darielivalyen

[darielivalyen]

Eldritch Tales: Inheritance | May 14, 2025 Update

Hello, hello! Another content update is here! 💚

This one brings you the first half of Chapter 4. I think we might have two more updates, and then the game will be ready. The next update will close Chapter 4, and the final one will include all of Chapter 5 and the epilogues; I already have the second half of Chapter 5 written in my files, but it's not edited yet.

Overall, I have about 40.000 words left to write.

To sum up, this update includes the first half of Chapter 4, which is about 22.000 words.

Depending on your choices, it either moves the story forward by letting you investigate what you decided to focus on at the end of Chapter 3, or it leads to another non-bad ending.

As always, I fixed some things in earlier chapters–nothing major.

To be safe, I'd recommend a fresh save.

From other news, I've started developing lore, story, and mechanics for the next game. It will be another take at my ideas connected to the Elder Crystals (my fantasy projects), but almost everything will be brand new. I’m excited and plan to focus on it fully once I submit Eldritch Tales to Hosted Games–hopefully within a month or two.

I hope you enjoy the update! 💚

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[darielivalyen]

Eldritch Tales: Inheritance | April 1, 2025 Update

Hello, hello, I'm back with a progress update this time! 😊

It took me a while, but I just finished writing all the endings–basically, it's the second half of Chapter 5. There are ten of them (14 if we count variations), and they're 26.800 words overall. Each background gets a unique ending–though you don't have to go that route–and there are also some available for everyone.

On top of that, you also have the ending in Chapter 1 (bad), Chapter 3 (non-bad), and there will be one more in Chapter 4 (non-bad). There might be one last ending in the first half of Chapter 5, and that one will be the final non-bad ending.

So… 3 non-bad endings, and over a dozen bad ones…

NPCs only participate in the non-bad endings. This means that once you move past the point of no return in the horror (you never have to as long as you have enough sanity at the start of Chapter 5), things shift fully to you and your perspective.

Since these endings are in Chapter 5, there’s no update to the demo this time. Starting tomorrow, I’m returning to Chapter 4, so a new update should be ready in a few weeks. 💚

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[darielivalyen]

Eldritch Tales: Inheritance | Feb 18, 2025 Update

Hello, hello! The new update is here, and with it, I bring you the final part of Chapter 3. This is major as it brings the game from 90k words to about 114k, which means we're now much closer to the end than the beginning. The plan is for the game to be ca. 200k words.

More about the update:

The update is about 24.000 words.

It moves the story forward quite a lot, but I won’t mention any details to avoid story spoilers. There’s an investigative element, some little romantic mentions, a ton of weird and creepy things, and–maybe most importantly–you get to choose what the final two chapters will be about.

That choice will basically put you onto one of two main story paths. They don’t translate directly into endings but determine what your group will focus on.

Oh, and there’s a new ending achievable in Chapter 3.

To be safe, I’d recommend a fresh save.

Now that I’m done with Chapter 3, I will need to work on the second part of Chapter 5 to get a better sense of how I want to work through Chapter 4 and the start of Chapter 5. Writing the endings first should help me get a different perspective.

I hope you enjoy the update! 💚

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[darielivalyen]

Hi! Have you heard about dashingdon shutting down? Cogsdemos is an alternative that uses choicescript, so you don't lose all your work when dash goes down!

Hi there, Anon—and everyone else who contacted me about this—I've seen the news, and I just wanted to tell you all that I'll soon be moving all relevant projects over so that nothing gets lost.

This basically means that I'll move Eldritch Tales and Everbloom over to a new site. Temple of Endless Night and Hidden Sanctum are out, so this doesn't affect them, and The Alchemist is made in Twine.

Thank you for contacting me in such numbers! 💛

[darielivalyen]

Eldritch Tales: Inheritance [WIP]

Eldritch Tales: Inheritance is a game that blends elements of psychological, supernatural, and cosmic horror with a good dose of drama, investigation, and romance. You and your high school friends are reunited after five years by a mysterious letter, and through this letter, you inherit an old Gothic manor and a substantial fortune.

There is only one condition: you must live in the manor together.

As you arrive at Blackthorn Manor, strange, unsettling events begin to unfold. Shadows move on their own, nights are unnaturally dark, and the atmosphere grows increasingly tense. The manor is full of secrets, and the more you learn, the less you seem to understand.

Play as male, female, or nonbinary.

Customize your appearance, personality, and sexuality.

Romance or befriend a wealthy and carefree playboy, a no-nonsense scientist, a disciplined and protective ex-soldier, or a sweet and free-spirited artist.

Manage your relationships, or face unforeseen consequences.

Pay attention to your sanity and health, or…don’t.

Search for clues, solve puzzles, and learn the truth behind your inheritance.

Discover hidden rooms, secret passages, and eldritch artifacts.

Confront moral dilemmas, and be careful as they may have far-reaching consequences.

Face randomized events that will keep each playthrough unique.

Experience multiple endings based on your choices and actions.

What darkness does Blackthorn Manor conceal, and how will it affect your fate? Can you uncover the truth and survive, or will the manor’s sinister influence consume you all?

TYLER REYNOLDS

Background: Born into wealth, Tyler has always enjoyed privilege and opulence. While his party-going ways have quieted recently, he still likes to boast about his family’s status.

Personality: Tyler has a confident, carefree spirit that can be both alluring and unnerving. He enjoys living in the now and isn’t too concerned with the future.

Physical description: Tyler is tall and lean with an athletic build. He has dirty blonde hair, hazel eyes, and a preppy yet sophisticated style. He is fond of loafers and owns over two hundred pairs.

Smell: Blend of citrus and sage.

CALEB MITCHELL

Background: A former soldier, Caleb has spent the last couple of years doing different security jobs. He’s very protective of his younger sister Julia, with whom he shares a close bond.

Personality: Caleb is disciplined and protective, with a dry sense of humor shaped by his military background. Despite his rugged exterior, he dreams of a peaceful life.

Physical description: Caleb is tall and muscular, and has an overall rugged appearance. He has a dark brown undercut, deep brown eyes, and a bit of stubble. His style is mostly casual.

Smell: Cedarwood with hints of amber.

JULIA MITCHELL

Background: Julia has a deep passion for science; she excels in engineering and physics. Her career and research define most of what her life is about.

Personality: Julia is a no-nonsense individual who values efficiency and clarity. She’s methodical in her approach to problems but can get puzzled in overly emotional moments.

Physical description: Julia is of medium height with a lean physique. She has neck-long black hair, deep brown eyes, and wears stylish glasses. Her style is Parisian chic.

Smell: Paper and ink, with hints of lavender.

LUNA HARPER

Background: An artist first and foremost, Luna’s whole world revolves around her paintbrush and palette. She embraces all forms and aspects of spirituality and loves crystals.

Personality: Luna is a free spirit, and her vibrant personality is reflected in her artwork. Her optimism is infectious, her humor innocent, and her soul seems to be untouched by cynicism.

Physical description: Luna is petite and has an ethereal presence. She has long platinum-blonde hair with pink highlights, green eyes, and loves the bohemian style.

Smell: Patchouli and sandalwood.

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[darielivalyen]

Eldritch Tales: Inheritance [WIP]

Eldritch Tales: Inheritance is a game that blends elements of psychological, supernatural, and cosmic horror with a good dose of drama, investigation, and romance. You and your high school friends are reunited after five years by a mysterious letter, and through this letter, you inherit an old Gothic manor and a substantial fortune.

There is only one condition: you must live in the manor together.

As you arrive at Blackthorn Manor, strange, unsettling events begin to unfold. Shadows move on their own, nights are unnaturally dark, and the atmosphere grows increasingly tense. The manor is full of secrets, and the more you learn, the less you seem to understand.

Play as male, female, or nonbinary.

Customize your appearance, personality, and sexuality.

Romance or befriend a wealthy and carefree playboy, a no-nonsense scientist, a disciplined and protective ex-soldier, or a sweet and free-spirited artist.

Manage your relationships, or face unforeseen consequences.

Pay attention to your sanity and health, or…don’t.

Search for clues, solve puzzles, and learn the truth behind your inheritance.

Discover hidden rooms, secret passages, and eldritch artifacts.

Confront moral dilemmas, and be careful as they may have far-reaching consequences.

Face randomized events that will keep each playthrough unique.

Experience multiple endings based on your choices and actions.

What darkness does Blackthorn Manor conceal, and how will it affect your fate? Can you uncover the truth and survive, or will the manor’s sinister influence consume you all?

TYLER REYNOLDS

Background: Born into wealth, Tyler has always enjoyed privilege and opulence. While his party-going ways have quieted recently, he still likes to boast about his family’s status.

Personality: Tyler has a confident, carefree spirit that can be both alluring and unnerving. He enjoys living in the now and isn’t too concerned with the future.

Physical description: Tyler is tall and lean with an athletic build. He has dirty blonde hair, hazel eyes, and a preppy yet sophisticated style. He is fond of loafers and owns over two hundred pairs.

Smell: Blend of citrus and sage.

CALEB MITCHELL

Background: A former soldier, Caleb has spent the last couple of years doing different security jobs. He’s very protective of his younger sister Julia, with whom he shares a close bond.

Personality: Caleb is disciplined and protective, with a dry sense of humor shaped by his military background. Despite his rugged exterior, he dreams of a peaceful life.

Physical description: Caleb is tall and muscular, and has an overall rugged appearance. He has a dark brown undercut, deep brown eyes, and a bit of stubble. His style is mostly casual.

Smell: Cedarwood with hints of amber.

JULIA MITCHELL

Background: Julia has a deep passion for science; she excels in engineering and physics. Her career and research define most of what her life is about.

Personality: Julia is a no-nonsense individual who values efficiency and clarity. She’s methodical in her approach to problems but can get puzzled in overly emotional moments.

Physical description: Julia is of medium height with a lean physique. She has neck-long black hair, deep brown eyes, and wears stylish glasses. Her style is Parisian chic.

Smell: Paper and ink, with hints of lavender.

LUNA HARPER

Background: An artist first and foremost, Luna’s whole world revolves around her paintbrush and palette. She embraces all forms and aspects of spirituality and loves crystals.

Personality: Luna is a free spirit, and her vibrant personality is reflected in her artwork. Her optimism is infectious, her humor innocent, and her soul seems to be untouched by cynicism.

Physical description: Luna is petite and has an ethereal presence. She has long platinum-blonde hair with pink highlights, green eyes, and loves the bohemian style.

Smell: Patchouli and sandalwood.

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[darielivalyen]

Hiya! Just wanted to ask how old everyone (MC and ROs) is in Eldritch?

Hi there, Anon! There's no specific number as I wanted to leave things more or less open to interpretation.

That said, there are some pointers.

You're all a few years after high school, and the general idea is that everyone–except for Caleb–is the same age. Caleb is Julia's older brother, but you were all in high school at the same time so he can't be much older. Maybe a year?

As for how long it's been since high school, I'd say ca. 5 years. Julia did quite a bit of studying for example, so she would have needed at least that to get some sort of degree.

Thank you for the ask! I appreciate it! 💚

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[darielivalyen]

Eldritch Tales: Inheritance | Nov 22, 2024 Update

Hello, hello! The first part of Chapter 3 is here, and that means we’ll SOON be moving from the reactive mode to the proactive one. Since my last post, I've also updated the demo with an edited version of Chapter 2. Fewer typos and better punctuation!

This update includes the first portion of Chapter 3, which is about 6.500 words.

This portion mostly moves the main story forward, while also including more personality and sanity checks than before. We'll have only more of those in the future.

The next portion will be longer, and it will feature more romance, including proper romantic and/or sexual encounters with the love interests. Also, there'll be a sanity-focused scene sequence...

From semi-related news, I recently sat down to think about the endings for the game, and I somehow already wrote two of them. While there will be “good” endings, I think more than half will be pretty grim. And when I say grim, I mean death or madness.

I hope you enjoy the update! 💚

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[darielivalyen]

I really love the Temple of Night, and I was trying out the new eldritch game! I love the concept, but I am confused. I don't understand the relationship between the characters? I didn't see it mentioned anywhere (I can be very blind to the obvious, though), and because they are all inheriting, I started to assume they were all sibling or otherwise related, but then I noticed you could flirt with them, and now I think I missed something. I hope it's not a bother, but could you explain it to me?

Hi there, Anon! None of them are related to you by blood or law, so no worries there. Caleb and Julia are brother and sister, but other than that, you're all high school friends (high school ended a few years ago for you). This is mentioned in the blurb for the game, and I think (?) it's also mentioned in-game.

As for the inheritance, that's part of what makes the whole business... weird, part of the mystery... Hope that helps! 💚

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[darielivalyen]

Eldritch Tales: Inheritance | Oct 31, 2024 Update

Hi guys! See? This time I'm back more or less when I expected to be. No unfortunate events (for once...). Right, so here's the new update for Eldritch Talese, right in time for some Halloween vibes!

As I mentioned in the last post, this update includes the final part of Chapter 2, which is about 13.000 words.

There will be a follow-up patch for this chapter once I’m done revising it and checking for any remaining typos–no worries there.

This update also removed one of the stats–at least for now–as I realized I haven’t used it even once. These technical aspects are all still fluid so we’ll see where we end up. ^^

The next update will bring you the first part of Chapter 3. Chapter 3 will include much more romance, flirting, and conflict–finally, learning some dark things about the manor, reactivity to health and sanity, as well as more background-related moments.

I know it's not a huge update, but I wanted to give you something for Halloween. Since... you know... this is a horror game? 😅

I hope you enjoy! 💚

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[darielivalyen]

Eldritch Tales: Inheritance | Sept 25, 2024 Update

Hi guys! Once again, I've been missing in action (health stuff, but it's better now, so no worries!), and I apologize for that. The good news is that I'm back with another update! Here’s what it adds to the game:

This update includes the second portion of Chapter 2, which is about 18.500 words, excluding code. It doesn’t make any single playthrough much longer, but it introduces the first scene for each background (egyptologist, librarian, etc).

Each background can lead you to a background-specific ending (there will also be endings available to all players), and these scenes kick off the storylines.

I also edited Chapter 1. There have been no changes to the story or choices, but I was not too fond of the way I wrote certain things. I hope the current version is okay!

This next update will close Chapter 2 and let you delve deeper into the mysteries of Blackthorn Manor.

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[darielivalyen]

Just read Eldritch Tales and it was so intriguing! Well paced, cool characters, very spooky. Excited for more. :)

Hi there! Thank you so so so much for your kind words! I'm glad you enjoyed the story so far, and I assure you more is coming. I meant to upload much more frequently (and I used to do so with previous projects), but I've been struggling a bit with my health.

I write whenever I can, but it's still not as often and as much as I'd like to. Things seem to be getting better, though, so I hope this changes soon! Thanks again! 💚

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[darielivalyen]

Eldritch Tales: Inheritance | July 6, 2024 Update

Hi guys! Long time no see, I know, I know. It's been a tricky month for me, and I hope things get better soon (they're already a bit better, so no worried). BUT! The important part is that the first part of Chapter 2 is here. Here’s what it adds to the game:

The update includes the first portion of Chapter 2, which is about 11.600 words, excluding code. It’s more like a setup for what will happen in the chapter.

Highlight 1: First proper flirtatious moments for all the characters. Typically, you’ll have full freedom in choosing who you want to spend time with, but this time, the person who visits you will be the same person you chose to have a room next to. (It just makes sense in the context of the scene.)

Highlight 2: A cozy food moment.

Highlight 3: Introduction to background-related scenes that will come in the next patch.

Not a highlight, but I also fixed more typos.

The next update shouldn't take me nearly as long; maybe a week or two. This next update will focus on things related to the background (one of six) you chose for your MC in Chapter 1.

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[darielivalyen]

Everbloom was a total treat! Ahhh, I wish I could play it like a pixel game lol! Would you hit me if I tell you I found the mc's father hot af?

Hi Anon! I'm sooo glad you enjoyed the game, and... I mean... I never said the MC's father wasn't hot... ^^

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[darielivalyen]

Hi, what's the status of The Elder Crystals? Is it on hiatus or cancelled?

Hi there, Anon!

It's a bit of both, really. The concept (and title) isn't canceled, but the rewritten version will be quite different. I'm currently doing some lore rewrites, but I won't really start writing any new content for it until I'm done with Eldritch Tales: Inheritance.

The new Elder Crystals will be more open. The story will be set in a different version of Sekherion, and the focus will be on adventure and travel. The main plot (who you are and what it means) will still be the same, but everything else will be new.

Examples of changes:

Elder Crystals: My original idea for the crystals and the tapestry wasn't clear enough, and the new one will make it easier for you to know what you're doing and what the stakes in the game are. There will be seven crystals, and each one will be unique and connected to a specific area, nation, and concept.

Technology: I've transformed my world from unspecified medieval or late classical to more of a Classical Era in terms of technology. Think sailing, city-states, ancient empires, oracles, monsters, etc.

Setting: The playable area will be more of an archipelago. You can think of Ancient Greece with some Egyptian spirit.

Races: There will be fewer but more unique races. For now, I'm of a mind to include: the Sunborn, the Unliving, Elves (Primeval Elves), Erdorians (tiger-like), Saryels (djinn-like), a human+tree-like race, and some humans (one race, but extra background for which city-state they're from).

Religion: The Triad will be there, but I'm adding more.

Not-in-one-place: Unlike in the original, your adventure won't be centered around a single town. This was my biggest issue with the original, actually. The plot is just too big to not have it affect the entire world. A valley wouldn't cut it. The whole point of the game will be to travel around the world with a specific goal.

On the road: For most of the game, your "base of operations" will be either some sort of camp or ship. I might add a permanent base of operations in the second half. I'm flirting with the idea because it would go really well with the main plot.

Characters: Most of the characters will be new. I might reuse a few here and there, but I'll have to see how they would fit in this new version of the universe.

Another major thing that I'd like to change is the number of books. The original concept was going to be about three games, but as of late, I've been more inclined to write a single longer game. We'll see how that works out. I'm just sharing my thoughts.

Thank you for asking, Anon! I probably should have said something about this earlier, but I still don't feel like I have enough to really talk about it. I will keep you all posted! 💛

[darielivalyen]

Hi! I just read the first chapter of your new work and want to say that I ADORE it. The characters are already intriguing, and I want to find out all the secrets of the estate! I would like to note the variations in the prologue during the trip. This is a pleasant detail, it makes you go through in search of new things. Love all your works. Thank you so much for them and have a good day. <3

Thank you, thank you, Anon! I really appreciate that you took the time to write to me, and I hope you enjoy the rest of the story as it comes out! Thanks again! 💚

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[darielivalyen]

Eldritch Tales: Inheritance [WIP]

Eldritch Tales: Inheritance is a cosmic horror game with elements of romance, set in a Gothic manor. You and your high school friends are reunited after five years by a mysterious letter, and through this letter, you inherit an old Gothic manor and a substantial fortune.

There is only one condition: you must live in the manor together.

As you arrive at Blackthorn Manor, strange, unsettling events begin to unfold. Shadows move on their own, nights are unnaturally dark, and the atmosphere grows increasingly tense. The manor is full of secrets, and the more you learn, the less you seem to understand.

Play as male, female, or nonbinary.

Customize your appearance, personality, and sexuality.

Romance or befriend a wealthy and carefree playboy, a no-nonsense scientist, a disciplined and protective ex-soldier, or a sweet and free-spirited artist.

Manage your relationships, or face unforeseen consequences.

Pay attention to your sanity and health, or…don’t.

Search for clues, solve puzzles, and learn the truth behind your inheritance.

Discover hidden rooms, secret passages, and eldritch artifacts.

Confront moral dilemmas, and be careful as they may have far-reaching consequences.

Face randomized events that will keep each playthrough unique.

Experience multiple endings based on your choices and actions.

What darkness does Blackthorn Manor conceal, and how will it affect your fate? Can you uncover the truth and survive, or will the manor’s sinister influence consume you all?

TYLER REYNOLDS

Personality: Tyler exudes a confident, carefree spirit that's both alluring and slightly unnerving. He enjoys the present and isn't too concerned with the future.

Background: Born into wealth, Tyler has always enjoyed privilege and opulence. While his party-going ways have quieted recently, he still often boasts about his family's status.

Physical description: Tyler is tall and lean with an athletic build. He has dirty blonde hair, hazel eyes, and a preppy yet sophisticated style. He is fond of loafers and owns over two hundred pairs.

Smell: Tyler's scent is a blend of citrus and musk.

CALEB MITCHELL

Personality: Caleb is disciplined and protective, with a dry sense of humor shaped by his military background. Despite his rugged exterior, he dreams of a peaceful life.

Background: A former soldier, Caleb has spent the last couple of years doing different security jobs. His protective nature extends to his younger sister Julia, with whom he shares a close bond.

Physical description: Caleb is tall and muscular with a rugged appearance. He has a dark brown undercut, deep brown eyes, and perpetual stubble. His style is casual and rugged.

Smell: Caleb smells of cedarwood, with hints of amber.

JULIA MITCHELL

Personality: Julia is a no-nonsense individual who values efficiency and clarity. Her methodical approach to problems contrasts with her puzzlement at overly emotional responses.

Background: Julia has a deep passion for science, excelling in engineering and physics. Her cross-disciplinary focus defines her academic and professional journey.

Physical description: Julia is of medium height with a lean physique. She has neck-long black hair, deep brown eyes, and wears stylish glasses. Her style is Parisian chic.

Smell: Julia smells of lavender, with hints of paper and ink.

LUNA HARPER

Personality: Luna is a free spirit, and her vibrant personality is reflected in her artwork. Her infectious optimism and innocent humor reveal a soul untouched by cynicism.

Background: An eclectic artist, Luna finds solace in her paintbrush and palette. She embraces all sorts of spirituality and has a deep love for crystals.

Physical description: Luna is petite and has an ethereal presence. She has long platinum-blonde hair with pink highlights, and green eyes, and loves the bohemian style.

Smell: Luna smells of patchouli and sandalwood, with floral notes reminiscent of wildflowers.

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