The Apothecary's Assistant

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<<set _vDate = new Date().toLocaleDateString('en-CA')>> <<if $IntroDone == false>> <<goto "Intro">> <<else>> <<if _vDate < "2024-09-01">> <<goto "Test Date">> <<elseif _vDate > "2024-10-16">> <<goto "Post-Comp">> <<else>> <<goto "IFComp">> <</if>> <</if>>

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>><<if $acorns >= 1000>> The trees themselves seem to sway with joy as you walk past.<</if>>\ <<if $SunOpenCount == 6>>\ The air is filled with a sweet-smelling mist that feels pleasantly warm against your skin. <</if>>\ <<if $SunOpenCount == 2>>\ The air is filled with a thick fog that obscures nearby structures and blocks out the sky. <<else>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ Through a hole in the canopy, you can see the crescent moon, slightly wider than yesterday. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ [[Start your shift|Sunday]]

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>>\ <<if $SunOpenCount == 6>>\ The air is filled with a sweet-smelling mist that feels pleasantly warm against your skin. <</if>>\ <<if $SunOpenCount == 2>>\ The air is filled with a thick fog that obscures nearby structures and blocks out the sky. <<else>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ Through a hole in the canopy, you can see the crescent moon, slightly thinner than yesterday. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ [[Start your shift|Sunday]]

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>><<if $acorns >= 1000>> The trees themselves seem to sway with joy as you walk past.<</if>>\ <<if $SunOpenCount == 6>>\ The air is filled with a sweet-smelling mist that feels pleasantly warm against your skin. <</if>>\ <<if $SunOpenCount == 2>>\ The air is filled with a thick fog that obscures nearby structures and blocks out the sky. <<else>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ Through a hole in the canopy, you can see the gibbous moon, slightly wider than yesterday. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ [[Start your shift|Sunday]]

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>><<if $acorns >= 1000>> The trees themselves seem to sway with joy as you walk past.<</if>>\ <<if $SunOpenCount == 6>>\ The air is filled with a sweet-smelling mist that feels pleasantly warm against your skin. <</if>>\ <<if $SunOpenCount == 2>>\ The air is filled with a thick fog that obscures nearby structures and blocks out the sky. <<else>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ Through a hole in the canopy, you can see the gibbous moon, slightly thinner than yesterday. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ [[Start your shift|Sunday]]

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>><<if $acorns >= 1000>> The trees themselves seem to sway with joy as you walk past.<</if>>\ <<if $SunOpenCount == 6>>\ The air is filled with a sweet-smelling mist that feels pleasantly warm against your skin. <</if>>\ <<if $SunOpenCount == 2>>\ The air is filled with a thick fog that obscures nearby structures and blocks out the sky. <<else>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ Through a hole in the canopy, you can see the crescent moon, slightly thinner than yesterday. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ [[Start your shift|Sunday]]

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>><<if $acorns >= 1000>> The trees themselves seem to sway with joy as you walk past.<</if>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ Through a hole in the canopy, you can see the gibbous moon, slightly wider than yesterday. <</if>>\ There's no work for you to do today, but you can still [[hang around the store.|Post-Shift]] <<set $ApoChat = false>>\

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>>\ <<set _vTime = new Date().toLocaleString("en-ca", {hour: "2-digit", minute: "2-digit", hour12: false});>>\ <<if $MonOpenCount == 3 && _vTime >= "09:00" && _vTime <= "17:00">>\ The air is filled with a sweet-smelling mist that feels pleasantly warm against your skin. <</if>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ The moon is nowhere to be found tonight. <</if>>\ [[Start your shift|Monday]]

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>><<if $acorns >= 1000>> The trees themselves seem to sway with joy as you walk past.<</if>>\ <<set _vTime = new Date().toLocaleString("en-ca", {hour: "2-digit", minute: "2-digit", hour12: false});>>\ <<if $MonOpenCount == 3 && _vTime >= "09:00" && _vTime <= "17:00">>\ The air is filled with a sweet-smelling mist that feels pleasantly warm against your skin. <</if>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ Through a hole in the canopy, you can see the crescent moon, slightly wider than yesterday. <</if>>\ [[Start your shift|Monday]]

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>><<if $acorns >= 1000>> The trees themselves seem to sway with joy as you walk past.<</if>>\ <<set _vTime = new Date().toLocaleString("en-ca", {hour: "2-digit", minute: "2-digit", hour12: false});>>\ <<if $MonOpenCount == 3 && _vTime >= "09:00" && _vTime <= "17:00">>\ The air is filled with a sweet-smelling mist that feels pleasantly warm against your skin. <</if>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ Through a hole in the canopy, you can see the gibbous moon, slightly wider than yesterday. <</if>>\ [[Start your shift|Monday]]

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>><<if $acorns >= 1000>> The trees themselves seem to sway with joy as you walk past.<</if>>\ <<set _vTime = new Date().toLocaleString("en-ca", {hour: "2-digit", minute: "2-digit", hour12: false});>>\ <<if $MonOpenCount == 3 && _vTime >= "09:00" && _vTime <= "17:00">>\ The air is filled with a sweet-smelling mist that feels pleasantly warm against your skin. <</if>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ Through a hole in the canopy, you can see the gibbous moon, slightly thinner than yesterday. <</if>>\ [[Start your shift|Monday]]

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>><<if $acorns >= 1000>> The trees themselves seem to sway with joy as you walk past.<</if>>\ <<set _vTime = new Date().toLocaleString("en-ca", {hour: "2-digit", minute: "2-digit", hour12: false});>>\ <<if $MonOpenCount == 3 && _vTime >= "09:00" && _vTime <= "17:00">>\ The air is filled with a sweet-smelling mist that feels pleasantly warm against your skin. <</if>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ Through a hole in the canopy, you can see the crescent moon, slightly wider than yesterday. <</if>>\ [[Start your shift|Monday]]

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>><<if $acorns >= 1000>> The trees themselves seem to sway with joy as you walk past.<</if>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ Through a hole in the canopy, you can see the gibbous moon, slightly wider than yesterday. <</if>>\ There's no work for you to do today, but you can still [[hang around the store.|Post-Shift]] <<set $ApoChat = false>>\

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>><<if $acorns >= 1000>> The trees themselves seem to sway with joy as you walk past.<</if>>\ <<set _vTime = new Date().toLocaleString("en-ca", {hour: "2-digit", minute: "2-digit", hour12: false});>>\ <<if $MonOpenCount == 3 && _vTime >= "09:00" && _vTime <= "17:00">>\ The air is filled with a sweet-smelling mist that feels pleasantly warm against your skin. <</if>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ Through a hole in the canopy, you can see the crescent moon, slightly thinner than yesterday. <</if>>\ [[Start your shift|Monday]]

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>>\ <<set _vTime = new Date().toLocaleString("en-ca", {hour: "2-digit", minute: "2-digit", hour12: false});>>\ <<if ($TueOpenCount == 2 || $TueOpenCount == 4) && _vTime >= "05:00" && _vTime <= "21:00">>\ The air is filled with a sweet-smelling mist that feels pleasantly warm against your skin. <</if>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ Through a hole in the canopy, you can see the crescent moon, slightly wider than yesterday. <</if>>\ [[Start your shift|Tuesday]]

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>><<if $acorns >= 1000>> The trees themselves seem to sway with joy as you walk past.<</if>>\ <<set _vTime = new Date().toLocaleString("en-ca", {hour: "2-digit", minute: "2-digit", hour12: false});>>\ <<if ($TueOpenCount == 2 || $TueOpenCount == 4) && _vTime >= "05:00" && _vTime <= "21:00">>\ The air is filled with a sweet-smelling mist that feels pleasantly warm against your skin. <</if>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ Through a hole in the canopy, you can see the crescent moon, slightly wider than yesterday. <</if>>\ [[Start your shift|Tuesday]]

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>><<if $acorns >= 1000>> The trees themselves seem to sway with joy as you walk past.<</if>>\ <<set _vTime = new Date().toLocaleString("en-ca", {hour: "2-digit", minute: "2-digit", hour12: false});>>\ <<if ($TueOpenCount == 2 || $TueOpenCount == 4) && _vTime >= "05:00" && _vTime <= "21:00">>\ The air is filled with a sweet-smelling mist that feels pleasantly warm against your skin. <</if>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ Through a hole in the canopy, you can see a striking half-moon. <</if>>\ [[Start your shift|Tuesday]]

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>><<if $acorns >= 1000>> The trees themselves seem to sway with joy as you walk past.<</if>>\ <<set _vTime = new Date().toLocaleString("en-ca", {hour: "2-digit", minute: "2-digit", hour12: false});>>\ <<if ($TueOpenCount == 2 || $TueOpenCount == 4) && _vTime >= "05:00" && _vTime <= "21:00">>\ The air is filled with a sweet-smelling mist that feels pleasantly warm against your skin. <</if>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ Through a hole in the canopy, you can see the full Corn Moon, powerful and bright. <</if>>\ [[Start your shift|Tuesday]]

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>><<if $acorns >= 1000>> The trees themselves seem to sway with joy as you walk past.<</if>>\ <<set _vTime = new Date().toLocaleString("en-ca", {hour: "2-digit", minute: "2-digit", hour12: false});>>\ <<if ($TueOpenCount == 2 || $TueOpenCount == 4) && _vTime >= "05:00" && _vTime <= "21:00">>\ The air is filled with a sweet-smelling mist that feels pleasantly warm against your skin. <</if>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ Through a hole in the canopy, you can see the crescent moon, slightly wider than yesterday. <</if>>\ [[Start your shift|Tuesday]]

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>><<if $acorns >= 1000>> The trees themselves seem to sway with joy as you walk past.<</if>>\ <<set _vTime = new Date().toLocaleString("en-ca", {hour: "2-digit", minute: "2-digit", hour12: false});>>\ <<if ($TueOpenCount == 2 || $TueOpenCount == 4) && _vTime >= "05:00" && _vTime <= "21:00">>\ The air is filled with a sweet-smelling mist that feels pleasantly warm against your skin. <</if>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ Through a hole in the canopy, you can see the crescent moon, slightly thinner than yesterday. <</if>>\ [[Start your shift|Tuesday]]

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>><<if $acorns >= 1000>> The trees themselves seem to sway with joy as you walk past.<</if>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ Through a hole in the canopy, you can see the gibbous moon, slightly wider than yesterday. <</if>>\ There's no work for you to do today, but you can still [[hang around the store.|Post-Shift]] <<set $ApoChat = false>>\

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>><<if $acorns >= 1000>> The trees themselves seem to sway with joy as you walk past.<</if>><<if $acorns >= 1000>> The trees themselves seem to sway with joy as you walk past.<</if>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ The moon is nowhere to be found tonight. <</if>>\ [[Start your shift|Wednesday]]

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>><<if $acorns >= 1000>> The trees themselves seem to sway with joy as you walk past.<</if>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ Through a hole in the canopy, you can see the gibbous moon, slightly wider than yesterday. <</if>>\ There's no work for you to do today, but you can still [[hang around the store.|Post-Shift]] <<set $ApoChat = false>>\

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>><<if $acorns >= 1000>> The trees themselves seem to sway with joy as you walk past.<</if>>\ <<set _vTime = new Date().toLocaleString("en-ca", {hour: "2-digit", minute: "2-digit", hour12: false});>>\ <<if ($ThuOpenCount == 2 || $ThuOpenCount == 5) && _vTime >= "02:00" && _vTime <= "10:10">>\ The air is filled with a thick fog that obscures nearby structures and blocks out the sky. <<else>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ Through a hole in the canopy, you can see the gibbous moon, slightly wider than yesterday. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ [[Start your shift|Thursday]]

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>><<if $acorns >= 1000>> The trees themselves seem to sway with joy as you walk past.<</if>>\ <<set _vTime = new Date().toLocaleString("en-ca", {hour: "2-digit", minute: "2-digit", hour12: false});>>\ <<if ($ThuOpenCount == 2 || $ThuOpenCount == 5) && _vTime >= "02:00" && _vTime <= "10:10" >>\ The air is filled with a thick fog that obscures nearby structures and blocks out the sky. <</if>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ Through a hole in the canopy, you can see the crescent moon, slightly thinner than yesterday. <</if>>\ [[Start your shift|Thursday]]

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>><<if $acorns >= 1000>> The trees themselves seem to sway with joy as you walk past.<</if>>\ <<set _vTime = new Date().toLocaleString("en-ca", {hour: "2-digit", minute: "2-digit", hour12: false});>>\ <<if ($ThuOpenCount == 2 || $ThuOpenCount == 5) && _vTime >= "02:00" && _vTime <= "10:10">>\ The air is filled with a thick fog that obscures nearby structures and blocks out the sky. <<else>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ Through a hole in the canopy, you can see the gibbous moon, slightly thinner than yesterday. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ [[Start your shift|Thursday]]

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>><<if $acorns >= 1000>> The trees themselves seem to sway with joy as you walk past.<</if>>\ <<set _vTime = new Date().toLocaleString("en-ca", {hour: "2-digit", minute: "2-digit", hour12: false});>>\ <<if ($ThuOpenCount == 2 || $ThuOpenCount == 5) && _vTime >= "02:00" && _vTime <= "10:10">>\ The air is filled with a thick fog that obscures nearby structures and blocks out the sky. <<else>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ Through a hole in the canopy, you can see a striking half-moon. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ [[Start your shift|Thursday]]

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>><<if $acorns >= 1000>> The trees themselves seem to sway with joy as you walk past.<</if>>\ <<set _vTime = new Date().toLocaleString("en-ca", {hour: "2-digit", minute: "2-digit", hour12: false});>>\ <<if ($ThuOpenCount == 2 || $ThuOpenCount == 5) && _vTime >= "02:00" && _vTime <= "10:10">>\ The air is filled with a thick fog that obscures nearby structures and blocks out the sky. <<else>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ Through a hole in the canopy, you can see the crescent moon, slightly wider than yesterday. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ [[Start your shift|Thursday]]

<<set _vTime = new Date().toLocaleString("en-ca", {hour: "2-digit", minute: "2-digit", hour12: false});>>\ <<if ($ThuOpenCount == 2 || $ThuOpenCount == 5) && _vTime >= "02:00" && _vTime <= "10:10" >>\ The air is filled with a thick fog that obscures nearby structures and blocks out the sky. <</if>>\ [[Start your shift|Thursday]]

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>>\ <<set _vTime = new Date().toLocaleString("en-ca", {hour: "2-digit", minute: "2-digit", hour12: false});>>\ <<if $FriOpenCount == 6 && _vTime >= "11:00" && _vTime <= "23:00">>\ The air is filled with a thick fog that obscures nearby structures and blocks out the sky. <<else>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ Through a hole in the canopy, you can see the crescent moon, slightly wider than yesterday. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ [[Start your shift|Friday]]

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>><<if $acorns >= 1000>> The trees themselves seem to sway with joy as you walk past.<</if>>\ <<set _vTime = new Date().toLocaleString("en-ca", {hour: "2-digit", minute: "2-digit", hour12: false});>>\ <<if $FriOpenCount == 6 && _vTime >= "11:00" && _vTime <= "23:00">>\ The air is filled with a thick fog that obscures nearby structures and blocks out the sky. <<else>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ Through a hole in the canopy, you can see the gibbous moon, slightly wider than yesterday. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ [[Start your shift|Friday]]

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>><<if $acorns >= 1000>> The trees themselves seem to sway with joy as you walk past.<</if>>\ <<set _vTime = new Date().toLocaleString("en-ca", {hour: "2-digit", minute: "2-digit", hour12: false});>>\ <<if $FriOpenCount == 6 && _vTime >= "11:00" && _vTime <= "23:00">>\ The air is filled with a thick fog that obscures nearby structures and blocks out the sky. <<else>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ Through a hole in the canopy, you can see the gibbous moon, slightly thinner than yesterday. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ [[Start your shift|Friday]]

<<set _vTime = new Date().toLocaleString("en-ca", {hour: "2-digit", minute: "2-digit", hour12: false});>>\ <<if $FriOpenCount == 6 && _vTime >= "11:00" && _vTime <= "23:00">>\ The air is filled with a thick fog that obscures nearby structures and blocks out the sky. <</if>>\ [[Start your shift|Friday]]

[[Start your shift|Saturday]]

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>><<if $acorns >= 1000>> The trees themselves seem to sway with joy as you walk past.<</if>>\ <<set _vTime = new Date().toLocaleString("en-ca", {hour: "2-digit", minute: "2-digit", hour12: false});>>\ <<if $FriOpenCount == 6 && _vTime >= "11:00" && _vTime <= "23:00">>\ The air is filled with a thick fog that obscures nearby structures and blocks out the sky. <<else>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ Through a hole in the canopy, you can see the crescent moon, slightly wider than yesterday. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ [[Start your shift|Friday]]

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>><<if $acorns >= 1000>> The trees themselves seem to sway with joy as you walk past.<</if>>\ <<set _vTime = new Date().toLocaleString("en-ca", {hour: "2-digit", minute: "2-digit", hour12: false});>>\ <<if $FriOpenCount == 6 && _vTime >= "11:00" && _vTime <= "23:00">>\ The air is filled with a thick fog that obscures nearby structures and blocks out the sky. <</if>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ Through a hole in the canopy, you can see the crescent moon, slightly thinner than yesterday. <</if>>\ [[Start your shift|Friday]]

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>><<if $acorns >= 1000>> The trees themselves seem to sway with joy as you walk past.<</if>>\ <<set _vTime = new Date().toLocaleString("en-ca", {hour: "2-digit", minute: "2-digit", hour12: false});>>\ <<if $FriOpenCount == 6 && _vTime >= "11:00" && _vTime <= "23:00">>\ The air is filled with a thick fog that obscures nearby structures and blocks out the sky. <<else>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ Through a hole in the canopy, you can see the gibbous moon, slightly wider than yesterday. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ [[Start your shift|Friday]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ Shortly after you enter the shop, Aïssatou comes out of the stockroom to greet you. "I'll have to be in there for a while again, so I would really appreciate any help you can provide to the customers." It doesn't take long after her retreat for the front door to open. Kauê saunters in with his sister in tow. "Hey! Would you be up for cooking with us again?" He holds out the binder of recipes with his arms stretched towards you, looking at you with stars in his eyes. Kauane gives you a friendly sniff and a pleading look. You take the binder and start [[flipping through the disparate pages|_NextPassage]].

<<set $Return2Shift = passage().replace(/a$/,"c")>>\ <<goto "Patupaiarehe">>

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You've barely set foot in the building when something big and fast brushes past you, disappearing into the shop. Behind you, a voice calls out, and you turn to see a young man of short stature standing in the doorway. His vibrant russet skin hides toned muscles. His bright orange hair somehow stands upright, looking almost spiky, and glows with a vivid warm light. He laughs breathlessly and kneels. You suddenly notice that his feet are pointing backwards, giving his movements a unique quality. "Hey! Come back here!" You hear quiet hoofsteps coming from behind a wooden display, and a friendly peccary soon appears. She happily hops into the man's arms while he beams at you. "Hahaha, sorry about that! I'm Kauê, and this is my sister Kauane!" She grunts enthustiastically as he tousles her hair. Aïssatou peeks out of the stockroom to check on the commotion and waves with a friendly smile. "We're both starving and we heard there was a new employee, so we thought..." He waves back to Aïssatou and waits until she disappears into the stockroom again. "...we thought maybe we could finally get a nice meal here!" He keeps talking as he walks over to a nearby bookcase and pulls out a large binder. "Don't get me wrong, she's amazing! But for her whole life until earlier this year, she's been served all of her meals. I think she's still too scared to even follow a simple recipe!" He hands you the binder and claps gleefully. "We haven't busted this out in so long! I can't //wait//! If you can pick out a recipe, I'll help you make it." The binder is full of mismatched pages of varying size and colour, with penmanship ranging from dainty and neat to chaotic and bold. You take in the different recipes as you [[flip through the pages|_NextPassage]].

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and are excitedly greeted by Aïssatou, who is once again examining the glowing contents of an assortment of small vials. "I'm so glad to see you! I've been making great progress in my spell research thanks to what you've brought me so far. There's something else I still need, if you have time to go look for it..." She takes a cursory glance at her notes, periodically looking over at the full vials on the table. "This time, I'd like to capture the magic in the old sign that's out on the eastern trail! The luminescent ink that was used to paint its letters should still have traces of its original enchantment." Equipped with a magic-infused vial and a hastily-scribbled informative note, you set out [[to find the sign in question|_NextPassage]].

<<set $Return2Shift = passage().replace(/a$/,"c")>>\ <<goto "Moosleute">>

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ Shortly after you enter the shop, Aïssatou comes out of the stockroom to greet you. "I'll have to be in there for a while again. As always, I really appreciate any help you can provide to the customers!" It doesn't take long after her retreat for the front door to open. Kauê saunters in with his sister in tow. "Hey! What's up? We have a party to get to, so we're just stopping by to grab some supplies." Kauane dashes back outside as Kauê starts walking around the shop, amassing armfuls of snacks and drinks. You're making small talk with him when suddenly your attention is drawn away, as [[Kauane nudges your leg|_NextPassage]].

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and are excitedly greeted by Aïssatou, who is once again examining the glowing contents of an assortment of small vials. "I'm so glad to see you! I've been making great progress in my spell research thanks to what you've brought me so far. There's something else I still need, if you have time to go look for it..." She takes a cursory glance at her notes, periodically looking over at the full vials on the table. "I'd like to capture the vivacity of a clump of moss!" Equipped with a magic-infused vial and a hastily-scribbled informative note, you set out [[to find a suitable clump of moss|_NextPassage]].

<<set $CreatureClicked = "">>\ <<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ As you start your search, you glance at the note that Aïssatou wrote for you: <i> Dry leaf Distinctive traits: Symmetrical veins. Dry. Leafy. NO EYES OR LIMBS. </i>\ Suddenly, the vial heats up under your fingertips! You look around to find your target, and you get a good glance at two dry leaves that look similar. But the spell is running out, and you won't be able to examine them more closely before deciding what to bottle. <div class="animals">\ [img[|Pictures/Mimics/3a.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "A"]]\ [img[|Pictures/Mimics/3b.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "B"]]\ </div>

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and are excitedly greeted by Aïssatou, who is once again examining the glowing contents of an assortment of small vials. "I'm so glad to see you! I've been making great progress in my spell research thanks to what you've brought me so far. There's something else I still need, if you have time to go look for it..." She takes a cursory glance at her notes, periodically looking over at the full vials on the table. "I'd like to capture the freshness of a pile of leaves!" Equipped with a magic-infused vial and a hastily-scribbled informative note, you set out [[to find a suitable pile of leaves|_NextPassage]].

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ <<if $FirstClose == 0>> You enter the store and find Aïssatou hunched over a table, pensively examining an assortment of small glowing vials. Looking up from her work, she excitedly greets you. "Hi! I'm so glad to see you. I need more materials for my experiments, but I still have too much work to do over here. If you wouldn't mind going out and collecting a sample for me, that would be incredibly helpful!" She stretches across the table to pick up an empty vial, then walks over to you. "See, the spells that I use to sustain life and maintain harmony in these woods are working well enough, but there's still much room for improvement. I'd like to refine them, make them more powerful, more efficient. For that purpose I've been gathering magical energy from the forest's inhabitants, or sometimes from potent inanimate objects. Not much, only a tiny sliver at a time. Imperceptible to the creature, but groundbreaking for my research..." She holds up the vial as she continues her explanation, keeping a finger securely pressed onto the cork. "These vials are imbued with two spells. The first is a collection spell, which captures a fragment of energy from whatever your attention is focused on at the moment the cork is removed. The second is a locator spell, to help find a suitable donor; you'll feel the glass heat up slightly when a perfect specimen is nearby. The bad news is that this kind of magic is volatile and will start to dissipate once you leave the building! But if your first attempt fails, don't worry — I can enchant another vial as needed." She smiles warmly. "With all that out of the way, let me see what I should send you out for..." <<set $FirstClose = 1>> <<else>> You enter the store and are excitedly greeted by Aïssatou, who is once again examining the glowing contents of an assortment of small vials. "I'm so glad to see you! I've been making great progress in my spell research thanks to what you've brought me so far. There's something else I still need, if you have time to go look for it..." <</if>> She takes a cursory glance at her notes, periodically looking over at the full vials on the table. "I'd like to capture the flutter of a leaf!" Equipped with a magic-infused vial and a hastily-scribbled informative note, you set out [[to find a suitable leaf|_NextPassage]].

<<set $CreatureClicked = "">>\ <<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ As you start your search, you glance at the messy note that Aïssatou wrote for you: <i> Leaf Distinctive traits: Symmetrical veins. Leafy. </i>\ Suddenly, the vial heats up under your fingertips! You look around to find your target, and you get a good glance at two leaves that look similar. But the spell is running out, and you won't be able to examine them more closely before deciding what to bottle. <div class="animals">\ [img[|Pictures/Mimics/1a.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "A"]]\ [img[|Pictures/Mimics/1b.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "B"]]\ </div>

<<set $CreatureClicked = "">>\ <<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ As you start your search, you glance at the note that Aïssatou wrote for you: <i> Clump of moss Distinctive traits: Spongy. </i>\ Suddenly, the vial heats up under your fingertips! You look around to find your target, and you get a good glance at two clumps of moss that look similar. But the spell is running out, and you won't be able to examine them more closely before deciding what to bottle. <div class="animals">\ [img[|Pictures/Mimics/4a.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "A"]]\ [img[|Pictures/Mimics/4b.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "B"]]\ </div>

<<set $CreatureClicked = "">>\ <<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ As you start your search, you glance at the note that Aïssatou wrote for you: <i> Pile of leaves Distinctive traits: Haphazard pile of leaves. </i>\ Suddenly, the vial heats up under your fingertips! You look around to find your target, and you get a good glance at two piles of leaves that look similar. But the spell is running out, and you won't be able to examine them more closely before deciding what to bottle. <div class="animals">\ [img[|Pictures/Mimics/2a.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "A"]]\ [img[|Pictures/Mimics/2b.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "B"]]\ </div>

A tiny spark ignites as you remove the cork, and a colourful glowing mist fills the vial. The glass turns cold once again. You carefully make your way back to the store. Aïssatou meets you at the door and excitedly collects your find. "Welcome back!" She raises the vial to her face and gazes deeply into it. <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>\ "Yes... yes! This is perfect! Thank you so much!" <<else>>\ "Hmmm, something's not quite right... Oh!" She smiles in amusement. "I think you were bamboozled by a lookalike!" <</if>>\ You tell her about the two creatures that you saw. "Ah, I see! The lookalike must have been an insect that's often called a 'walking leaf'. I believe they're related to 'walking sticks'!" <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>\ She thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <<else>>\ Armed with a new vial, you hurry back to the place where you found the creatures and manage to bottle the correct essence. Aïssatou thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <</if>>\ <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Monday)][$MonClosedCount++]]

<<set $CreatureClicked = "">>\ <<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ As you start your search, you glance at the note that Aïssatou wrote for you: <i> Bundle of sticks Distinctive traits: Small sticks stacked on top of each other. </i>\ Suddenly, the vial heats up under your fingertips! You look around to find your target, and you get a good glance at two bundles of sticks that look similar. But the spell is running out, and you won't be able to examine them more closely before deciding what to bottle. <div class="animals">\ [img[|Pictures/Mimics/5a.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "A"]]\ [img[|Pictures/Mimics/5b.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "B"]]\ </div>

<<set $CreatureClicked = "">>\ <<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ As you start your search, you glance at the note that Aïssatou wrote for you: <i> Lettering written in magic-infused ink Distinctive traits: Will appear as a letter in a script you're familiar with. </i>\ Suddenly, the vial heats up under your fingertips! You realize that you're now standing near the sign, and you spot two particularly bright and potent-looking letters. But the spell is running out, and you won't be able to examine them more closely before deciding what to bottle. <div class="animals">\ [img[|Pictures/Mimics/6a.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "A"]]\ [img[|Pictures/Mimics/6b.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "B"]]\ </div>

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and are excitedly greeted by Aïssatou, who is once again examining the glowing contents of an assortment of small vials. "I'm so glad to see you! I've been making great progress in my spell research thanks to what you've brought me so far. There's something else I still need, if you have time to go look for it..." She takes a cursory glance at her notes, periodically looking over at the full vials on the table. "This time, I'd like to capture a lemur's chatter!" Equipped with a magic-infused vial and a hastily-scribbled informative note, you set out [[to find a suitable lemur|_NextPassage]].

A tiny spark ignites as you remove the cork, and a colourful glowing mist fills the vial. The glass turns cold once again. You carefully make your way back to the store. Aïssatou meets you at the door and excitedly collects your find. "Welcome back!" She raises the vial to her face and gazes deeply into it. <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>\ "Yes... yes! This is perfect! Thank you so much!" <<else>>\ "Hmmm, something's not quite right... Oh!" She smiles in amusement. "I think you were bamboozled by a lookalike!" <</if>>\ You tell her about the two creatures that you saw. "Ah, I see! The lookalike must have been a young 'assassin bug'. They're able to stick all kinds of debris to their bodies!" <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>\ She thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <<else>>\ Armed with a new vial, you hurry back to the place where you found the creatures and manage to bottle the correct essence. Aïssatou thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <</if>>\ <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Monday)][$MonClosedCount++]]

A tiny spark ignites as you remove the cork, and a colourful glowing mist fills the vial. The glass turns cold once again. You carefully make your way back to the store. Aïssatou meets you at the door and excitedly collects your find. "Welcome back!" She raises the vial to her face and gazes deeply into it. <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>\ "Yes... yes! This is perfect! Thank you so much!" <<else>>\ "Hmmm, something's not quite right... Oh!" She smiles in amusement. "I think you were bamboozled by a lookalike!" <</if>>\ You tell her about the two creatures that you saw. "Ah, I see! The lookalike must have been a moth. It's amazing that it can even mimic a bite mark in the leaf!" <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>\ She thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <<else>>\ Armed with a new vial, you hurry back to the place where you found the creatures and manage to bottle the correct essence. Aïssatou thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <</if>>\ <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Monday)][$MonClosedCount++]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ <<if $FirstClose == 0>> You enter the store and find Aïssatou hunched over a table, pensively examining an assortment of small glowing vials. Looking up from her work, she excitedly greets you. "Hi! I'm so glad to see you. I need more materials for my experiments, but I still have too much work to do over here. If you wouldn't mind going out and collecting a sample for me, that would be incredibly helpful!" She stretches across the table to pick up an empty vial, then walks over to you. "See, the spells that I use to sustain life and maintain harmony in these woods are working well enough, but there's still much room for improvement. I'd like to refine them, make them more powerful, more efficient. For that purpose I've been gathering magical energy from the forest's inhabitants, or sometimes from potent inanimate objects. Not much, only a tiny sliver at a time. Imperceptible to the creature, but groundbreaking for my research..." She holds up the vial as she continues her explanation, keeping a finger securely pressed onto the cork. "These vials are imbued with two spells. The first is a collection spell, which captures a fragment of energy from whatever your attention is focused on at the moment the cork is removed. The second is a locator spell, to help find a suitable donor; you'll feel the glass heat up slightly when a perfect specimen is nearby. The bad news is that this kind of magic is volatile and will start to dissipate once you leave the building! But if your first attempt fails, don't worry — I can enchant another vial as needed." She smiles warmly. "With all that out of the way, let me see what I should send you out for..." <<set $FirstClose = 1>> <<else>> You enter the store and are excitedly greeted by Aïssatou, who is once again examining the glowing contents of an assortment of small vials. "I'm so glad to see you! I've been making great progress in my spell research thanks to what you've brought me so far. There's something else I still need, if you have time to go look for it..." <</if>> She takes a cursory glance at her notes, periodically looking over at the full vials on the table. "I'd like to capture the serenity of a pangolin!" Equipped with a magic-infused vial and a hastily-scribbled informative note, you set out [[to find a suitable pangolin|_NextPassage]].

<<set $CreatureClicked = "">>\ <<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ As you start your search, you glance at the note that Aïssatou wrote for you: <i> Porcupine Distinctive traits: Long tufts of hair and quills. Broad, flat nose. </i>\ Suddenly, the vial heats up under your fingertips! You look around to find your target, and you get a good glance at two creatures who look similar. But the spell is running out, and you won't be able to examine them more closely before deciding what to bottle. <div class="animals">\ [img[|Pictures/Mammals/4a.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "A"]]\ [img[|Pictures/Mammals/4b.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "B"]]\ </div>

<<set $CreatureClicked = "">>\ <<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ As you start your search, you glance at the note that Aïssatou wrote for you: <i> Lemur Distinctive traits: Long, striped, bushy tail. Short snout. </i>\ Suddenly, the vial heats up under your fingertips! You look around to find your target, and you get a good glance at two creatures who look similar. But the spell is running out, and you won't be able to examine them more closely before deciding what to bottle. <div class="animals">\ [img[|Pictures/Mammals/2a.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "A"]]\ [img[|Pictures/Mammals/2b.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "B"]]\ </div>

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and are excitedly greeted by Aïssatou, who is once again examining the glowing contents of an assortment of small vials. "I'm so glad to see you! I've been making great progress in my spell research thanks to what you've brought me so far. There's something else I still need, if you have time to go look for it..." She takes a cursory glance at her notes, periodically looking over at the full vials on the table. "This time, I'd like to capture the tenderness of a porcupine!" Equipped with a magic-infused vial and a hastily-scribbled informative note, you set out [[to find a suitable porcupine|_NextPassage]].

<<set $CreatureClicked = "">>\ <<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ As you start your search, you glance at the note that Aïssatou wrote for you: <i> Pangolin Distinctive traits: Body covered in angular plates of varying sizes. Small ears. </i>\ Suddenly, the vial heats up under your fingertips! You look around to find your target, and you get a good glance at two creatures who look similar. But the spell is running out, and you won't be able to examine them more closely before deciding what to bottle. <div class="animals">\ [img[|Pictures/Mammals/1a.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "A"]]\ [img[|Pictures/Mammals/1b.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "B"]]\ </div>

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ Kauê heads to the small kitchen at the back of the store and takes out various cooking implements. Kauane follows him and stares curiously as he wanders into the produce section. "Don't worry, I'll pay for all the ingredients we use! Right now I really feel like eating something spicy..." You look through the three recipes in front of you and prepare to make a choice. //- Rote Grütze Main ingredients: mix of berries, sugar, cornstarch// //- Moqueca de palmito Main ingredients: heart of palm, bell pepper, onion, chili pepper, tomato, coconut milk// //- Gemista Main ingredients: bell pepper, rice, potato, tomato, zucchini, carrot, onion// You decide you're going to make: [[– Rote Grütze|_NextPassage][$FoodClicked = false]] [[– Moqueca de palmito|_NextPassage][$FoodClicked = true]] [[– Gemista|_NextPassage][$FoodClicked = false]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ <<if $TrioMet == 0>>\ "I dropped something in there earlier and I still have to look for it." Suādurīx suddenly pipes up. "Oh? What did you drop?" "...my house key." A smile creeps across his face, but he does an admirable job of containing it. Valens is not so tactful and loudly whistles in amusement. You all lean over the box and attempt to find the key that's different from the others. [[pq|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[pq|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[pq|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[pq|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[pq|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]] [[pq|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[pq|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[pq|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[pg|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = true]][[pq|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]] [[pq|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[pq|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[pq|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[pq|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[pq|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]] [[pq|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[pq|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[pq|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[pq|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[pq|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]] <<else>>\ As you pick up a familiar little box filled with blank keys, Ovidia pulls out her own key and waves it around proudly. "This time my own key is safe and sound with me! Haha–" Suddenly the key slips out of her grasp and flies in a perfect arc, landing squarely in the box. There's a moment of silence as everyone processes what just happened, then contagious snickers from Suādurīx and Valens. Ovidia laughs self-deprecatingly. You all lean over the box and attempt to find the key that's different from the others. [[hbd|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[hbd|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[hbd|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[hbd|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[hbd|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]] [[hbd|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[hbd|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[hbd|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[hbd|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[hbd|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]] [[hbd|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[hbcl|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = true]][[hbd|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[hbd|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[hbd|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]] [[hbd|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[hbd|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[hbd|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[hbd|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[hbd|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]] [[hbd|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[hbd|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[hbd|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[hbd|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]][[hbd|_NextPassage][$OviClicked = false]] <</if>>

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ <<if $TrioMet == 0>>\ You enter the shop and are sent outside to help remove debris from the windows. You see two figures approaching, each pulling a small handcart down the the same silty path you always take. The first in line, a young woman wearing a knee-length tunic, waves energetically as she calls out to you. "Hey! Are you the new helper? Glad to have you! We're here for a delivery." They come to a stop near the building and start unloading their carts. Bucketfuls of textiles, a cornucopia of fruit, healing ointments and all kinds of other goods are deposited near the door. "I'm Ovidia, by the way, and this is Suādurīx!" Her companion, a shy-looking man who moves with methodical intent, gives you a shaky smile from under the hood of his long cloak. You notice a lovely medium-sized white bird on his shoulder, who coos enthusiastically as you admire him. "Oh, and that's Valens!" They're already nearly done with their work, and you help them carry some things inside the building. You're picking up a small box full of blank keys when Ovidia suddenly speaks up. "Wait! Don't take that one yet!" You stop and [[turn towards her.|_NextPassage]] <<else>>\ You enter the shop and are soon sent back outside to help remove debris from the windows. Someone calls out to you and you turn to see Ovidia and Suādurīx approaching the giant tree with their handcarts. Valens flies ahead of them and lands on your shoulder, tweeting a cheerful greeting. Once everyone is gathered, you all get to work. Bucketfuls of vegetables, crates full of concoctions and all kinds of other goods are deposited near the door, and [[you help bring products into the building.|_NextPassage]] <</if>>

//Once upon a time, in the distant land of $MadLib1, there was a princess who disguised herself as an animal to escape her tyrannical parents — unfortunately, the castle guards easily saw through her $MadLib2 costume. While on the run, she sought refuge in a humble inn, where she was hired as a cook. One day a foreign prince visited the inn, and to signal her true identity to him she hid her royal $MadLib3 in his $MadLib4. Sensing her true beauty underneath the $MadLib2 costume, he proposed to her on the spot. They lived happily ever after and had $MadLib5 children... // He punctuates your tale with gasps and laughter. The story ends right on time, as Minviluz places a final item (three portions of solbærtoddy) into her bag. "Yanoi? Are you ready to go?" "Coming!" He politely thanks you and beams with happiness as he waves goodbye. The pair engage in conversation again as they leave. "Mom, where is $MadLib1?" She laughs. "I'll show you on a map when we get home!" The sound of their voices slowly fade, and the store is quiet once again. Aïssatou thanks you for humoring Bayani. <<set $acorns += 60>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns (along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Monday)][$MonOpenCount++]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and find Aïssatou carving runestones in a far corner of the room. She delegates a few small tasks to you while she works. You're nearly done when you hear the door open, and Minviluz greets you warmly as she starts her shopping. Bayani happily waves and gives you a smile. [[You take out the magical blue book and prepare to read to him once again. |_NextPassage]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ <<set $MadLib1 = "">><<set $MadLib2 = "">><<set $MadLib3 = "">><<set $MadLib4 = "">><<set $MadLib5 = "">>\ You open the book to a random page and craft a new story for Bayani. As you swipe your thumb over the swirling patches on the paper, you successively think of: a country <<textbox "$MadLib1" "" autofocus>> a small animal <<textbox "$MadLib2" "">> an article of clothing <<textbox "$MadLib3" "">> a dish (e.g. "salad") <<textbox "$MadLib4" "">> a number <<textbox "$MadLib5" "">> <<link "Continue">><<if $MadLib1.trim() == "" or $MadLib2.trim() == "" or $MadLib3.trim() == "" or $MadLib4.trim() == "" or $MadLib5.trim() == "" >>\ <<script>>alert("Please fill in all the fields");<</script>>\ <<else>>\ <<goto _NextPassage>>\ <</if>><</link>>\

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and are excitedly greeted by Aïssatou, who is once again examining the glowing contents of an assortment of small vials. "I'm so glad to see you! I've been making great progress in my spell research thanks to what you've brought me so far. There's something else I still need, if you have time to go look for it..." She takes a cursory glance at her notes, periodically looking over at the full vials on the table. "I'd like to capture the resilience of a dry leaf!" Equipped with a magic-infused vial and a hastily-scribbled informative note, you set out [[to find a suitable dry leaf|_NextPassage]].

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and are excitedly greeted by Aïssatou, who is once again examining the glowing contents of an assortment of small vials. "I'm so glad to see you! I've been making great progress in my spell research thanks to what you've brought me so far. There's something else I still need, if you have time to go look for it..." She takes a cursory glance at her notes, periodically looking over at the full vials on the table. "I'd like to capture the strength of a bundle of sticks!" Equipped with a magic-infused vial and a hastily-scribbled informative note, you set out [[to find a suitable bundle of sticks|_NextPassage]].

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ <<set $MadLib1 = "">><<set $MadLib2 = "">><<set $MadLib3 = "">><<set $MadLib4 = "">><<set $MadLib5 = "">>\ You open the book to a random page and wait a moment for the translation spell to take effect. However, you're surprised to find that the resulting paragraphs are still interrupted by strange little shimmering shapes. You place a thumb over one of them and it tickles your skin. Feeling a sudden urge to think of a verb, you let the word THINK fill your head as you swipe your thumb sideways. The shimmer promptly coalesces into letters, leaving behind the word THINK on the paper. Upon being touched, the letters turn back into a shapeless swirl. Using your newfound knowledge of this peculiar magic, you craft a short story for Bayani. You successively think of: an animal (e.g. "cat") <<textbox "$MadLib1" "" autofocus>> a large number <<textbox "$MadLib2" "">> a body part <<textbox "$MadLib3" "">> an object <<textbox "$MadLib4" "">> a verb (e.g. "write") <<textbox "$MadLib5" "">> <<link "Read the story">><<if $MadLib1.trim() == "" or $MadLib2.trim() == "" or $MadLib3.trim() == "" or $MadLib4.trim() == "" or $MadLib5.trim() == "" >>\ <<script>>alert("Please fill in all the fields");<</script>>\ <<else>>\ <<goto _NextPassage>>\ <</if>><</link>>\

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and find Aïssatou brewing potions in a far corner of the room. She delegates a few small tasks to you while she works. You're casually stocking some shelves when a distant high-pitched voice breaks your focus. It quickly gets louder and the door soon opens, revealing a woman and a boy with beautiful russet skin and smooth dark brown hair. Her gait is unusual, and you immediately notice that she seems to have no feet — another glance reveals that her heel is in the front and her toes are pointing backwards towards the doorway. Flaps of skin stretch between her body and her arms; the latter end in elegant long-fingered hands whose palms face away from each other. Your ears can suddenly make out words in the child's excited babble. "And then Ligaya said that she-" "Just a moment, honey." The boy grows quiet and stares at you, wide-eyed. She smiles apologetically. "You must be the new assistant; it's nice to meet you. I'm Minviluz, and this is my son Bayani." After a slight hesitation, she continues: "The assistants who came before you used to read to him while I shop, and he always looked forward to it so much. If it's not too much trouble, would you mind doing the same? I think Aïssatou keeps the book behind the counter." Aïssatou distractedly waves from across the room and gestures her approval. Bayani shyly follows as you [[pull out the shimmering blue book|_NextPassage]].

<<set $Return2Shift = passage().replace(/a$/,"c")>>\ <<goto "Moosleute">>

//Once upon a time, there was a little $MadLib1 who lived in a big forest. But she was no ordinary $MadLib1 — she had $MadLib2 <<print $MadLib3.replace("oo","ee")>><<if $MadLib3.slice(-1) != "s" && !$MadLib3.includes("oo")>>s<</if>>! Because of that, the other animals in the forest called her <<print $MadLib3.toUpperFirst()>>ie The Many-<<print $MadLib3.toUpperFirst()>><<if $MadLib3.slice(-1) != "e">>e<</if>>d <<print $MadLib1.toUpperFirst()>>. Then, one day, a giant $MadLib4 was threatening the forest, and she managed to $MadLib5 it with her many strong <<print $MadLib3.replace("oo","ee")>><<if $MadLib3.slice(-1) != "s" && !$MadLib3.includes("oo")>>s<</if>>... // He punctuates your tale with gasps and laughter. The story ends right on time, as Minviluz places a final item (three portions of sago't gulaman) into her bag. "Yanoi? Are you ready to go?" "Coming!" He politely thanks you and beams with happiness as he waves goodbye. The pair engage in conversation again as they leave. "So what were you telling me about Ligaya?" "Oh yeah!! So I showed her all the fruit that I picked and she said..." The sound of their voices slowly fade, and the store is quiet once again. Aïssatou thanks you for humoring Bayani. <<set $acorns += 60>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns (along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Monday)][$MonOpenCount++]]

A tiny spark ignites as you remove the cork, and a colourful glowing mist fills the vial. The glass turns cold once again. You carefully make your way back to the store. Aïssatou meets you at the door and excitedly collects your find. "Welcome back!" She raises the vial to her face and gazes deeply into it. <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>\ "Yes... yes! This is perfect! Thank you so much!" <<else>>\ "Hmmm, something's not quite right... Oh!" She smiles in amusement. "I think you were bamboozled by a lookalike!" <</if>>\ You tell her about the two creatures that you saw. "Ah, I see! The lookalike must have been a butterfly. Their camouflage can be incredible!" <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>\ She thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <<else>>\ Armed with a new vial, you hurry back to the place where you found the creatures and manage to bottle the correct essence. Aïssatou thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <</if>>\ <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Monday)][$MonClosedCount++]]

<<set $MonOpenCount++>> <<goto "End of Shift (Monday)">>

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ [[Continue|_NextPassage]]

A tiny spark ignites as you remove the cork, and a colourful glowing mist fills the vial. The glass turns cold once again. You carefully make your way back to the store. Aïssatou meets you at the door and excitedly collects your find. "Welcome back!" She raises the vial to her face and gazes deeply into it. <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>\ "Yes... yes! This is perfect! Thank you so much!" <<else>>\ "Hmmm, something's not quite right... Oh!" She smiles in amusement. "I think you were bamboozled by a lookalike!" <</if>>\ You tell her about the two creatures that you saw. "Ah, I see! The lookalike must have been a moth. Isn't it amazing when they can fold their wings up like that?" <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>\ She thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <<else>>\ Armed with a new vial, you hurry back to the place where you found the creatures and manage to bottle the correct essence. Aïssatou thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <</if>>\ <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Monday)][$MonClosedCount++]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ <<set $MadLib1 = "">><<set $MadLib2 = "">><<set $MadLib3 = "">><<set $MadLib4 = "">><<set $MadLib5 = "">>\ You open the book to a random page and craft a new story for Bayani. As you swipe your thumb over the swirling patches on the paper, you successively think of: an adjective <<textbox "$MadLib1" "" autofocus>> an adverb (e.g. "aggressively") <<textbox "$MadLib2" "">> an adjective <<textbox "$MadLib3" "">> a verb in present participle form (e.g. "eating") <<textbox "$MadLib4" "">> an object <<textbox "$MadLib5" "">> <<link "Continue">><<if $MadLib1.trim() == "" or $MadLib2.trim() == "" or $MadLib3.trim() == "" or $MadLib4.trim() == "" or $MadLib5.trim() == "" >>\ <<script>>alert("Please fill in all the fields");<</script>>\ <<else>>\ <<goto _NextPassage>>\ <</if>><</link>>\

<<set $BlueBracelet = 1>>\ //Once upon a time, there was a boy born of a humble family who was named– // "Bayani!" //–who was named Bayani the <<print $MadLib1.toUpperFirst()>>. Once he came of age, he set out to make a living and on his travels he happened to meet Bayani the Un<<print $MadLib1>>, who was his opposite in every way and quickly became his rival. The two of them were granted an audience with the king, who was renowned for being $MadLib2 $MadLib3. Eager to impress the king and escape from his unpleasant rivalry, Bayani the <<print $MadLib1.toUpperFirst()>> proved himself by $MadLib2 $MadLib4 every single $MadLib5 in the land. Thanks to this feat he was granted a position as a royal guard, and brought fortune to his family... // He punctuates your tale with gasps and laughter. The story ends right on time, as Minviluz places a final item (a sapphire-encrusted silver bracelet) into her bag. "Yanoi? Are you ready to go?" "Coming!" He politely thanks you and beams with happiness as he waves goodbye. The pair engage in conversation again as they leave. "Can we have a picnic with Mr. Åsmund soon?" "I think so, sweetheart! I'll ask him tonight, okay?" The sound of their voices slowly fade, and the store is quiet once again. Aïssatou thanks you for humoring Bayani. <<set $acorns += 60>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns (along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Monday)][$MonOpenCount++]]

A tiny spark ignites as you remove the cork, and a colourful glowing mist fills the vial. The glass turns cold once again. You carefully make your way back to the store. Aïssatou meets you at the door and excitedly collects your find. "Welcome back!" She raises the vial to her face and gazes deeply into it. <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>\ "Yes... yes! This is perfect! Thank you so much!" <<else>>\ "Hmmm, something's not quite right... Oh!" She smiles in amusement. "I think you were bamboozled by a lookalike!" <</if>>\ You tell her about the two creatures that you saw. "Ah, I see! The lookalike must have been a caterpillar. Some species are able to build protective cases out of things like sticks!" <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>\ She thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <<else>>\ Armed with a new vial, you hurry back to the place where you found the creatures and manage to bottle the correct essence. Aïssatou thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <</if>>\ <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Monday)][$MonClosedCount++]]

A tiny spark ignites as you remove the cork, and a colourful glowing mist fills the vial. The glass turns cold once again. You carefully make your way back to the store. Aïssatou meets you at the door and excitedly collects your find. "Welcome back!" She raises the vial to her face and gazes deeply into it. <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>\ "Yes... yes! This is perfect! Thank you so much!" <<else>>\ "Hmmm, something's not quite right... Oh!" She smiles in amusement. "I think you were bamboozled by a lookalike!" <</if>>\ You tell her about the two creatures that you saw. "Ah, I see! The lookalike must have been a coati. They come in a variety of patterns and are related to raccoons!" <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>\ She thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <<else>>\ Armed with a new vial, you hurry back to the place where you found the creatures and manage to bottle the correct essence. Aïssatou thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <</if>>\ <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Monday)][$MonTueClosedCount++]]

A tiny spark ignites as you remove the cork, and a colourful glowing mist fills the vial. The glass turns cold once again. You carefully make your way back to the store. Aïssatou meets you at the door and excitedly collects your find. "Welcome back!" She raises the vial to her face and gazes deeply into it. <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>\ "Yes... yes! This is perfect! Thank you so much!" <<else>>\ "Hmmm, something's not quite right... Oh!" She smiles in amusement. "I think you were bamboozled by a lookalike!" <</if>>\ You tell her about the two creatures that you saw. "Ah, I see! The lookalike must have been an anteater. Their long snouts and tongues are amazing — thankfully, they don't need to use them for ant-eating in here!" <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>\ She thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <<else>>\ Armed with a new vial, you hurry back to the place where you found the creatures and manage to bottle the correct essence. Aïssatou thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <</if>>\ <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Monday)][$MonTueClosedCount++]]

<<set $CreatureClicked = "">>\ <<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ As you start your search, you glance at the note that Aïssatou wrote for you: <i> Aardvark Distinctive traits: Long ears. Medium-length snout with a flat end. Short hair. </i>\ Suddenly, the vial heats up under your fingertips! You look around to find your target, and you get a good glance at two creatures who look similar. But the spell is running out, and you won't be able to examine them more closely before deciding what to bottle. <div class="animals">\ [img[|Pictures/Mammals/3a.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "A"]]\ [img[|Pictures/Mammals/3b.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "B"]]\ </div>

A tiny spark ignites as you remove the cork, and a colourful glowing mist fills the vial. The glass turns cold once again. You carefully make your way back to the store. Aïssatou meets you at the door and excitedly collects your find. "Welcome back!" She raises the vial to her face and gazes deeply into it. <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>\ "Yes... yes! This is perfect! Thank you so much!" <<else>>\ "Hmmm, something's not quite right... Oh!" She smiles in amusement. "I think you were bamboozled by a lookalike!" <</if>>\ You tell her about the two creatures that you saw. "Ah, I see! The lookalike must have been an armadillo. Some species can roll into a perfect ball — it's quite the sight!" <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>\ She thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <<else>>\ Armed with a new vial, you hurry back to the place where you found the creatures and manage to bottle the correct essence. Aïssatou thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <</if>>\ <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Monday)][$MonTueClosedCount++]]

A tiny spark ignites as you remove the cork, and a colourful glowing mist fills the vial. The glass turns cold once again. You carefully make your way back to the store. Aïssatou meets you at the door and excitedly collects your find. "Welcome back!" She raises the vial to her face and gazes deeply into it. <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>\ "Yes... yes! This is perfect! Thank you so much!" <<else>>\ "Hmmm, something's not quite right... Oh!" She smiles in amusement. "I think you were bamboozled by a lookalike!" <</if>>\ You tell her about the two creatures that you saw. "Ah, I see! The lookalike must have been a hedgehog. Luckily the ones living here no longer need to use their quills for defense!" <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>\ She thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <<else>>\ Armed with a new vial, you hurry back to the place where you found the creatures and manage to bottle the correct essence. Aïssatou thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <</if>>\ <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Monday)][$MonTueClosedCount++]]

A tiny spark ignites as you remove the cork, and a colourful glowing mist fills the vial. The glass turns cold once again. You carefully make your way back to the store. Aïssatou meets you at the door and excitedly collects your find. "Welcome back!" She raises the vial to her face and gazes deeply into it. <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>\ "Yes... yes! This is perfect! Thank you so much!" <<else>>\ "Hmmm, something's not quite right... Oh!" She smiles in amusement. "I think you were bamboozled by a lookalike!" <</if>>\ You tell her about the two creatures that you saw. "Ah, I see! The lookalike must have been a boar. Or maybe a peccary... I still struggle to tell them apart from afar!" <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>\ She thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <<else>>\ Armed with a new vial, you hurry back to the place where you found the creatures and manage to bottle the correct essence. Aïssatou thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <</if>>\ <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Monday)][$MonTueClosedCount++]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and find Aïssatou knitting miniature sweaters in a far corner of the room. She delegates a few small tasks to you while she works. You're nearly done when you hear the door open, and Minviluz greets you warmly as she starts her shopping. <<if $RedBracelet == 1>>\ You notice a beautiful ruby-encrusted bracelet on her wrist. <</if>>\ Bayani excitedly waves and gives you a big smile. You take out the magical blue book and prepare to read to him once again. To your surprise, he puts a hand on the tome's cover and softly closes it. "I don't wanna read today." He cranes his neck to locate his mother on the other side of the store, then leans towards you and whispers conspiratorially. "I wanna buy something!" He holds up a cupped hand, showing you a single glowing acorn. You [[lean in and listen to his request|_NextPassage]].

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ He explains that we wants to buy something in secret, and quickly gets to work trying to find the perfect item. While he's busy sneakily peeking at the contents of nearby shelves, Aïssatou discreetly calls you over. "Don't worry about the price, okay? I'll cover it." She then makes a show of putting away her knitting supplies and strikes up a suspiciously enthusiastic conversation with Minviluz. Taking advantage of the distraction, Bayani makes his move. He runs up to the counter with a fistful of white flowers. You've only just finished telling him that he doesn't have to pay when his mother walks up behind him. "Don't worry Yanoi, we're leaving soon! I just have to pay for these..." He turns around and presents the bouquet to her. "Surprise!!" Looking incredibly touched, she drops her things on the counter and gives him a long hug. "Oh, sweetheart! Thank you!" As she embraces him, she looks over to Aïssatou and assures her that she'll pay for the flowers, but her concerns are waved away. "Don't worry about it, Minviluz — you deserve it." Flustered, she profusely expresses her gratitude. As the pair get ready to leave, Bayani thanks you for your help, then suddenly looks pensive. Digging into his pocket, he takes his acorn back out and proudly presents it to you. "It's a tip!" [[– You thank him and keep the acorn.|_NextPassage][$KeepAcorn = true]] [[– You thank him but give the acorn back.|_NextPassage][$KeepAcorn = false]]

<<set $Return2Shift = passage().replace(/a$/,"c")>>\ <<goto "Patupaiarehe">>

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ [[Continue|_NextPassage]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and find Aïssatou counting acorns in a far corner of the room. She delegates a few small tasks to you while she works. You're nearly done when you hear the door open, and Minviluz greets you warmly as she starts her shopping. Bayani excitedly waves and gives you a big smile. [[You take out the magical blue book and prepare to read to him once again. |_NextPassage]]

<<if $OviClicked>>\ You nab a key that looks different from the rest. Bingo! Ovidia gratefully accepts it and clutches it tightly to her chest. She carefully tucks it away before continuing her work. <<else>>\ You nab a key that seems different from the rest, but on closer inspection it's just another blank. You all keep looking together and soon manage to locate Ovidia's key. She clutches it tightly to her chest and carefully tucks it away before continuing her work. <</if>>\ Once all the merchandise has been safely transferred to the store, the trio thanks you for your help. You hear their chatter behind you as you head back inside. <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $OviClicked>>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Monday)][$MonOpenCount++; $TrioMet++]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ When you enter the store, you find Aïssatou sitting at a table, writing in a large book. "Oh, hello! I'm glad you could come in today! While the store is closed I usually take the opportunity to do some deep cleaning and check our inventory. But I've been a little overwhelmed lately, so your help would be much appreciated." She swiftly makes her way across the room and pulls out a few sheets of paper from behind the counter. As she hands them to you, she gestures towards a broom near the door. "Would you mind doing a quick sweep of the stockroom and checking every item on the list? Diégane can help you with the high shelves; just call him when it's time." You gather your supplies and prepare to [[enter the stockroom|_NextPassage]].

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ As you push open the door, you're struck by how spacious the stockroom is. The far wall bends outwards in a vast half-circle and extends upwards many meters above your head, where it tapers into a narrow slice of ceiling. Indistinct blobs of light slowly bob and shift along various surfaces, bathing the tall and heavybuilt wooden shelves in their soft glow. No one else seems to be around. You start sweeping in earnest and find that the broom magically absorbs any dust you disturb, allowing you to finish your cleanup in record time. Moving on to the inventory list, you quickly hit a wall as you finish checking the quantities of everything within your reach. There are no ladders in sight, but you notice a dainty little silver bell hanging near the door. The letter D is engraved on its handle. [[– Ring the bell.|_NextPassage][$RatRing = 0]] [[– Call out.|_NextPassage][$RatRing = 1]]

<<if $KeepAcorn>>\ You warmly thank him and store the acorn in your pouch. He looks happy and proud, and waves energetically as the pair leave the store hand-in-hand. <<set $acorns += 1>>\ "Bye-bye!" "That was so generous of you, sweetheart!" "It's okay! I can always earn another acorn!" "That's right! I'll find something small for you to do. And I'll treat you to any dessert you want, too!" "Yay!" <<else>>\ You warmly thank him, but hand the acorn back. He looks surprised but happy, and waves energetically as the pair leave the store hand-in-hand. "Bye-bye!" "Isn't that nice, sweetheart? You can buy yourself a little treat later!" "Yeah! Like some trollkrem!" She laughs. "I'm impressed that you remembered what it's called!" <</if>>\ The sound of their voices slowly fade, and the store is quiet once again. Aïssatou goes back to her work with a content look on her face. <<set $acorns += 60>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns (along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Monday)][$MonOpenCount++]]

<<set $DiegSeen = 1>>\ <<if $RatRing == 0>> You pick up the dainty bell and give it a few shakes. Ding! Ding! Ding! <<else>> You call out: "Diégane?" <</if>>\ From the top of the highest shelf comes a loud scratching noise. Just a moment later, a small fuzzy shape comes into view. You can just barely make out two shiny eyes looking down at you. The face disappears and you hear scurrying and clanging, getting ever closer. With a startling series of squeaks, the little creature suddenly appears on a wooden beam next to you! He appears to be a rat of some kind. He leans towards the sheet of paper you're holding, and his lush brown fur tickles your arm as you let him have a look. He darts back up the shelves, climbing around with surprising speed. He promptly makes it back to you and sniffs at the first item on the page as he waggles his tail. Thud. Thud. Thud. Three slaps of the tail against the wood. Dashing away and returning once more, he sniffs at the second item. Thud. Thud. Thud. Thud. Thud. He looks up at you meaningfully. This must be his way of helping! With Diégane's help, you make short work of the rest of the items. As you thank him and prepare to leave, you spot in the corner of the room a few unique items that were not on the list: an adorably diminutive pipe organ, an admirably gargantuan hapsichord, and a confusingly small grand piano. It might be a good idea to take note of them, in case someone asks about it later. <<set $acorns += 60>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns (along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Wednesday)][$TueThuClosedCount++]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and are excitedly greeted by Aïssatou, who is once again examining the glowing contents of an assortment of small vials. "I'm so glad to see you! I've been making great progress in my spell research thanks to what you've brought me so far. There's something else I still need, if you have time to go look for it..." She takes a cursory glance at her notes, periodically looking over at the full vials on the table. "This time, I'd like to capture an aardvark's sniffing!" Equipped with a magic-infused vial and a hastily-scribbled informative note, you set out [[to find a suitable aardvark|_NextPassage]].

<<set $CreatureClicked = "">>\ <<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ As you start your search, you glance at the note that Aïssatou wrote for you: <i> Fox Distinctive traits: Four legs. Long, bushy tail. </i>\ Suddenly, the vial heats up under your fingertips! You look around to find your target, and you get a good glance at two creatures who look similar. But the spell is running out, and you won't be able to examine them more closely before deciding what to bottle. <div class="animals">\ [img[|Pictures/Mammals/6a.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "A"]]\ [img[|Pictures/Mammals/6b.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "B"]]\ </div>

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and are excitedly greeted by Aïssatou, who is once again examining the glowing contents of an assortment of small vials. "I'm so glad to see you! I've been making great progress in my spell research thanks to what you've brought me so far. There's something else I still need, if you have time to go look for it..." She takes a cursory glance at her notes, periodically looking over at the full vials on the table. "This time, I'd like to capture a fox's excitement!" Equipped with a magic-infused vial and a hastily-scribbled informative note, you set out [[to find a suitable fox|_NextPassage]].

A tiny spark ignites as you remove the cork, and a colourful glowing mist fills the vial. The glass turns cold once again. You carefully make your way back to the store. Aïssatou meets you at the door and excitedly collects your find. "Welcome back!" She raises the vial to her face and gazes deeply into it. <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>\ "Yes... yes! This is perfect! Thank you so much!" <<else>>\ "Hmmm, something's not quite right... Oh!" She smiles in amusement. "I think you were bamboozled by a lookalike!" <</if>>\ You tell her about the two creatures that you saw. "Ah, I see! The lookalike must have been a fruit bat. Their large size and adorable faces make them very popular with everyone who lives around here!" <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>\ She thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <<else>>\ Armed with a new vial, you hurry back to the place where you found the creatures and manage to bottle the correct essence. Aïssatou thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <</if>>\ <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Monday)][$MonTueClosedCount++]]

<<set $CreatureClicked = "">>\ <<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ As you start your search, you glance at the note that Aïssatou wrote for you: <i> Tapir Distinctive traits: Extended, flexible snout. Rounded ears. Short tail. </i>\ Suddenly, the vial heats up under your fingertips! You look around to find your target, and you get a good glance at two creatures who look similar. But the spell is running out, and you won't be able to examine them more closely before deciding what to bottle. <div class="animals">\ [img[|Pictures/Mammals/5a.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "A"]]\ [img[|Pictures/Mammals/5b.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "B"]]\ </div>

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and are excitedly greeted by Aïssatou, who is once again examining the glowing contents of an assortment of small vials. "I'm so glad to see you! I've been making great progress in my spell research thanks to what you've brought me so far. There's something else I still need, if you have time to go look for it..." She takes a cursory glance at her notes, periodically looking over at the full vials on the table. "This time, I'd like to capture a tapir's love!" Equipped with a magic-infused vial and a hastily-scribbled informative note, you set out [[to find a suitable tapir|_NextPassage]].

<<set $Return2Shift = passage().replace(/a$/,"c")>>\ <<goto "Patupaiarehe">>

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ She waves across the room to Aïssatou, then beckons you over to her secret alcove. You brew tea together while making small talk, and as you drink, she shares an anecdote with you. "A few weeks ago, I met someone who is a great listener and who I enjoy spending time with. Someone who is willing to talk about all kinds of things with me and help cultivate my hope in the world. I admire this person's patience and empathy!" She looks away for a moment, grinning shyly, then holds your gaze as she asks: "What about you? Can you think of anything you'd like to share?" [[– You reflect on a moment of hope you experienced recently, and share it with her.|_NextPassage][$RokuClicked = true]] [[– You can't think of any hopeful moments.|_NextPassage][$RokuClicked = false]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and find Aïssatou elbow-deep in potting soil in a back corner of the room. She greets you and asks you to reapply the glittery treatment to the outdoor lanterns. As you finish up, you hear a familiar voice behind you. "Good morning! It's lovely to see you again." You turn to greet Matsu, then [[make your way back into the shop alongside her.|_NextPassage]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ [[Continue|_NextPassage]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and find Aïssatou elbow-deep in papers in a back corner of the room. She greets you and nods towards a bottle on a nearby table. "Hi! Would you mind throwing some of that powder on the lanterns outside? It keeps the flames from hurting nocturnal animals." You quickly finish dusting the lanterns with the exceedingly fine powder, which makes them sparkle and shimmer in stunning cool hues. As you're about to go back inside, a woman walks up to the front door. Her long hemp robe bears a simple yet striking pattern, and her very long and glossy black hair is tied into an elegant ponytail with a charming ribbon. <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>A beautiful paper-like parasol protects her from the sun's rays.<<else>>She carries a beautiful paper-like parasol, currently closed.<</if>> She politely smiles and [[opens the door for you. |_NextPassage]]

<<set $ThuOpenCount++>> <<goto "End of Shift (Thursday)">>

<<if $RokuClicked>>\ Your story brings a heartfelt smile to her lips. "That is so lovely to hear — thank you for sharing! You inspire me to keep looking for hope, and spreading it, in the upcoming days and weeks." <<else>>\ A sympathetic frown crosses her lips, and she nods in understanding. "If not hope, I at least wish for you to be surrounded by happiness. I'm confident in your ability to cultivate a circle of people who uplift you!" <</if>>\ You continue your conversation for a little while, and as it starts to wind down, you get up in unison. Matsu closes the alcove back up and prepares to leave. "I hope you have a lovely weekend! I will think of you if I find something to feel hopeful about." <<set $acorns += 60>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns (along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Thursday)][$ThuOpenCount++]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ She waves across the room to Aïssatou, then gives you a small bow as she introduces herself. "It's a pleasure to meet you! My name is Furusawa Matsu. You may call me Matsu." After leaning her folded parasol near the entryway, she walks towards a bare section of the wall and hooks her fingers into a small groove in the wood. An entire panel slides open, revealing an alcove whose existence you never even suspected. Inside is a comfortable-looking mat and a small tea table. She heads in and invites you to sit with her. "I like to come here to have tea sometimes, and reflect on life. What Aïssatou has built here..." She makes a sweeping gesture towards the rest of the store. "... is amazing, but the cruelty and darkness of life outside our little oasis still bothers me. In order to feel at peace, I try to find hope in the big and small moments that I witness. Hope for me, or hope for the state of the world..." She loses herself in thought for a moment, a slight smile on her lips. "For example, last week I met a boy who is afraid of small critters. But when he saw a little life about to be trampled, he selflessly protected it. I admired his courage and his kindness." She holds your gaze as she softly asks: "What about you? Can you think of anything you'd like to share?" [[– You reflect on a moment of hope you experienced recently, and share it with her.|_NextPassage][$RokuClicked = true]] [[– You can't think of any hopeful moments.|_NextPassage][$RokuClicked = false]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ Aïssatou is stocking a shelf of assorted mushrooms when you enter. "Hi! I've got my hands full right now, but if you wouldn't mind doing a stockroom sweep and inventory check again, that would be great! The list is in the usual spot. As you prepare to enter the stockroom, she turns to you. "Hey, the last time you were in there, did you happen to see some musical instruments? A customer is asking about that last batch again. Anything we had back then should still be in the stockroom now, but we'll have to dig it out of the alcove. Do you remember which of these we had?" [[– Some perfectly bulky bongos.|_NextPassage][$InstrumentAnswer = false]] [[– A perfectly sizeable marimba.|_NextPassage][$InstrumentAnswer = true]] [[– A wonderfully wide dulcimer.|_NextPassage][$InstrumentAnswer = false]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ "Perfect! I'll join you after I'm done with this, and we can look for it together." You make your way into the stockroom and get to work. <<if $RatRing == 0>> After a speedy sweep of the floor and a brief tour of the lower shelves, you ring the little silver bell to call Diégane. <<else>> After a speedy sweep of the floor and a brief tour of the lower shelves, you call out to Diégane. <</if>>\ You hear him scuttling down the wall and he quickly appears next to you. The two of you get through the list even faster than before, and you thank him for his hard work. As you wrap up, you notice that the unique instruments you saw last time are gone from view, and in their place are a few others: a perfectly sizeable marimba, a brilliantly bulky balafon, an obnoxiously large glockenspiel, and an unbelievably titanic dulcimer. Aïssatou soon joins you, and [[she shows you the secret alcove where the old instruments are piled up.|_NextPassage]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ Aïssatou is stocking a shelf of assorted potions when you enter. "Hi! I've got my hands full right now, but if you wouldn't mind doing a stockroom sweep and inventory check again, that would be great! The list is on the table over there." As you prepare to enter the stockroom, she turns to you. "Hey, the last time you were in there, did you happen to see some musical instruments? A customer is asking about that last batch. Anything we had back then should still be in the stockroom now, but we'll have to dig it out of a very packed alcove. Do you remember which of these we had?" [[– An oddly oblong gong. |_NextPassage][$InstrumentAnswer = false]] [[– A distressingly gigantic pipe organ. |_NextPassage][$InstrumentAnswer = false]] [[– A confusingly small grand piano.|_NextPassage][$InstrumentAnswer = true]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ "Perfect! I'll join you after I'm done with this, and we can look for it together." You make your way into the stockroom and get to work. Diégane notices you when you come in, and meets with you right as you finish your sweep. You make short work of the list once again. As you wrap up, you notice that the unique instruments you saw last time are gone from view, and in their place are a few others: a preposterously big tambourine, some positively enormous maracas, an aggressively average-sized kalimba, and some amazingly short claves. Aïssatou soon joins you, and [[you enter the alcove where the old instruments are piled up.|_NextPassage]]

<<if $InstrumentAnswer == true>> Together you dig through the stack of marimbas and quickly locate your target. <<else>> Together you dig through the stack of bongos and dulcimers, realizing that your target is not what you thought. Eventually you manage to find the perfectly sizeable marimba. <</if>>\ Aïssatou carefully sets it aside and thanks you profusely for your help. "Our customer should be very happy! It'll be lovely to hear more music around the forest." <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $InstrumentAnswer == true>>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Wednesday)][$TueThuClosedCount++]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ Aïssatou is stocking a shelf of assorted herbs when you enter. "Hi! I've got my hands full right now, but if you wouldn't mind doing a stockroom sweep and inventory check again, that would be great! The list is in the usual spot. As you prepare to enter the stockroom, she turns to you. "Hey, the last time you were in there, did you happen to see some musical instruments? A customer is asking about that last batch again. Anything we had back then should still be in the stockroom now, but we'll have to dig it out of the alcove. Do you remember which of these we had?" [[– A shockingly immense tam-tam.|_NextPassage][$InstrumentAnswer = false]] [[– A remarkably rotund timpani.|_NextPassage][$InstrumentAnswer = false]] [[– A surprisingly curved djembé. |_NextPassage][$InstrumentAnswer = true]]

<<if $InstrumentAnswer == true>> Together you dig through the stack of pianos and quickly locate your target. <<else>> Together you dig through the stack of gongs and pipe organs, realizing that your target is not what you thought. Eventually you manage to find the confusingly small grand piano. <</if>>\ Aïssatou carefully sets it aside and thanks you profusely for your help. "Our customer should be very happy! It'll be lovely to hear more music around the forest." <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $InstrumentAnswer == true>>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Wednesday)][$TueThuClosedCount++]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ "I'm so sorry you had to see me like this! I usually manage to keep myself together! I don't know what happened... force of habit, perhaps... it seems I just floated here without realizing that anything was wrong." She sighs deeply. "And I was all out of tea, too... how am I going to get it home now?" An idea comes to you... [[– You could hang a small basket from a helmet that she can wear.|_NextPassage]] [[– You could attach a wicker bowl to the top of her head.|_NextPassage]] [[– You could wrap and pin the tea package in her long hair.|_NextPassage]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and find Aïssatou elbow-deep in potatoes in a back corner of the room. She greets you and asks you to reapply the glittery treatment to the outdoor lanterns. As you finish up, you hear a familiar voice behind you. "Good morning! It's lovely to see you again." You turn to greet her, but something stops you dead in your tracks. Her own eyes widen as she notices your expression. "What's wrong?" Your eyes frantically scan the air all around her face and you can only come to one conclusion: her body is missing! Her mouth opens in shock as she has the same realization. "Ah!!" She launches into [[a panicked explanation.|_NextPassage]]

<<set $ThuOpenCount++>> <<goto "End of Shift (Thursday)">>

<<if $RokuClicked>>\ Your story brings a heartfelt smile to her lips. "That is so lovely to hear — thank you for sharing! You inspire me to keep looking for hope, and spreading it, in the upcoming days and weeks." <<else>>\ A sympathetic frown crosses her lips, and she nods in understanding. "When the world feels cold, I find that it can be helpful to make more time for our loved ones, or at least like-minded people. I hope that you're finding yourself in the healthy environment that you deserve!" <</if>>\ You continue your conversation for a little while, and as it starts to wind down, you get up in unison. Matsu closes the alcove back up and prepares to leave. "I hope you have a lovely weekend! I will think of you if I find something to feel hopeful about." <<set $acorns += 60>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns (along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Thursday)][$ThuOpenCount++]]

<<if $RokuClicked>>\ Your story brings a heartfelt smile to her lips. "That is so lovely to hear — thank you for sharing! You inspire me to keep looking for hope, and spreading it, in the upcoming days and weeks." <<else>>\ A sympathetic frown crosses her lips, and she nods in understanding. "I've found that sometimes, when there is no hope to be found, we can be the ones to create it. Perhaps you will discover new ways to be a source of hope for yourself and others." <</if>>\ You continue your conversation for a little while, and as it starts to wind down, you get up in unison. Matsu closes the alcove back up and prepares to leave. "I hope you have a lovely weekend! I will think of you if I find something to feel hopeful about." <<set $acorns += 60>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns (along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Thursday)][$ThuOpenCount++]]

Your idea elicits a giggle from her. "I don't see why not! Let's give it a try..." You open the shop's door for her and she picks out a pack of tea, which Aïssatou is more than happy to credit her. Then you send her floating head home with well-wishes. She zooms away effortlessly and the tea doesn't budge — it seems your plan was a success! Aïssatou commends you for your creativity and quick thinking. <<set $acorns += 60>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns (along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Thursday)][$ThuOpenCount++]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ Aïssatou is stocking a shelf of assorted gems when you enter. "Hi! I've got my hands full right now, but if you wouldn't mind doing a stockroom sweep and inventory check again, that would be great! The list is in the usual spot. As you prepare to enter the stockroom, she turns to you. "Hey, the last time you were in there, did you happen to see some musical instruments? A customer is asking about that last batch again. Anything we had back then should still be in the stockroom now, but we'll have to dig it out of the alcove. Do you remember which of these we had?" [[– An aggressively average-sized kalimba. |_NextPassage][$InstrumentAnswer = true]] [[– A ridiculously microscopic tambourine.|_NextPassage][$InstrumentAnswer = false]] [[– A superbly lengthy balafon.|_NextPassage][$InstrumentAnswer = false]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ As soon as you open the door, you hear a loud squeak coming from above, and Diégane runs down to meet you. He patiently waits for you to be done sweeping, and the two of you make short work of the list as usual. As you wrap up, you notice that the unique instruments you saw last time are gone from view, and in their place are a few others: an incredibly gigantic flute, an impossibly long trumpet, an unreasonably short oboe, and an absurdly immense ocarina. Aïssatou soon joins you, and [[you enter the alcove where the old instruments are piled up.|_NextPassage]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ You open the door to find Diégane already waiting for you, bright-eyed and scaly-tailed. He excitedly gestures towards the stock list with his little hands and holds it for you as you sweep. As usual, the two of you make short work of the list. As you wrap up, you notice that the unique instruments you saw last time are gone from view, and in their place are a few others: some suitably rotund bongos, a remarkably angular tam-tam, a surprisingly curved djembé, and a shockingly wide timpani. Aïssatou soon joins you, and [[you enter the alcove where the old instruments are piled up.|_NextPassage]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ Aïssatou is stocking a shelf of assorted hats when you enter. "Hi! I've got my hands full right now, but if you wouldn't mind doing a stockroom sweep and inventory check again, that would be great! The list is in the usual spot. As you prepare to enter the stockroom, she turns to you. "Hey, the last time you were in there, did you happen to see some musical instruments? A customer is asking about that last batch again. Anything we had back then should still be in the stockroom now, but we'll have to dig it out of the alcove. Do you remember which of these we had?" [[– An unreasonably short oboe.|_NextPassage][$InstrumentAnswer = true]] [[– Some impressively diminutive maracas.|_NextPassage][$InstrumentAnswer = false]] [[– A brilliantly large trumpet. |_NextPassage][$InstrumentAnswer = false]]

<<if $InstrumentAnswer == true>> Together you dig through the stack of kalimbas and quickly locate your target. <<else>> Together you dig through the stack of tambourines and balafons, realizing that your target is not what you thought. Eventually you manage to find the aggressively average-sized kalimba. <</if>>\ Aïssatou carefully sets it aside and thanks you profusely for your help. "Our customer should be very happy! It'll be lovely to hear more music around the forest." <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $InstrumentAnswer == true>>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Wednesday)][$TueThuClosedCount++]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ You open the door to find Diégane already waiting for you. He playfully chases the broom as you sweep, then diligently darts between shelves in a flurry of movement to help you check the list in record time. As you wrap up, you notice that the unique instruments you saw last time are gone from view, and in their place are a few others: a hilariously tiny violin, a delightfully microscopic guitar, and a wonderfully miniature harp. Diégane sniffs at them and excitedly skips around. Aïssatou soon joins you, and [[you enter the alcove where the old instruments are piled up.|_NextPassage]]

<<if $InstrumentAnswer == true>> Together you dig through the stack of pianos and quickly locate your target. <<else>> Together you dig through the stack of timpanis and tam-tams, realizing that your target is not what you thought. Eventually you manage to find the surprisingly curved djembé. <</if>>\ Aïssatou carefully sets it aside and thanks you profusely for your help. "Our customer should be very happy! It'll be lovely to hear more music around the forest." As you emerge from the stockroom, you're surprised to find <<if $FossSeen == 1>>Åsmund<<else>>a tall and pale man with long, drenched blond hair<</if>> standing in the shop's entryway. He gives you a small nod and a smile. "Åsmund! Welcome! He's waiting for you back there." You feel something move near your feet and you look down to see Diégane holding a wonderfully miniature harp in his tiny hands. He squeaks happily as Åsmund enters the stockroom, and faint string melodies soon fill the air. <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $InstrumentAnswer == true>>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Wednesday)][$TueThuClosedCount++]]

<<if $InstrumentAnswer == true>> Together you dig through the stack of oboes and quickly locate your target. <<else>> Together you dig through the stack of trumpets and maracas, realizing that your target is not what you thought. Eventually you manage to find the unreasonably short oboe. <</if>>\ Aïssatou carefully sets it aside and thanks you profusely for your help. "Our customer should be very happy! It'll be lovely to hear more music around the forest." <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $InstrumentAnswer == true>>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Wednesday)][$TueThuClosedCount++]]

<<set $CreatureClicked = "">>\ <<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ As you start your search, you glance at the note that Aïssatou wrote for you: <i> Tick Distinctive traits: Eight legs (in adulthood). Variable number and placement of eyes. </i>\ Suddenly, the vial heats up under your fingertips! You look around to find your target, and you get a good glance at two creatures who look similar. But the spell is running out, and you won't be able to examine them more closely before deciding what to bottle. <div class="animals">\ [img[|Pictures/MiscBugs/4a.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "A"]]\ [img[|Pictures/MiscBugs/4b.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "B"]]\ </div>

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and are excitedly greeted by Aïssatou, who is once again examining the glowing contents of an assortment of small vials. "I'm so glad to see you! I've been making great progress in my spell research thanks to what you've brought me so far. There's something else I still need, if you have time to go look for it..." She takes a cursory glance at her notes, periodically looking over at the full vials on the table. "This time, I'd like to capture the patience of a tick!" Equipped with a magic-infused vial and a hastily-scribbled informative note, you set out [[to find a suitable tick|_NextPassage]].

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and find Aïssatou pouring tea for a customer; a stout woman with skin the colour and texture of tree bark. Her stunning long hair, which almost resembles quills, is held back by a pretty bandana. Her bright eyes sparkle warmly as she smiles at you. "Greetings! You can call me Weetamoo. Would you like to have tea with me?" Aïssatou places a second cup on the counter and excuses herself. Weetamoo nods to her, then turns back to you as she keeps talking. "I do love drinking tea, but in truth what I am interested in at the moment is the loose leaves at the bottom of the cup. It is said that one can glimpse a thread of the tapestry of fate by interpreting these leaves. Perhaps we could practice together." You sit at Weetamoo's table [[and pour yourself a cup.|_NextPassage]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ Weetamoo spends a moment gazing into her own cup before shifting her attention to yours, once you've finished drinking its contents. The two of you admire the small leaves scattered at the bottom of the cup in a distinctive pattern: {{{ () () (° y°) }}} She asks you what you think it represents. "There is no wrong answer — just follow your instincts." You decide that it looks most like... [[– a moth |_NextPassage][$PukClicked = "swarm of moths"]] [[– a rabbit |_NextPassage][$PukClicked = "herd of rabbits"]] [[– an abnormally long-eared capybara |_NextPassage][$PukClicked = "herd of long-eared capybaras"]]

<<set $Return2Shift = passage().replace(/a$/,"c")>>\ <<goto "Moosleute">>

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ [[Continue|_NextPassage]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ She waves across the room to Aïssatou, then beckons you over to her secret alcove. You brew tea together while making small talk, and as you drink, she shares an anecdote with you. "The other day, I overheard a man and a woman embroiled in a bitter argument. They could have kept fighting forever, or parted ways and never spoken again. But the tide of conversation turned when they both stopped making accusations and started asking honest questions. As they listened to each other and questioned their own assumptions, they found common ground. I was in awe of the vulnerability and strength that they showed." She holds your gaze as she softly asks: "What about you? Can you think of anything you'd like to share?" [[– You reflect on a moment of hope you experienced recently, and share it with her.|_NextPassage][$RokuClicked = true]] [[– You can't think of any hopeful moments.|_NextPassage][$RokuClicked = false]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and find Aïssatou elbow-deep in gemstones in a back corner of the room. She greets you and asks you to reapply the glittery treatment to the outdoor lanterns. As you finish up, you hear a familiar voice behind you. "Good morning! It's lovely to see you again." You turn to greet Matsu, then [[make your way back into the shop alongside her.|_NextPassage]]

The tiny Aïssatou smiles and waves at you, then floats down to the table and skips around the cups. She proceeds to dive into the teapot, but you notice that the liquid doesn't ripple when she touches it. Weetamoo chuckles at the sight. The real Aïssatou snaps her fingers and her replica turns into a small bird. Once more for a teacup. With a flick of the hand, it blinks out of existence. "It might not be divination, but isn't illusion magic still pretty neat?" She gives you a warm, happy smile. "Thank you for being such a good sport and playing along. We feel very lucky to have you here with us." Weetamoo soon says her goodbyes and leaves the store, taking another pouch of tea with her (purely for drinking, she clarifies). Aïssatou disappears into the stockroom, asking you to put the cups on the counter before leaving. As you wrap up, you notice a tattered sheet of paper under the table. As you pick it up, you immediately recognize the handwritten words: <i>If you seek access to the woods of sanctuary the forest where baobabs and longleaf pines entwine their roots and the call of the hawk is answered by the dove ...</i> But your own note is still in your possession. <<set $acorns += 60>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns (along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Tuesday)][$TueOpenCount++]]

A tiny spark ignites as you remove the cork, and a colourful glowing mist fills the vial. The glass turns cold once again. You carefully make your way back to the store. Aïssatou meets you at the door and excitedly collects your find. "Welcome back!" She raises the vial to her face and gazes deeply into it. <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>\ "Yes... yes! This is perfect! Thank you so much!" <<else>>\ "Hmmm, something's not quite right... Oh!" She smiles in amusement. "I think you were bamboozled by a lookalike!" <</if>>\ You tell her about the two creatures that you saw. "Ah, I see! The lookalike must have been a centipede. They have about half the legs but run twice as fast!" <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>\ She thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <<else>>\ Armed with a new vial, you hurry back to the place where you found the creatures and manage to bottle the correct essence. Aïssatou thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <</if>>\ <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Thursday)][$ThuFriClosedCount++]]

An enigmatic smile graces her lips. "Hmm, I see, I see... that's VERY interesting..." You suddenly hear a commotion coming from outside. "Oh? What could be happening out there? Let's go take a look." She follows you to the door. To your surprise you find a gigantic $PukClicked right outside the building! You blink and they disappear without a trace. She nods enthusiastically, seemingly unfazed by what you just witnessed. "This tea is positively amazing!" She lingers in the shop for a while longer before buying a pouch of tea, thanking you for your time, and taking her leave. <<set $acorns += 60>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns (along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Tuesday)][$TueOpenCount++]]

A tiny spark ignites as you remove the cork, and a colourful glowing mist fills the vial. The glass turns cold once again. You carefully make your way back to the store. Aïssatou meets you at the door and excitedly collects your find. "Welcome back!" She raises the vial to her face and gazes deeply into it. <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>\ "Yes... yes! This is perfect! Thank you so much!" <<else>>\ "Hmmm, something's not quite right... Oh!" She smiles in amusement. "I think you were bamboozled by a lookalike!" <</if>>\ You tell her about the two creatures that you saw. "Ah, I see! The lookalike must have been a silverfish. Fascinating little insects — I love their shine!" <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>\ She thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <<else>>\ Armed with a new vial, you hurry back to the place where you found the creatures and manage to bottle the correct essence. Aïssatou thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <</if>>\ <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Thursday)][$ThuFriClosedCount++]]

<<set $CreatureClicked = "">>\ <<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ As you start your search, you glance at the note that Aïssatou wrote for you: <i> Spider Distinctive traits: Up to four pairs of eyes. Two distinct body segments (cephalothorax and abdomen). </i>\ Suddenly, the vial heats up under your fingertips! You look around to find your target, and you get a good glance at two creatures who look similar. But the spell is running out, and you won't be able to examine them more closely before deciding what to bottle. <div class="animals">\ [img[|Pictures/MiscBugs/3a.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "A"]]\ [img[|Pictures/MiscBugs/3b.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "B"]]\ </div>

A tiny spark ignites as you remove the cork, and a colourful glowing mist fills the vial. The glass turns cold once again. You carefully make your way back to the store. Aïssatou meets you at the door and excitedly collects your find. "Welcome back!" She raises the vial to her face and gazes deeply into it. <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>\ "Yes... yes! This is perfect! Thank you so much!" <<else>>\ "Hmmm, something's not quite right... Oh!" She smiles in amusement. "I think you were bamboozled by a lookalike!" <</if>>\ You tell her about the two creatures that you saw. "Ah, I see! The lookalike must have been a harvestman. Very sweet and docile little creatures!" <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>\ She thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <<else>>\ Armed with a new vial, you hurry back to the place where you found the creatures and manage to bottle the correct essence. Aïssatou thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <</if>>\ <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Thursday)][$ThuFriClosedCount++]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and are excitedly greeted by Aïssatou, who is once again examining the glowing contents of an assortment of small vials. "I'm so glad to see you! I've been making great progress in my spell research thanks to what you've brought me so far. There's something else I still need, if you have time to go look for it..." She takes a cursory glance at her notes, periodically looking over at the full vials on the table. "This time, I'd like to capture a spider's dance!" Equipped with a magic-infused vial and a hastily-scribbled informative note, you set out [[to find a suitable spider|_NextPassage]].

A tiny spark ignites as you remove the cork, and a colourful glowing mist fills the vial. The glass turns cold once again. You carefully make your way back to the store. Aïssatou meets you at the door and excitedly collects your find. "Welcome back!" She raises the vial to her face and gazes deeply into it. <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>\ "Yes... yes! This is perfect! Thank you so much!" <<else>>\ "Hmmm, something's not quite right... Oh!" She smiles in amusement. "I think you were bamboozled by a lookalike!" <</if>>\ You tell her about the two creatures that you saw. "Ah, I see! The lookalike must have been a weevil. Adorable little beetles — some of them have very long "noses" topped with even longer antennae!" <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>\ She thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <<else>>\ Armed with a new vial, you hurry back to the place where you found the creatures and manage to bottle the correct essence. Aïssatou thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <</if>>\ <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Thursday)][$ThuFriClosedCount++]]

A tiny spark ignites as you remove the cork, and a colourful glowing mist fills the vial. The glass turns cold once again. You carefully make your way back to the store. Aïssatou meets you at the door and excitedly collects your find. "Welcome back!" She raises the vial to her face and gazes deeply into it. <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>\ "Yes... yes! This is perfect! Thank you so much!" <<else>>\ "Hmmm, something's not quite right... Oh!" She smiles in amusement. "I think you were bamboozled by a lookalike!" <</if>>\ You tell her about the two creatures that you saw. "Ah, I see! The lookalike must have been a pseudoscorpion. I sometimes catch them riding on bigger bugs to get around more easily!" <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>\ She thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <<else>>\ Armed with a new vial, you hurry back to the place where you found the creatures and manage to bottle the correct essence. Aïssatou thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <</if>>\ <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Thursday)][$ThuFriClosedCount++]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ [[Continue|_NextPassage]]

A tiny spark ignites as you remove the cork, and a colourful glowing mist fills the vial. The glass turns cold once again. You carefully make your way back to the store. Aïssatou meets you at the door and excitedly collects your find. "Welcome back!" She raises the vial to her face and gazes deeply into it. <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>\ "Yes... yes! This is perfect! Thank you so much!" <<else>>\ "Hmmm, something's not quite right... Oh!" She smiles in amusement. "I think you were bamboozled by a lookalike!" <</if>>\ You tell her about the two creatures that you saw. "Ah, I see! The lookalike must have been an aquatic snail. They can sometimes be found hanging out just outside the water!" <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>\ She thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <<else>>\ Armed with a new vial, you hurry back to the place where you found the creatures and manage to bottle the correct essence. Aïssatou thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <</if>>\ <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Thursday)][$ThuFriClosedCount++]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and find Aïssatou pouring tea for Weetamoo once again. "Greetings! Care for some tea and divination practice?" Aïssatou smiles as she places a second cup on the counter and promptly excuses herself. Weetamoo nods to her, then turns back to you as she wait for your response. You sit at the table [[and pour yourself a cup.|_NextPassage]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ Weetamoo spends a moment gazing into her own cup before shifting her attention to yours, once you've finished drinking its contents. The two of you admire the small leaves scattered at the bottom of the cup in a distinctive pattern: {{{ O> (( < ) / / \_\_ }}} She asks you what you think it represents. "There is no wrong answer — just follow your instincts." You decide that it looks most like... [[– an emu |_NextPassage][$PukClicked = "group of emus"]] [[– a flamingo |_NextPassage][$PukClicked = "flock of flamingoes"]] [[– a very tall pigeon |_NextPassage][$PukClicked = "flock of very tall pigeons"]]

<<set $Return2Shift = passage().replace(/a$/,"c")>>\ <<goto "Moosleute">>

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and are excitedly greeted by Aïssatou, who is once again examining the glowing contents of an assortment of small vials. "I'm so glad to see you! I've been making great progress in my spell research thanks to what you've brought me so far. There's something else I still need, if you have time to go look for it..." She takes a cursory glance at her notes, periodically looking over at the full vials on the table. "This time, I'd like to capture a land snail's snuggling!" Equipped with a magic-infused vial and a hastily-scribbled informative note, you set out [[to find a suitable land snail|_NextPassage]].

<<set $CreatureClicked = "">>\ <<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ As you start your search, you glance at the note that Aïssatou wrote for you: <i> Land snail Distinctive traits: Two pairs of blunt tentacles on head. Eyes at tip of upper tentacles. </i>\ You come across a small pond that's teeming with life. Suddenly, the vial heats up under your fingertips! You look around to find your target, and you get a good glance at two creatures who look similar. But the spell is running out, and you won't be able to examine them more closely before deciding what to bottle. <div class="animals">\ [img[|Pictures/MiscBugs/5a.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "A"]]\ [img[|Pictures/MiscBugs/5b.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "B"]]\ </div>

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and are excitedly greeted by Aïssatou, who is once again examining the glowing contents of an assortment of small vials. "I'm so glad to see you! I've been making great progress in my spell research thanks to what you've brought me so far. There's something else I still need, if you have time to go look for it..." She takes a cursory glance at her notes, periodically looking over at the full vials on the table. "This time, I'd like to capture a scorpion's courage!" Equipped with a magic-infused vial and a hastily-scribbled informative note, you set out [[to find a suitable scorpion|_NextPassage]].

<<set $CreatureClicked = "">>\ <<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ As you start your search, you glance at the note that Aïssatou wrote for you: <i> Scorpion Distinctive traits: Eight legs. Mouthparts include two pincers. Segmented stinging tail. </i>\ Suddenly, the vial heats up under your fingertips! You look around to find your target, and you get a good glance at two creatures who look similar. But the spell is running out, and you won't be able to examine them more closely before deciding what to bottle. <div class="animals">\ [img[|Pictures/MiscBugs/6a.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "A"]]\ [img[|Pictures/MiscBugs/6b.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "B"]]\ </div>

<<set $CreatureClicked = "">>\ <<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ As you start your search, you glance at the note that Aïssatou wrote for you: <i> Woodlouse Distinctive traits: Oval-shaped body. Fourteen legs. </i>\ Suddenly, the vial heats up under your fingertips! You look around to find your target, and you get a good glance at two creatures who look similar. But the spell is running out, and you won't be able to examine them more closely before deciding what to bottle. <div class="animals">\ [img[|Pictures/MiscBugs/2a.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "A"]]\ [img[|Pictures/MiscBugs/2b.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "B"]]\ </div>

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ <<if $FirstClose == 0>> You enter the store and find Aïssatou hunched over a table, pensively examining an assortment of small glowing vials. Looking up from her work, she excitedly greets you. "Hi! I'm so glad to see you. I need more materials for my experiments, but I still have too much work to do over here. If you wouldn't mind going out and collecting a sample for me, that would be incredibly helpful!" She stretches across the table to pick up an empty vial, then walks over to you. "See, the spells that I use to sustain life and maintain harmony in these woods are working well enough, but there's still much room for improvement. I'd like to refine them, make them more powerful, more efficient. For that purpose I've been gathering magical energy from the forest's inhabitants, or sometimes from potent inanimate objects. Not much, only a tiny sliver at a time. Imperceptible to the creature, but groundbreaking for my research..." She holds up the vial as she continues her explanation, keeping a finger securely pressed onto the cork. "These vials are imbued with two spells. The first is a collection spell, which captures a fragment of energy from whatever your attention is focused on at the moment the cork is removed. The second is a locator spell, to help find a suitable donor; you'll feel the glass heat up slightly when a perfect specimen is nearby. The bad news is that this kind of magic is volatile and will start to dissipate once you leave the building! But if your first attempt fails, don't worry — I can enchant another vial as needed." She smiles warmly. "With all that out of the way, let me see what I should send you out for..." <<set $FirstClose = 1>> <<else>> You enter the store and are excitedly greeted by Aïssatou, who is once again examining the glowing contents of an assortment of small vials. "I'm so glad to see you! I've been making great progress in my spell research thanks to what you've brought me so far. There's something else I still need, if you have time to go look for it..." <</if>> She takes a cursory glance at her notes, periodically looking over at the full vials on the table. "I'd like to capture a millipede's hugs!" Equipped with a magic-infused vial and a hastily-scribbled informative note, you set out [[to find a suitable millipede|_NextPassage]].

<<set $CreatureClicked = "">>\ <<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ As you start your search, you glance at the note that Aïssatou wrote for you: <i> Millipede Distinctive traits: Rotund body. Two pairs of legs per body segment. Short antennae. </i>\ Suddenly, the vial heats up under your fingertips! You look around to find your target, and you get a good glance at two creatures who look similar. But the spell is running out, and you won't be able to examine them more closely before deciding what to bottle. <div class="animals">\ [img[|Pictures/MiscBugs/1a.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "A"]]\ [img[|Pictures/MiscBugs/1b.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "B"]]\ </div>

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and are excitedly greeted by Aïssatou, who is once again examining the glowing contents of an assortment of small vials. "I'm so glad to see you! I've been making great progress in my spell research thanks to what you've brought me so far. There's something else I still need, if you have time to go look for it..." She takes a cursory glance at her notes, periodically looking over at the full vials on the table. "This time, I'd like to capture the innocence of a woodlouse!" Equipped with a magic-infused vial and a hastily-scribbled informative note, you set out [[to find a suitable woodlouse|_NextPassage]].

An enigmatic smile graces her lips. "Hmm, I see, I see... that's VERY interesting..." You suddenly hear a commotion coming from outside. "Oh? What could be happening out there? Let's go take a look." She follows you to the door. To your surprise you find a very large $PukClicked right outside the building! Before you can get a closer look at them, they all scramble away. She nods approvingly. "This tea is truly exceptional!" She lingers in the shop for a while longer before buying a pouch of tea, thanking you for your time, and taking her leave. <<set $acorns += 60>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns (along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Tuesday)][$TueOpenCount++]]

<<set $PukSeen = 1>>\ An enigmatic smile graces her lips. "Hmm, I see, I see... that's VERY interesting..." You suddenly hear a commotion coming from outside. "Oh? What could be happening out there? Let's go take a look." She follows you to the door. To your surprise you find a large $PukClicked right outside the building! Before you can get a closer look at them, they all scramble away. "Would you look at that! I must order more of this tea — clearly its affinity for the divination arts is excellent." She lingers in the shop for a while longer before buying a pouch of tea, thanking you for your time, and taking her leave. <<set $acorns += 60>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns (along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Tuesday)][$TueOpenCount++]]

<<set $TueOpenCount++>> <<goto "End of Shift (Tuesday)">>

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and find Aïssatou pouring tea for Weetamoo once again. "Greetings! Care for some tea and divination practice?" Aïssatou smiles mischievously as she places a second cup on the counter and promptly excuses herself. Weetamoo nods to her, then turns back to you as she wait for your response. You sit at the table [[and pour yourself a cup.|_NextPassage]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ Weetamoo spends a moment gazing into her own cup before shifting her attention to yours, once you've finished drinking its contents. The two of you admire the small leaves scattered at the bottom of the cup in a distinctive pattern: {{{ >->o }}} She asks you what you think it represents. "There is no wrong answer — just follow your instincts." You decide that it looks most like... [[– a human lying down |_NextPassage][$PukClicked = "group of people relaxing on the grass"]] [[– an arrow planted in an apple |_NextPassage][$PukClicked = "pile of apples pierced by arrows"]] [[– a fish eating a delicious treat |_NextPassage][$PukClicked = "ball of algae being nibbled at by hundreds of flying fish"]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ Weetamoo spends a moment gazing into her own cup before shifting her attention to yours, once you've finished drinking its contents. The two of you admire the small leaves scattered at the bottom of the cup in a distinctive pattern: ''SURPRISE !'' Aïssatou' bubbly laughter echoes through the room, and you look up to find Weetamoo breaking out in a good-natured grin. She holds up a small bottle filled with a swirling amber dust. "We have a confession to make — we were the ones behind the tea's magic. In truth, it hasn't yet been proven that divination is possible. But we were so excited to finally add a new member to our community that we wanted to dazzle you with a little trick!" AÏssatou walks up behind her and gently takes the bottle. "Look at what it can do!" She uncorks the bottle. In a burst of golden light, [[a tiny replica of herself appears on her shoulder.|_NextPassage]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and find Aïssatou pouring tea for Weetamoo once again. "Greetings! Care for some tea and divination practice?" Aïssatou smiles impishly as she places a second cup on the counter and promptly excuses herself. Weetamoo nods to her, then turns back to you as she wait for your response. You sit at the table [[and pour yourself a cup.|_NextPassage]]

<<if $ShiftEnds >= new Date().setSeconds(0,0) and $ActiveShift == "Post-Shift">> <<goto "Post-Shift">> <<else>> <<switch new Date().toLocaleDateString('en-CA')>> <<case "2024-09-01">> <<goto "Sunday 1 (Sep 1)">> <<case "2024-09-02">> <<goto "Monday 1 (Sep 2)">> <<case "2024-09-03">> <<goto "Tuesday 1 (Sep 3)">> <<case "2024-09-04">> <<goto "Wednesday 1 (Sep 4)">> <<case "2024-09-05">> <<goto "Thursday 1 (Sep 5)">> <<case "2024-09-06">> <<goto "Friday 1 (Sep 6)">> <<case "2024-09-07">> <<goto "Saturday 1 (Sep 7)">> <<case "2024-09-08">> <<goto "Sunday 2 (Sep 8)">> <<case "2024-09-09">> <<goto "Monday 2 (Sep 9)">> <<case "2024-09-10">> <<goto "Tuesday 2 (Sep 10)">> <<case "2024-09-11">> <<goto "Wednesday 2 (Sep 11)">> <<case "2024-09-12">> <<goto "Thursday 2 (Sep 12)">> <<case "2024-09-13">> <<goto "Friday 2 (Sep 13)">> <<case "2024-09-14">> <<goto "Saturday 2 (Sep 14)">> <<case "2024-09-15">> <<goto "Sunday 3 (Sep 15)">> <<case "2024-09-16">> <<goto "Monday 3 (Sep 16)">> <<case "2024-09-17">> <<goto "Tuesday 3 (Sep 17)">> <<case "2024-09-18">> <<goto "Wednesday 3 (Sep 18)">> <<case "2024-09-19">> <<goto "Thursday 3 (Sep 19)">> <<case "2024-09-20">> <<goto "Friday 3 (Sep 20)">> <<case "2024-09-21">> <<goto "Saturday 3 (Sep 21)">> <<case "2024-09-22">> <<goto "Sunday 4 (Sep 22)">> <<case "2024-09-23">> <<goto "Monday 4 (Sep 23)">> <<case "2024-09-24">> <<goto "Tuesday 4 (Sep 24)">> <<case "2024-09-25">> <<goto "Wednesday 4 (Sep 25)">> <<case "2024-09-26">> <<goto "Thursday 4 (Sep 26)">> <<case "2024-09-27">> <<goto "Friday 4 (Sep 27)">> <<case "2024-09-28">> <<goto "Saturday 4 (Sep 28)">> <<case "2024-09-29">> <<goto "Sunday 5 (Sep 29)">> <<case "2024-09-30">> <<goto "Monday 5 (Sep 30)">> <<case "2024-10-01">> <<goto "Tuesday 5 (Oct 1)">> <<case "2024-10-02">> <<goto "Wednesday 5 (Oct 2)">> <<case "2024-10-03">> <<goto "Thursday 5 (Oct 3)">> <<case "2024-10-04">> <<goto "Friday 5 (Oct 4)">> <<case "2024-10-05">> <<goto "Saturday 5 (Oct 5)">> <<case "2024-10-06">> <<goto "Sunday 6 (Oct 6)">> <<case "2024-10-07">> <<goto "Monday 6 (Oct 7)">> <<case "2024-10-08">> <<goto "Tuesday 6 (Oct 8)">> <<case "2024-10-09">> <<goto "Wednesday 6 (Oct 9)">> <<case "2024-10-10">> <<goto "Thursday 6 (Oct 10)">> <<case "2024-10-11">> <<goto "Friday 6 (Oct 11)">> <<case "2024-10-12">> <<goto "Saturday 6 (Oct 12)">> <<case "2024-10-13">> <<goto "Sunday 7 (Oct 13)">> <<case "2024-10-14">> <<goto "Monday 7 (Oct 14)">> <<case "2024-10-15">> <<goto "Tuesday 7 (Oct 15)">> <<case "2024-10-16">> <<goto "Wednesday 7 (Oct 16)">> <<case "2024-10-17">> <<goto "Thursday 7 (Oct 17)">> <<case "2024-10-18">> <<goto "Friday 7 (Oct 18)">> <<case "2024-10-19">> <<goto "Saturday 7 (Oct 19)">> <<default>> <<goto "Post-Comp">> <</switch>> <</if>>

This game was meant to be enjoyed during IFComp 2024 and cannot currently be played outside of the IFComp dates, as it relies on the player's system clock. A version with a different progression system (in addition to other changes and improvements) is currently in development! It will be published on this page: https://zophobas-morio.itch.io/apothecary And will subsequently be linked on the IFArchive/IFDB on this account: https://ifdb.org/showuser?id=v752bu4lffl4ekr7 News about the charity donations will be published on intfiction.org in the <a href="https://intfiction.org/c/competitions/7" target="_blank">Competitions forum</a> by the end of October. Thank you very much for your interest! 🤍 <<if $IntroDone == true>>It seems you had already started a playthrough of the game during IFComp. Thank you for playing! If you'd like to use the testing mode to visit some of the shifts that you missed, you can use this test passage: [[Test Date]] (not recommended if you intend to play the post-comp release)<</if>>

This section is meant to clarify any points that have caused issues for players. I'm very sorry for any confusion! Notes on the save system and the game's accessibility can be found in the "About" section of the sidebar. ''How does the schedule work?'' The store's opening hours correspond to your real-world time and date. Opening the game during any given timeslot (i.e. a block of time where the store is open or closed) will let you work the associated shift. ''How can I tell when I'm done with the game? Do I have to solve all the cryptic clues?'' This game is the kind that never really ends — at least until mid-October — so please feel free to play as little or as much as you feel like! The 6-session minimum (intro + 5 shifts) is meant to give any player the chance to experience some sort of closure, find all the cryptic sheets, and earn enough to purchase at least one bead. But there is content for every possible shift, so players are encouraged to keep coming back if they're enjoying themselves or wish to make additional purchases. The cryptic puzzles are an optional challenge which grant a small reward and an extra bit of story. ''I'm waiting in the store for a new shift to start, but nothing is happening!'' There isn't currently a direct way to get from one shift to the next, but once a new timeslot rolls over and you're ready to leave the post-shift screen, you should be able to close out of the game and reopen it in order to see your new shift. The "Restart" button is another way to accomplish this. ''Can I ever catch up on what I missed? What happens if I can't work 5 shifts by October 12?'' Those who can't work 5 shifts by the end of October 12 will unfortunately miss out on part of the game experience, but will still be able to earn enough acorns to purchase a bead if they can solve the cryptic clues. More broadly, anyone who has already started playing and wishes to see some of the shifts they missed can come back to the game from October 17 onward to access a test mode that allows skipping between timeslots (though the post-shift actions will be disabled at this time). A permanent post-comp release with a different progression system is also planned and will be uploaded <a href="https://zophobas-morio.itch.io/apothecary" target="_blank">to this itch.io page</a> once it's ready. ''I have a question or issue not listed here'' Please don't hesitate to get in touch at allyson_gray@hotmail.com or on <a href="https://intfiction.org/u/ally/summary" target="_blank">the intfiction forum</a>! The <a href="https://intfiction.org/t/the-apothecarys-assistant-by-allyson-gray/70790?u=ally" target="_blank">discussion thread for the game</a> on the same forum is also a great place to ask questions.

<div id="clock"></div><br> <table class="settings"><tr> <td>Clock Format:</td> <td><input type="radio" name="clock12hr" onclick="fClock();" value="true" checked> 12hr</td> <td> <input type="radio" name="clock12hr" onclick="fClock();" value="false"> 24hr</td> </tr></table> <table class="settings"><tr> <td><input type="checkbox" id="LightMode" onclick="fSundial('L');"></td><td>Light a lantern<br>(light mode lock)</td> </tr><tr> <td><input type="checkbox" id="DarkMode" onclick="fSundial('D');"></td><td>Put on sunglasses<br>(dark mode lock)</td> </tr></table> <<if $IntroDone>>Acorns: $acorns __<<link "View the store's opening hours">><<script>> Dialog .create("Schedule") .wikiPassage("Schedule") .open(); <</script>><</link>> __ <</if>> __<<link "About/Info">><<script>> Dialog .create("About") .wikiPassage("About") .open(); <</script>><</link>> __ __<<link "Help/FAQ">><<script>> Dialog .create("Frequently Asked Questions") .wikiPassage("Frequently Asked Questions") .open(); <</script>><</link>> __ <<if new Date().toLocaleDateString('en-CA') > "2024-10-04">>[''NOTE'': This is the final week that the shop is open for shifts (last day: October 12th). October 16th is the deadline for solving cryptic clues and purchasing beads.] <</if>>

<<goto "Sunday 0:00 - 23:59">>

<<set _vTime = new Date().toLocaleString("en-ca", {hour: "2-digit", minute: "2-digit", hour12: false});>> <<if _vTime <= "01:59">> <<goto "Thursday 0:00 - 1:59">> <<elseif _vTime <= "10:10">> <<goto "Thursday 2:00 - 10:10">> <<else>> <<goto "Thursday 10:11 - 23:59">> <</if>>

<<set _vTime = new Date().toLocaleString("en-ca", {hour: "2-digit", minute: "2-digit", hour12: false});>> <<if _vTime <= "08:59">> <<goto "Monday 0:00 - 8:59">> <<elseif _vTime <= "17:00">> <<goto "Monday 9:00 - 17:00">> <<else>> <<goto "Monday 17:01 - 23:59">> <</if>>

<<set _vTime = new Date().toLocaleString("en-ca", {hour: "2-digit", minute: "2-digit", hour12: false});>> <<if _vTime <= "04:59">> <<goto "Tuesday 0:00 - 4:59">> <<elseif _vTime <= "21:00">> <<goto "Tuesday 5:00 - 21:00">> <<else>> <<goto "Tuesday 21:01 - 23:59">> <</if>>

<<goto "Wednesday 0:00 - 23:59">>

<<set _vTime = new Date().toLocaleString("en-ca", {hour: "2-digit", minute: "2-digit", hour12: false});>> <<if _vTime <= "12:29">> <<goto "Saturday 0:00 - 12:29">> <<elseif _vTime <= "15:21">> <<goto "Saturday 12:30 - 15:21">> <<else>> <<goto "Saturday 15:22 - 23:59">> <</if>>

<<set _vTime = new Date().toLocaleString("en-ca", {hour: "2-digit", minute: "2-digit", hour12: false});>> <<if _vTime <= "10:59">> <<goto "Friday 0:00 - 10:59">> <<elseif _vTime <= "23:00">> <<goto "Friday 11:00 - 23:00">> <<else>> <<goto "Friday 23:01 - 23:59">> <</if>>

<<set $ShiftEnds = EndOfShift("Sunday 23:59")>> <<set $ActiveShift = passage()>> <<set _currentShift = "Sun OPEN - " + $SunOpenCount + "a">> <<goto _currentShift>>

<<set $ShiftEnds = EndOfShift("Monday 8:59")>> <<set $ActiveShift = passage()>> <<set _currentShift = "Mon CLOSED - " + $MonClosedCount + "a">> <<goto _currentShift>>

<<set $ShiftEnds = EndOfShift("Monday 17:00")>> <<set $ActiveShift = passage()>> <<set _currentShift = "Mon OPEN - " + $MonOpenCount + "a">> <<goto _currentShift>>

<<set $ShiftEnds = EndOfShift("Tuesday 4:59")>> <<set $ActiveShift = passage()>> <<set _currentShift = "Mon/Tue CLOSED - " + $MonTueClosedCount + "a">> <<goto _currentShift>>

<<set $ShiftEnds = EndOfShift("Thursday 1:59")>> <<set $ActiveShift = passage()>> <<set _currentShift = "Tue/Thu CLOSED - " + $TueThuClosedCount + "a">> <<goto _currentShift>>

<<set $ShiftEnds = EndOfShift("Friday 10:59")>> <<set $ActiveShift = passage()>> <<set _currentShift = "Thu/Fri CLOSED - " + $ThuFriClosedCount + "a">> <<goto _currentShift>>

<<set $ShiftEnds = EndOfShift("Saturday 12:29")>> <<set $ActiveShift = passage()>> <<set _currentShift = "Fri/Sat CLOSED - " + $FriSatClosedCount + "a">> <<goto _currentShift>>

<<set $ShiftEnds = EndOfShift("Tuesday 21:00")>> <<set $ActiveShift = passage()>> <<set _currentShift = "Tue OPEN - " + $TueOpenCount + "a">> <<goto _currentShift>>

<<set $ShiftEnds = EndOfShift("Thursday 1:59")>> <<set $ActiveShift = passage()>> <<set _currentShift = "Tue/Thu CLOSED - " + $TueThuClosedCount + "a">> <<goto _currentShift>>

<<set $ShiftEnds = EndOfShift("Thursday 10:10")>> <<set $ActiveShift = passage()>> <<set _currentShift = "Thu OPEN - " + $ThuOpenCount + "a">> <<goto _currentShift>>

<<set $ShiftEnds = EndOfShift("Friday 10:59")>> <<set $ActiveShift = passage()>> <<set _currentShift = "Thu/Fri CLOSED - " + $ThuFriClosedCount + "a">> <<goto _currentShift>>

<<set $ShiftEnds = EndOfShift("Friday 23:00")>> <<set $ActiveShift = passage()>> <<set _currentShift = "Fri OPEN - " + $FriOpenCount + "a">> <<goto _currentShift>>

<<set $ShiftEnds = EndOfShift("Saturday 12:29")>> <<set $ActiveShift = passage()>> <<set _currentShift = "Fri/Sat CLOSED - " + $FriSatClosedCount + "a">> <<goto _currentShift>>

<<set $ShiftEnds = EndOfShift("Saturday 15:21")>> <<set $ActiveShift = passage()>> <<set _currentShift = "Sat OPEN - " + $SatOpenCount + "a">> <<goto _currentShift>>

<<set $ShiftEnds = EndOfShift("Saturday 23:59")>> <<set $ActiveShift = passage()>> <<set _currentShift = "Sat CLOSED - " + $SatClosedCount + "a">> <<goto _currentShift>>

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ Kauê heads to the small kitchen at the back of the store and takes out various cooking implements. Kauane follows him and grunts happily as he wanders into the grocery section. "I'm in the mood for something hearty and savoury!" You look through the three recipes in front of you and prepare to make a choice. // - Three sisters stew Main ingredients: corn, beans, squash, onion, pepper, tomato - Kūmara and pūhā soup Main ingredients: kūmara, pūhā, onion, garlic, vegetable stock - Grønnsaksuppe Main ingredients: vegetable broth, carrot, celery, turnip, leek, onion, garlic // You decide you're going to make: [[– Three sisters stew|_NextPassage][$FoodClicked = true]] [[– Kūmara and pūhā soup|_NextPassage][$FoodClicked = true]] [[– Grønnsaksuppe|_NextPassage][$FoodClicked = true]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ You look down and see Kauane staring up at you, her tail wagging happily. The stem of a beautiful lily is delicately held between her teeth. She flicks her head up repeatedly with quiet squeals, showing you the flower. [[– You thank her and tuck the flower behind your ear. |_NextPassage][$FlowerClicked = "YourEar"]] [[– You thank her and pin the flower to your clothes. |_NextPassage][$FlowerClicked = "Clothes"]] [[– You thank her and tuck the flower behind her ear. |_NextPassage][$FlowerClicked = "HerEar"]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ [[Continue|_NextPassage]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ Kauê heads to the small kitchen at the back of the store and takes out various cooking implements. Kauane follows him and grunts happily as he wanders into the grocery section. "Today I'd love to have something sweet!" You look through the three recipes in front of you and prepare to make a choice. //- Thiéboudienne Main ingredients: nokoss, rice, dawa dawa, cassava, okra, sweet potato, onion, tomato, mushroom, cabbage// //- Anmitsu Main ingredients: agar, azuki beans, fruit, syrup// //- Turon Main ingredients: banana, jackfruit, sugar, lumpia wrapper// You decide you're going to make: [[– Thiéboudienne|_NextPassage][$FoodClicked = false]] [[– Anmitsu|_NextPassage][$FoodClicked = true]] [[– Turon|_NextPassage][$FoodClicked = true]]

<<if $FoodClicked == true>>\ "Yes, great idea! Let's get started! This is gonna be so yummy..." <<else>>\ "Hmm, I was hoping for something spicier... but you know what, let's make this anyway! It'll be great to try something new!" <</if>>\ He helps prepare the ingredients as you start cooking, and you soon have a delicious meal to share. As Kauê scarfs down his food, Kauane feasts on a pile of fresh agave leaves topped with a small serving of the dish. A portion is set aside for Aïssatou, who thanks you profusely as she takes it into the stockroom to continue her work. <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $FoodClicked>>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Sunday)][$SunOpenCount++]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ [[Continue|_NextPassage]]

<<set $SunOpenCount++>> <<goto "End of Shift (Sunday)">>

<<if $FoodClicked == true>>\ "Yes, great idea! Let's get started! This is gonna be so yummy..." <<else>>\ "Hmm, I was hoping for something sweeter... but you know what, let's make this anyway! It'll be great to try something new!" <</if>>\ He helps prepare the ingredients as you start cooking, and you soon have a delicious meal to share. As Kauê scarfs down his food, Kauane feasts on a pile of fresh agave leaves topped with a small serving of the dish. A portion is set aside for Aïssatou, who thanks you profusely as she takes it into the stockroom to continue her work. <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $FoodClicked>>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Sunday)][$SunOpenCount++]]

"Yes, great idea! Let's get started! This is gonna be so yummy..." He helps prepare the ingredients as you start cooking, and you soon have a delicious meal to share. As Kauê scarfs down his food, Kauane feasts on a pile of fresh agave leaves topped with a small serving of the dish. A portion is set aside for Aïssatou, who thanks you profusely as she takes it into the stockroom to continue her work. <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $FoodClicked>>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Sunday)][$SunOpenCount++]]

<<set $SunOpenCount++>> <<goto "End of Shift (Sunday)">>

<<if $FlowerClicked == "YourEar">>\ You gratefully tuck the flower behind your ear. \ <<elseif $FlowerClicked == "Clothes">>\ You gratefully pin the flower to your clothes. \ <<else>>\ You thank her, but tuck the flower behind her ear. \ <</if>>\ She grunts in delight and hops around elatedly. Kauê is ready to check out with his many items, and compliments \ <<if $FlowerClicked == "HerEar">>her <<else>>your <</if>>\ new look as he stuffs his purchases into an oversized bag. He leaves a bottle of sugarcane juice on the counter for you. "Oh, by the way, thanks for all those delicious meals! Maybe after this whole full moon business is behind us, we could give Aïssatou some cooking lessons, eh?" Turning towards Kauane as he heads towards the door, he exclaims: "PARTY TIME!" His hair catches fire in a sudden blast of heat while he claps and laughs. You watch it slowly fizzle out as the pair walk away. <<set $acorns += 60>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns (along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Sunday)][$SunOpenCount++]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ "I'm looking for a bracelet with red gems on it." Walking over to the part of the store where jewelry is kept, you find cralets with stones of a few different colours. You hand him: [[– A beautiful silver bracelet dotted with rubies.|_NextPassage][$ColourPicked = true]] [[– A beautiful silver bracelet dotted with citrines.|_NextPassage][$ColourPicked = false]] [[– A beautiful silver bracelet dotted with emeralds.|_NextPassage][$ColourPicked = false]]

<<set $RedBracelet = 1>>\ <<if $ColourPicked>>\ As he completes his purchase, he giddily clutches the bracelet in his hands. <<else>>\ As he's about to pay for his purchase, you take a closer look at the bracelet and realize that its gems are the wrong colour after all! You quickly go back and swap it out for a ruby-encrusted one. He giddily clutches the bracelet in his hands. <</if>>\ He seems to be on cloud nine as he walks out of the shop. "I'm so excited to give this to her! Thank you once again for all your help!" Aïssatou warmly congratulates him as he leaves, wishing him happiness and fulfillment. <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $ColourPicked>>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Friday)][$FriOpenCount++]]

<<if $ColourPicked>>\ As he completes his purchase, he enthusiastically thanks you and promises to let you know how it goes. He leaves the shop with a spring in his step. <<else>>\ As he's about to pay for his purchase, you take a closer look at the stuffed animal and realize that it's the wrong colour after all! You quickly go back and swap it out for a celadon one. He thanks you as he leaves the shop with a spring in his step. <</if>>\ Aïssatou looks away from her work to shout a greeting and some well-wishes as he leaves. <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $ColourPicked>>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Friday)][$FriOpenCount++]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and are once again only asked to water the many potted plants scattered around the room. Some of them are now taller than you are! As you set down your watering can, Åsmund appears with a shy smile and a wave. Mindful of the puddles he's creating, he sponges himself off with a small towel as he greets you. <<if $BlueBracelet == 1>>\ You notice a beautiful sapphire-encrusted bracelet on his wrist. <</if>>\ "Hi again! I'm looking for a present for my... girlfriend!" His voice is filled with joy as [[he describes what he's looking for.|_NextPassage]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ [[Continue|_NextPassage]]

<<set $FriOpenCount++>> <<goto "End of Shift (Friday)">>

<<set $FossSeen = 1>>\ <<if $ColourPicked>>\ As he completes his purchase, he enthusiastically thanks you and promises to let you know how it goes. He leaves the shop with a spring in his step. <<else>>\ As he's about to pay for his purchase, you take a closer look at the tablecloth and realize that it's the wrong colour after all! You quickly go back and swap it out for a burgundy one. He thanks you as he leaves the shop with a spring in his step. <</if>>\ Aïssatou looks away from her work to shout a greeting and some well-wishes as he leaves. <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $ColourPicked>>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Friday)][$FriOpenCount++]]

<<set $Return2Shift = passage().replace(/a$/,"c")>>\ <<goto "Patupaiarehe">>

You come to a stop near what is unquestionably the tallest tree in the forest. Several of its gigantic roots emerge high above ground, and are tangled up so tightly that they seem to form walls. Gaps in their weaving patterns reveal a door and a few glass windows. A gnarled plank of wood is nailed to the door, serving as a sign. The characters shift and morph in front of your eyes, and soon form familiar patterns. <i>OPENING HOURS Monday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tuesday: 5 a.m. – 9 p.m. Wednesday: CLOSED Thursday: 2 a.m. – 10:10 a.m. Friday: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. Saturday: 12:30 p.m. – 3:21 p.m. Sunday: 12 a.m. – 11:59 p.m. </i> As you examine the sign, you suddenly see movement behind one of the windows, and find a figure staring at you in surprise before beckoning you in. [[You open the door.|First Meeting]]

<<if $ColourPicked>>\ As he completes his purchase, he enthusiastically thanks you and promises to let you know how it goes. He leaves the shop with a spring in his step. <<else>>\ As he's about to pay for his purchase, you take a closer look at the roses and realize that they're the wrong colour after all! You quickly go back and swap them out for xanthous, scarlet-tipped ones. He thanks you as he leaves the shop with a spring in his step. <</if>>\ Aïssatou looks away from her work to shout "Good luck and have fun!" as he leaves. <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $ColourPicked>>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Friday)][$FriOpenCount++]]

As soon as the words leave her mouth, she seems to regret them, and her tone turns apologetic. "I'm sorry, you don't need to answer that right away. But the truth is, I've been struggling to manage the store on my own while preparing for the Hunter's Moon, and your arrival felt like the miracle I'd been hoping for! If you don't mind hearing me out, I'll let you go afterwards, with no obligation on your part." She draws your attention to a small pile of acorns on a nearby counter. They emit a soft glow and seem to shimmer and change hues when you shift your gaze. "This is the currency we use here; many of our residents are able to create them from regular seeds, at some personal cost. They're infused with a magic that can sustain and protect the life in this forest, as well as provide benefits to its magical inhabitants." She rubs her chin, pensive. "Ah, but I suppose you wouldn't have much use for them... unless..." She ducks behind the counter and pulls out a small, worn chest. It opens to reveal six beautiful metal beads of varying shapes and hues. "A long time ago, the inhabitants of these woods came together to craft various artifacts, as symbols of the new society we were creating. Most of these objects have already been claimed, but I was keeping this set aside for someone who could be deserving of them. If you earned enough acorns through helping me, I'd be happy to trade you some of these beads as a token of our gratitude! And if you wanted food or any other supplies from the shop, it would be yours — though you'll find that you won't need to eat as long as you're here." [[She carefully closes the chest as she keeps talking.|Explanation]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store. Aïssatou, busy filling out an exceedingly lengthy scroll that runs off the table she's sitting at, only asks you to help her water the many potted plants scattered around the room. As you set down your watering can, a tall and thin man slinks in through the front door. His beautiful long and smooth hair is almost as fair as his skin. You approach him and notice that he is soaking wet. On his back is a beautiful, ornate, eight-stringed fiddle. "<<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>Good day!<<else>>Good evening!<</if>> I'm happy to finally meet the new assistant! I hope you've been enjoying yourself. I'm Åsmund..." His gaze absentmindedly skips from shelf to shelf as he continues: "I'm looking for a present for a dear friend of mine, who always kindly hosts me... I already have a good idea of what I want, but I'd love your advice for colour-matching, because I can't differentiate between most hues." You listen as [[he describes what he's looking for.|_NextPassage]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ "I'm looking for a tablecloth that has a reddish colour." Walking over to the part of the store where fabrics are kept, you find tablecloths in a few different colours. You hand him: [[– A chartreuse tablecloth.|_NextPassage][$ColourPicked = false]] [[– A burgundy tablecloth.|_NextPassage][$ColourPicked = true]] [[– A mustard tablecloth.|_NextPassage][$ColourPicked = false]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and are once again only asked to water the many potted plants scattered around the room. They seem taller than last time. As you set down your watering can, Åsmund appears with a shy smile and a wave. Mindful of the puddles he's creating, he sponges himself off with a small towel as he greets you. "Hi, it's nice to see you! Your advice was wonderful last time, and I could use your help again..." You listen as [[he describes what he's looking for.|_NextPassage]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ "I'm looking for a cute stuffed animal – in a greenish colour, if you have any." Walking over to the part of the store where toys are kept, you find stuffed animals in a few different colours. You hand him: [[– A vermilion stuffed panda.|_NextPassage][$ColourPicked = false]] [[– A saffron stuffed impala.|_NextPassage][$ColourPicked = false]] [[– A celadon stuffed elephant.|_NextPassage][$ColourPicked = true]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ <<if $TrioMet == 0>>\ You enter the shop and are sent outside to help remove debris from the windows. You see two figures approaching, each pulling a small handcart down the the same silty path you always take. The first in line, a young woman wearing a knee-length tunic, waves energetically as she calls out to you. "Hey! Are you the new helper? Glad to have you! We're here for a delivery." They come to a stop near the building and start unloading their carts. Bucketfuls of textiles, a cornucopia of fruit, healing ointments and all kinds of other goods are deposited near the door. "I'm Ovidia, by the way, and this is Suādurīx!" Her companion, a shy-looking man who moves with methodical intent, gives you a shaky smile from under the hood of his long cloak. You notice a lovely medium-sized white bird on his shoulder, who coos enthusiastically as you admire him. "Oh, and that's Valens!" They're already nearly done with their work, and you help them carry some things inside the building. You're picking up a small box full of blank keys when Ovidia suddenly speaks up. "Wait! Don't take that one yet!" You stop and [[turn towards her.|_NextPassage]] <<else>>\ You enter the shop and are soon sent back outside to help remove debris from the windows. Someone calls out to you and you turn to see Ovidia and Suādurīx approaching the giant tree with their handcarts. Valens flies ahead of them and lands on your shoulder, tweeting a cheerful greeting. Once everyone is gathered, you all get to work. Bucketfuls of vegetables, concoctions and other goods are deposited near the door, and [[you help bring products into the building.|_NextPassage]] <</if>>

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ "I'm looking for a bouquet of yellow roses. With, um... with red tips." A light blush spreads across his smiling face. Walking over to the part of the store where flowers are kept, you find roses in a few different colours. You hand him: You bring him: [[– Scarlet roses with xanthous tips.|_NextPassage][$ColourPicked = false]] [[– Scarlet roses with mauve tips.|_NextPassage][$ColourPicked = false]] [[– Xanthous roses with scarlet tips.|_NextPassage][$ColourPicked = true]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and are once again only asked to water the many potted plants scattered around the room. They are growing ever taller. As you set down your watering can, Åsmund appears with a shy smile and a wave. Mindful of the puddles he's creating, he sponges himself off with a small towel as he greets you. "Hi, it's nice to see you! Your advice was wonderful last time, and I could use your help again..." You listen as [[he describes what he's looking for.|_NextPassage]]

<<set $CreatureClicked = "">>\ <<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ As you start your search, you glance at the note that Aïssatou wrote for you: <i> Mayfly Distinctive traits: Short antennae. Wings standing upwards at rest. </i>\ Suddenly, the vial heats up under your fingertips! You look around to find your target, and you get a good glance at two creatures who look similar. But the spell is running out, and you won't be able to examine them more closely before deciding what to bottle. <div class="animals">\ [img[|Pictures/Insects/1a.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "A"]]\ [img[|Pictures/Insects/1b.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "B"]]\ </div>

A tiny spark ignites as you remove the cork, and a colourful glowing mist fills the vial. The glass turns cold once again. You carefully make your way back to the store. Aïssatou meets you at the door and excitedly collects your find. "Welcome back!" She raises the vial to her face and gazes deeply into it. <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>\ "Yes... yes! This is perfect! Thank you so much!" <<else>>\ "Hmmm, something's not quite right... Oh!" She smiles in amusement. "I think you were bamboozled by a lookalike!" <</if>>\ You tell her about the two creatures that you saw. "Ah, I see! The lookalike must have been a lacewing. I once saw a baby lacewing grow into an adult by spinning a silken coccoon just like a moth — it was breathtaking!" <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>\ She thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <<else>>\ Armed with a new vial, you hurry back to the place where you found the creatures and manage to bottle the correct essence. Aïssatou thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <</if>>\ <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Friday)][$FriSatClosedCount++]]

A tiny spark ignites as you remove the cork, and a colourful glowing mist fills the vial. The glass turns cold once again. You carefully make your way back to the store. Aïssatou meets you at the door and excitedly collects your find. "Welcome back!" She raises the vial to her face and gazes deeply into it. <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>\ "Yes... yes! This is perfect! Thank you so much!" <<else>>\ "Hmmm, something's not quite right... Oh!" She smiles in amusement. "I think you were bamboozled by a lookalike!" <</if>>\ You tell her about the two creatures that you saw. "Ah, I see! The lookalike must have been a crane fly. Their long legs and erratic flight always make me laugh!" <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>\ She thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <<else>>\ Armed with a new vial, you hurry back to the place where you found the creatures and manage to bottle the correct essence. Aïssatou thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <</if>>\ <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Friday)][$FriSatClosedCount++]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ <<if $FirstClose == 0>> You enter the store and find Aïssatou hunched over a table, pensively examining an assortment of small glowing vials. Looking up from her work, she excitedly greets you. "Hi! I'm so glad to see you. I need more materials for my experiments, but I still have too much work to do over here. If you wouldn't mind going out and collecting a sample for me, that would be incredibly helpful!" She stretches across the table to pick up an empty vial, then walks over to you. "See, the spells that I use to sustain life and maintain harmony in these woods are working well enough, but there's still much room for improvement. I'd like to refine them, make them more powerful, more efficient. For that purpose I've been gathering magical energy from the forest's inhabitants, or sometimes from potent inanimate objects. Not much, only a tiny sliver at a time. Imperceptible to the creature, but groundbreaking for my research..." She holds up the vial as she continues her explanation, keeping a finger securely pressed onto the cork. "These vials are imbued with two spells. The first is a collection spell, which captures a fragment of energy from whatever your attention is focused on at the moment the cork is removed. The second is a locator spell, to help find a suitable donor; you'll feel the glass heat up slightly when a perfect specimen is nearby. The bad news is that this kind of magic is volatile and will start to dissipate once you leave the building! But if your first attempt fails, don't worry — I can enchant another vial as needed." She smiles warmly. "With all that out of the way, let me see what I should send you out for..." <<set $FirstClose = 1>> <<else>> You enter the store and are excitedly greeted by Aïssatou, who is once again examining the glowing contents of an assortment of small vials. "I'm so glad to see you! I've been making great progress in my spell research thanks to what you've brought me so far. There's something else I still need, if you have time to go look for it..." <</if>> She takes a cursory glance at her notes, periodically looking over at the full vials on the table. "I'd like to capture a mayfly's hope!" Equipped with a magic-infused vial and a hastily-scribbled informative note, you set out [[to find a suitable mayfly|_NextPassage]].

<<set $CreatureClicked = "">>\ <<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ As you start your search, you glance at the note that Aïssatou wrote for you: <i> Bee Distinctive traits: Medium-length, bent antennae. Four wings. </i>\ Suddenly, the vial heats up under your fingertips! You look around to find your target, and you get a good glance at two creatures who look similar. But the spell is running out, and you won't be able to examine them more closely before deciding what to bottle. <div class="animals">\ [img[|Pictures/Insects/2a.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "A"]]\ [img[|Pictures/Insects/2b.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "B"]]\ </div>

A tiny spark ignites as you remove the cork, and a colourful glowing mist fills the vial. The glass turns cold once again. You carefully make your way back to the store. Aïssatou meets you at the door and excitedly collects your find. "Welcome back!" She raises the vial to her face and gazes deeply into it. <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>\ "Yes... yes! This is perfect! Thank you so much!" <<else>>\ "Hmmm, something's not quite right... Oh!" She smiles in amusement. "I think you were bamboozled by a lookalike!" <</if>>\ You tell her about the two creatures that you saw. "Ah, I see! The lookalike must have been a fly. The striped look is very fashionable in the insect world, it seems — even moths sometimes look like bees and wasps!" <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>\ She thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <<else>>\ Armed with a new vial, you hurry back to the place where you found the creatures and manage to bottle the correct essence. Aïssatou thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <</if>>\ <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Friday)][$FriSatClosedCount++]]

<<set $CreatureClicked = "">>\ <<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ As you start your search, you glance at the note that Aïssatou wrote for you: <i> Mosquito Distinctive traits: Sharp mouthparts. Wings held close to body at rest. Legs of reasonable length. </i>\ Suddenly, the vial heats up under your fingertips! You look around to find your target, and you get a good glance at two creatures who look similar. But the spell is running out, and you won't be able to examine them more closely before deciding what to bottle. <div class="animals">\ [img[|Pictures/Insects/3a.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "A"]]\ [img[|Pictures/Insects/3b.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "B"]]\ </div>

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and are excitedly greeted by Aïssatou, who is once again examining the glowing contents of an assortment of small vials. "I'm so glad to see you! I've been making great progress in my spell research thanks to what you've brought me so far. There's something else I still need, if you have time to go look for it..." She takes a cursory glance at her notes, periodically looking over at the full vials on the table. "This time, I'd like to capture a bee's buzz!" Equipped with a magic-infused vial and a hastily-scribbled informative note, you set out [[to find a suitable bee|_NextPassage]].

"My schedule is extremely flexible as I always have small tasks to delegate, whether the shop is open or closed. You could come in at any time and would be compensated for any shifts that you can complete. I wouldn't mind if you made mistakes — those can always be rectified — but exceptionally diligent work would be rewarded with a few extra acorns!" She points to her wall calendar as she concludes. "Lastly, starting on October 13th, I'll be closing the store for a week to get through the full moon. If you were able to work at least five shifts before then, that would give me enough time to get everything ready." She accompanies you outside, and after a brief tour of the area around the shop, she points you in the direction of the tree you came from. "Thank you so much for hearing me out; all I ask is that you think it over. If you do want to take me up on my offer, you can come by whenever you're free and I'll give you a bit of work!" [[You wave goodbye to each other.|Find Sheet]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and are excitedly greeted by Aïssatou, who is once again examining the glowing contents of an assortment of small vials. "I'm so glad to see you! I've been making great progress in my spell research thanks to what you've brought me so far. There's something else I still need, if you have time to go look for it..." She takes a cursory glance at her notes, periodically looking over at the full vials on the table. "This time, I'd like to capture a mosquito's tickle!" Equipped with a magic-infused vial and a hastily-scribbled informative note, you set out [[to find a suitable mosquito|_NextPassage]].

<<if new Date().toLocaleDateString('en-CA') > "2024-10-16">><<goto "Post-Comp">><</if>>\ It was an ordinary day, and you were going about your routine. But then... [[... you found an old, tattered piece of paper stuck in the branches of a small twisted tree.|Legend]] [[... you found an old, tattered piece of paper in a used book you'd just purchased.|Legend]] [[... you found an old, tattered piece of paper in an abandoned backpack.|Legend]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and are excitedly greeted by Aïssatou, who is once again examining the glowing contents of an assortment of small vials. "I'm so glad to see you! I've been making great progress in my spell research thanks to what you've brought me so far. There's something else I still need, if you have time to go look for it..." She takes a cursory glance at her notes, periodically looking over at the full vials on the table. "This time, I'd like to capture a cockroach's trust!" Equipped with a magic-infused vial and a hastily-scribbled informative note, you set out [[to find a suitable cockroach|_NextPassage]].

<<set $CreatureClicked = "">>\ <<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ As you start your search, you glance at the note that Aïssatou wrote for you: <i> Cockroach Distinctive traits: Six spiky legs made for running. </i>\ Suddenly, the vial heats up under your fingertips! You look around to find your target, and you get a good glance at two creatures who look similar. But the spell is running out, and you won't be able to examine them more closely before deciding what to bottle. <div class="animals">\ [img[|Pictures/Insects/4a.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "A"]]\ [img[|Pictures/Insects/4b.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "B"]]\ </div>

<<set $CreatureClicked = "">>\ <<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ As you start your search, you glance at the note that Aïssatou wrote for you: <i> Earwig Distinctive traits: Hindwings hidden under leathery forewings. Pair of forceps at tip of abdomen. </i>\ Suddenly, the vial heats up under your fingertips! You look around to find your target, and you get a good glance at two creatures who look similar. But the spell is running out, and you won't be able to examine them more closely before deciding what to bottle. <div class="animals">\ [img[|Pictures/Insects/5a.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "A"]]\ [img[|Pictures/Insects/5b.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "B"]]\ </div>

<<set $CreatureClicked = "">>\ <<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ As you start your search, you glance at the note that Aïssatou wrote for you: <i> Moth Distinctive traits: Four wings. Antennae. Long straw-like mouthparts. </i>\ Suddenly, the vial heats up under your fingertips! You look around to find your target, and you get a good glance at two creatures who look similar. But the spell is running out, and you won't be able to examine them more closely before deciding what to bottle. <div class="animals">\ [img[|Pictures/Insects/6a.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "A"]]\ [img[|Pictures/Insects/6b.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "B"]]\ </div>

A tiny spark ignites as you remove the cork, and a colourful glowing mist fills the vial. The glass turns cold once again. You carefully make your way back to the store. Aïssatou meets you at the door and excitedly collects your find. "Welcome back!" She raises the vial to her face and gazes deeply into it. <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>\ "Yes... yes! This is perfect! Thank you so much!" <<else>>\ "Hmmm, something's not quite right... Oh!" She smiles in amusement. "I think you were bamboozled by a lookalike!" <</if>>\ You tell her about the two creatures that you saw. "Ah, I see! The lookalike must have been a cricket. The long spike you saw at the end of her abdomen is a structure for laying eggs — for example, underground or in tree bark!" <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>\ She thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <<else>>\ Armed with a new vial, you hurry back to the place where you found the creatures and manage to bottle the correct essence. Aïssatou thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <</if>>\ <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Friday)][$FriSatClosedCount++]]

A tiny spark ignites as you remove the cork, and a colourful glowing mist fills the vial. The glass turns cold once again. You carefully make your way back to the store. Aïssatou meets you at the door and excitedly collects your find. "Welcome back!" She raises the vial to her face and gazes deeply into it. <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>\ "Yes... yes! This is perfect! Thank you so much!" <<else>>\ "Hmmm, something's not quite right... Oh!" She smiles in amusement. "I think you were bamboozled by a lookalike!" <</if>>\ You tell her about the two creatures that you saw. "Ah, I see! The lookalike must have been a rove beetle. Their short wings and exposed abdomens are so peculiar!" <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>\ She thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <<else>>\ Armed with a new vial, you hurry back to the place where you found the creatures and manage to bottle the correct essence. Aïssatou thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <</if>>\ <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Friday)][$FriSatClosedCount++]]

A tiny spark ignites as you remove the cork, and a colourful glowing mist fills the vial. The glass turns cold once again. You carefully make your way back to the store. Aïssatou meets you at the door and excitedly collects your find. "Welcome back!" She raises the vial to her face and gazes deeply into it. <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>\ "Yes... yes! This is perfect! Thank you so much!" <<else>>\ "Hmmm, something's not quite right... Oh!" She smiles in amusement. "I think you were bamboozled by a lookalike!" <</if>>\ You tell her about the two creatures that you saw. "Ah, I see! The lookalike must have been a hummingbird. I'm always impressed by animals who can flap their wings so quickly that they hover in place!" <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>\ She thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <<else>>\ Armed with a new vial, you hurry back to the place where you found the creatures and manage to bottle the correct essence. Aïssatou thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <</if>>\ <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Friday)][$FriSatClosedCount++]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and are excitedly greeted by Aïssatou, who is once again examining the glowing contents of an assortment of small vials. "I'm so glad to see you! I've been making great progress in my spell research thanks to what you've brought me so far. There's something else I still need, if you have time to go look for it..." She takes a cursory glance at her notes, periodically looking over at the full vials on the table. "This time, I'd like to capture a moth's enthusiasm!" Equipped with a magic-infused vial and a hastily-scribbled informative note, you set out [[to find a suitable moth|_NextPassage]].

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and are excitedly greeted by Aïssatou, who is once again examining the glowing contents of an assortment of small vials. "I'm so glad to see you! I've been making great progress in my spell research thanks to what you've brought me so far. There's something else I still need, if you have time to go look for it..." She takes a cursory glance at her notes, periodically looking over at the full vials on the table. "This time, I'd like to capture the dedication of an earwig!" Equipped with a magic-infused vial and a hastily-scribbled informative note, you set out [[to find a suitable earwig|_NextPassage]].

You push open the door and are greeted by a cheerful voice. "!السلام عليكم" Your eyes are drawn to a figure in the center of the room. A prickling warmth makes its way deep inside your ears, and the unfamiliar sounds quickly become perfectly intelligible. "Welcome to my shop!" The woman smiles warmly as she approaches you, and you take a moment to examine her. She is very short, and moves so effortlessly and gracefully that you could swear she was floating. Her skin is inhumanly white and seems almost pearlescent. Her tightly-coiled silver hair is woven into elegant and intricate braids. You take in the sights, sounds and smells of the shop. Its disparate wooden shelves bear an incredible assortment of objects both magical and mundane, and the room is illuminated by the glow of various enchantments. A pleasant herbal scent lingers in the air. Your attention is brought back to the woman as she introduces herself. "My name is Aïssatou and I am the steward of this sanctuary. It's a lovely surprise to receive a visitor such as yourself!" There's a moment of silence as she considers you carefully, scanning your features with her piercing eyes. She continues: [["Pardon my forwardness, but... would you like to work here?"|Hired]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the shop and, under Aïssatou's instruction, get to work re-potting a particularly colourful plant. You've just finished your task when you hear a dull thumping coming from outside. Thump... thump... thump... Suddenly, the front door opens, revealing a handsome young man with crutches under his arms. His flowy white chiton highlights his healthy light brown skin, and his slightly curly hair is tousled by remnants of breeze as he steps past the threshold. Most notably, he appears to only have a single leg that ends in an extremely large foot. You close the door behind him while exchanging greetings. "Hello, I've heard about you! It's nice to meet you! My name is Echekrates." He carefully sits on a nearby chair and grasps his crutches in his hands as he continues. "My request is a bit particular. I'm looking for very powerful sunscreen. I think you should have some in stock. But I'm still trying to find the exact potency that's right for me. Today I'd like to try, um..." He looks up pensively as he counts on his fingers. "A potency of 75, please!" You head to the shelf where the concoctions are stored, [[near the back of the room.|_NextPassage]]

You bring the bottle to Echekrates, who tests a small dab on his hand. <<if $MonoClicked == true>>\ "Yes, this is exactly what I was looking for! I can feel it! Thank you." He stands back up and leaves. <<else>>\ "Hmm... no, I'm sorry, this isn't the right potency! I can feel it!" You make your way back to the shelf, and after some time you manage to find the right bottle. He thanks you as he stands back up and leaves. <</if>>\ <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $MonoClicked>>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Saturday)][$SatOpenCount++]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ <<if $FirstClose == 0>> You enter the store and find Aïssatou hunched over a table, pensively examining an assortment of small glowing vials. Looking up from her work, she excitedly greets you. "Hi! I'm so glad to see you. I need more materials for my experiments, but I still have too much work to do over here. If you wouldn't mind going out and collecting a sample for me, that would be incredibly helpful!" She stretches across the table to pick up an empty vial, then walks over to you. "See, the spells that I use to sustain life and maintain harmony in these woods are working well enough, but there's still much room for improvement. I'd like to refine them, make them more powerful, more efficient. For that purpose I've been gathering magical energy from the forest's inhabitants, or sometimes from potent inanimate objects. Not much, only a tiny sliver at a time. Imperceptible to the creature, but groundbreaking for my research..." She holds up the vial as she continues her explanation, keeping a finger securely pressed onto the cork. "These vials are imbued with two spells. The first is a collection spell, which captures a fragment of energy from whatever your attention is focused on at the moment the cork is removed. The second is a locator spell, to help find a suitable donor; you'll feel the glass heat up slightly when a perfect specimen is nearby. The bad news is that this kind of magic is volatile and will start to dissipate once you leave the building! But if your first attempt fails, don't worry — I can enchant another vial as needed." She smiles warmly. "With all that out of the way, let me see what I should send you out for..." <<set $FirstClose = 1>> <<else>> You enter the store and are excitedly greeted by Aïssatou, who is once again examining the glowing contents of an assortment of small vials. "I'm so glad to see you! I've been making great progress in my spell research thanks to what you've brought me so far. There's something else I still need, if you have time to go look for it..." <</if>> She takes a cursory glance at her notes, periodically looking over at the full vials on the table. "I'd like to capture the curiosity of a clam!" Equipped with a magic-infused vial and a hastily-scribbled informative note, you set out [[to find a suitable clam|_NextPassage]].

<<set $CreatureClicked = "">>\ <<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ As you start your search, you glance at the note that Aïssatou wrote for you: <i> Clam Distinctive traits: Two hard shells connected by a muscle. Long, flexible foot. </i>\ Following the sound of a waterfall, you come across a mysterious cave, and find that on the other side it opens onto a rocky beach. The smell of saltwater reaches you as the sky and ocean stretch out before your eyes. Suddenly, the vial heats up under your fingertips! You look around to find your target, and you get a good glance at two creatures who look similar. But the spell is running out, and you won't be able to examine them more closely before deciding what to bottle. <div class="animals">\ [img[|Pictures/Aquatic/1a.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "A"]]\ [img[|Pictures/Aquatic/1b.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "B"]]\ </div>

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ You find the sun-blocking creams and start looking for one with a potency of 75. The labels only bear Roman numerals, but thankfully a sheet stuck next to the shelf provides a helpful guide: //I = 1 V = 5 X = 10 L = 50 C = 100 note: larger numbers go first, except when subtracting smaller numbers from them// You grab the bottle labelled: [[– VII |_NextPassage][$MonoClicked = false]] [[– LXXV |_NextPassage][$MonoClicked = true]] [[– XCV |_NextPassage][$MonoClicked = false]]

You take the next few steps in darkness. Suddenly the air feels different on your skin and the smell of tropical flowers and fir needles envelops you. The gentle sound of running water reaches your ears. You open your eyes and are greeted by the sight of a small creek flowing through a lush forest of mixed trees. Nearby, a fox and a hare are sleeping, curled up together on the grass. In the distance, a turkey and a kookaburra sing in harmony. [[A silt path guides you upstream, and as you walk, you notice that you feel strangely satiated.|Outside Shop]]

You manage to catch Aïssatou during a short break in her work. You should have time to ask her about a single topic. <<if $Topic1 && $Topic2 && $Topic3 && $Topic4 && $Topic6 && $Topic7 && $Topic8>>However, you can't think of anything else to ask about.<</if>> <<if !$Topic1>>[[– The forest's magic.|Topic1][$Topic1 = true; $ApoChat = true]]<<else>>\ \<</if>> <<if !$Topic8>>[[– The forest's inhabitants.|Topic8][$Topic8 = true; $ApoChat = true]]<<else>>\ \<</if>> <<if !$Topic2>>[[– Herself.|Topic2][$Topic2 = true; $ApoChat = true]]<<else>>\ \<</if>> <<if !$Topic3>>[[– The Hunter's Moon.|Topic3][$Topic3 = true; $ApoChat = true]]<<else>>\ \<</if>> <<if !$Topic4>>[[– The page that led you here.|Topic4][$Topic4 = true; $ApoChat = true]]<<else>>\ \<</if>> <<if !$Topic7>>[[– Language magic.|Topic7][$Topic7 = true; $ApoChat = true]]<<else>>\ \<</if>> <<if !$Topic5 && !$CrypticsDone>>[[– The former assistants.|Topic5][$Topic5 = true; $ApoChat = true]]<<else>>\ \<</if>> <<if !$Topic6 && $CrypticsDone>>[[– Mamadou and Seynabou.|Topic6][$Topic6 = true; $ApoChat = true]]<<else>>\ \<</if>> [[Never mind.|Post-Shift]]

It takes you a while to find a suitable tree, but you think this one should do the trick. You complete a first turn. Then another. Three, four, five... ten... fifteen... <<linkappend "twenty...">> <<linkappend "twenty-five...">> <<linkappend "twenty-nine...">> [[you close your eyes.|Forest]] <</linkappend>> <</linkappend>> <</linkappend>>

<<set $ApoChat = false>>\ <<goto "End of Shift (All)">>\

<<set $CreatureClicked = "">>\ <<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ As you start your search, you glance at the note that Aïssatou wrote for you: <i> Fish Distinctive traits: Fins on the chest, back and tail. </i>\ You come to the mysterious cave once again, and follow it to its end. You walk across the rocky beach until you find a group of pool where freshwater turns brackish. Suddenly, the vial heats up under your fingertips! You look around to find your target, and you get a good glance at two creatures who look similar. But the spell is running out, and you won't be able to examine them more closely before deciding what to bottle. <div class="animals">\ [img[|Pictures/Aquatic/2a.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "A"]]\ [img[|Pictures/Aquatic/2b.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "B"]]\ </div>

A tiny spark ignites as you remove the cork, and a colourful glowing mist fills the vial. The glass turns cold once again. You carefully make your way back to the store. Aïssatou meets you at the door and excitedly collects your find. "Welcome back!" She raises the vial to her face and gazes deeply into it. <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>\ "Yes... yes! This is perfect! Thank you so much!" <<else>>\ "Hmmm, something's not quite right... Oh!" She smiles in amusement. "I think you were bamboozled by a lookalike!" <</if>>\ You tell her about the two creatures that you saw. "Ah, I see! The lookalike must have been a salamander. Isn't it amazing that fish such as mudskippers can be mistaken for amphibians?" <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>\ She thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <<else>>\ Armed with a new vial, you hurry back to the place where you found the creatures and manage to bottle the correct essence. Aïssatou thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <</if>>\ <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Saturday)][$SatClosedCount++]]

A tiny spark ignites as you remove the cork, and a colourful glowing mist fills the vial. The glass turns cold once again. You carefully make your way back to the store. Aïssatou meets you at the door and excitedly collects your find. "Welcome back!" She raises the vial to her face and gazes deeply into it. <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>\ "Yes... yes! This is perfect! Thank you so much!" <<else>>\ "Hmmm, something's not quite right... Oh!" She smiles in amusement. "I think you were bamboozled by a lookalike!" <</if>>\ You tell her about the two creatures that you saw. "Ah, I see! The lookalike must have been a conch. With their little eyes and mouth, I find them even more adorable than other snails!" <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>\ She thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <<else>>\ Armed with a new vial, you hurry back to the place where you found the creatures and manage to bottle the correct essence. Aïssatou thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <</if>>\ <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Saturday)][$SatClosedCount++]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and are excitedly greeted by Aïssatou, who is once again examining the glowing contents of an assortment of small vials. "I'm so glad to see you! I've been making great progress in my spell research thanks to what you've brought me so far. There's something else I still need, if you have time to go look for it..." She takes a cursory glance at her notes, periodically looking over at the full vials on the table. "This time, I'd like to capture the playfulness of a fish!" Equipped with a magic-infused vial and a hastily-scribbled informative note, you set out [[to find a suitable fish|_NextPassage]].

<<set $CreatureClicked = "">>\ <<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ As you start your search, you glance at the note that Aïssatou wrote for you: <i> Dragonfly Distinctive traits: Large eyes that cover most of the head. Wings spread horizontally at rest. </i>\ Suddenly, the vial heats up under your fingertips! You look around to find your target, and you get a good glance at two creatures who look similar. But the spell is running out, and you won't be able to examine them more closely before deciding what to bottle. <div class="animals">\ [img[|Pictures/Aquatic/3a.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "A"]]\ [img[|Pictures/Aquatic/3b.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "B"]]\ </div>

A tiny spark ignites as you remove the cork, and a colourful glowing mist fills the vial. The glass turns cold once again. You carefully make your way back to the store. Aïssatou meets you at the door and excitedly collects your find. "Welcome back!" She raises the vial to her face and gazes deeply into it. <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>\ "Yes... yes! This is perfect! Thank you so much!" <<else>>\ "Hmmm, something's not quite right... Oh!" She smiles in amusement. "I think you were bamboozled by a lookalike!" <</if>>\ You tell her about the two creatures that you saw. "Ah, I see! The lookalike must have been a damselfly. They grow up in the water just like dragonflies and like to zoom around in similar ways, but there are a few telltale differences!" <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>\ She thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <<else>>\ Armed with a new vial, you hurry back to the place where you found the creatures and manage to bottle the correct essence. Aïssatou thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <</if>>\ <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Saturday)][$SatClosedCount++]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and are excitedly greeted by Aïssatou, who is once again examining the glowing contents of an assortment of small vials. "I'm so glad to see you! I've been making great progress in my spell research thanks to what you've brought me so far. There's something else I still need, if you have time to go look for it..." She takes a cursory glance at her notes, periodically looking over at the full vials on the table. "This time, I'd like to capture the song of a walrus!" Equipped with a magic-infused vial and a hastily-scribbled informative note, you set out [[to find a suitable walrus|_NextPassage]].

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and are excitedly greeted by Aïssatou, who is once again examining the glowing contents of an assortment of small vials. "I'm so glad to see you! I've been making great progress in my spell research thanks to what you've brought me so far. There's something else I still need, if you have time to go look for it..." She takes a cursory glance at her notes, periodically looking over at the full vials on the table. "This time, I'd like to capture the grace of a dragonfly!" Equipped with a magic-infused vial and a hastily-scribbled informative note, you set out [[to find a suitable dragonfly|_NextPassage]].

<<set $CreatureClicked = "">>\ <<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ As you start your search, you glance at the note that Aïssatou wrote for you: <i> Aquatic turtle Distinctive traits: Webbed feet (freshwater) or paddle-like feet (marine). Relatively smooth shell. </i>\ You come across a small lake, full of life. Suddenly, the vial heats up under your fingertips! You look around to find your target, and you get a good glance at two creatures who look similar. But the spell is running out, and you won't be able to examine them more closely before deciding what to bottle. <div class="animals">\ [img[|Pictures/Aquatic/4a.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "A"]]\ [img[|Pictures/Aquatic/4b.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "B"]]\ </div>

A tiny spark ignites as you remove the cork, and a colourful glowing mist fills the vial. The glass turns cold once again. You carefully make your way back to the store. Aïssatou meets you at the door and excitedly collects your find. "Welcome back!" She raises the vial to her face and gazes deeply into it. <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>\ "Yes... yes! This is perfect! Thank you so much!" <<else>>\ "Hmmm, something's not quite right... Oh!" She smiles in amusement. "I think you were bamboozled by a lookalike!" <</if>>\ You tell her about the two creatures that you saw. "Ah, I see! The lookalike must have been a land turtle. The way that all turtles' bones have evolved into shells is simply amazing!" <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>\ She thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <<else>>\ Armed with a new vial, you hurry back to the place where you found the creatures and manage to bottle the correct essence. Aïssatou thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <</if>>\ <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Saturday)][$SatClosedCount++]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and are excitedly greeted by Aïssatou, who is once again examining the glowing contents of an assortment of small vials. "I'm so glad to see you! I've been making great progress in my spell research thanks to what you've brought me so far. There's something else I still need, if you have time to go look for it..." She takes a cursory glance at her notes, periodically looking over at the full vials on the table. "This time, I'd like to capture a heron's contentment!" Equipped with a magic-infused vial and a hastily-scribbled informative note, you set out [[to find a suitable heron|_NextPassage]].

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and are excitedly greeted by Aïssatou, who is once again examining the glowing contents of an assortment of small vials. "I'm so glad to see you! I've been making great progress in my spell research thanks to what you've brought me so far. There's something else I still need, if you have time to go look for it..." She takes a cursory glance at her notes, periodically looking over at the full vials on the table. "This time, I'd like to capture the joy of an aquatic turtle!" Equipped with a magic-infused vial and a hastily-scribbled informative note, you set out [[to find a suitable aquatic turtle|_NextPassage]].

<<set $CreatureClicked = "">>\ <<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ As you start your search, you glance at the note that Aïssatou wrote for you: <i> Walrus Distinctive traits: Tusks. Distinct fingers on feet. </i>\ You come once again to a cave that smells of saltwater, and you find the ocean. Suddenly, the vial heats up under your fingertips! You look around to find your target, and you get a good glance at two creatures who look similar. But the spell is running out, and you won't be able to examine them more closely before deciding what to bottle. <div class="animals">\ [img[|Pictures/Aquatic/5a.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "A"]]\ [img[|Pictures/Aquatic/5b.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "B"]]\ </div>

A tiny spark ignites as you remove the cork, and a colourful glowing mist fills the vial. The glass turns cold once again. You carefully make your way back to the store. Aïssatou meets you at the door and excitedly collects your find. "Welcome back!" She raises the vial to her face and gazes deeply into it. <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>\ "Yes... yes! This is perfect! Thank you so much!" <<else>>\ "Hmmm, something's not quite right... Oh!" She smiles in amusement. "I think you were bamboozled by a lookalike!" <</if>>\ You tell her about the two creatures that you saw. "Ah, I see! The lookalike must have been a manatee. They're such gentle giants, and I believe they're actually related to elephants!" <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>\ She thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <<else>>\ Armed with a new vial, you hurry back to the place where you found the creatures and manage to bottle the correct essence. Aïssatou thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <</if>>\ <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $CreatureClicked == "B">>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Saturday)][$SatClosedCount++]]

<<set $CreatureClicked = "">>\ <<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ As you start your search, you glance at the note that Aïssatou wrote for you: <i> Heron Distinctive traits: Long legs. Thin neck. Straight beak. </i>\ You come to a familiar, lively lake. Suddenly, the vial heats up under your fingertips! You look around to find your target, and you get a good glance at two creatures who look similar. But the spell is running out, and you won't be able to examine them more closely before deciding what to bottle. <div class="animals">\ [img[|Pictures/Aquatic/6a.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "A"]]\ [img[|Pictures/Aquatic/6b.png][_NextPassage][$CreatureClicked = "B"]]\ </div>

A tiny spark ignites as you remove the cork, and a colourful glowing mist fills the vial. The glass turns cold once again. You carefully make your way back to the store. Aïssatou meets you at the door and excitedly collects your find. "Welcome back!" She raises the vial to her face and gazes deeply into it. <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>\ "Yes... yes! This is perfect! Thank you so much!" <<else>>\ "Hmmm, something's not quite right... Oh!" She smiles in amusement. "I think you were bamboozled by a lookalike!" <</if>>\ You tell her about the two creatures that you saw. "Ah, I see! The lookalike must have been a cormorant. As diving birds without waterproof feathers, they often have to sit with their wings spread out for drying. She must have just come back from a swim when you saw her!" <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>\ She thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <<else>>\ Armed with a new vial, you hurry back to the place where you found the creatures and manage to bottle the correct essence. Aïssatou thanks you warmly and wastes no time in starting her analysis. <</if>>\ <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $CreatureClicked == "A">>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Saturday)][$SatClosedCount++]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ You find the sun-blocking creams and start looking for one with a potency of 401. You notice that the helpful sheet next to the shelf has gotten slightly longer: //I = 1 V = 5 X = 10 L = 50 C = 100 D = 500 note: larger numbers go first, except when subtracting smaller numbers from them// You grab the bottle labelled: [[– CDI |_NextPassage][$MonoClicked = true]] [[– CCCLI |_NextPassage][$MonoClicked = false]] [[– XLI |_NextPassage][$MonoClicked = false]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the shop and, under Aïssatou's instruction, get to work re-potting a particularly tall plant. You've just finished your task when you hear a familiar thumping coming from outside. Echekrates soon comes in, and you help him get settled as he describes his latest need. "The cream that I got last time was nice, but I need something stronger! I'm still trying to find the exact potency that's right for me. Today I'd like to try, um..." He looks up pensively as he counts on his fingers. "A potency of 401, please!" You head to the shelf where the concoctions are stored, [[near the back of the room.|_NextPassage]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the shop and, under Aïssatou's instruction, get to work re-potting a particularly fragrant plant. You've just finished your task when you hear a familiar thumping coming from outside. Echekrates soon comes in, and you help him get settled as he describes his latest need. "The cream that I got last time was nice, but I need something stronger! I'm still trying to find the exact potency that's right for me. Today I'd like to try, um..." He looks up pensively as he counts on his fingers. "A potency of 999, please!" You head to the shelf where the concoctions are stored, [[near the back of the room.|_NextPassage]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ You find the sun-blocking creams and start looking for one with a potency of 999. You note that the helpful sheet next to the shelf has gotten slightly longer: //I = 1 V = 5 X = 10 L = 50 C = 100 D = 500 M = 1000 note: larger numbers go first, except when subtracting smaller numbers from them// You grab the bottle labelled: [[– MXCIX |_NextPassage][$MonoClicked = false]] [[– DCCCLIX |_NextPassage][$MonoClicked = false]] [[– CMXCIX |_NextPassage][$MonoClicked = true]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ <<if $Corn == 0>> You sit down with her, stooping down a bit to reach the table, and start to eat. The kernels are tasty, juicy, and just sweet enough. To your amazement, she keeps happily scarfing down the cobs whole, unbothered by their tough cores. She suddenly stops eating and looks pensive. "You know, I love eating them raw like this, but I've been thinking I should learn to cook them... I've never done it before." <<else>> She nods pensively. "We should, but... I think I'm going to need your help." She nervously clutches a new cob as she looks towards the small kitchen area at the back of the store. "I know it should be easy. It's just... I can't bring myself to do it." <</if>>\ You [[show her how|_NextPassage]].

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and find Aïssatou not working, for once. She's sitting at a low table in front of a towering pile of corn cobs. Next to her is a basket filled with husks. She dabs her mouth with a small towel and waves to you with a cob-wielding hand. "Hi! I just received this delicious harvest from <<if $PukSeen == 1>>Weetamoo<<else>>one of our regulars<</if>>. Do you want some?" Before you can answer, she looks down at the pile and wonders aloud: "...Do you think we should try cooking them?" As she waits for your response, she crunches through a fresh cob as it it were a carrot, and in just a few seconds it's completely gone. [[– You suggest boiling them. |_NextPassage][$Corn = 1]] [[– You suggest grilling them. |_NextPassage][$Corn = 2]] [[– Eating them raw is fine.|_NextPassage][$Corn = 0]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the shop and, under Aïssatou's instruction, get to work re-potting a particularly fuzzy plant. You've just finished your task when you hear a familiar thumping coming from outside. Echekrates excitedly waltzes in and starts talking as soon as he sees you. "I think I've finally figured it out! What I need is a sunscreen with a potency of precisely 1234 and a quarter! I know it's unlikely, but could you please check if you have it in stock? Otherwise, I'll place a special order." You head to the shelf where the concoctions are stored, [[near the back of the shop.|_NextPassage]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ You find the sun-blocking creams and start looking for one with a potency of 1234 and 1/4. You notice that the helpful sheet next to the shelf has gotten slightly longer: //I = 1 V = 5 X = 10 L = 50 C = 100 D = 500 M = 1000 ''·'' = 1/12th note: larger numbers go first, except when subtracting smaller numbers from them// You grab the bottle labelled: [[– MCMXXXIV · · · |_NextPassage][$MonoClicked = false]] [[– MCCXXXIV · · · |_NextPassage][$MonoClicked = true]] [[– MCCXXXIV · · · · |_NextPassage][$MonoClicked = false]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ "Oh dear... I'm sorry! I've been working so much lately..." She rubs her eyes. "Thankfully, it'll all be over soon — the week of the full moon is upon us, and starting tomorrow I'll be able to put the finishing touches on all my plans while the shop is shut down. And it's in great part thanks to you!" She sighs contentedly, then silently regards you for a moment before speaking up again. "Would you want to live here? In these woods, I mean." You think about it, and answer that: [[– You would.|_NextPassage][$Reside = 0]] [[– You wouldn't.|_NextPassage][$Reside = 1]] [[– You're not sure.|_NextPassage][$Reside = 2]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and find Aïssatou sitting in a chair, slumped against the table in front of her. You quickly realize that she's asleep. Her cheek is resting on a large open tome, and her hand is loosely wrapped around her reed pen. As the door closes behind you, [[she wakes up.|_NextPassage]]

<<if $Reside == 0>>\ A soft smile reaches her lips. "Maybe once all of this is behind us, we can make room for you... I bet the others would be delighted." <<elseif $Reside == 1>>\ She nods understandingly. "To each their own! In any case, you're always welcome here as a visitor." <<else>>\ She laughs softly. "Well, there's no rush. If you ever need a new home, I'll be here." <</if>>\ You chat a while longer, about the forest and about life. As she reluctantly picks her pen back up, she asks if you could bring her more spellmaking supplies before leaving. The table is soon overflowing with stones, flasks and all manner of implements. <<set $acorns += 60>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns (along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Saturday)][$SatOpenCount++]]

<<if $Corn == 0>> As she walks into the kitchen, she wistfully stares at the cooking implements, and her eyes look wet as she loses herself in thought. You take the lead, breaking her out of her melancholy, and walk her through the process of boiling water and lighting the grill. She gives a few cooked cobs a taste and smiles happily. <<elseif $Corn == 1>> As she walks into the kitchen, she wistfully stares at the cooking implements, and her eyes look wet as she loses herself in thought. You take the lead, breaking her out of her melancholy, and walk her through the process of boiling some water. You soon have a large heap of cooked cobs to share, of which she happily scarfs down a couple more dozens. <<else>> As she walks into the kitchen, she wistfully stares at the cooking implements, and her eyes look wet as she loses herself in thought. You take the lead, breaking her out of her melancholy, and walk her through the process of lighting the small grill. You soon have a large heap of cooked cobs to share, of which she happily scarfs down a couple more dozens. <</if>>\ She gives you her heartfelt thanks as she throws the husks in a large bin and gets back to work. <<set $acorns += 60>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns (along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Saturday)][$SatOpenCount++]]

You bring the bottle to Echekrates, who tests a small dab on his hand. <<if $MonoClicked == true>>\ "Yes, this is exactly what I was looking for! I can feel it! Thank you. I'm so happy to have found the right sunscreen at last!" <<else>>\ "Hmm... no, I'm sorry, this isn't the right potency! I can feel it!" You make your way back to the shelf, and after some time you manage to find the right bottle. "Thank you. I'm so happy to have found the right sunscreen at last!" <</if>>\ He leaves the store while humming a jolly tune. Aïssatou pops in and congratulates you for your work. "I hope those labels didn't give you too much trouble! I meant to have a talk with Ovidia about that but I keep missing her. I'm sure I can figure out a spell that works on numbers..." <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $MonoClicked>>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|End of Shift (Saturday)][$SatOpenCount++]]

<<set _currentShift = "Patupaiarehe " + $PatCount + "a">> <<goto _currentShift>>

<<set _currentShift = "Moosleute " + $MooCount + "a">> <<goto _currentShift>>

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ Aïssatou greets you as you enter and promptly disappears once again into a hidden crevice between two shelves, asking you to watch the store while she works on something. Minutes later, Hau-tōrua enters, accompanied by the usual clouds of fog. He heartily greets you, and as he keeps talking, the strange interference makes its return. "I'm organizing some games, and I need some //''model bras''// to give as prizes to the participants!" You head to the stockroom and attempt to [[find what he's looking for.|_NextPassage]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ Aïssatou greets you as you enter and promptly disappears once again into a hidden crevice between two shelves, asking you to watch the store while she works on something. Minutes later, Hau-tōrua enters, accompanied by the usual clouds of fog. He heartily greets you, and as he keeps talking, the strange interference makes its return, even worse than before. "My niece //''...''// I need //''... eaglet tine ...''// to help her pass the time!" You head to the stockroom and attempt to [[find what he's looking for.|_NextPassage]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ Aïssatou greets you as you enter and asks you to hold some new books for her as she sorts them into a bookcase. When Hau-tōrua comes in with his entourage of fog and his jolly demeanor, she greets him happily. The interference is worse than ever as he speaks: "Hello! //''... ... countermark chai nigiri ...''//" Aïssatou's eyes widen and she distractedly sets the books aside. "Whoa! Hang on... I'll be right back!" She runs to a large wooden chest at the back of the room, and [[you hear the clinking of glass as she rummages through it.|_NextPassage]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ Aïssatou greets you as you enter the shop. Before you can receive an assignment, Irmgard comes in as well, and puts down a heavy-looking cloth bag. The moss-clad woman exchanges a few jolly "hello"s, and after a quick tour of the room, she approches you with a warm smile. "Hello again! I need help. Can you bring me, from the storage room... ähm... water-rooster? For my kitchen!" You head to the backstore [[to look for what she wants|_NextPassage]].

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ Aïssatou greets you as you enter and promptly disappears into a hidden crevice between two shelves, asking you to watch the store while she works on something. Small clouds of fog soon blow into the shop as a robust man with lightly-tanned, blemishless skin and long wavy red hair walks in. A small rounded wooden flute hangs at his hip. You greet him and he enthusiastically responds, though you can't understand him yet. As he keeps talking in his pleasant booming voice, you notice that it takes longer than usual for the comprehension spell to kick in, and you miss most of the sentence. "... with my friends." You let him know about the spell issue and he repeats himself with a nod. However, some of his words still sound garbled. "My name is Hau-tōrua and I'm looking for some //''able hearts''// to enjoy with my friends." You ask him to confirm what he wants. "Some //''able hearts''//, please! To share with everyone!" He tries to write it out on a scrap of paper, but it is evidently not enchanted and you can't understand the script he writes in. You head to the stockroom and attempt to [[find what he's looking for.|_NextPassage]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ You enter the store and start looking for Aïssatou. Shortly afterwards, a wisp of mist floats into view as a short, jolly-looking woman with rosy cheeks walks in. Her body is clad in thick layers of fuzzy moss in every shade of green, and small leafy twigs are delicately woven into her long, greying dark hair. As she greets you in her deep and melodic voice, you can immediately understand her, and you're momentarily impressed by the efficacy of the comprehension spell. Then you realize that she is actually speaking English. "Hello! You are the new employee! I am coming here sometimes on Sonnday, Monday and Diensday. Today I am bringing back to Aïssatou a rain-screen." As if on cue, Aïssatou appears from behind a tall bookshelf. "Irmgard! Thank you for bringing back my umbrella! How have you been?" She turns to you. "Could you please go store it in the bin behind the counter?" You promptly put the umbrella in its place [[while listening to their conversation|_NextPassage]].

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ Aïssatou greets you as you enter the shop. Before you can receive an assignment, Irmgard comes in as well. The moss-clad woman exchanges a few jolly "hello"s, and after a quick tour of the room, she approches you with a warm smile. "Hello again! I need help. Can you bring me, from the storage room... ähm... lion-tooth? To put in water!" Aïssatou gestures to the stock list, and you head to the backstore with it [[to look for what Irmgard wants|_NextPassage]].

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/a$/,"b")>>\ Aïssatou greets you as you enter the shop. Before you can receive an assignment, Irmgard comes in as well. The moss-clad woman exchanges a few jolly "hello"s, and after a quick tour of the room, she approches you with a warm smile. "Hello again! I need help. Can you bring me, from the storage room... ähm... hand-shoes? From hemp!" You head to the backstore [[to look for what she wants|_NextPassage]].

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ <<if $DiegSeen == 1>>As you enter the stockroom, you notice a small printed note on the wall near Diégane's bell: //ON BREAK//<</if>>\ Looking through the list, you take note of the items that are most likely to fit the description of "lion-tooth". You decide to try to fetch... [[– A bouquet of cut dandelions. |_NextPassage][$MooClicked = true]] [[– A figurine of a cat. |_NextPassage][$MooClicked = false]] [[– A comb. |_NextPassage][$MooClicked = false]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ <<if $DiegSeen == 1>>As you enter the stockroom, you notice a small printed note on the wall near Diégane's bell: //ON BREAK//<</if>>\ Looking through the list, you take note of the items that are most likely to fit the description of "hand-shoes". You decide to try to fetch... [[– A boot-shaped ring. |_NextPassage][$MooClicked = false]] [[– A pair of gloves. |_NextPassage][$MooClicked = true]] [[– Shoes with handprints painted onto them. |_NextPassage][$MooClicked = false]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ <<if $DiegSeen == 1>>As you enter the stockroom, you notice a small printed note on the wall near Diégane's bell: //ON BREAK//<</if>>\ Looking through the list, you take note of the items that are most likely to fit the description of "water-rooster". You decide to try to fetch... [[– A water faucet. |_NextPassage][$MooClicked = true]] [[– An umbrella. |_NextPassage][$MooClicked = false]] [[– A "drinking bird" trinket. |_NextPassage][$MooClicked = false]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ Minutes pass as the two friends catch up, and you're offered a cup of tea as you sit nearby and occasionally participate. As the conversation winds down, AÏssatou asks you to sort out a small pile of runic stones, then lets you go. As Irmgard prepares to leave, citing a birthday party she has to organize, she bids you farewell and asks you one last question: "Which cake do you think I should make? Apple, plum, rhubarb, poppy, or marble cake?" [[– Apple. |_NextPassage][$CakeFlavour = "apple"]] [[– Plum. |_NextPassage][$CakeFlavour = "plum"]] [[– Rhubarb. |_NextPassage][$CakeFlavour = "rhubarb"]] [[– Poppy. |_NextPassage][$CakeFlavour = "poppy seed"]] [[– Marble. |_NextPassage][$CakeFlavour = "marble"]]

<<if $MooClicked == true>> It takes you a little while to locate your target on the stockroom's many shelves, but you succeed and bring it back to Irmgard, who is delighted. <<else>>\ It takes you a little while to locate your target on the stockroom's many shelves, but you succeed and bring it back to Irmgard. Unfortunately it's not what she was looking for, but Aïssatou follows you back into the stockroom and together you quickly locate the right item: a water faucet. <</if>>\ "Thank you so much! You say this is a 'water faucet'? Wonderful!" As you approach the counter once again, you notice that Aïssatou is nervously fiddling with a curl of her hair. Irmgard is rummaging through her own bag, and a moment later, she lifts up a large metal box that she hands to you. "A present for both of you!" As you hold the box, Aïssatou opens it to find a fresh $CakeFlavour cake. You see her mood shift from anxious to flustered. Irmgard chuckles jollily when she sees her reaction. "I hope that you like it!" Suddenly, Aïssatou speaks up. You feel the air inside your ears vibrate as the spell tries to keep up with her language. "Dan... Danke? Das ist... gud!" Irmgard clasps her hands in amazement. "Ah, gut gemacht! Sehr gut!" You lose track of which languages they're speaking as the conversation continues in a mix of magically-translated questions and praise, punctuated by forkfuls of delicious cake. Aïssatou's pearlescent skin is uncharacteristically flushed and she looks equal parts happy and proud. As Irmgard leaves, she reaches inside her bag once more and winks as she pulls something out. "Look — this time, I have brought my own umbrella!" Aïssatou laughs as she waves goodbye, then brings a small piece of cake to the stockroom before continuing her work. You hear happy, muffled squeaks coming from inside. <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $MooClicked>>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|$Return2Shift][$MooCount++]]

Happy with your answer, Irmgard takes her leave. AÏssatou smiles as she watches her go. "Isn't she incredible? She must be the most multilingual person in the entire woods. Sometimes she speaks to me in Wolof, too. I think I enjoy that more than the spell!" She goes back to her work, but you notice her looking over at her bookshelf pensively. <<set $acorns += 60>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns (along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) and are ready to [[end your shift.|$Return2Shift][$MooCount++]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ You don't find any able hearts in the stockroom, but trying to make sense of his scrambled words leads you to a few possible alternatives. You decide to bring out: [[– Some stab healer.|_NextPassage][$PatClicked = false]] [[– Some herbal teas.|_NextPassage][$PatClicked = true]] [[– Some earth bales.|_NextPassage][$PatClicked = false]]

<<if $PatClicked>>\ His eyes light up as you bring a set of herbal teas out of the stockroom. "Yes, that's just what I wanted! Thank you! I'm impressed that you were able to figure it out." <<else>>\ Amusement and confusion mix on his face as he watches you come out of the stockroom. You quickly realize that you're holding the wrong item, and another attempt allows you to locate the herbal teas that he wanted. "Thank you for bearing with me! I'm glad we managed to figure it out in the end." <</if>>\ Aïssatou comes out of her crevice right as he takes his leave, and they have a brief chat in which he promises to invite her over for tea sometime. <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $PatClicked>>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|$Return2Shift][$PatCount++]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ "Aha!" She triumphantly holds up a large vial as she runs back. It appears to be empty, save for a peculiar iridescent shimmer that catches your eye whenever she tilts it. She cracks open the front door and twirls her index outside, deftly wrapping a wisp of fog around it. When she uncorks the vial and dips her finger in, tiny colourful sparks erupt and flicker. They spread across the fog, dissolving it like wet candy floss. After giving the vial one last swirl for good measure, she flies up and pours the glimmering mixture on Hau-tōrua. It lightly settles across his skin and quickly fades away. He hesitantly starts to speak again: "I was asking for a miniature rocking chair?..." Cheers erupt as Aïssatou celebrates the spell's success. You fetch the rocking chair [[and Hau-tōrua thanks you heartily.|_NextPassage]]

<<if $PatClicked>>\ His eyes light up as you bring a set of orb medals out of the stockroom. "Yes, that's just what I wanted! Thank you! I'm impressed that you were able to figure it out." <<else>>\ Amusement and confusion mix on his face as he watches you come out of the stockroom. You quickly realize that you're holding the wrong item, and another attempt allows you to locate the orb medals that he wanted. "Thank you for bearing with me! I'm glad we managed to figure it out in the end." <</if>>\ Aïssatou comes out of her crevice right as he takes his leave, and they have a brief chat in which he compliments the herbal teas that he bought last time. <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $PatClicked>>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|$Return2Shift][$PatCount++]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ You don't find any eaglet tine in the stockroom, but trying to make sense of his scrambled words leads you to a few possible alternatives. You decide to bring out: [[– Some teenage lit.|_NextPassage][$PatClicked = true]] [[– An elegant tie.|_NextPassage][$PatClicked = false]] [[– A latte genie.|_NextPassage][$PatClicked = false]] [[– Some gentile tea.|_NextPassage][$PatClicked = false]]

<<set _NextPassage = passage().replace(/b$/,"c")>>\ You don't find any model bras in the stockroom, but trying to make sense of his scrambled words leads you to a few possible alternatives. You decide to bring out: [[– Some molar beds.|_NextPassage][$PatClicked = false]] [[– Some elm boards.|_NextPassage][$PatClicked = false]] [[– Some orb medals. |_NextPassage][$PatClicked = true]] [[– Some dore balms.|_NextPassage][$PatClicked = false]]

<<if $PatClicked>>\ His eyes light up as you bring some teenage lit out of the stockroom. "Yes, that's just what I wanted! Thank you! I'm impressed that you were able to figure it out." <<else>>\ Amusement and confusion mix on his face as he watches you come out of the stockroom. You quickly realize that you're holding the wrong item, and another attempt allows you to locate the teenage lit that he wanted. "Thank you for bearing with me! I'm glad we managed to figure it out in the end." <</if>>\ Aïssatou comes out of her crevice right as he takes his leave, and they have a brief chat in which they exchange book recommendations. <<set $acorns += 50>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns <<if $PatClicked>>(along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) <<set $acorns += 10>><</if>>and are ready to [[end your shift.|$Return2Shift][$PatCount++]]

He puts his purchase away and excitedly gushes about the lizard that it's meant for. As he prepares to leave, Aïssatou makes an apology, her eyes flitting back and forth between the two of you. "I'm sorry I never realized that there was magical interference going on! I thought I already had all of those kinks ironed out..." He laughs it off and happily bids you farewell. Aïssatou still looks a bit flustered, but she smiles at you as she gets back to her book sorting. <<set $acorns += 60>>\ Your tasks done for the time being, you collect your pay of 50 acorns (along with a bonus of 10 for your diligence) and are ready to [[end your shift.|$Return2Shift][$PatCount++]]

The paper is thick and textured, and bears a mysterious message. <i>If you seek access to the woods of sanctuary the forest where baobabs and longleaf pines entwine their roots and the call of the hawk is answered by the dove follow these directions: Anywhere in the world find the biggest and oldest tree you can and with good intent in your heart circle it twenty-nine and a half times. Close your eyes as you take the last few strides and you might find yourself somewhere truly magical... </i> [[You've decided to give it a try.|Circling Tree]]

<<set $vClock12 = true>> <<set $PhotonMode = "Auto">> <<set $SunOpenCount = 1>> <<set $MonClosedCount = 1>> <<set $MonOpenCount = 1>> <<set $MonTueClosedCount = 1>> <<set $TueOpenCount = 1>> <<set $TueThuClosedCount = 1>> <<set $ThuOpenCount = 1>> <<set $ThuFriClosedCount = 1>> <<set $FriOpenCount = 1>> <<set $FriSatClosedCount = 1>> <<set $SatOpenCount = 1>> <<set $SatClosedCount = 1>> <<set $MooCount = 1>> <<set $PatCount = 1>> <<set $ApoChat = false>> <<set $CreatureClicked = "">> <<set $CrypticsFound = 0>> <<set $CrypticsDone = false>> <<set $acorns = 0>> <<set $FirstClose = 0>> <<set $IntroDone = false>> <<set $ActiveShift = "">> <<set $ShiftEnds = 0>> <<set $Return2Shift = "">> <<set $CakeFlavour = "">> <<set $PukSeen = 0>> <<set $DiegSeen = 0>> <<set $FossSeen = 0>> <<set $TrioMet = 0>> <<set $BlueBracelet = 0>> <<set $RedBracelet = 0>> <<set $ChainPlace = "">> <<set $BeadCount = 0>> <<set $BuyFood = false>> <<set $BuyHumane = false>> <<set $BuyHelen = false>> <<set $BuyLead = false>> <<set $BuyWild = false>> <<set $BuyIncentives = false>> <<set $Cryptic1 = "">><<set $Cryptic2 = "">><<set $Cryptic3= "">> <<set $Cryptic4 = "">><<set $Cryptic5 = "">><<set $Cryptic6 = "">> <<set $Cryptic7 = "">><<set $Cryptic8 = "">><<set $Cryptic9 = "">> <<set $Cryptic10 = "">><<set $Cryptic11 = "">><<set $Cryptic12 = "">> <<set $Cryptic13 = "">><<set $Cryptic14 = "">><<set $Cryptic15 = "">> <<set $Topic1 = false>><<set $Topic2 = false>><<set $Topic3 = false>> <<set $Topic4 = false>><<set $Topic5 = false>><<set $Topic6 = false>> <<set $Topic7 = false>><<set $Topic8 = false>><<set $Topic9 = false>> <<set $Topic10 = false>>

<<set $ApoChat = false>>\ <<goto "End of Shift (All)">>\

In the quietest depths of the woods, where the trees themsleves appear illusory, you find a strange portal that opens the very fabric of time... Visit [[Sun OPEN|Sunday 0:00 - 23:59]] (<<print $SunOpenCount - 1>> out of 6 completed) Visit [[Mon CLOSED|Monday 0:00 - 8:59]] (<<print $MonClosedCount - 1>> out of 6 completed) Visit [[Mon OPEN|Monday 9:00 - 17:00]] (<<print $MonOpenCount - 1>> out of 6 completed) Visit [[Mon/Tue CLOSED|Monday 17:01 - 23:59]] (<<print $MonTueClosedCount - 1>> out of 6 completed) Visit [[Tue OPEN|Tuesday 5:00 - 21:00]] (<<print $TueOpenCount - 1>> out of 6 completed) Visit [[Tue/Thu CLOSED|Tuesday 21:01 - 23:59]] (<<print $TueThuClosedCount - 1>> out of 6 completed) Visit [[Thu OPEN|Thursday 2:00 - 10:10]] (<<print $ThuOpenCount - 1>> out of 6 completed) Visit [[Thu/Fri CLOSED|Thursday 10:11 - 23:59]] (<<print $ThuFriClosedCount - 1>> out of 6 completed) Visit [[Fri OPEN|Friday 11:00 - 23:00]] (<<print $FriOpenCount - 1>> out of 6 completed) Visit [[Fri/Sat CLOSED|Friday 23:01 - 23:59]] (<<print $FriSatClosedCount - 1>> out of 6 completed) Visit [[Sat OPEN|Saturday 12:30 - 15:21]] (<<print $SatOpenCount - 1>> out of 6 completed) Visit [[Sat CLOSED|Saturday 15:22 - 23:59]] (<<print $SatClosedCount - 1>> out of 6 completed)

<<done>><<if $acorns >= 250>><<toggleclass "#Beads" "Disabled">><</if>><</done>> <<set $BeadCount = [$BuyFood, $BuyHumane, $BuyHelen, $BuyLead, $BuyWild, $BuyIncentives].filter(Boolean).length>>\ <<if $BeadCount == 6>>\ There are no more beads left in the small chest. Aïssatou apologizes for not having more to offer you for the time being, but expresses heartfelt gratitude for all of your efforts. "Thank you for being someone we can truly count on; your dedication is outstanding! I wish you could hear how all the forest creatures speak of you!" <<else>>\ You carefully open the worn chest and examine its contents: <</if>>\ @@#Beads;.Disabled; <<if !$BuyFood>>– A mysterious zirconium bead decorated with engravings of leaves. [[Purchase the zirconium bead for 250 acorns.|Buy Food][$BuyFood = true; $BeadCount++; $acorns -= 250]] <<if $acorns < 250>>@@color:grey;//(not enough acorns)//@@<</if>> @@.Charity;[This will benefit the <a href="https://www.givingwhatwecan.org/charities/good-food-institute" target="_blank">Good Food Institute</a>]@@ <</if>>\ <<if !$BuyHumane>>– A beautiful silver bead decorated with engravings of birds. [[Purchase the silver bead for 250 acorns.|Buy Humane][$BuyHumane = true; $BeadCount++; $acorns -= 250]] <<if $acorns < 250>>@@color:grey;//(not enough acorns)//@@<</if>> @@.Charity;[This will benefit the <a href="https://www.givingwhatwecan.org/charities/the-humane-league" target="_blank">Humane League</a>]@@ <</if>>\ <<if !$BuyHelen>>– A lustrous gold bead decorated with engravings of flowers. [[Purchase the gold bead for 250 acorns.|Buy Helen][$BuyHelen = true; $BeadCount++; $acorns -= 250]] <<if $acorns < 250>>@@color:grey;//(not enough acorns)//@@<</if>> @@.Charity;[This will benefit <a href="https://www.givewell.org/charities/helen-keller-international" target="_blank">Helen Keller International</a>]@@ <</if>>\ <<if !$BuyLead>>– A gorgeous iron bead decorated with engravings of mountains. [[Purchase the iron bead for 250 acorns.|Buy Lead][$BuyLead = true; $BeadCount++; $acorns -= 250]] <<if $acorns < 250>>@@color:grey;//(not enough acorns)//@@<</if>> @@.Charity;[This will benefit the <a href="https://www.givingwhatwecan.org/charities/leep" target="_blank">Lead Exposure Elimination Project</a>]@@ <</if>>\ <<if !$BuyWild>>– A sturdy tantalum bead decorated with engravings of insects. [[Purchase the tantalum bead for 250 acorns.|Buy Wild][$BuyWild = true; $BeadCount++; $acorns -= 250]] <<if $acorns < 250>>@@color:grey;//(not enough acorns)//@@<</if>> @@.Charity;[This will benefit the <a href="https://www.givingwhatwecan.org/charities/wild-animal-initiative" target="_blank">Wild Animal Initiative</a>]@@ <</if>>\ <<if !$BuyIncentives>>– A striking palladium bead decorated with engravings of waves. [[Purchase the palladium bead for 250 acorns.|Buy Incentives][$BuyIncentives = true; $BeadCount++; $acorns -= 250]] <<if $acorns < 250>>@@color:grey;//(not enough acorns)//@@<</if>> @@.Charity;[This will benefit <a href="https://www.givewell.org/charities/new-incentives" target="_blank">New Incentives</a>]@@ <</if>>\ @@\ [[Close the chest and put it away.|Post-Shift]] @@.ArrowMenu; <<link "<div id='CharityMenu'>⯈ Note about charitable donations</div>">>\ <<set _CharityLink = !!!_CharityLink>>\ <<replace "#CharityMenu">><<if _CharityLink>>⯆ Note about charitable donations<<else>>⯈ Note about charitable donations<</if>><</replace>>\ <<toggleclass "#CharityNote" "hidden">>\ <</link>>\ @@\ @@margin-left:20px; <div id="CharityNote" class="hidden">\ Player participation will be aggregated in order to make a single donation to each organization shortly after the conclusion of IFComp 2024. All charities will receive a minimum amount, with player contributions adding a bonus sum. The current plan is for each in-game item purchased with acorns to count for 1$ U.S. in real-world donations. Funds will be drawn from the author's IFComp 2023 prize money, as well as revenue from the sale of <a href="https://pizzapranks.itch.io/indiepocalypse-55" target="_blank">Indiepocalypse #55</a> (and will be supplemented as needed in case of high participation). Results will be published on intfiction.org in the <a href="https://intfiction.org/c/competitions/7" target="_blank">Competitions forum</a>.</div> @@\ [''Additional note'': the acorn count can be found in the sidebar, alongside other information and features.]

<<set _Page1Count = [$Cryptic1, $Cryptic2, $Cryptic3].filter(Boolean).length>>\ <<set _Page2Count = [$Cryptic4, $Cryptic5, $Cryptic6].filter(Boolean).length>>\ <<set _Page3Count = [$Cryptic7, $Cryptic8, $Cryptic9].filter(Boolean).length>>\ <<set _Page4Count = [$Cryptic10, $Cryptic11, $Cryptic12].filter(Boolean).length>>\ <<set _Page5Count = [$Cryptic13, $Cryptic14, $Cryptic15].filter(Boolean).length>>\ <<if !$CrypticsDone && (_Page1Count + _Page2Count + _Page3Count + _Page4Count + _Page5Count == 15)>><<goto "Cryptics Solved">><</if>>\ <<if $CrypticsDone == true>>You've managed to solve all of the cryptic clues! Aïssatou praises your wits and dedication.<</if>> <<if $CrypticsFound >= 0>>[[Page 1|Page 1]] (_Page1Count of 3 solved)<</if>> <<if $CrypticsFound >= 1>>[[Page 2|Page 2]] (_Page2Count of 3 solved)<</if>> <<if $CrypticsFound >= 2>>[[Page 3|Page 3]] (_Page3Count of 3 solved)<</if>> <<if $CrypticsFound >= 3>>[[Page 4|Page 4]] (_Page4Count of 3 solved)<</if>> <<if $CrypticsFound >= 4>>[[Page 5|Page 5]] (_Page5Count of 3 solved)<</if>> [[Put aside the pages for now.|Post-Shift]] Consult the guide: https://s.wsj.net/blogs/html/wsjcrypticguide.pdf [''Note to player'': A bug was discovered that might affect specific browsers (so far, Safari on Mac and Safari/Firefox on iOS). It prevented answers typed in lowercase from being recognized as correct. It should hopefully be fixed now, but if you think you're still affected, typing your answers in all caps might help!]

<i>Ruminant initially goes outside after tea (4)</i> <<if $Cryptic13 == "">>[[Attempt to solve|Puzzle 13]]<<else>><i>$Cryptic13</i><</if>> <i>Turning around, he loots a chair (5)</i> <<if $Cryptic14 == "">>[[Attempt to solve|Puzzle 14]]<<else>><i>$Cryptic14</i><</if>> <i>Chinese board game won't stay! (2)</i> <<if $Cryptic15 == "">>[[Attempt to solve|Puzzle 15]]<<else>><i>$Cryptic15</i><</if>> [[Set aside this page for now.|Cryptics]]

<i>Mental confusion leads to loud sorrow (6)</i> <<if $Cryptic10 == "">>[[Attempt to solve|Puzzle 10]]<<else>><i>$Cryptic10</i><</if>> <i>Idleness infraction after French leaves (8)</i> <<if $Cryptic11 == "">>[[Attempt to solve|Puzzle 11]]<<else>><i>$Cryptic11</i><</if>> <i>Tiny insect found in blouses (5)</i> <<if $Cryptic12 == "">>[[Attempt to solve|Puzzle 12]]<<else>><i>$Cryptic12</i><</if>> [[Set aside this page for now.|Cryptics]]

<i>Spooner's gift shears make a change (5,5)</i> <<if $Cryptic4 == "">>[[Attempt to solve|Puzzle 4]]<<else>><i>$Cryptic4</i><</if>> <i>Repel man with cleaning product? (9)</i> <<if $Cryptic5 == "">>[[Attempt to solve|Puzzle 5]]<<else>><i>$Cryptic5</i><</if>> <i>Harmful pattern of a violent bike? (7,5)</i> <<if $Cryptic6 == "">>[[Attempt to solve|Puzzle 6]]<<else>><i>$Cryptic6</i><</if>> [[Set aside this page for now.|Cryptics]]

<i>Shamrocks found in country of anger! (7)</i> <<if $Cryptic7 == "">>[[Attempt to solve|Puzzle 7]]<<else>><i>$Cryptic7</i><</if>> <i>First woman sleeping on tallest mountain (7)</i> <<if $Cryptic8 == "">>[[Attempt to solve|Puzzle 8]]<<else>><i>$Cryptic8</i><</if>> <i>Spherical fruit says it can't elope (10)</i> <<if $Cryptic9 == "">>[[Attempt to solve|Puzzle 9]]<<else>><i>$Cryptic9</i><</if>> [[Set aside this page for now.|Cryptics]]

<i>Small demon exposed to oxygen is weakened (8)</i> <<if $Cryptic1 == "">>[[Attempt to solve|Puzzle 1]]<<else>><i>$Cryptic1</i><</if>> <i>Small demon performs hits (7)</i> <<if $Cryptic2 == "">>[[Attempt to solve|Puzzle 2]]<<else>><i>$Cryptic2</i><</if>> <i>Simply contains a small demon (3)</i> <<if $Cryptic3 == "">>[[Attempt to solve|Puzzle 3]]<<else>><i>$Cryptic3</i><</if>> [[Set aside this page for now.|Cryptics]]

<<set $ActiveShift = "Post-Shift">> <<set _NextPassage = "Cryptic " + (++$CrypticsFound)>> <<if $CrypticsFound <= 4>> <<goto _NextPassage>> <<elseif $CrypticsFound == 5>> <<goto "Mini-Conclusion">> <<else>> <<goto "Post-Shift">> <</if>>

As you finish your shift, you notice another crudely-cut clipping lying outside, and your fingertips tingle as you take it. It reads: // - Shamrocks found in country of anger! (7) - First woman sleeping on tallest mountain (7) - Spherical fruit says it can't elope (10) // As you file it away, you notice that Aïssatou is now hunched over a table, thoughtfully writing on a sheet of paper with a reed pen. [[You hang around the shop for a while.|Post-Shift]]

As you finish your shift, you notice another crudely-cut clipping lying outside, and your fingertips tingle as you take it. It reads: // - Mental confusion leads to loud sorrow (6) - Idleness infraction after French leaves (8) - Tiny insect found in blouses (5) // [[You file it away in the designated drawer.|Post-Shift]]

As you finish your shift, you notice another crudely-cut clipping lying outside, and your fingertips tingle as you take it. It reads: // - Ruminant initially goes outside after tea (4) - Turning around, he loots a chair (5) - Chinese board game won't stay! (2) // As you file it away, you notice that Aïssatou is now hunched over a table, embroidering a brightly-coloured garment. [[You hang around the shop for a while.|Post-Shift]]

As you finish your shift, you notice another crudely-cut clipping lying outside, and your fingertips tingle as you take it. You notice two sets of footprints, one slightly larger than the other, leading away from the shop and into the brush. You follow them briefly but fail to see anyone. The paper reads: // - Spooner's gift shears make a change (5,5) - Repel man with cleaning product? (9) - Harmful pattern of a violent bike? (7,5) // [[You file it away in the designated drawer.|Post-Shift]]

Kneeling in front of each figure successively, she takes a stunning boubou out of her satchel and respectfully holds it up. "I made these for you." The tall figure hesitates for a moment, then slowly reaches out to touch the dark blue satin. Raising the garment up near where you suppose her face is, she seems to admire the details intricately woven in golden thread. The shorter figure grasps the red and gold boubou with both hands, gently stroking the fabric with his thumbs. Aïssatou backs away and pulls out a neatly-folded piece of paper. Her voice is filled with nervousness as she unfolds it and starts to read. "Mamadou, Seynabou, I am ashamed that it has taken me so long to recognize the rights that you deserve. Surrounded by other yumboes who never questioned their lifestyles, I remained blissfully ignorant of your struggles. I thought that simply not being cruel was enough. That the natural order of things should not be questioned. I thought myself kind and benevolent. But later on, even as I helped other beings break free of the chains of their circumstances, I had a blind spot in my treatment of you. I still felt entitled to your work. In truth we were always equals in every way that matters, and I wish I could have realized it sooner. I was extremely hurtful in my carelessness, and I sincerely apologize..." Her voice slowly trails off. She looks up and quickly rubs her eyes, then slips the paper into the satchel and hesitantly holds the latter out towards Mamadou and Seynabou. "There is more, if you'd like to read it... I've also left some acorns in there for you." Mamadou wordlessly reaches out and takes it. Aïssatou, flustered, continues to speak. "You don't have to ever come back to the apothecary if you don't want to, but please don't feel the need to hide away. You are full-fledged members of our community, and if you need anything, everyone will have your backs." There is a long silence, as if no one quite knows what to do. Finally, Seynabou speaks up, her melodic voice shaky with emotion. "Thank you, Aïssatou. I think that Mamadou and I have much to discuss before making any decisions, but we will get in touch with you again. To be honest, we rather impulsively set out to test you, and we were not expecting this development..." She hugs the boubou to her chest and you hear a smile in her voice as she continues: "But this is much better than solving some puzzles!" Aïssatou laughs nervously, and everyone waves as the two start to take their leave. Before turning away, they call out to you: "Take care, new assistant!" "Don't let Aïssatou slack off!" Still recovering from her intense emotions, Aïssatou goes back into the store to resume her work, thanking you profusely all the while. [[As you follow her in, she presents you with 250 acorns.|Post-Shift]] <<set $acorns += 250>>

Aïssatou thanks you heartily, declaring you a friend of the woods and all of its inhabitants. You're given a woven cord to hold your bead, which you choose to place: [[– around your wrist.|previous()][$ChainPlace = "wrist"]] [[– around your ankle.|previous()][$ChainPlace = "ankle"]] [[– around your neck.|previous()][$ChainPlace = "neck"]] [[– on your clothing.|previous()][$ChainPlace = "clothing"]] [[– in your pocket.|previous()][$ChainPlace = "pocket"]]

<<if new Date().toLocaleDateString('en-CA') > "2024-10-12">>Aïssatou warmly greets you as you enter, but doesn't linger. She seems busy preparing supplies and casting spells. Nothing you can help her with, she clarifies — but you're welcome to stay as long as you want while she works.<<else>>There's no work left for you to take care of, for now. There should be more to do once a different timeslot comes around on the schedule (whether the store is open or closed). You can leave until you're ready to come back for another shift, or hang around the quiet shop and do a few extra things.<</if>> <<if !$ApoChat>>\ [[Have a chat with Aïssatou.|Chat]] <<else>>\ @@color: gray; Have a chat with Aïssatou. (once per shift)@@ <</if>>\ [[Purchase a bead.|Shop]] [[Take a look at the cryptic clues.|Cryptics]] <<if new Date().toLocaleDateString('en-CA') > "2024-10-16">><<goto "Test Date">><</if>>

<<set $CrypticsDone = true>>\ As the last correct answer magically lodges itself into the paper, thousands upon thousands of colourful sparks pour out of the five sheets, flowing towards the shop's doorway in a bright cascade. Once they've made their way outside, they coalesce into a swirling column that reaches high into the air, past the trees' branches and into the sky. Aïssatou stands outside with you and watches the spectacle in amazement. "Why? Could it..." All of a sudden, you hear voices nearby. You turn towards the source of the noise, somewhere in the brush, but don't see anyone. Aïssatou falls to her knees beside you and you look back towards the approaching chatter. This time you notice two pairs of feet slowly walking towards you. They're accompanied by two pairs of hands that sway back and forth, one pair higher in the air than the other. There is silence for a few moments as they draw near, then a melodic female voice energetically yells out: "Aïssatou! You have completed our challenge!" Aïssatou, still on the ground, looks confused. "Challenge?" A deep male voice joins in. "The challenge we gave you, so that you may prove your desire to start making amends!" Aïssatou blinks and rubs her chin in thought. "...Did you not read the note we wrote for you?" "What note?" The taller figure appears to cross her arms, while the other one shrugs. "But I thought... hmm. Well, no matter. What's important is that you have worked hard to solve the puzzles that we selected." Aïssatou's shoulders droop. "Actually... it wasn't me." The papers still in your hands, you feel scrutinized by the two figures. Aïssatou speaks up again. "I'm sorry, I swear that I would have if I'd known! I've been preparing for a while now..." Frantically motioning everyone present to wait, she flies back into the store, and the figures whisper to each other while she's gone. [[She soon reappears, carrying a large satchel.|Apology]]

Small demon exposed to oxygen is weakened (8) <<set _Answer = "IMPAIRED">>\ <div class="InputParent">\ <span class="InputChild"><div id="LtrShelf">˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽</div></span> <span class="InputChild"><<textbox "$Response" "" autofocus>></span> </div>\ <<done>><<run Cryptics()>><</done>> <<link "Verify">><<run VerifyAns()>><</link>> [[Set aside this clue for now.|Page 1]]

Simply contains a small demon (3) <<set _Answer = "IMP">>\ <div class="InputParent">\ <span class="InputChild"><div id="LtrShelf">˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽</div></span> <span class="InputChild"><<textbox "$Response" "" autofocus>></span> </div>\ <<done>><<run Cryptics()>><</done>> <<link "Verify">><<run VerifyAns()>><</link>> [[Set aside this clue for now.|Page 1]]

Small demon performs hits (7) <<set _Answer = "IMPACTS">>\ <div class="InputParent">\ <span class="InputChild"><div id="LtrShelf">˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽</div></span> <span class="InputChild"><<textbox "$Response" "" autofocus>></span> </div>\ <<done>><<run Cryptics()>><</done>> <<link "Verify">><<run VerifyAns()>><</link>> [[Set aside this clue for now.|Page 1]]

Spooner's gift shears make a change (5,5) <<set _Answer = "SHIFTGEARS">>\ <div class="InputParent">\ <span class="InputChild"><div id="LtrShelf">˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽</div></span> <span class="InputChild"><<textbox "$Response" "" autofocus>></span> </div>\ <<done>><<run Cryptics()>><</done>> <<link "Verify">><<run VerifyAns()>><</link>> [[Set aside this clue for now.|Page 2]]

Shamrocks found in country of anger! (7) <<set _Answer = "IRELAND">>\ <div class="InputParent">\ <span class="InputChild"><div id="LtrShelf">˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽</div></span> <span class="InputChild"><<textbox "$Response" "" autofocus>></span> </div>\ <<done>><<run Cryptics()>><</done>> <<link "Verify">><<run VerifyAns()>><</link>> [[Set aside this clue for now.|Page 3]]

First woman sleeping on tallest mountain (7) <<set _Answer = "EVEREST">>\ <div class="InputParent">\ <span class="InputChild"><div id="LtrShelf">˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽</div></span> <span class="InputChild"><<textbox "$Response" "" autofocus>></span> </div>\ <<done>><<run Cryptics()>><</done>> <<link "Verify">><<run VerifyAns()>><</link>> [[Set aside this clue for now.|Page 3]]

Spherical fruit says it can't elope (10) <<set _Answer = "CANTALOUPE">>\ <div class="InputParent">\ <span class="InputChild"><div id="LtrShelf">˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽</div></span> <span class="InputChild"><<textbox "$Response" "" autofocus>></span> </div>\ <<done>><<run Cryptics()>><</done>> <<link "Verify">><<run VerifyAns()>><</link>> [[Set aside this clue for now.|Page 3]]

Ruminant initially goes outside after tea (4) <<set _Answer = "GOAT">>\ <div class="InputParent">\ <span class="InputChild"><div id="LtrShelf">˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽</div></span> <span class="InputChild"><<textbox "$Response" "" autofocus>></span> </div>\ <<done>><<run Cryptics()>><</done>> <<link "Verify">><<run VerifyAns()>><</link>> [[Set aside this clue for now.|Page 5]]

Repel man with cleaning product? (9) <<set _Answer = "DETERGENT">>\ <div class="InputParent">\ <span class="InputChild"><div id="LtrShelf">˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽</div></span> <span class="InputChild"><<textbox "$Response" "" autofocus>></span> </div>\ <<done>><<run Cryptics()>><</done>> <<link "Verify">><<run VerifyAns()>><</link>> [[Set aside this clue for now.|Page 2]]

Harmful pattern of a violent bike? (7,5) <<set _Answer = "VICIOUSCYCLE">>\ <div class="InputParent">\ <span class="InputChild"><div id="LtrShelf">˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽</div></span> <span class="InputChild"><<textbox "$Response" "" autofocus>></span> </div>\ <<done>><<run Cryptics()>><</done>> <<link "Verify">><<run VerifyAns()>><</link>> [[Set aside this clue for now.|Page 2]]

Turning around, he loots a chair (5) <<set _Answer = "STOOL">>\ <div class="InputParent">\ <span class="InputChild"><div id="LtrShelf">˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽</div></span> <span class="InputChild"><<textbox "$Response" "" autofocus>></span> </div>\ <<done>><<run Cryptics()>><</done>> <<link "Verify">><<run VerifyAns()>><</link>> [[Set aside this clue for now.|Page 5]]

Chinese board game won't stay! (2) <<set _Answer = "GO">>\ <div class="InputParent">\ <span class="InputChild"><div id="LtrShelf">˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽</div></span> <span class="InputChild"><<textbox "$Response" "" autofocus>></span> </div>\ <<done>><<run Cryptics()>><</done>> <<link "Verify">><<run VerifyAns()>><</link>> [[Set aside this clue for now.|Page 5]]

<<if $ChainPlace == "">><<goto "Purchase">><</if>>\ You slip the zirconium bead onto your cord and feel it hum with a benevolent energy. [''Note to player'': If you fill and submit this very short form, your purchase will contribute money to the Good Food Institute! https://forms.gle/M8AG6peUArciYRa99 ] Once you're done, you go back to [[looking inside the chest.|Shop]]

<<if $ChainPlace == "">><<goto "Purchase">><</if>>\ You slip the tantalum bead onto your cord and feel it hum with a benevolent energy. [''Note to player'': If you fill and submit this very short form, your purchase will contribute money to the Wild Animal Initiative! https://forms.gle/vn6Wma4hWc9D9SMv6 ] Once you're done, you go back to [[looking inside the chest.|Shop]]

<<if $ChainPlace == "">><<goto "Purchase">><</if>>\ You slip the iron bead onto your cord and feel it hum with a benevolent energy. [''Note to player'': If you fill and submit this very short form, your purchase will contribute money to the Lead Exposure Elimination Project! https://forms.gle/ESoKEap7vHAEWUNr5 ] Once you're done, you go back to [[looking inside the chest.|Shop]]

<<if $ChainPlace == "">><<goto "Purchase">><</if>>\ You slip the palladium bead onto your cord and feel it hum with a benevolent energy. [''Note to player'': If you fill and submit this very short form, your purchase will contribute money to New Incentives! https://forms.gle/e4H9Xp3WSUamENkLA ] Once you're done, you go back to [[looking inside the chest.|Shop]]

<<if $ChainPlace == "">><<goto "Purchase">><</if>>\ You slip the gold bead onto your cord and feel it hum with a benevolent energy. [''Note to player'': If you fill and submit this very short form, your purchase will contribute money to Helen Keller International! https://forms.gle/YpycUocqqU4uEGQs5 ] Once you're done, you go back to [[looking inside the chest.|Shop]]

<<if $ChainPlace == "">><<goto "Purchase">><</if>>\ You slip the silver bead onto your cord and feel it hum with a benevolent energy. [''Note to player'': If you fill and submit this very short form, your purchase will contribute money to the Humane League! https://forms.gle/y13WENdVxGGhpR9z8 ] Once you're done, you go back to [[looking inside the chest.|Shop]]

After you've collected your pay, Aïssatou takes you aside for a moment. "That was the fifth shift you've worked, and thanks to you, I already feel a lot more prepared for the full moon! Words can't convey how much I appreciate your assistance; it was truly a relief to be able to delegate all of those small tasks that were putting pressure on me." She gestures towards the rest of the shop as she continues: "Please don't feel pressured to keep coming in, but any additional help would certainly be very welcome. And we always love to have you here!" [[She gives you a bright, warm smile and thanks you once more as she goes back to work.|Post-Shift]]

Mental confusion leads to loud sorrow (6) <<set _Answer = "LAMENT">>\ <div class="InputParent">\ <span class="InputChild"><div id="LtrShelf">˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽</div></span> <span class="InputChild"><<textbox "$Response" "" autofocus>></span> </div>\ <<done>><<run Cryptics()>><</done>> <<link "Verify">><<run VerifyAns()>><</link>> [[Set aside this clue for now.|Page 4]]

Idleness infraction after French leaves (8) <<set _Answer = "INACTION">>\ <div class="InputParent">\ <span class="InputChild"><div id="LtrShelf">˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽</div></span> <span class="InputChild"><<textbox "$Response" "" autofocus>></span> </div>\ <<done>><<run Cryptics()>><</done>> <<link "Verify">><<run VerifyAns()>><</link>> [[Set aside this clue for now.|Page 4]]

Tiny insect found in blouses (5) <<set _Answer = "LOUSE">>\ <div class="InputParent">\ <span class="InputChild"><div id="LtrShelf">˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽˽</div></span> <span class="InputChild"><<textbox "$Response" "" autofocus>></span> </div>\ <<done>><<run Cryptics()>><</done>> <<link "Verify">><<run VerifyAns()>><</link>> [[Set aside this clue for now.|Page 4]]

You head back down the silt path and prepare to make the trip home. [''Note to player'': your progress has been saved, and you can close the game until you're ready to return.]

As you're about to part ways with Aïssatou, you spot a sheet of paper on the ground. She also takes notice, and walks back towards you. On closer inspection, it appears to be a crudely-cut clipping from some kind of print publication. Your fingertips tingle as you pick it up, and underneath it you notice a much smaller scrap of a differently-coloured paper. On it is a printed URL accompanied by the words <a href="https://s.wsj.net/blogs/html/wsjcrypticguide.pdf " target="_blank"> //GUIDE TO CRYPTIC CLUES//</a>. You look at the larger sheet and find a short list of very peculiar sentences: // - Small demon exposed to oxygen is weakened (8) - Small demon performs hits (7) - Simply contains a small demon (3) // Aïssatou's eyes narrow as she slowly runs a hand over the surface of the paper, leaving a glittery trail which quickly fades away. "This feels like one of my spells, but I've never seen this sheet before... I'd like to examine it further. I'll file it away in the counter drawer at the store, if you want to come take a look later!" As you part ways again, you decide what you want to do next. [[– Leave the woods for now. |End of Intro][$IntroDone = true]] [[– Head back to the shop and start working. |Start][$IntroDone = true]] [''Note to player'': There may be issues with the storage of save files on specific systems (more details in the About link in the sidebar). If you're not sure whether your browser can reliably store Twine saves without automatically clearing its cache, it's recommended to use the "Save to Disk" option once you reach the next page, and again after each play session. Apologies for any inconvenience!]

//The Apothecary's Assistant// was written and designed in Twine/Sugarcube by Allyson Gray. Much credit goes to the wonderful Alex Parker for his tireless playtesting, his invaluable technical contributions and his constant moral support! The author can be reached at allyson_gray@hotmail.com or on <a href="https://intfiction.org/u/ally/summary" target="_blank">the intfiction forum</a> for any issues, questions, comments or other feedback. Messages are always welcome and appreciated! When any major updates are made, all versions of the game will be available <a href="https://zophobas-morio.itch.io/apothecary" target="_blank">on itch.io</a>. ''A note about save files'' Frequent autosaves will be stored in the first save slot, but manual saves can also be made. If you plan to clear your browser's cache or if you'd like to switch the browser or device that you play on, the "Export" or "Save to Disk" options should allow you to safeguard and/or transfer your data. There seems to be an issue with the settings of certain systems (notably Mac/iOs with Safari) which wipes out Twine save files from the browser's cache, either immediately or after 7 days of absence — if that applies to you, you might have to "Save to Disk" or "Export" every time you're done playing. It's recommended for all players to back up their saves to the disk occasionally, just in case! Progress is typically autosaved after each shift, or upon fully completing any post-shift action. ''A note about accessibility'' Unfortunately some aspects of the game are not fully accessible to people with certain vision impairments, and there wasn't enough time before IFComp to find alternatives. I apologize for this and I hope to find a way to make the game accessible for all in a post-comp release!

You make your way back to the gigantic tree that houses the shop.\ <<if $BeadCount >= 4>>\ Birds, fairies, and all manner of curious creatures come to greet you and pay their respects.\ <<elseif $BeadCount >= 1>>\ A choir of birds joyfully announces your arrival.\ <</if>>\ <<set _vTime = new Date().toLocaleString("en-ca", {hour: "2-digit", minute: "2-digit", hour12: false});>>\ <<if ($ThuOpenCount == 2 || $ThuOpenCount == 5) && _vTime >= "02:00" && _vTime <= "10:10">>\ The air is filled with a thick fog that obscures nearby structures and blocks out the sky. <<else>>\ <<if new Date().getHours() >= 7 and new Date().getHours() < 19>>\ Sunlight filters through the canopy. <<else>>\ Through a hole in the canopy, you can see the crescent moon, slightly wider than yesterday. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ [[Start your shift|Thursday]]

SCHEDULE (from September 1st to October 12th) <<if $vClock12 == true>>Monday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tuesday: 5 a.m. – 9 p.m. Wednesday: CLOSED Thursday: 2 a.m. – 10:10 a.m. Friday: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. Saturday: 12:30 p.m. – 3:21 p.m. Sunday: 12 a.m. – 11:59 p.m. <<else>>\ Monday: 9:00 – 17:00 Tuesday: 5:00 – 21:00 Wednesday: CLOSED Thursday: 2:00 – 10:10 Friday: 11:00 – 23:00 Saturday: 12:30 – 15:21 Sunday: 00:00 – 23:59 <</if>>

"The tapestry of spells that keeps these woods alive has been several decades in the making. I'm very proud of it and always looking to improve! I think my greatest accomplishment is discovering a type of magic that can provide sustenance to every kind of creature, and even allow them to thrive in unnatural environments. You may also have noticed that our days always have twelve hours, from 7 to 7." [[You let her get back to work.|Post-Shift]]

"I hail from Senegal! My people live beneath the hills there and enjoy a life of opulence. But I wanted to make something more of my time in this world, so I left my country behind and founded this sanctuary alongside my little friend Diégane. I started out as a simple apothecary, but nowadays I find myself doing a bit of everything!" [[You let her get back to work.|Post-Shift]]

"The Hunter's Moon is very bad news for us, so we diligently prepare for it every year. Many of us have lost friends and relatives to the Hunt... we'll fight tooth and nail to protect every resident of the sanctuary so that they don't become prey too. Maybe I'm being naive, but my hope is that someday we can even protect those outside the sanctuary!" [[You let her get back to work.|Post-Shift]]

"I'm not sure who conspired to spread those pages around and draw you here, but I'm very grateful to them! But I do hope that these instructions won't fall into the wrong hands... maybe I should ask around and make sure that our secret is safe." [[You let her get back to work.|Post-Shift]]

"It's not something I feel comfortable discussing right now. Suffice it to say that I was selfish and that they rightfully left." [[You let her get back to work.|Post-Shift]]

"I'm so glad that I was able to see them again, even just briefly, and it's comforting to know that they were thinking of me too. Thank you once again for your help! Maybe it's selfish of me, but I hope that we can somehow become friends. I miss them..." [[You let her get back to work.|Post-Shift]]

"I have my friends from all over the world to thank for that incredibly useful magic! By drawing on their combined knowledge, I was able to craft a spell that can translate most languages on the fly, in both spoken and written form, as long as there isn't any advanced wordplay. The only thing it can't yet handle is sign language, but I'm sure I'll figure it out someday..." [[You let her get back to work.|Post-Shift]]

"You'll find many friendly faces here! You don't have to fear any of our animals, as they are completely peaceful — maybe sometimes just a little mischievous. Our customers are also very kind, as you may have already discovered, and they each have their own schedule. I'm proud to be able to showcase the work of some of the sanctuary's talented artisans right here in my shop!" [[You let her get back to work.|Post-Shift]]

[[Placeholder.|Post-Shift]]

While exploring the farthest reaches of the forest, you come across a mystical stone! You've heard the fairies whisper about it — it seems that any message carved into it can reach across time and space to be seen by other explorers, though it may take a few weeks for it to get there. The stone is currently smooth and intact. A hammer and chisel lie on the ground. Do you pick them up? https://forms.gle/4jySFHNzWpQRAWAi9