Kaktus 2023/11/08(Wed)14:40 No. 1076806 ID: 681cb5
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>Make a mental note: the crows are not your enemy. That doesn't mean they're your friends.
Crows… what is it with the crows? First at Daniel Brerewood the broker, then at the library and now here? Are they following you around? Even the names are crows! Crowmoor! The Crow Nest! Even Kråkholme means crow in some godforsaken language! And what does that mean for the hare daughters of Bövel, the Coven of Crows? Ugh, crows… you’re starting to hate those birds…

As you enter the mansion, Chris excuses himself for a moment and goes into the living room to “Get more ammo”. Apparently, there was a hidden weapons locker behind one of the curtains you never found…

>Chris story about seeing us through the window is suspect, because we were just in the mansion.
As you enter the kitchen, you quickly find a pile of books and papers strewn across the floor, as if someone dropped them in a hurry. Looking out the window, you can even see the crypt hidden behind the trees, barely visible. So he was speaking the truth about this, at least…

Collecting everything on the table you quickly notice something. These books… they are the exact same as the one you read at the library. Did he… did he ask for the books you’d… no, he probably asked for the same subjects as you did. About Kråkholme… and Crowmoor. You shake your head a bit and move your focus to the papers instead. Most of them are either old documents you can’t really make head or tails of, or old paper clippings.

”INFAMOUS MYSTIC BUYS EMERIK. K PAINTING FOR 1000£” one of them says, implying that one of those horrid paintings has been bought by some madwoman in England. Not really relevant, but still…

Then there’s a bunch of articles about missing children. ”MISSING!” and ”HAVE YOU SEEN ME?” followed by ”SUSPECT KIDNAPPING” are printed on far too many pages. Hopefully they found their back home… though the next article doesn’t give you hope.

”BONES DISCOVERED IN WOODS, CHILD FEARED DEAD” …brrr…

Then, an old photostatic copy of an even older document catches your eye... a notation at the bottom dates it at the end of the 18th century. It reads:

BE IT KNOWNE
that, through the Generositie and Enterprise of the Hon. Goodman Sigmund Kråkholme, the Crowmoor Slaughterhouse shall be Rebuilt, even upon the Ashes of the Olde which was Tragically Burnt; and

BE IT KNOWNE
that, upon its Newe Christening, there shall Arise a Sore Need for Men of Able Bodie and Industrious Bent to Work therein, to render flesh and gore from beast and animal; and

BE IT KNOWNE
that the Hon. Goodman Sigmund Kråkholme is thereby holding a General Call for Employment, and any Honest Man of Working Age is Encouraged to Apply. Cometh to the gates of the Slaughterhouse on Church Street, right across the old chapel.


>You need to find some way to wind the music box, but the winding mechanism seems to be missing.
It is clear that it’s missing a key to wind it with… but where would it be? Who would even know where it might be?
>We should definitely get with Josephine as soon as possible.
Right. The Puzzle Box. The question is, will you take the box to Josephine Rebis, the bat anthropologist, or Bernard Samson, who sold the box in the first place? Who is more likely to be able to actually open it? Of course, if you are planning on visiting Josephine, you’ll need to find a way for her to get some books from the library… books that you’re currently have in front of you as you’re asking yourself this. Huh, you guess Chris solved that problem for you?

Chris: “Drat, there wasn’t much ammo left, but it will have to do.” As he enters the room, Chris reloads the rifle before hanging it off his back. “I’m going to be honest, I’m running out of ideas on what to do… but I know for a fact I can count on you to come up with something, Belle.” The rabbit smiles at you and gives you a wink, “So, Bluebell, what’s the plan? Where are we going? Whose ass are we kicking?”

…oh, and are you taking Chris with you?

>>1076806
>BONES DISCOVERED IN WOODS
Where? Find out where. We need to go there.

If nothing else, it's important you warn Josephine not to wander into the mist. She's an outsider like you are, with no way to know how deadly it is.

I still say the house of flesh and gore has to be the Crowmoor Slaughterhouse, even though it burned down. Maybe it did't?

On the other hand the house you live in has acted like a living thing, and like a rotting corpse, and a certain blue eyed beast has indeed slept there. But what important thing would there be to retrieve from it, that you haven't already?

We should take the books to Josephine, and she might be interested to talk to Chris.
Lets get that box opened!

You know uhh... the box kind of contains this lens that's uh... absolutely essential to the summoning of this abominable starbeing. The box that Edward was bragging could not be opened by mortal means? That it would foul up Bövel's plans since Edward locked the lens up in there?

Why is she opening the box again?

>>1076929
Yeah that is a pretty important point there. Let's hold off on opening the box for now. Still we need to get to Josephine, and maybe if Chris came along the three of us could exchange all we know so far.

Kaktus 2023/11/16(Thu)17:11 No. 1077450 ID: 681cb5
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>Where? Find out where they found the bones. We need to go there.
It just says they were located in the woods, about an hour from Arkham in the direction of the Atlantic. That would put is near Crowmoor, but there’s a lot of woods around here, aren’t there?
>I still say the house of flesh and gore has to be the Crowmoor Slaughterhouse, even though it burned down. Maybe it didn’t?
They’ve already rebuilt it once, why wouldn’t they again? Where even is the slaughter house? You haven’t seen it in town… and that pamphlet mentioned the church, but there’s just a bunch of forest around that road. The very same forest where you saw Björn… brrr…


>We should take the books to Josephine, and she might be interested to talk to Chris.
Where did she say she where staying again? Beyond the old mill, just outside the town? As you and your husband briskly walks through the town, you find it completely deserted. This, combined with the light mist still hanging in the air, give the whole place an ethereal feel. Only the cawing of the crows breaks the illusion of the dream.
Chris: “So, this Josephine… a friend of yours?” your hubby asks as he’s carrying one of the books, “Most people doesn’t hand over library books to strangers, do they?”
Belle: “Oh, we just met today.” you tell him with a smile, “She promised to help me with something. You’ll like her, don’t worry.”
Chris: “That’s not what I’m worried about, Bluebell…”

Beyond the old mill you find the literal edge of the town, as there’s suddenly a wall of trees cutting off the path forward. Even the road goes from cobble stones to mud and dirt from one step to the other. It feels like you’re stepping between two different worlds. As the two of you make your way down the dirt road, you quickly spot a small camp. A car, some boxes and a tent is spread around a small glade among the trees, and in the middle of it, a familiar bat is examining a strangely shaped rock.

Kaktus 2023/11/16(Thu)17:11 No. 1077451 ID: 681cb5
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Josephine: “Ah, Belle.” the bat nods at you, “I see you’ve found the books.” she then move her attention towards Chris, “And I assume this is your husband?”
Belle: “Josephine! So good to see you again!” you wave at her with a smile, “And yes, this is Chris. Chris Knott.”
Chris: “Wow…” the rabbit mutters as he looks up at the bat, “You’re really tall…”
Josephine: “And you are rather short.” she retort while putting away her tools, “Josephine Rebis. Anthropologist.”
Chris: “Rebis you say?” Chris rubs his chin, “As in, Joseph Rebis, the German archeologist?”
Josephine: “That would be my father yes.” Josephine turns her back to the both of you as she puts the books away, “And while he wasn’t born here, he was American, just like me.”
Chris: “I used to read about him in the Science World magazine.” the rabbit chirps happily, “Though, I haven’t seen anything about him in a while.”
Josephine: “He disappeared in Egypt four years ago.” she states matter of factly.
Chris: “Oh” he rubs the back of his head awkwardly, “Sorry.”
Josephine: “Don’t mention it.”
Belle: “Well, it’s good you two are getting along.”

>it's important you warn Josephine not to wander into the mist.
Josephine: “The mist?” she raises and eyebrow, “Don’t worry, my tent is insulated against such things.” The bat then glances towards her Jeep, “My car, on the other hand, wasn’t able to handle the moister. Hopefully I’ll get it running again when I’m ready to leave.”
Belle: “There are other dangers in the wood, though.”
Josephine: “Other dangers?” you didn’t know someone should raise their eyebrow that far, “I’m sure my gun can handle most of those, Belle.”

>Lets get that box opened!
Josephine: “Ah, yes, the cube.” Josephine states as she makes room on the table next to her, “I did promise I would open it. Just give it to me and I’ll see what I can do.”
Chris: “Oh!” meanwhile, your husband is hopping giddily at your side, “I’m curious what’s inside it! I’ve been wondering ever since you found it!”
Belle: “Yeah… me too…”
Chris: “Come on, Belle.” Chris says as he tugs your pants leg, “Hand it over!”

>You know uhh... the box kind of contains this lens that's uh... absolutely essential to the summoning of this abominable starbeing. The box that Edward was bragging could not be opened by mortal means? That it would foul up Bövel's plans since Edward locked the lens up in there?
Belle: “I…” with cube in hand, you hesitate, “I’m not sure we should open it, actually.”
Chris: “Huh?” the Rabbit looks at you in confusion, “Aren’t you curious to see what’s inside?”
Josephine: “Why not?”
Belle: “Well…” you look the bat in the eyes, “There might be some bad people who want to get their hands on what’s inside it.”
Josephine: “And you think a small wooden box will stop them?” once again, she raises that eyebrow of hers, “I’m sure they can just pry it open, or just smash it, if they really want what’s inside it.”
Chris: “And aren’t you curious?” your husband says, “There must be something important inside, after all!”
Belle: “Well…” you rub one of your shoulders, “Maybe...”
Josephine: “So, what will it be?” the bat asks as she picks up a tool, “Do you require my aid or not?”

…Do you open the puzzle cube?

OK the lens is fragile so they can't just smash the box. Someone besides Josephine *might* be able to open it, but that's limited to only the people in this town. Unfortunately you've played your hand already, and Chris will be suspiciousdisappointed if you change your mind on opening it.

Tell her you want to show her the literature you've acquired, which might give her more of a clue what's going on here, and possibly warn her away from opening the box. Also if you can get a word to her in private, tell her that you may have a surreptitious way to get into the library, tonight after dark.

You can't emphasize how important it is that she be inside her insulated tent should that mist ever return. She won't believe you, but you have to warn her.

Open it, and behold inevitable!

It is too late for you to stop it!

Heh, if it's the lens, you still have the option to smash it yourself afterwards.

>>1077546
Hm, fair point. If it is the lens, we should certainly try to all get on the same page about that telescope and this ritual. Chris and Josephine may be able to shed some more light on it for us.

Kaktus 2023/11/20(Mon)15:30 No. 1077716 ID: 681cb5
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>Tell her you want to show her the literature you've acquired, which might give her more of a clue what's going on here, and possibly warn her away from opening the box.
Josephine: “While I am grateful, I rather take my time with them if possible.” She glances over at your husband, whose still bouncing on his feet, “And something tells me neither of you are inclined to watch my rigorous note taking and hour long contemplation of the material.”
Belle: “Well… true… but still, there are things you need to know.” Taking a moment to find the words, you continue, “See, there’s this cult… um…”
Josephine: “Ah, yes, cults.” the bat picks up some kind of tool from the table, “I do have a lot of experience with the subject. Seeing as you’re clearly worried, we’re not dealing with the most common one, the one made out of fools playing pretend to have something to do on the weekends.” She looks up into the sky for a bit, scratching her ear with her newly acquired tool, “Then the question is… are they simply power hungry and using the religious dogma to their own ends, or are they deranged lunatics with delusions of otherworldly powers?”
Belle: “They are deranged lunatics with actual otherworldly powers!” you tell her matter of factly while crossing your arms, “And they are planning on doing some kind of ritual that might end the world! With the help of whatever is in that cube!” she gives you a look, “I think.” You can’t help to break eye contact with her and rub the backside of your head, “Possibly?”
Josephine: “…” she stares at you for a long time before raising an eyebrow, “It is clear you’re either mad or trying to trick me.” Josephine then gesture towards the pile of books, “But you brought me these so I will at least humor you, Belle.” Turning the cube around in her hand, examining it, she continue, “Now, if they are as powerful as you fear, why is this object still in this cube? A wooden box isn’t going to stop anyone… not to mention, you’re clearly not some action hero who can fight off a whole cult hunting you.” She gives the cube a tap with her metal tool, “And if it is that important to them, why not just destroy it? Throw it in the sea, smash it with a hammer or burn it to ash.” She looks at you with disappointment, “No, your story doesn’t add up, Belle.”
Belle: “I… um…” you stammer in response, “It might be fragile… so smashing the box might just break what’s inside as well? Though, I guess I haven’t thought about just smashing the lens myself…”

As you’re pondering your next course of action, you hear a soft click. Turning around towards Josephine, you watch as she gently uses a thin, metal tool to pull off a piece of the cube from the wooden frame it was fastened on. Before you can even utter a word, she has disassembled a whole corner of the box, opening it to the world.

Belle: “Did… did you just open it?
Josephine: “Yes.”
Belle: “But what if there’s something dangerous in there?”
Josephine: “The cube can be reassembled.”
Belle: “I mean, that’s not…” the bat gives you another look, “ugh, fine, it’s open…”
Chris: “So, what’s inside it?” Chris voice suddenly pipes up, “Is it a lens?”
Josephine: “I am unsure… ” she pulls out a strange, black object from the box, “Whatever it is, it doesn’t look like a lens. Here.”

She hands you a strange looking disc. It is rather warm to the touch and feels as almost like it’s made out of some kind of leather, not at all being as solid and rigid as the glass you expected. As you look through it, you see all kind of colors spiraling into its center, even distorting the woods behind it into a shapeless mass of hues. There’s also small dots of lights, they to in a spiral shape. While this isn’t what you predicted, it does have the right size and form to fit in the telescope you found.
…wait, now you remember… it feels like skin. Furless skin. Anthro skin. Your skin crawls form just touching it.

Kaktus 2023/11/20(Mon)15:31 No. 1077717 ID: 681cb5
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>If you can get a word to her in private, tell her that you may have a surreptitious way to get into the library, tonight after dark.
Josephine: “Belle, I asked you to get me some books.” Once again, you’re bombarded by her disappointment in you, “Not break into a state building.”
>You can't emphasize how important it is that she be inside her insulated tent should that mist ever return.
Josephine: “Yes, yes, I know. I know someone who died from staying out in a mist like this.” she looks up from the cube, “She got pneumonia.”

>We should certainly try to all get on the same page about that telescope and this ritual. Chris and Josephine may be able to shed some more light on it for us.
Josephine: “So the founder of the town, Bövel, started a cult.” Josephine says as if talking about the weather, “And said cult believes he still leads them by coming back from the dead.” Her voice still stoic as ever, “And now they want to end the world for some unspecified reason?”
Chris: “You don’t seem very surprised.” your husband says, “Or even slightly concerned.”
Josephine: “Crowmoor has been isolated for a long time. The bridge on the main road here wasn’t built until the 50s. Before that you’d have to take the long way around.” The bat gesture into the air, “Of course there would be inbreeding and superstitions. It is a given at a location like this.”
Belle: “The why doesn’t really matter.” you sigh, “The question is what we should do about it.”
Chris: “I still vote we get out of here.” the rabbit says confidently, “Maybe we can get Josephine’s car working again?”
Josephine: “I still have a lot of research to do.” she points towards the odd stone she was examining when the two of you arrived, “Found this old carving being used as a cobble stone, for example. So surely there are others to find as well.” Taking a moment to flip through her notes, she explains, “This place was a haven for smugglers in the 20s. There was even a rumor that they used a complex cave system to smuggle the booze through the nearby area. My theory is that that cave system existed long before the first settlers even arrived. I would like to find it before leaving.”
Belle: “I wouldn’t be surprised if that’s where the cult hangs out…” you put your face in your hands, “This is just getting better and better…”
Josephine: “Oh, but I’ve not yet mentioned the grand price. The Misquat tribe’s graveyard should be around here somewhere. Here…” she taps a piece of paper on the table, “This symbol means burial ground. If you find it carved into some rock or house brick, let me know.” The symbol reminds you of something, but you’re not sure what. “Or you can just follow them yourself and see if they actually lead anywhere.” she shrugs, “I do have a theory that the old mansion was built on it, but I’ve yet found any real evidence on its location. Other than it being in the area, that is.”
Belle: “But what about the ritual? It has something to do with this lens, the lighthouse and tomorrow… but what?”
Chris: “Um, Belle… that thing is clearly too small to be a lens for a lighthouse.” The rabbit rubs his chin, “Actually, now that you mention it, I’m pretty sure I saw someone throw away a few lighthouse lenses right across from O’Mally’s when we arrived in town yesterday.”
Josephine: “The lighthouse? The one on the beach?” the bat looks in the direction of the sea, as if she would be able to see the lighthouse from here, “I’ve seen a lot of material been moved out there, both by hand and truck, since I arrived here two weeks ago. I think they are making some kind of renovations?” she shakes her head, “Not that you can really see it now, as it’s in the center of that massive mist cloud. Almost like that’s where it’s coming from.”

Dammit, you just realized something! The purpose of this lens, at least according to the mad writings, is to learn the true name of that eldritch god the cult is worshipping. Edward probably thought it was needed for the ritual, and thus he hid it away. But… he thought he would end the Kråkholme line completely, ensuring that Bövel would never come back again. Of course Bövel already knows the true name of his god! He’s the one who designed and built that telescope in the first place! The reason why the cult hasn’t been trying to get back this lens is because they don’t need it! Bövel already knows the name!

Chris: “Bluebell?” your husband squeezes your hand, “Are you alright?” You give him a tired smile and a nod. “Then let’s not waste any more time. Let’s… um… what’s the plan again?”

She thinks it's superstition, huh. Tell her about the zombie. Chris will back you up. Also suggest she examines the lens, what does she think it's made out of? It's not glass, it's skin. Lastly, warn her to be careful what books she reads- you found a particularly nasty one that almost drove you mad. You have had first-hand experience with the supernatural after moving here, it's not just stories you've heard from townsfolk.

>the cult doesn't need the lens
Well I guess you don't need it either, then. Not unless you find some way of using the name to banish it.
They're using the lighthouse as part of the ritual? That's new isn't it? I'm guessing this ritual is being performed to summon their god, not just to move Bovel into a new body.

Oh dear, I (you) certainly hadn't considered that the lens might not be a lens, or even needed in the astronomical tower device. You could inform Chris that what they were building was not a lighthouse, so there's no telling what size lens they would need in the apparatus, but he'd probably find a way to make you sound silly regardless.

Maybe don't tell Josephine about eldritch kaballan hand monsters emerging from broken corpses dead by your doing, only to have all the evidence devoured by a sudden swarm of crows. Do tell her you were attacked though, and to be careful of some sort of hemmorhagic illness that's breaking out in this town. A doctor told you it was an infestation of parasitic worms, but she was off her rocker, so you're still on the fence there. Still:
1) the first signs are reddened eyes, aggressive behavior, and then bleeding from the gums or throat
2) the corpse is dangerous even after death

Venture to my observatory and insert the lens into the apparatus.

Behold the inevitable fate of this rotting world and know the name of our new god!

Then you might finally understand the foolishness of your resistance, fox.

Kaktus 2023/12/10(Sun)11:05 No. 1079073 ID: 681cb5
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>She thinks it's superstition, huh.
To be fair, if you didn’t see it with your own eyes you would think it sounded unreal as well.
>I'm guessing this ritual is being performed to summon their god, not just to move Bovel into a new body.
This “Blessed Event” has been in the making since the original Bövel, 400 years ago. Of course it isn’t the ritual to give him a new body. Wait, now that you think about it… how do you know Bövel was even the first one? Maybe this body snatching monster has been doing it for even longer?

>Inform Chris that what they were building was not a lighthouse, so there's no telling what size lens they would need in the apparatus.
Chris: “Huh, you’re right, hun.” his nose twitches, “I didn’t think that far. Of course it doesn’t need the lighthouse parts if it isn’t going to be used as a lighthouse.” Looking into the sky, he thinks back for a moment, “But I’m still sure I saw someone throw away a bunch of large glass lenses right outside O’Mally’s, or at least something similar. Maybe they were throwing away the original parts of the lighthouse?”

>Tell her you were attacked.
Josephine: “A wolf you say?” the bat looks over at you, “There was this gray wolf stumbling around earlier when you went into the library. Black out drunk and rather aggressive.” Picking up a pen and rubbing her chin with it, she continue, “Was screaming something about an old crow, I believe? Why did he attack you?”
Chris: “Wait, that was a wolf!?” Chris pipes up a bit chocked, “I saw some kind of giant spider creature made out of hands and arms!”
Josephine: “…” Josephine raises an eyebrow, “A spider creature, you say?”
Belle: “Um… yes, that’s right…” you say a bit sheepishly, “After I knocked him out, he… transformed. And become some kind of monster?” Honestly, you were hoping to not have to mention the whole hand monster, but here you are… “It’s like a disease, I think? The first signs are blood rimmed eyes and aggressive behavior… followed by bleeding gums.”
Chris: “And when they die, they apparently explode into some kind of monster!” the rabbit makes a gesture with his hands to mimic said explosion, “So even the dead might be dangerous!”
Josephine: “I see…” the bat starts to scribble something in her leather-bound journal, mumbling to herself, “-some sort of hallucinatory reaction. Might explain the odd sign of blood shoot eyes seen among the locals. Possibly coincidence as well.” before throwing you a quick glance and telling you with a really sincere tone, “Belle. You really need to stop watching so many horror movies. Or read horror books. Or whatever it is that makes you this… ah… imaginative.”

>Warn her to be careful what books she reads- you found a particularly nasty one that almost drove you mad.
Josephine: “Oh please, Belle.” a small smile appears on her face, “I’ve read Atlas Shrugged. Nothing can be more maddening than that.”
>Suggest she examines the lens, what does she think it's made out of?
Josephine: “Definitely not glass. Clearly some kind of compound of materials.” bending it a bit, she continues, “The consistency is like a light leather. Yet it is opaque and… bends the light in strange ways.” Finally, she sniff it and gives it a taste, “Is that oil I taste? Possibly some kind of really odd rubber, perhaps?”
Chris: “It reminds me of when I got that nasty wound on my arm. The one where they had to shave away all the fur.” Chris looks over at you, “Remember, Bluebell? It was not long after we first met.”
Belle: “Oh, yes, I do…” you give him a slightly crocked smile, “You got it when you so heroically saved me from that falling ladder.” The rabbit beams proudly as both you and Josephine roll your eyes.

>Well I guess you don't need it either, then. Not unless you find some way of using the name to banish it.
Josephine: “Well, in all those movies the true name of a demon is usually used to banish them back to hell.” Writing something in her book, it’s clear she’s not paying attention to you completely, “So knowing it might help. Probably not, but you never know?”
Chris: “I for one still suggest we just leave.” the rabbit says, trying to catch a glimpse of what the bat is writing, “Just get a car working and drive off.”
Josephine: “The mist is rather thick around town, though.” Either she doesn’t notice Chris, or she doesn’t care that’s he’s watching her write, “I for one will just stay in my camp. As long as no one disturbs me out here I’ll be fine.”
Belle: “I can’t shake this feeling that I… we need to act before it’s too late.” you tell them, “That we’re the only one that can stop something horrible. But first we need to figure out what’s even g-“
Chris: “Wow, is that a sketch of the mansion?” Chris interrupts you, pointing at something in the leather-bound journal, “It’s really neat.”
Josephine: “That’s nothing, little man.” the bat flips a few pages before showing the rabbit something that makes him light up, “How about the town hall, eh?”
Belle: “Are you two even listening to me?” taking a moment to listen to them drone on about proto-roman something or another, followed by pillars and domes, it is clear that they aren’t paying you any attention at all, “*Sigh*, of course not…”

Both Chris and Josephine get completely absorbed by their discussion about architecture, completely forgetting that you’re even there. Picking up the small drawing of the burial grounds symbol Josephine gave you, you realize that it is fully possible that the mansion is built on an old Indian burial ground. Just like the movies. With a sigh, you put it away while trying to figure out your next step. Tomorrow is the last day, so your time is running out. In fact, it is getting dark, so if there is anything more you want to do today, now is the time.

[Current objectives:]
What’s up with the strange flute? Music is important for the rituals?
Use the lens with the telescope… and learn the true name of the red star.
Find the tower of light and figure out what 13b650 means.
Find a house of flesh and gore, where the beast sleeps, and retrieve something important from there.
Where is the slaughterhouse?
Find a way to remove the mist.
Strangle Josephine before she steals your man.
Stop the blessed event and defeat Bövel.

[Inventory:]
Strange Flute
Strange Lens
Note with the Symbol of Graves
Music Box
Old Photo Album
Oil Lamp
Your Wedding Ring 
Wallet
Fire Poker
Pocket Flask of Strong Whiskey

Oh, ask her where the slaughterhouse is.

Don't worry about the flute. It's useless until you find the song to play on it.

The slaughterhouse seems like your only lead at this point. Josephine probably wouldn't know, but you need to ask in town where the slaughterhouse was before it burned down.

You could... also use the lens on the telescope in the observatory. I'm not sure what learning the starbeast's name would help with, because this isn't some horror movie like Josephine seems to think. This is real life! But it couldn't hurt?

Should we ask at the library for the previous locations of the slaughter house?
That or we should check out the light house.

Couldn't hurt to show Josephine the flute for a moment. She have heard about that song, or possibly even know it if we're lucky!

Other than that, we gotta find the slaughter house, hopefully she knows something about that as well?

Go to the tower of light, submerged in a sea of mist and fog, and witness the beacon that is calling our savior!

Your time has run out, fox. The darkness hides the last secrets from you, and come dawn you will awaken to your own love's hands around your neck, ending your miserably life.

>>1079491
INFECTED! Scan this spirit! SCAN FOR VIRUSES DAMNIT!

Kaktus 2023/12/19(Tue)15:27 No. 1079504 ID: 681cb5
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>Don't worry about the flute. It's useless until you find the song to play on it.
Still, it was important enough for Edward to hide it together with the puzzle box. Can it somehow be used to help you stop this madness?

>Oh, ask Josephine if she knows where the slaughterhouse is.
Josephine: “No.” she answers quickly before going back to her discussion with Chris. Wait… are they talking about the DnD game you game mastered before moving here? How rude…
>Couldn't hurt to show Josephine the flute for a moment.
Josephine: “That’s an old Misquat ritual flute! And it looks intact!” the bats eyes light up as if she just won the lottery, and she quickly grabs the flute from your hand, “I’ve never seen one of these in the real world, let alone an undamaged example!”
Chris: “You barely looked at it, Josephine!” your hubby cheerfully exclaims, “Yet you know exactly what it was with one glance! That’s impressive!”
Josephine: “This is my field of expertise. Of course I know what I’m talking about.” After taking a minute to look it over, gives the flute a long, drawn out lick, “Hmm, the original ivory is still there, but there’s definitely some kind of mending done on this far later.” Josephine then put the tip of it in her mouth, “Possibly some kind of silver alloy? Clearly not made by the tribe before their extinction, so this must have been repaired by the settlers?”
Chris: “Wow!” Chris claps his paws together, “And you can tell all that from just the taste!?”
Josephine: “Yes.”
Belle: “Can you please stop licking all the ancient artifacts?”
Josephine: “No.”

Belle: “Anything else you can tell us about it?” you say as you watch the bat give it another lick, “Other than its taste, that is.”
Josephine: “According to the lore I’ve uncovered, these flutes where used in conjuncture with some kind of burial ritual.” she doesn’t even look at you as she talks, being completely engrossed by the flute itself, “Supposedly, if you played it in the right way, it would call the ancestors to come back as some kind of…” the bat does a dismissive wave, “…ghostly wave.”
Belle: “Ghostly wave?” you turn you head to the side, “Like… a fog?”
Josephine: “Clearly just superstition. They also mention that if used at a certain ritual site, between two pillars of silver, it would open the door to the afterlife.” she chuckles and shakes her head, “Said pillars would even vibrate as you played the flute. Clearly they were built to react to the sound of the flute in some way.” Josephine puts the flute back in her mouth and blows, but no sounds emerge, “But as you can hear, whatever sound this flute makes is beyond our hearing. A bit like a dog whistle, perhaps.”
Chris: “Wow…” the rabbit rubs his chin, “And do you know where this ritual site is?”
Josephine: “If my sources are correct, I do believe the burial site nearby would be said ritual location.” the bat sighs, “Sadly, as I said before, I have yet to find its exact location.” She then looks in the general direction of where the mansion would be, as if she could see it from here through the cloudy sky, “But I have a theory that the mansion was built on top of it. So, that would be a good spot to start looking if any. Do tell me if you find that symbol I showed you earlier anywhere inside.”
Belle: “We will.” you tell her as she gives you back the flute, still covered in her spit, “Thank you, Josephine.”
Josephine: “Now, if you two will excuse me…” once again, she turns away from you and focus on something else, “I still need to categorize there rocks before nightfall.” Then bat turns around as she says, “Do have a pleasant evening, Chris.” and then with a warm smile and a nod, “Belle”

Kaktus 2023/12/19(Tue)15:27 No. 1079505 ID: 681cb5
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>INFECTED! Scan this spirit! SCAN FOR VIRUSES DAMNIT!
It is far too late for that. The worms are already feasting upon your beautiful mind.

>Should we ask at the library for the previous locations of the slaughter house?
You ask the angler fish librarian about an old map of the town, one made just after 1922, but she just gives you a harsh look. Clearly she didn’t appreciate you running around with the books last time. Just as you’re about to try and persuade her, she spots Chris who just gives her a nod, and suddenly she’s way more helpful.

Looking over the map, the first thing you notice how little the town has changed. Nearly everything is as it is now. It takes a moment, but you do finally find a building marked Slaughter house located in the middle of the woods. Wait, aren’t that the woods right outside the mansion? That’s odd… surely there should be a road to it from… somewhere, right? But if not… how do you get to it? You’d rather not get lost in the woods after dark.

And what are these odds symbols and lines drawn in red? They are clearly added after the map was printed.

Kaktus 2023/12/19(Tue)15:27 No. 1079506 ID: 681cb5
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>We should check out the light house.
A pillar of crimson and ivory emergence from the endless sea of mist, standing proud even as its light is nowhere to be seen. It’s impossible to even see the road with all this fog, let alone the bottom of the lighthouse. In fact, you can’t even see the sea, as the overcast skies combined with the endless, smothering blanked of gloom hide everything from sight. Hmm, you might be able to find your way, if you should only follow the dirt road.

>You could... also use the lens on the telescope in the observatory.
…but is that a good idea? What will happen? What will you even see?

Chris: “You know, Bluebell…” Chris says, his voice slightly shaky as he looks over his shoulder, “It’s getting dark. Maybe we should return to this tomorrow during daylight hours?” he looks back at you, fear in his eyes, “At least, maybe have some dinner before doing anything else? I’m starving…”


Do you…
Venture to the lighthouse through the fog?
Venture into the woods to find the slaughter house?
Use the lens on the telescope?
Take a good night sleep and deal with all this crap tomorrow?

Of course the flute can be used. You just don't know the right way to use it. Stay away from the fog until you do.

Sleep is a tempting prospect. You are so short on time, but staying up will weaken your mind, making it easier for things to influence you. Still, something useful in that house of flesh and gore... it would be nice to have any idea of what to do whatsoever.

The fog is too high risk, we should return to the manor, resupply and plan out the next day.

All the points of interest on the map have unique symbols, except for the manor and river. If it's not too dark yet you should walk along the river bank on the way home, looking for any signs of ruins or other cult stuff.

It'll be dangerous, things do go bump in the night after all. However, I think it might be smart to check out the possible spot for where the slaughter house used to be at.

Chris is right though! Maybe there's a spot in town you can get something to eat before venturing into the woods. Grab something togo as well maybe?

Wade into the mist and let it engulf you. Let it soothe your pain once and for all.

Or wander into the forest and meet my beloved son. He is dying to make your acquaintance.

Kaktus 2023/12/30(Sat)16:36 No. 1080096 ID: 681cb5
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>Of course the flute can be used. You just don't know the right way to use it. Stay away from the fog until you do.
But where do you learn how to use it? Josephine said something about a gravesite… and haven’t you seen it being used somewhere else? Ugh… why can’t you remember all the details when you need to?

>All the points of interest on the map have unique symbols, except for the manor and river. If it's not too dark yet you should walk along the river bank on the way home, looking for any signs of ruins or other cult stuff.
The two of you stand on the bridge that crosses the river, looking up towards the mansion. Even now, as the sky is draped in grey clouds, you can see the sun slowly sink beyond the horizon, its radiant light faltering beneath the smothering grey sky. It’s kind of beautiful, in a way…

…Chris puts his hands on yours… and the two of you share a quiet moment together, just holding hands and watching the sun set.

Still, there aren’t any ruins or cult hideouts along the river banks, at least not anything obvious. There are wharfs and old fisheries, most of which are built with direct access to the river, and while they have all seen better days, none of them are noticeable abandoned. Hmm, there was something else on the map… a red line connecting all those symbols. Wasn’t that line drawn right here, across the bridge and up the river? Maybe it’s a pipe under the water or… hmm…

Kaktus 2023/12/30(Sat)16:37 No. 1080097 ID: 681cb5
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>It'll be dangerous, things do go bump in the night after all. However, I think it might be smart to check out the possible spot for where the slaughter house used to be at.
The two of you take a quick walk along Church Street, where the road to the slaughter house is supposed to be, as well as keeping an eye out as you wander back towards the mansion, just in case there’s another road into the forest. But no matter how hard you look, you can’t spot even a single sign that there has ever been a road here, or anywhere else in the forest. Surely, the road can’t have been completely overgrown in just 75 years, right? Some of these trees seem ancient, after all!

Either way, you’re not going in there without daylight. It’s creepy enough as it is…

Kaktus 2023/12/30(Sat)16:37 No. 1080098 ID: 681cb5
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>We should return to the manor, resupply and plan out the next day.
Chris: “Just sit down and take it easy, Bluebell.” Chris cheerfully tells you as he leaves for the kitchen, “I’ll make us some dinner.” Sitting down, you take a deep breath and relax a bit, your shoulder finally lowering a bit as a calm washes over you. Then a loud crash drags you kicking and screaming back to reality, “Ah, fiddlesticks!”
Belle: “Are you alright?” you yell, concerned about your hubby, “What happened?”
Chris: “Oh, I just dropped a glass, don’t worry.” the rabbit yells back, a slight tinge of worry in his voice, “I’ll clean it up. You just relax, Belle.”
Belle: “Yeah… maybe I should…” you rub your forehead, “Ugh, I’m getting a headache…”

>It would be nice to have any idea of what to do whatsoever.
You need to think, reorganize your thoughts and figure all this out. Tomorrow, something really bad will happen, a blessed event, and you need to stop it. But how? And when? Where? You need more information. Both the slaughter house and the lighthouse are being used by the cult, so there’s bound to be more information there…

Then there’s the gravesite Josephine was talking about. Is the mansion really built on an old Indian burial ground? And can the flute really control the mist? Not to mention, that lens… do you even want to use it?

And it feels like you’ve forgotten something. There was something else you were supposed to do, to check… but what? Ugh, you really need to rest for a bit… to get your thoughts together…

Kaktus 2023/12/30(Sat)16:37 No. 1080099 ID: 681cb5
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Chris: “Here we go, the patented Chris Knott specialty... (Da da da DAH!) Reheated leftovers from yesterday!” Chris practically bounces into the room with two steaming hot bowl filled to the brim with rice noodles and chicken, “Bon apatite, beautiful!”
Belle: “Mmm, this is good…” you tell him, as you start to eat, “Though to be honest, anything would taste good after today.”
Chris: “We got more, so no need to hold back, Belle.” he gives you a wink, “There is enough for both of us.”

After scarfing down a big bowl of Pad Thai, you feel a lot better… though, maybe you ate a bit too much too quickly. A sudden drowsiness washes over you, as your belly is to full of good food.

In fact, you can barely keep your eyes open… you need to… or you’ll… sleep… right here…

Uh…

…ZzZzZ…

Kaktus 2023/12/30(Sat)16:37 No. 1080100 ID: 681cb5
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Chris: “Sleep tight, Bluebell.” the bunny whispers as he drapes a warm blanket over you, “You really needed a proper rest, didn’t you?”

A good night's rest will do you well. But something doesn't feel right, did you forget to lock Chris up for the night? Somewhere he can't get, say, an axe?

>>1080100
Why is there an axe by the chair?

I don't think Chris is going out just to chop some fire wood.

Perhaps he's getting ready to venture out on his own?

Mmm... nothing like a calming meal laced with rohypnol

Kaktus 2023/12/30(Sat)22:27 No. 1080114 ID: 681cb5
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Bövel: “After all… a good night sleep makes it so much easier…”

>>1080114
BELLE WAKE UP!

Power of love, wake up just in time.

It's just a nightmare. Belle can't see when she's asleep.

Kaktus 2023/12/31(Sun)03:17 No. 1080128 ID: 681cb5
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Bövel: “To finally put an end to your insistent meddling, harlot.”

this is because we gave the amulet to Sophia, isn't it?

You have died. Again.

What a terrible day, but it will all be over soon

Unfortunately for him, the nightmare has only begun.