal altar. You place your journal and your mom's book on the shelf. Then you stretch out in your bed with a deep heavy sigh. The road-trip from Commerceville was sooo long, the past few hours have been over-the-top draining, and your body is exhausted. Even your bones are tired.
You finish the tea and quickly fall to [[sleep.|FirstSleep]]
<<elseif $EarthGirl is true>>That ice-breaker has left you shook. And also pissed-off. It seems obvious to you that you don't fit in with these people. Everybody else seems so...//magical//. And that bratty girl BB is really getting under your skin! You can't figure out if you're more angry or mortified. Both probably. You keep imagining how disappointed Abuelita will be if you get kicked out and sent back home.
You march over to Stella and say, "Can I go outside for a few minutes? I need some fresh air."
Stella looks concerned, but shakes her head. "Sorry $name. It's dark outside. No one can leave the cabin at this time of night without an escort. And I can't go with you and leave the cabin unchaperoned. But how about I fix you a nice hot cup of chamomile tea?"
You huff out a breath, turn on your heel, and storm into the bathroom. You brush your teeth and take a cold shower. //I need just five minutes outside to calm down and connect with Mama Terra, but nooo! Five minutes! Why is that too much to ask?//
When you skulk back into the main cabin, Stella gives you a hug and a cup of tea. That does make you feel a little better. You basically ignore everybody else as you move about the cabin in a daze. You sip the tea and unpack. You set up the space inside your little bunkbed capsule. There's a light to read by and a little shelf for a personal altar. Carefully, you place your mom's book on the shelf, along with your journal and the bag of seeds. Then you stretch out in your bed, close your eyes and imagine yourself walking barefoot through a sacred garden filled with fruit trees and herbs and all kinds of colorful flowers.
Soon your breathing grows long and quiet. With visions of your beautiful garden in mind, you eventually fall to [[sleep.|FirstSleep]]
<<elseif $AirGirl is true>>
You're going to throw up. You run to the bathroom. Chevren cheese and pineapple pizza in the toilet! Blarggh! Gross!
After you're done barfing, you flush, then you take a long cold shower so nobody hears you cry. You can't figure out if you're more angry or mortified. One thing for sure, that BB is really getting under your skin.
When you skulk back into the main cabin, Stella gives you a hug and a cup of chamomile tea. That does make you feel a little better, and you basically ignore everybody else. Moving about in a daze, you sip the tea and unpack. You set up the space inside your little bunkbed capsule. There's a light to read by and a little shelf for a personal altar. You place your mom's book, your journal and your silver flute on the shelf.
The ice-breaker has left you shook. You feel like such a poser and can't stop thinking that you don't fit in. Everybody else seems so...//magical//. You've got a really bad feeling in the pit of your stomach. You keep imagining how disappointed Abuelita will be if you get kicked out and sent back home.
You close the blinds on your little capsule and lift the flute to your lips. You practice a bittersweet melody that you composed during the road trip and slowly your mind begins to settle. After playing for a few minutes, you sigh, deep and heavy. The road-trip from Commerceville was so long, the past few hours absolutely draining, and your brain is exhausted from too much thinking.
Cradling your silver flute, you curl up in a ball and quickly fall to [[sleep.|FirstSleep]]
<</if>>As you walk along the dirt trail, you hear a strange noise coming from the woods. You stop and listen.
[[Continue|Checkin Detour 1]]You stand up, nervous and hands fidgeting. You hate to admit it--even to yourself--but you're intimidated by the others. Everyone is seriously awesome! And your mind has been racing since the ice-breaker began.
A small part of you realizes that fear, uncertainty and doubt have launched an attack on your confidence. They're playing little mind-games inside your head.
And what's coming through the loudest? You want to be true to yourself and still fit in.
What best describes your most aspirational self?
<label><<radiobutton "$temp" "charismatic">> Charismatic like Lilo?</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$temp" "self-assured" checked>> Self-assured like Marie?</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$temp" "serene">> Serene like Ashelle?</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$temp" "purposeful">> Purposeful like Daanis?</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$temp" "magical">> Magical like BB?</label>
[[Continue|Reality Check]]<label class="toggle-theme">
<input type="checkbox" id="toggle-theme">
</label>The cabin is empty. You can't win any talismans here.
<<return [[Starlight Trail]]>>
You know it's important to make a good first impression. You want to be authentic and $temp. But everything that has ever happened to you in your short, sad life makes an inner fear blast out a warning: //Be careful. You're not a $temp person. You don't belong here.//
You push the fearful thought away. You remind yourself...how many wishes have you made to escape Commerceville? How many times have you fantasized about being a witch? About having a chance to change the world?
//But all I have is my $gift. It would be lame to talk about that, wouldn't it? I should've written a speech or something. But for real--what would I even say? There's nothing special about me... //
Then your mind jumps to all of the times you made a wish--like wishing your mother wasn't dead-- only to be crushed, disappointed, and reminded that the world doesn't work that way.
//Don't be stupid! You don't have magic powers. Or a purpose! You don't belong here!//
[[Continue|My Intro]]You clear your throat. "Hi. M-my name is $name. I'm here because my--" You bite your lower lip, frozen. Not knowing what to say. Everyone's staring at you.
You start again. "I'm from...er, well, I'm from a town south of here called Commerceville and I..." You stumble over your words. You've never acted this lame before. Have you? You don't know what to say.
Your stomach rumbles--loudly--with undigested pizza and peaches. "Um. I... brought my, like, $gift with me and that's like, really cool," you finally manage to sputter.
BB bursts out in a loud laugh. Ashelle tsks her tongue at BB and turns to look at you sadly. You can see the pity in her eyes. Your face burns.
You shrug, like you don't care, and sit down. Your hands are trembling, so you curl them into tight fists, then you fold your arms over your stomach, hiding. You take a bunch of deep breaths, attempting to calm yourself, pretending you didn't just crash and burn in front of these people who were going to be your so-called friends.
Stella jumps to her feet. "Well my Goddess! You girls are //all// amazing! Thank you! I can't wait to get to know everybody better in the days ahead. But...right now it's getting late and we have an action-packed day tomorrow. Sooo. It's time to clean-up, shower, and finish unpacking. Then it's lights out, girls!"
Ugh! [[You feel horrible.|First Night]]The practice of magic is a great responsibility. As an Explorer, what qualities would you choose to develop in yourself?
<label><<radiobutton "$trait1_name" "Passion" checked>> I would choose Passion. In doing so I would always give from my heart 100%. I would be a compassionate and purposeful leader. I would inspire others and lead them towards a balanced and just world.</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$trait1_name" "Equanimity">> I would choose Equanimity. In doing so I would always be cool, clear-headed and confident. A perfect balance of intuition and wisdom would direct my purpose.</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$trait1_name" "Strength">> I would choose Strength. In doing so I would be firm in my principles, brave in the face of danger, and loyal to my purpose. Nothing would shake me.</label>
<label><<radiobutton "$trait1_name" "Adaptability">> I would choose Adaptability. In doing so I would be smooth, agile and able to respond creatively regardless of the situation. Curiosity, skill and intuition would fuel my imagination and propel me on my purpose-driven path.
</label>
[[Next Question|CampSurveyQ2]]<div align="center"><h3>LAKE STARLIGHT</h3></div>
<p>Lake Starlight is a combination of a YA coming-of-age fantasy and a choose-your-own-adventure game, where the reader is in control of the story.</p>
<p>You are a young and female and coming-of-age on a planet in utter chaos--its people on a path to ecocide and self-destruction. Magic runs in your blood, but you're just a kid and you're stuck in a toxic little town with no way out. Except... today you wake to new choices. Will you harness your inner magic or sleepwalk through your planet’s darkest days</p>
<p>The main characters of Lake Starlight are women of colour who are coming-of-age while resisting the effects of 3000 years of colonization and violent patriarchy. By “decolonizing” their beliefs, they release their unique feminine magic. Lake Starlight is a parable for our time.</p>
<p>Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Interactive Fiction</p>
<p>Credits:</p>
<ul>
<li>Writing, Coding and Design: Summers via Earth</li>
<li>Art by Artkblo</li>
</ul>
<p>//The best way to predict the future is to create it.//</p>
[[Begin the Story|Prologue101]]<<if $elementpower eq 0>>
<div align="center"><h1>Character Profile</h1></div>
<div align="center"><<link "Return" $return>><</link>></div>
<<elseif $campstarlight is false>>>><div align="center"><h1>Character Profile</h1></div>
<div align="center"><<link "Return" $return>><</link>></div>
You were born during the $MyMoon. Before she died, your mother told you that you have potential, but for now your magical skills are undeveloped. $trait1_description
<p>Intuitive Whispers: $intuition</p>
<p>Balance: <<print $balance>></p>
Self-Awareness: $selfaware <<if $angel is false>> It would be wise for you to start tuning into your intuition and be open to guidance from those you trust, including your spirit guide. <</if>>
<p>Power: <<print $confidence>></p>
<<else>>
<div align="center"><h1>Character Profile</h1></div>
<div align="center"><<link "Return" $return>><</link>></div>
<p>You were born during the $MyMoon. $trait1_description</p>
<p>Intuitive Whispers: $intuition</p>
<p>Balance: <<print $balance>></p>
<p>Self-Awareness: $selfaware </p>
<p>Power: <<print $confidence>></p>
<</if>>
<<if $angel is true>>"Listen $bestfriend--"
Just as you are about to tell $bestfriend your thoughts on strategy, your heads starts to throb. An inner voice reminds you about the importance of teamwork. What do you do?
[[Continue the debate|Talisman Bad Vibes 1]]
[[Stop arguing|The Talisman Challenge]]
<<elseif $angel is false>>"Listen $bestfriend--" You hear a high pitch noise in your ear and have a sinking feeling in the pit of your stomach...
[[Continue|Talisman Bad Vibes 1]]
<</if>><<if $angel is false>>//Hello $name. It's me again. I've been trying to help you but you haven't been listening.//
//But I hear you. I understand the position you find yourself in. I know the urgency you feel. The need to walk a path of purpose. You're in the dark and stumbling around, searching and searching. You know you have a purpose to fulfill, but haven't found the way.//
//But that's why you find yourself here. That's why you're where you are. And you always have a choice. So...I'll ask you again.//
//Would you like my help?//
Yes! [[Definitely|Angel Second Chance 2]]
[[Who is this?|FirstSleep 2]]
<<else>>
It's dark. A figure approaches, filled with light and projecting a loving energy.
Is that you, $myangel?
//Yes, it's me. It's easier for us to communicate when you're in this liminal state of in-between. Not quite asleep. Not quite awake. But know this...I am always with you.//
Yeah, but how do we communicate when I'm awake?
//Good question. First, when you ask for help, ask for a connection with energy from guides of the highest truth and compassion. Ask for loving guidance towards your highest path. That way you don't call in any suspect energy.//
//Second, when you quiet your mind, focus on positive energy, especially when your mind is filled with worry. Then you will be more in tune to my advice, assistance, and inspiration. //
//I communicate in many ways, so be alert. Learn to spot messages from me in your everyday life. Sometimes it's a feeling in your body. Sometimes I leave breadcrumbs to lead you toward a larger purpose. //
Ugh. That sounds impossible! Why can't you just talk to me like normal?
//Because I am not of your world; therefore I speak a different language. My language is subtle but easy enough to learn when you pay attention. Not only will I communicate through dreams, but also through life's 'A-ha moments.'//
A-ha moments???
//Yes, $name. For example...what you may call a co-incidence is not one at all. Or when your friend casually mentions something and it sparks a reaction in your body. Or how you keep coming across the same information time and time again. For I send messages through art, books, songs, pictures, and even games. And you may not realize it, but you do have a purpose to fulfill. You understand?//
[[I think so.|FirstSleep 2]]
<</if>>
In the distance you hear a melody of bells ringing. The classroom fades away. You take a deep inhalation, back in your bed. Back in the cabin.
You hear someone climbing down from an upper bunk and dashing to the bathroom. Stella clears her throat and sings, "Rise and shine! We leave for our hike in thirty minutes!"
You blink several times, sit up, turn on your little light and grab your journal. You write down everything you remember from your dreams and visions. This leaves you feeling optimistic and single-focused.
You remember Doctor Chandra said that if you work hard you'd learn magic. At least that's how you remember the conversation. Anyway...despite the rough start yesterday, you're determined to make that happen. You're going to learn magic!
Today is a new day!
[[Continue|First Sunrise]]<<if $angel is false>>An image flashes through your mind. It's not a memory but it feels like one. It's a fuzzy sort of vision where you're in a classroom and your teacher is explaining how to learn magic. //Besides technical skills, there are three areas that determine your Magic Ability.// Then they turn around to draw something on the whiteboard, but you can't really make it out and the classroom begins to fade away. Even in this dream state you have a sense of frustration and something wonderful just outside of your reach.
<<set $trait1_description to "You are stubborn and are often unwilling to ask for or accept help from those that love you. This keeps you from your purpose and highest path.">><<set $intuition = 0>>
<<elseif $angel is true>>
You doze again, floating peacefully until an image begins to form in your mind. It's not a memory, but it feels like one. You're in a familiar classroom, but things look a little out-of-focus.
The room is gray and empty. Except...there's a teacher--who's glowing with pleasing light and color--standing in front of the whiteboard.
"Back so soon, $myangel?"
The teacher winks at you and then draws three interconnecting circles on the whiteboard. //Besides technical skills, there are three areas that determine your Magic Ability. Balance, Self-Awareness and Power. Though you have magic in your blood, you should focus on developing these three areas.//
<<silently>><<set $trait1_description to "You are a Novice Explorer 1 and are just starting to discover the world of magic. You value $trait1_name and hope to grow in this area while at Camp Starlight. You are learning new skills and are open to help from those you trust, especially $myangel.">>
<<set $balance to "You are learning how to identify and manage your fear and emotions. You meditate more often and can tell when you are in a state of monkey-mind.">>
<<set $selfaware to "You are learning about yourself and are more open to experiencing what has previously been a mystery. You are learning that once you begin inviting in your loving spirit guides, there are different ways you can communicate and experience their presence.">>
<</silently>><</if>><<notify>>Character Profile Updated<</notify>>
[[Continue|FirstSleep 3]]<<silently>><<set $angel to true>> <<if visited () is 1>><<set $intuition = $intuition + 1>><</if>><<set $selfawareness to "You are finally starting to wake up.">><</silently>>
//I'm so glad. You've already learned that everyone has spirit guides. What makes me sad is that most people don't ask for help or listen to our guidance. The first step to connecting is to get into the habit of asking for help from guides of the highest truth and compassion. That way you don't call in any suspect energy. Then practice meditation and quieting your mind. Most folks are just too much in the monkey mind. With all that chaos, they can't tune in to our advice, assistance, and inspiration. For a long time, you were like that. //
//So now that we've officially met, $name...how about giving ME a name?//
<<textbox "$myangel" $myangel>> \
<<button "Enter name">>
<<set $myangel to $myangel.trim()>>\
<<if $myangel is "">>
<<replace "#name-error">>Please!<</replace>>
<<else>>
<<goto "Angel Second Chance">>
<</if>>
<</button>> \
<span id="name-error"></span><img src = "https://i.postimg.cc/J7Ts0rtg/Lake-Starlight-Logo.png" width = "60%">
"But first things first. Tonight for dinner we're having pizza here in our cabin," Stella explains. "That way we'll all have a chance to get to know each other. Then in the morning we'll take a quick hike, followed by breakfast in what we lovingly call Camp Central. That's the multi-purpose lodge with the dining-hall where we normally eat our meals."
"Sounds good to me," you say, wandering over to the row of lockers. It looks like you use the keyfob to open them. Neat. You open your green-colored locker and store your suitcase and backpack inside. There's hangers and a drawer for your clothes, but you'll unpack later.
Just then Stella claps her hands together. "OK girls! Let me have your attention. Everyone is here now so it's time for the fun to begin."
Apparently all of your cabin mates have been chilling out in their space capsules behind privacy blinds. There must be sound dampening features as well, because once the partitions slide back, five girls noisily scramble out of their bunks. Your stomach jolts when you recognize the bow-and-arrow girl climbing down from her top bunk. She looks at you and narrows her green eyes. You glare right back.
All five girls gather around Stella. You join in too.
"The pizza will be here soon," Stella says. "So grab a pillow and fill up your water bottle and let's start getting to know each other."
[[Continue|Stella's IceBreaker]]
AFTERWORD
We cannot save the planet unless we understand that the root cause of this environmental climate crisis is the pillaging of certain parts of our planet to extract resources or to dump trash and pollution. When we pillage and plunder the life out of the land, we are saying that land—and the people and sentient beings living there—are of no value.
Intersectional environmentalism is an inclusive version of environmentalism that recognizes that the injustices happening to marginalized communities and to Gaia are interconnected.
Corporations who profit from exploiting Black and brown communities are making Gaia uninhabitable for all of life. This is the environmental genocide--also known as ecocide--referred to in Lake Starlight.
FACT: The systems of oppression that have caused the death and explotation of so many People of Colour (POC) are the same systems that perpetuate environmental injustice.
FACT: Those places where ecocide occurs are almost always the land and communities of black and brown POC.
FACT: We will never stop climate change without ending colonialism and white supremacy.
If you'd like to learn more about the intersectionality between the environment and social justice, the video below is a good place to start:
GRIST: What is Environmental Justice?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dREtXUij6_c
Meanwhile, several kilometers away, on the [[other side|Interlude 102]] of Lake Starlight...
Marie has thick wavy brown hair, dark eyes with long lashes, and a row of gold hoops decorating each ear. She is one of the prettiest girls you have ever seen, with a flawless complexion and full pink lips. She's standing next to you and she smells like jasmine on a dark summer night.
"I am Marie," she announces, her voice flowing with power and confidence. A thick necklace in the form of a snake circles around her collarbone, its gemstone eyes sparkling red. "I was born during the Air Moon in a town far from here called Orlenze. I come from a long ancestral line of female entrepreneurs, heroines and spiritual saints. For centuries my family has helped enslaved people escape from colonizers and guided war orphans to find new beginnings."
Marie has the dreamy air of mystic, but her speech is extremely polished. Practiced, even. Almost like a politician. She definitely doesn't talk like any fourteen-year-old you've ever met.
Marie continues, "I am the youngest child who has been sent here to build a life in Tokranta. My siblings and I have been sent all over the world as emissaries to help usher in the new age of higher consciousness that has been foretold. I speak of the rise of the Divine Feminine and restoring honor and respect for Mama Terra.
"I know this will come to pass because my people are powerful psychics. We see the world beyond the veil. We see all peoples must learn to co-create at the level of the unmanifested if we hope to change course. To take that which exists as potential and bring it into this maya we call reality. With the blessings of the Divine Feminine, we can manifest clean water. Food security. Peace. A loving abundant world for all of life. Because when it feels like the end, it is actually the cusp of a new beginning."
And with that, Marie sits back down, leaving you and everyone else mesmerized. <<set $explorer to "Ashelle">>
[[Continue|Stella's IceBreaker4]]The girl with the long black hair sighs and stands up with an expression of bored weariness. You realize that during the earlier dancing she was the most reserved, chanting and jumping apart and on her own.
"OK, so my name is Daanis," she says with another tired sigh, but then she pauses and closes her eyes. When she reopens them, her grey eyes are stormy and she stands tall.
"I was born on this, the unceded land of the Tokranta tribe. Where I stand now is the last of the land under our tribal stewardship. The rest was illegally seized by colonizers. And still they remain ravenous for more. But with the strength and guidance of my ancestors, I swear they will not prevail."
Daanis pauses again, looking each of you in the eye before continuing. "I know that we will be spending time together so I tell you that I am partially deaf, and I read lips. So...if you are talking to me and I'm not looking at you then do NOT act surprised if I do NOT hear you." She tips her head to the side and smirks. "But probably none of you will remember, so it is a waste my breath even saying this."
Daanis shakes her head and sits down.
"Er. What about your moon, Daanis?" asks Stella.
But Daanis's grey eyes are cast down, ignoring Stella, like she's off in a different world.
"She is not alone, that one," whispers Marie, who is sitting beside you. "She is fascinating."
Daanis looks up sharply and stares at Marie, who smiles knowingly. <<set $explorer to "BB">>
[[Next?|Stella's IceBreaker4]]"My name is Ashelle," says a small, proud girl with dark skin and sad eyes. "I was born in the time of the Water Moon. My first cry was a song, in perfect harmony with the cries of my mother, who was the sixth Oracle of the Three River Cities.
"I was to be the seventh Oracle, but five years ago our river was destroyed by a chemical spill. Then famine drove my people away from our homeland. Now, I am orphaned. I have been led here to finish my training. My inspiration is from beyond the veil. I tell you a story. I interpret your dreams. I create art."
Ashelle pauses and lifts her chin, revealing a long, elegant neck. Her shorn scalp is hennaed with a breathtaking work of art...a design of water and river life. "Tomorrow I will be blessed to meet the Oracle, my new teacher," she continues. "Though I am the Song of the Three River Cities, I come here with nothing but my ashe and my voice."
Ashelle brings her palms to her heart center and sings the mantra "Aum". Her pitch is perfect and she flawlessly holds each note for a very long time.
Magnificent! Someone cries, "Brava!" When Ashelle takes her seat in the circle, the powerful vibration of her song lingers in the air. <<set $explorer to "Daanis">>
[[Next?|Stella's IceBreaker4]]"Hey. I'm BB. Born during the Fire Moon." She is tall for her age, lean, and light-skinned with freckles. Her kinky red hair is long, thick and softly haloed around her face. "So before you ask, the initials stand for Brigit O'Boyle. I'm named after the Huntress Brigit of the Forest, but everyone calls me BB. So yeah. As for what I brought with me for show-and-tell..."
She snaps two fingers together and a small flame springs from the tip of her forefinger. She laughs, self-assured. "When you've got this, everything else is frosting baby!"
Everyone, except you, laughs at BB's cheekiness. She takes a dramatic bow, sits down and loud-whispers to Ashelle, who's sitting next to her, "And that's what's known as being a bad-ass."
$name. [[You're next.|My Intro Doubts]]<<if $explorer is "Marie">>"I will go next!"
[[Marie|Meet Marie]]
<<elseif $explorer is "Ashelle">>Who's next? How about you, Ashelle?
[[Ashelle|Meet Ashelle]]
<<elseif $explorer is "Daanis">>
Stella softly taps the shoulder of the quiet, beige-skinned girl sitting beside her. "Your turn Daanis," Stella says quietly.
[[Daanis|Meet Daanis]]
<<elseif $explorer is "BB">>The bow-and-arrow girl with the green eyes jumps to her feet.
[[BB|Meet BB]]
<</if>>Everyone is quiet, mesmorized by the beauty of the lake. That's when Stella tells you all the story of Lake Starlight. She says:
"Long ago, the First People created a beautiful civilization on this land, once called the Emerald Realm, now known as Tokranta. The city grew slowly at first, but after many years it came to be an empire, spreading far and wide. And it was right here, where Camp Starlight is, that a mighty and magical power lived. It was right here, at the source, where natural underground springs feed the lake from the mountain, that true magic was found. And that holds true, even today.
"In ancient times, a monastery was built here at the source. And the priests and priestesses of the monastery each had unique roles. Yin and yang. Temples were built to honor both the changeless God of the Mountains and the fluid Goddess of the Lake. For the people believed in balance and harmony of the masculine and the feminine.
"This harmony was reflected all across the Emerald Realm. Travelers came and were amazed at the great schools, talented artisans, advanced agriculture and erudite leaders. Word soon spread about the bounty of the land and the pristine and healing waters of the springs.
"Unfortunately, while the people of the Emerald Realm lived in abundance and harmony, that was not true of other lands. After centuries of prosperity, there came a great fleet of ships from across the ocean, loaded with soldiers and weapons and a strange religion that demanded non-believers be slaughtered or enslaved. It was a tide of horror that the people of this land could not fathom. Could not stand against. The Emerald Realm fell.
"All was lost. The conquerors systematically smashed every visible expression of the brillance and culture of the First People. All except for the sacred and remote mountainside monastery that once stood here.
"Yes, even as the conquerers built their new cities with the labor of the enslaved, often using the very stones of the old empire to construct a new one, there were invisible forces surrounding Lake Starlight that resisted. Buildings constructed anywhere near the lake began to sink into the land, or crumble from the growing frequency of terraquakes. In later centuries, heavy equipment would malfunction. Diseases would wipe out whole settlements. Legend says it was the Goddess of the Lake that made it so.
"And that is why this region of Tokranta is still pristine, and still under the stewardship of the Tokranta tribe; while all around us nature falls beneath the bulldozer.
"Our Elders were invited to Lake Starlight by the Tokranta tribe to establish Camp Starlight, and in return for our stewardship and loyalty, our magic is magnified. We join the Tokranta as Guardians of the Lake. As such, we are granted spiritual power by the eternal Goddess."
//Ashe!//
[[Continue|First Breakfast]]
After a moment of silence, Stella leads everyone to Camp Central for breakfast.
[[Continue|Chapter 4: Camp Central]]Q watches as a young man in a black swim trunks emerges from the lake. “I see him,” she says. "But just barely. He's good."
The mutant behind her is silent. They are also watching the man fade in and out of focus as he moves to the cover of the oak trees. They see him, and they don't need binoculars.
The man is Jacy Deepwater of the Tokranta. He quickly buries seven small crystals in a circle, each one under a different tree. Then he makes his way back to the water. For a second, Jacy looks up to where Q is standing and nods. Then he dives under the lake’s surface and disappears.
“Okay, Rodrigues. You’re on.”
The mutant looks to the oak grove and gracefully circles both wrists three times. A quiet hum builds and Q sees the air shimmer and waver in front of Rodrigues. She turns and looks at the area where Jacy buried the crystals. A pearlescent glow appears within the canopy of the oak trees.
“It’s working,” Q says, voice filled with anticipation.
Yes, I know,” Rodrigues replies matter-of-factly. “The portal is open. Now I will see what these corporate criminals have got up to.”
“They installed the security cameras around the perimeter of the mansion. Just beyond the oak grove. I don't see any drones. Or people. For now."
Rodrigues nods. “Agreed.”
Then the mutant's magic pulses once again. Their androgynous human body begins to shift as magic flows through it like a living entity. It is an elegant and painless transformation. Not like in the old movies where bones snap and there's major pain involved. But nonetheless...
Elder Q pulls in a breath and exhales slowly. “No matter how many times I see you do that...” she says quietly.
Now a large raccoon stands on its hind legs before Q. Its presence around the mansion would seem natural, and shouldn't raise alarm.
Q imagines how her three wolfhounds would be freaking out if they were here.
As if Rodrigues can hear Q's thoughts, a flicker of a smile whispers across the raccoon’s face just before they jump through the portal.
<<if $drone is "yes">>The laugh Q forces out is humorless. "Don't be too long," she says. "I need to get back to camp and talk to the new girl who spotted the drone."
<<else>>The laugh Q forces out is humorless. "Don't be too long," she says. "I need to get back to camp and hunt down that drone." <</if>>
[[End of Book One|Credits]]<<set $intuition = $intuition + 1>>
Take a deep breath. Visualize a plain of tall grass.<<timed 5s>>
Your thoughts are the wind rippling across the grass.<<next 3s>>
Bring the grass to stillness.<<next 5s>>
Each time a thought rises, refocus.<<next 3s>>
Bring the grass to stillness.<<next 3s>>
Let your mind be calm.<<next 3s>>
All is peace.<<next 2s>>
All is love. <<next 5s>>
You open your eyes and bask in the golden morning light.
//Receive: +1 Intuitive Whisper//
[[Continue|LakeLegend]]
<</timed>><<set $intuition = $intuition - 1>>
//The way to find out if you can trust her is to trust her.//
<<return>>You're at the crossroads of the Starlight Trail. The dirt trail branches off in numerous directions, and you need to choose the one leading to the Prana Yurt.
You need to hurry! Feeling a sense of panic, you to take the trail on the [[left.|Talisman Bad Vibes 2]]There are five explorers already gathered at the Prana Yurt. Once you see $bestfriend, you hurry to join the group. Taking the wrong turn on Lakeside Trail has made you late. Auntie --or rather Elder-- Imani is already giving out the instructions for the assignment. You sit beside $bestfriend, who is totally ignoring you. You hang your head when Elder Imani directs a piercing look in your direction.
You are out-of-breath and flustered, but you listen the best you can. Although you're not sure you get all of the instructions right, you vow to do your best.
[[Continue|Talisman Bad Vibes 4]]Finally, you reach the table and gather your ingredients as specified in the recipe. Then you return outside the yurt with your cauldron and a basket filled with fire-starter materials, herbs, oils, and bag of salt. You claim a space on the bare terra surrounding Clover Field to do the assignment. After watching what $bestfriend is doing, you proceed.
First, with a stick in your hand, you draw a large circle on the ground around you in one continuous clockwise motion. You repeat the motion with scented oil and then with salt.
Next, from the middle of your circle you call on the elements for protection. "Elements of Terra, Air, Fire, and Water, hear me. Protect and consecrate my circle, above, below, and within." That done, you breath a sigh of relief. So far at least, you think you've done everything correctly.
Before you can go to the next step, you have to get the okay from Elder Imani, who is walking around and observing all who are working on the assignment. You raise your hand, and she makes her way over.
"Is your circle ready?" she asks. Madison follows behind with a notepad and pencil.
You stand up straight, alert. "Yes, I'm ready to start the fire for the cauldren."
Elder Imani walks the perimeter of your circle with a curious look on her face. Your stomach churns with tension. Suddenly, she raises both hands to her chest and pushes her exhale towards your circle. You hear a whoosing sound and feel a strong wind move your hair. You squeeze your eyes tight as tiny grains of salt fly into them, stinging. Making you tear up.
When the wind stops, you wipe away the tears and the salt from your face. Sadly, you see that the white ring that once defined your circle has been blown away. Madison looks at you with pity in her eyes.
"Unfortunately $name, you arrived late and did not grasp the essence of this assignment," Elder Imani says. "You will not recieve a talisman from me today. Instead, you will need to complete remedial work with Madison during your free time."
You nod. But you're not feeling it.
[[Continue|Talisman Bad Vibes Ending]]
Now you have to light a fire beneath both of the cauldrons--yours and $bestfriend's. But all you're given is two wooden sticks, dried grass, a piece of magnifying glass and a black rock.
"I've never done this before," you say, examining the black rock.
<<if $FireGirl is true>>"Concentrate on your Power Center," says $bestfriend. "When you feel the energy gathering, call forth the spirit of Fire. Visualize your magic igniting the sticks as you rub them together over the nest of dried grass. I'll watch for the spark and call forth the Air when the time is right." <<set $elementpower = $elementpower + 5>>/
<<else>>$bestfriend grabs the magnifying glass and the dried grass. "I'll call forth the spirit of Fire and create the spark. You watch for the spark and call forth Air when the time is right," she says. Then $bestfriend uses the glass to focus sunlight on the nest of grass she has put together. As she angles the glass towards the sun to focus the beam, you crouch down so you are able to blow your breath once the spark ignites.
<</if>>
[[Continue|Fire Starter]]
"The rest of the assignment is easy," says $bestfriend, unpacking the oils and herbs from the basket.
And she's right! Learning how to cook with Abuelita has paid off! For you, it's second nature to follow a recipe and to measure, mix and blend various elements together. Because that's what you do when you make a potion. You're learning that the most important part is your intention.
Soon, you successfully brew the potion. $bestfriend, too. You pour the liquid from your cauldron through a funnel into a glass spray bottle.
[[Continue|Imani's Talisman 4]]
Elder Q observes a scene full of greenery and grandeur through her high-powered binoculars. This land...this lake, together they mystify the imagination.
In these modern times, Lake Starlight might be known throughout the world for its ecological and cultural richness, symbolizing the ideal relationship between indigenous-based stewardship and healthy ecosystems, but Q knows there is more to the story.
Of course, Lake Starlight has inspired many mythical stories. And the Tokranta people attach a sacred significance to Lake Starlight. But very few know firsthand that this deep, freshwater lake contains a powerful energy vortex.
Q turns her observation away from the land and back to the decrepit White Mansion. "No sign of Jacy yet."
She shifts her field of vision to the the other side of Lake Starlight, a few kilometers away. To Camp Starlight. With her binoculars she can just make out the groups of explorers scurrying about camp. "Shame we had to miss the Talisman Challenge. It’s always a fun time getting to know the new explorers."
"Let's hope we can wrap this up quickly then," an irritated voice responds.
Q’s brow scrunches, and she opens her mouth like she wants to say something in response. Then she shakes her head, knowing she needs to school her biased feelings about Rodrigues. Mutant or not, they possess powers that the Guardians of the Lake desperately need.
Over the last decade, a dozen Guardians have disappeared, been murdered or met with mysterious deaths. But the danger was never from the impoverished local who pulled the trigger. Instead, the indigenous are at risk because they’re living on land that some corporation is demanding.
So even though Q is not indigenous to this land, she is a Guardian and sworn to protect it.
Because the sacred legends of Lake Starlight only serve as a marketing slogan to the powerful corporation who's trying to dam the lake's source and bottle its water for profit. And they're using the crumbling, abandoned White Mansion as their entry point.
But what the colonizers don’t know, can’t know, is that there is a sacred temple and an alien power source at the bottom of the lake that is more than 5000 years old.
[[Continue|Interlude 103]]<<if $drone is "yes">>You take a deep breath and decide to follow your intuition. "Yeah, there is something I want to talk to you about."
"Sure," Stella nods encouragingly.
"I thought I heard...or saw...or felt...something weird out there in the woods."
"Weird? Like what?"
"Actually...I think it was a drone," you say in a low voice. "I mean... I'm not completely sure so I wanted to ask. Does Camp Starlight use drones for security or something?"
Stella looks alarmed and shakes her head vigourously. "No...but we have had a lot of visitors coming and going today, so maybe..." Stella pauses for a moment. "Thanks for telling me, $name. I'm going to contact the head of the Guardians and have it checked out."
[[Continue|Oak Grove Cabin]]
<<else>><<set $confidence to "It is important not to be reckless. However, that's where intuition comes in. You are aware of your intuitive side but often allow fear to rule you instead. Avoiding adventure will stagnate your growth. Currently, you lack the skills and training needed to control elemental power (Level $elementpower /100).">>
"Ummm. Not right now." You look around the cabin. It's nice, but you wonder where the other girls are.
Stella pats you on the shoulder. "OK. Just know you can come and ask me anything whenever you're confused or need advice."
[[Continue|Oak Grove Cabin]]
<</if>>You scramble to your feet.
Busted, the girl lowers her bow, grinning at you the entire time. Then she dashes off into the woods.
What the hell?! You lower your head in your hands, a dozen emotions rippling through your body. Irritation. Disbelief. Relief.
"Hello girls!" You look up to see Auntie Imani scratching two of the hounds--the black ones--behind the ears. The brown hound whines and shoves its head under her palm. "Oh yes, my little spoiled Inari. No...I didn't forget about you. How are my babies?"
//Babies? Ha!// The wolfhounds look like a herd of small ponies! You look into the shadows of the trees, trying to spot that red-haired girl. But she's long gone.
Auntie Imani holds out her hand to you, beckoning you over. "Come and meet Elder Q, $name. She's one of the Guardians here and an overall amazing being. Elder Q runs the fitness, martial arts and parkour programs."
You take your time, brushing the dust off your shorts and slowly walking over to the two women. You respectfully bow to Elder Q with hands at heart center and mumble a polite greeting. Then feeling one of the hounds sniffing your butt, you scream. "Agghhh!"
Elder Q laughs. "Meet my friends, the Hounds of Lake Starlight. They're the best guardians this place could ask for, so you want to stay on their good side." Then Elder Q narrows her eyes and her tone turns stern. "Just don't ever run from them, because they will chase your ass down!"
Your eyes widen, imagining what would have happened if Elder Q hadn't been here to call the hounds off. Now, she gives a hand signal and the hounds obediently sit. "Let them sniff you. So they'll remember your scent," she says.
You're skeptical about getting too close to them. "Are you sure?"
"Yeah, yeah. It's okay."
You cautiously reach out towards one of the black hounds. She sniffs and then licks your hand. You start to breathe easier.
"That's Benza," says Elder Q. "She's the pack leader. The other black one is Koto and the reddish-brown hound with the white muzzle-- his name is Inari."
Just then, a curvy teenager with pinkish-colored skin and blue hair exits from the large stone cottage near the parking lot. She jogs straight over to Auntie Imani, pushing a trolley cart. "Greetings Elder Imani," she calls out. "Guess what? I'm baaaack!"
"Madison! Glad to see you made it. And my goodness, you've grown at least a ten centimeters since last year."
"Yeah, isn't it awesome!" Madison releases the trolley cart and bows deeply to Auntie Imani. She's wearing a lightweight, longsleeved shirt with a Camp Starlight logo. "I've been making and drinking the tonics, just like you taught me," she proclaims. "I'm so grateful to you, Elder. Now my moon cycle is easy like a walk in the woods. And I just keep getting stronger."
Auntie Imani claps her hands together, looking pleased. "Good. We'll talk more tomorrow, I'm sure. For now...I want to introduce you to $name. Can you help her get checked in?" Auntie Imani pulls your suitcase out of the trunk and sets it by your feet. She eyes you with some concern. "I think $name is still a little shook from meeting the Hounds."
The girl smiles at you. "Yeah. I saw. Bet that was scary, huh? " She greets you, palms together, very friendly-like. Her hands are covered with black rings and tattoos. "Welcome. I'm Madison. I'm one of the Camp Guides here!"
"Greetings," you say, returning the half-bow, otherwise at a loss for words.
Madison grabs your suitcase and sleeping bag. "Follow me," she says, heading across the parking lot to the stone cottage. "Over here is the Administration Office where you check in. It's also the Infirmary, just in case... you know...you need some first aid or something."
You look back at Auntie Imani and Elder Q. They're laughing and loading gear and luggage from the car onto the trolley cart. Auntie Imani smiles at you and waves good-bye. "We'll catch up after breakfast tomorrow," she calls. "You'll be fine."
You shoulder your backpack and follow Madison. "Gee thanks," you mutter under your breath, feeling uneasy and utterly abandoned.
[[Enter Administration Office|Camp Office]]<<if $FireGirl is true>>Hmm. At first it seemed like the whirring sound was coming from above. But now...
You don't hear anything. You frown and continue to walk along the trail until you reach the small cabin that will be home for the summer.
[[Continue|Enter Oak Grove]]
<<else>>Huh. Actually...now that you've stop walking you don't hear anything.
It's quiet.
You've never hung out in the woods before but...intuitively, doesn't it feel a little //too// quiet?
<<if $intuition gte 1>>[[Use 1 Intuitive Whisper|Whisper Detour]]<</if>>
Set down your bags and try to sense [[what's going on.|Checkin Detour 2]]
or
Hurry along the trail to the safety of your [[cabin.|Enter Oak Grove]]
<</if>>
<<set $intuition = $intuition - 1>>
//Your time has come, $name. It is time to remember who and what you are.”
<<return>><<set $intuition = $intuition - 1>>
//You don't sense danger...just something curious and out of place. And curiosity has its own reason for existence.//
<<return>><<set $intuition = $intuition - 1>>
<<if $FireGirl is true>>//You've got your sneakers on, right?//
<<else>>
//The dog is too close to outrun. Plus there's a collar around its neck.//
<</if>>
<<return>>You run as fast as you can, heart pounding in your chest. In the center of the plaza, you see your friends. Over by the dried-up old fountain. You race there.
Breathing hard, you look back over your shoulder, but it's too dark to see anyone or anything. Why are all the street lamps busted and dead?
At last, you reach the fountain where your friends are hanging out. "You wanna smoke?" Titus asks, holding out a joint.
"I guess so," you pant, hands on your thighs, trying to catch your breath.
"You okay?" Zora asks lazily. "You look kinda shook."
"No worries," you reply, peering at the perimeter of the plaza, where the shadows are still and heavy.
In a few minutes, just like you hoped, Dono rides his scooter into the plaza and joins you by the fountain. "That was a great party," they say, winking at you with an inviting smile. "Let's go hang out at my place."
You both jump on Dono's scooter and take off fast. The mad dogs are howling.
[[Whoo-hoo!|YoungLove]] Staring out of the car window is hypnotic. You drift off to [[sleep.|RoadTrip105]]Your head is spinning with a running commentary that's going round and round on repeat:
//That survey was so weird. I feel like my head is gonna go BOOM! Auntie Imani said I'd done something special with my $gift, but wow! What exactly am I getting into? Wait...I'm going to be sleeping in a cabin in the woods? That's scary! And exciting. Never been in the woods before. Oh snap!! Is that why they asked me about snakes? Are there snakes? There must be snakes in the woods, right? Hmm. Just think... I'll be sharing a cabin in the woods! I hope I make friends. I hope they're not like the girls at school. The ones in the mind-control cult with the split earlobes were the worst. Ugh. No, I'm sure they won't be like that. But what if nobody likes me? What if...//
Stop, $name! Calm down. [[Center your mind.|MeditateLevel101]] //I'm proud of you, $name. You're making progress.//
//When you practice meditation and focus on love and peace, your intuition grows.//
<<if visited () is 1>><<set $intuition = $intuition + 1>> <<notify>>Character Profile Updated<</notify>>
//Receive +1 Intuitive Whispers//<</if>>
[[Continue|Post Survey 2]]
[[Practice Breathwork Again|MeditateLevel101]]<h3>Credits</h3>
<p> //Take the next step. You will come to see that a new future is possible and that a huge, unstoppable movement is already in action, committed to creating a new story for humanity.// ~ Panchamama Alliance Awakening the Dreamer. A Resource for Climate Activists.</p>
<ul><li>Writing, Coding and Design: Summers via Earth</li>
<li>Art by Artkblo</li>
<li>Template, Code Library & Assistance: Vahnya, TheMadExile, Chapel, Goctionni</li>
<li>Game Engine: Twine 2.70 with SugarCube</li>
</ul>
<p>//The best way to predict the future is to create it.//</p>Imagine yourself enveloped in white light. The light source is above your head and slowly works its way over your body and under your feet. The field of light surrounding you is a strong yet peaceful shield.
Imagine that with each breath you refresh the light and the shield. Soon the process becomes ongoing and natural.
Remain observant of your environment. Be in tune with your feelings.
Inhale the white light of peace. As you exhale, let the light refresh the shield surrounding your body.
In this way you will be protected from unwanted energies and influences.
You can release the shield when you are ready, letting it dissolve with your exhalation.
[[Continue|Stella's Shield]]Back in Commerceville, your magical shield always worked when those teen-age cult girls at school were sending out their nasty vibes. But now, you're feeling too agitated and distracted, so maybe that's why it's not working so great.
Luckily, Stella is also a warm and radiant light in the room. "Since we're all cabin mates, we're going to be spending a lot of time together," she says brightly. Her voice transmits a sense of serenity and kindness. "So this first night at camp is special. Tonight will be just the seven of us, getting to know each other. And we're kicking things off with a fun little ice-breaker!"
Everyone around the circle groans.
Stella pauses and seems to read the room. "Ooo-kay then. Well first things first. Everyone sit with your back straight in a comfy position on your pillow. First we're going to center."
After some shuffling around and getting into position, the circle settles down. Stella's soft voice says, "Please everyone close your eyes and take a few deep breaths."
You close your eyes and when you inhale--the quality of the energy in the room has changed. It's cool. And fresh. Like how it is in early spring when you can stop wearing your heavy jacket. You inhale again, deeply, and feel a wave of lovely, luminous energy sweeping over you. You exhale and your shoulders relax, the tension in your body melting away. A smile curls on your lips. Now you're breathing much easier. Someone in the circle giggles. Whatever Stella just did was definitely magical.
[[Continue|Stella's IceBreaker2]]You remember to express gratitude to the four elements for their favor. But you also feel so much gratitude in your heart that you offer silent thanks to Abuelita and Elder Imani and Madison and Stella and $bestfriend. <<if $angel is true>>And $myangel. <</if>>
You feel much more confident now. For all that you have experienced, you give a personal and heartfelt thanks.
After you and $bestfriend release the circle and clean up, you open your bookbag and take a long drink of water.
[[Continue|Imani's Talisman Award]]