seraphim-if - Tumblr blog

[seraphim-if]

Fallen from the sky with grace ✷

[seraphim-if]

tragic. they found an angel stcuk tangled in the telephone wires outsside your house. sorruy. yeah we dont know how to get it out cus anyone who approached the divine light of their holy aura got obliterated. yeah we forgot their names. it'll probably get free sooner or later. dont go outside

[seraphim-if]

“WELCOME TO CRETACEOUS ISLAND.”

DEMO: TBA

NOTE: While I am training as a palaeontologist, I do not claim to be an expert. Therefore, although I will be conducting research into portraying more accurate dinosaurs, there will be possibly be discrepancies or inaccuracies either due to my own research or the lack of (accurate) data available.

-> SYNOPSIS <-

Cretaceous Island is based on the Jurassic Park/World franchise. You will step into the role of the head T-Rex keeper.

You’ve been working as a T-Rex keeper for over ten years now and every day is as interesting as the last.

Unfortunately, not even looking after some of the deadliest creatures in the world was enough to prepare you for the carnage that was about to unfold.

When the system goes down and the dinosaurs escape with evacuation impossible, it’s up to you and a ragtag team to restore order and protect both man and dinosaur.

-> ROMANTIC OPTIONS <-

GRAY/GRACE COLLINS [M/F] - Your big boss is cool, calm, and ruthless. It is well known that they’re not someone to cross, however, they seem have a soft spot for you which some might consider strange considering they also happen to be your ex-fiancé(e). [Poly with Nikolaj available].

LEE MIN-SUN [M/F/NB] - As Operations Manager of the Island, Lee is no-nonsense, grumpy, and has no real time for the corporate side of things that xe’s forced to deal with, but xe has a heart of gold under all the bluster and would do anything to protect those that xe cares for. [Poly with Aija available].

NIKOLAJ OLESEN [M] - He’s your best friend and the embodiment of the term ‘golden retriever energy’. He’s also the head raptor keeper. You’re not entirely sure how those two things go together, but it seems that you’re about to find out. [Poly with Gray/Grace available].

CIERRA DE LA ROSA [F] - A tourist that is vacationing on the island for the third time. You’ve met her a handful of times during those visits, but you haven’t found out much about her beyond her name and the fact that she’s one of the most beautiful women you’ve ever seen.

AIJA MISHRA [NB] - Highly intelligent and more at home among computers than people, Aija is a techie who works in the control room. They’re one of the friendliest and sassiest people you’ve ever met, but, in a crisis, there’s no one you’d rather have on your side. [Poly with Lee available].

-> FEATURES <-

Customise your mc (gender, pronouns, appearance, personality, etc).

Five romance options to fall in love with and two poly options.

Story-driven IF coded using Twine.

Interact with staff, guests, and most importantly, dinosaurs as you look after the T-Rexes and attempt to deal with the biggest crisis the park has ever dealt with and try not to get eaten in the process.

Cuddle with some baby dinosaurs.

-> STATS <-

Personality stats are pretty similar to most other IFs. They will include kind/grumpy, bold/shy, reckless/cautious, genuine/sarcastic, reserved/energetic, and friendly/stern. If you have any suggestions, feel free to lmk.

Skill stats will include intelligence, charisma, marksmanship, agility, and science and technology,

-> WARNINGS <-

This is an 18+ wip due to blood and gore, character and animal deaths, explicit sex (optional), explicit language, medical procedures, violence and injury, and potentially body horror.

[seraphim-if]

You blink languidly, and all you see is light. When you fell asleep, that information evades your mind. All you see is light and whiteness, and you don’t know where you are, or what you’re supposed to do. You remember a long dream, fields of daffodils and dewy meadows, and a voice deep and haunting like a nightmare.

The Deity of Dreams has awoken.

It's the year 2524, and you're a defeated God/Goddess/Deity in a place and time where your kind is rarely needed anymore. After being locked away and thought to be dead for nearly a millennia, you wake up.

Features

Customize your God/Goddess/Deity of dreams.

Retrieve (or not) your now metaphorical throne, stolen by your killer, the God of War and Discord.

Explore and survive in a futuristic and very posthuman world. A world so much different from the one you were pried from.

Blend among mortals, pretend to be one of them— whether you embrace that side of you or not is up to you.

Get your power back after a thousand years of slumber.

Romance or befriend a cast of six characters.

Poly options: Dawn/Bruno, Eris/Dawn, A/Seth.

Characters

Dawn (she/her) • THE REBEL

A rebel and a hacker. Possibly the sole reason you’re awake today, too. She hates deities but seems desperate to get rid of the God of War, even if that involves working with you.

Bruno Lee (he/him) • THE HISTORIAN

Bruno may call himself a historian, a curious old soul in search of unveiling the secrets of the past. But given the fact that he's the only other being locked away with you, there must be more to him.

Vex (they/them) • THE CYBORG

Vex—who also goes by V—is a law enforcer who seems to be more metal than flesh. They represent the crude reality that time has moved on without you. Though V claims they're loyal to their God of War, they've been roped along to help their little sister Dawn.

Amara/Aiden/Asher Moonless (she/her he/him or they/them) • THE LOST ONE

Your memory fades and wavers but you remember A (how could you not). You know they're not the same person you were oh so close to so many centuries ago, but their similarities are eerily noticeable.

Estelle ‘Eris’ Lawrence (she/her) • THE CELEBRITY

Also known as The Voice, Eris is an actress, singer and model. She's every teenager’s daydream, the vivid representation of rags to riches. And, according to Dawn, a valuable ally to have by your side.

Seth (he/him) • THE GOD OF WAR

Your killer and enemy. You knew him once, or so you thought. All that your relationship with him got you was a sword through your chest.

DEMO

[seraphim-if]

I am the light.

[seraphim-if]

"But remember that an "angel" is anything that carries out a mission for God. This includes forces of nature. An angel doesn't have to be an intimidating, fiery being... Photosynthesis? That's an angel. Gravity? An angel. Magnetism? Angel. The Midrash in Bereishis Rabbah (chapter 1) says than an angel only performs one job. That job doesn't have to be destroying Sodom; it could be peristalsis, centripetal force or condensation."

- Rabbi Jack Abramowitz, The God Papers

[seraphim-if]

Bloody Desires: The Cure - Intro Post

Demo TBA (Twine) | Itch.io Page

Bloody Desires: The Cure is a supernatural interactive fiction set in the 21st century. When the Vampiric Round Table (VRT) summons you to New York, you have no choice but to go. The VRT has learned of a credible rumor that a cure for vampirism is somewhere out there. But your kind aren’t the only ones searching for it. The dangerous supernatural exterminators, Heaven’s Hunters, seek the cure to wipe vampires from existence.

18+ for violence, blood, death, sexual themes, explicit language, and morally gray storylines.

Embark on a bloody adventure featuring:

6 unique MC backstories;

3 clans to choose from (Viscardi, Crescendo, Saleyrn);

characters, both supernatural and mortal, who you can form alliances and relationships with (or piss off?);

the ability to play as non-binary, male, female, cis, or trans;

opportunities to level up your skills for the fight ahead; 

multiple endings. 

Learn more about the backstories and companion characters below.

The following companions have platonic and romantic routes.

Kieran Collins - The Shifter

137 years old (looks early 30s) | Irish | male | he/they

Kieran is a shifter who takes on the form of a wolf. They have full control of when they shift, although it can be painful if they shift too often between resting. In his human form, he relies on knives and has spent his life studying supernatural rituals and artifacts. 

Charlotte St. Claire - The Deadly English Rose

28 years old | English | female | she/her

Charlotte is a Londoner with a dark past, having spent a large portion of her life entangled with the dangerous underworld of London. This path led to her imprisonment by a group of vampires who treated her as their personal blood bag. After escaping on the precipice of her death, she was found by Kieran who took her under his wing. 

River Silvius - The Witch

32 years old | American | non-binary | they/them

River is the youngest witch in their family and was raised in the state of Washington. They are currently a professor at the New York Institute of Witchcraft, the premier witchcraft college in North America. They sometimes work on cases with Bennett. 

Katerina Kallergis - The (Other) Vampire

282 years old (looks late 20s to early 30s) | Greek | female | she/her

Katerina is a vampire who was born in Greece almost three-hundred years ago. She despises vampirism - including herself and other vampires. Not much is known about members of her clan, the Infinitum, as they are a tight-knit group of vampires who value privacy and usually avoid other supernaturals as much as possible. 

Bennett Williams - The Cowboy

31 years old | American | male | he/him

Bennett grew up on a ranch in Texas, where he was the only survivor of a Heaven’s Hunters (HH) attack that wiped out his family, including his sister who was a Witch and the intended target. He is currently a private investigator for supernaturals and their families. He is fond of his cowboy hat and shotgun and wears an eyepatch on his left eye. 

There will be additional characters who play their own role in the story, including members of the Vampiric Round Table, clan leaders, Heaven’s Hunters, and more. However, this post would be too long to list all of those people.

Here’s a brief look at the six possible backstories for MC. Subject to change if needed by the author.

Shadow of War World I

Born: 1896 - London, England | Turned: 1915 - Loos-en-Gohelle, France

Born in the heart of London, your life brimmed with dreams. But those were overshadowed by the devastating turmoil of World War I. You were driven by a sense of duty at 19 years old and enlisted alongside your best friend from secondary school. After watching your best friend fall in combat, you were overwhelmed by survivor’s guilt and were left trying to navigate the war-torn world without them. Eventually, you were dying on a different battlefield, reminded of them. But as the darkness closed in, so did a vampire…

Shadow of the Roaring 20s 

Born: 1898 - New York, NY | Turned: 1922 - New York, NY

Born to a working-class family in the heart of New York City, you spent the entirety of your mortal life there. Your Sire was drawn to you as soon as you entered the speakeasy that fateful night… as your connection with your Sire grew, so did both of your desires to never lose each other. A year after being turned, a relentless group of vampire hunters took them from you as they sacrificed themself for your sake...

Shadow of the Spanish Renaissance 

Born: 1608 - Barcelona, Spain | Turned: 1635 - Madrid, Spain

Born to a merchant family in bustling Barcelona, your early years were spent comfortably and your family hoped you would follow in their footsteps. But your passions lay elsewhere. You found yourself inspired by artists such as Coello and Velázquez, and frequented libraries and salons. As you grew older, the weight of familial obligations bore down upon you. One night while you were in Madrid visiting friends, a vampire approached you with a proposal…

Shadow of the French Revolution

Born: 1770 - Vizille, France | Turned: 1799 - Paris, France

Born to a family of budding rebels in Vizille, you experienced the backdrop of social unrest and discontent. As the revolution began to spread across France, you found yourself at the midst of it in Paris. It is there that your Sire became fascinated by your sense of justice and chose you to be their eternal descendent. Against your deepest desires, you were thrust into immortality, a fate you never sought, as your original intention was simply to fight for the betterment of humanity…

Shadow of the Zhou Dynasty

Born: 890 B.C. - Western Zhou | Turned: 867 B.C - Western Zhou

Born into a prestigious family, you spent much of your time at court, learning from tutors and schemers alike. As a young adult, you were caught in the crossfires of a power struggle within the court. Betrayed by those you once trusted, you were the victim of an assassination attempt. You only remember your eyes closing….and then waking up as a vampire, your sire nowhere in sight…

Shadow of the Nile

Born: 1050 B.C. - Tanis, Egypt | Turned: 1023 B.C - Thebes, Egypt 

Born to a family of esteemed lineage, you were raised in the sacred walls of the Temple of Amun-Ra in preparation for your future as a religious figurehead. You did eventually become an important leader in Thebes during a time of political imbalance. But then you died. When you awoke, a vampire was watching over you with an amused look. They swore to have found you already dying in an alley…

-----

Asks are welcome if you so desire, however, I won't be doing NSFW reactions or long reactions at this time. I will still do some regular reactions and answer general NSFW. Thanks!

P.S. please let me know if there's an error in the post, thanks <3

[seraphim-if]

Dying was the easy part. Staying dead is another matter entirely.

In another life you were sanguine: one of many blood mages employed by a prominent family of vampires to clean up the kinds of messes human trafficking so often makes. It was a quiet, uncomplicated life until the day your father dumped you, drugged and bleeding, hours from home.

What should have been a death sentence becomes a path to a new life when you’re rescued by the owner of a queer nightclub who has supernatural secrets of her own. One year, a new gender, and a stolen identity later, and you’ve crafted a life that is truly your own. For this one moment your past is truly behind you.

Unfortunately, a new life doesn’t make old problems nonexistent.

When your existence is discovered by the son of the woman who wants you dead, the two of you strike a deal: your services in exchange for his silence. Years will pass before he calls in your debt, but when he does it sets off a chain reaction that threatens to destabilize the region, break centuries-old alliances, and ruin one very expensive wedding.

Sophia Durand

[ PREVIOUSLY DECEASED ]

You were once a prodigy training to succeed your father as one of the Corbeaus’ head mages. Now you work in a club, oftentimes cleaning up messes that aren’t much different from the life you lived before. You’ve found a family among the outcasts of a mundane world and will do anything in your power to keep this life from being threatened.

Meliza Flores

[ REAL-LIFE FAIRY GODMOTHER ]

A former associate of one of the organizations in the Corbeau’s criminal network, her story echoes the ordeal Sophia is facing when she arrives at Meliza’s nightclub, The Broken Crown. She’s now devoted herself to protecting those discarded by society, but her cause is threatened with the arrival of a face from Sophia’s past.

Alexandre Corbeau

[ MOMMY'S FAVORITE SOLDIER ]

A high-level enforcer within his family’s organization, Alexandre’s propensity for violence is well known. Despite this, and much to his own dismay, he falters when face to face with his father’s alleged killer. This chance encounter with Sophia raises

Jamie Saint-James

[ THE BIG BAD WOLF ]

The youngest of eight siblings and a disappointment to his famous parents, Jamie’s only worth comes in the form of his engagement to heiress Desiree Corbeau. Though neither party is particularly pleased with this arrangement, he’s happy enough to oblige. That is, until he meets Alexandre’s new girlfriend and uncertainties about his impending nuptials begin to grow.

Collaborative story: follower votes determine story path, dynamics, and protagonist actions

Character customization: MC appearance and stats were decided by follower vote at the story's start

Romance paths: Options to romance multiple character, including opportunities for polyamorous relationships

Character relationships: Approval and disapproval scores shapes interactions, forming friendships and rivalries

Build alliances: an expensive wedding attracts powerful guests. build potential alliances with members of each faction

18+ scenes: romances include explicit adult content

Main account | Tip Jar | Patreon | Catch up via AO3

[seraphim-if]

✧ STORY

When you reunite with a costar in a drama you once filmed together as children, sparks are bound to fly.

15 years ago, you and Lee Seol were cast as the childhood versions of the lead characters of “The Red Sleeve.” The historical drama reached record-breaking ratings and launched the two of you to stardom, albeit on very different paths.

When a new director decides to remake the drama in an attempt to surpass the original, he requests both you and Lee Seol to join the cast. With the both of you returning to your roots, expectations are high. There’s no way you can fail… right?

✧ MC

At the age of 25, you’ve already had a stunning career. Starting from your roles in historical dramas as a child to now starring in romantic comedies, you have become a household name, fondly known as the "Nation’s First Love." Your only quirk? The rumour that you’ve dated most of your previous co-stars. 

⋆⋆⋆⋆⋆

Choose from three personas/personalities to start with (although this will not limit your choices in the story)

The Loveable Sweetheart (bubbly, charming)

The (pretend) Loveable Sweetheart (sarcastic, mischievous)

The Demure Actress (reserved, elegant)

⋆⋆⋆⋆⋆

Note: The MC is not a blank slate and is gender-locked female. Given the setting of this story, the MC will need to have at least some Korean heritage.

✧ LOVE INTEREST

Lee Seol (gender selectable, f/m)

Lee is their last name and pronounced like the letter E.

At the age of 27, Lee Seol has built a name for themselves in the world of action and noir. They are the quintessential actor, renowned for their dedication to their craft, including performing their own stunts and often nailing scenes in just one take. With a flawless reputation to boot, it’s no wonder they’re one of the nation’s biggest stars.

You were once close with Lee Seol but the years have drifted you two apart. Will you be able to grow close enough to once again see what’s under that perfect facade? 

Note: There will be significantly different plot lines for each gender, reflecting the different lenses women are viewed with and the conservative nature of the entertainment industry.

⋆⋆⋆⋆⋆

Appearance: 6'2" (m) or 5'11” (f). Lean, athletic build with piercing black eyes and a prominent jawline. Silky black hair that falls just over their face (m) or just below their shoulders (f)

✧ FEATURES

Star in a historical Korean drama based on “The Red Sleeve"

Choose how you want to be portrayed to the public and track your reputation via news articles and netizen comments

Get involved in Dispatch dating reports, interviews, the filming of behind-the-scenes footage, and more~

🫰🫰🫰🫰🫰

✧ LINKS

Demo (TBA)

[seraphim-if]

It's finally here ^^

What can you expect from the demo?

Prologue and Chapter 1 part 1

Over 20k words of content

An initial character customisation which will be further expanded in future chapters

'Meet' the cloaked figure, Alekto and Nemesis

Meet Josh

Meet your sister Chrissy, how she used to be

Get a glimpse at how your life used to be while your parents were alive

LINK

[seraphim-if]

Modern Elites is a 18+ raunchy slice-of-life IF that follows you, a young royal, navigating the world of the obscenely rich and immensely famous while trying to keep your elite, royal family together in the midst of drama and tabloids.

Setting: modern times, fictional tiny country of Selusa, New York, Paris and more.

Genre: slice-of-life, drama, romance

Celebrity. Pop Culture Icon. Heir.

Royal.

As the heir to the Selusan throne, you're known by many names. Growing under the spotlight hasn't been easy, especially since it seems the vultures all want a piece of your elusive family. Country clubs, yachts, parties, private jets, elite schools, you've had it all.

But is there something missing?

Customize your heir from appearance to gender identity to personality. Dictate what kind of person they are: rebellious, dutiful. Do they care about the royal line or are parties more on their mind? Will you keep a squeaky clean rep or ruin the family name?

Customize Salusa and cater the country to your taste.

Dictate what kind of leader you want to be, and how others percieve you.

Experience the life of the hidden .01% and the drama of the ultra wealthy.

Engage in fiery, dramatic romances that could either uplift or ruin you and your family.

and more to come.

THE ADVISOR

Imogen/Ian Lancaster [f/m]- your family's advisor and publicist. I has cleaned up every mess, every leak, every scandal and at this point, there are no secrets between your family and them. Coming from a well-off family themselves, they know exactly how this world works...and they navigate it with a steel will and a cold, detached demeanor. I has you handled like an adult with a child, trying (and probably failing) to keep you in line. Anything you do will go through them, so it's better to think twice.

THE BETROTHED

Everett/Eva St. Clare [m/f] - the eldest of one of the most influential businessmen on your side of the world, black sheep, and a source of gossip in polite society, there have been talks of a betrothal between you two since the partnership started. Because of that, you two are forced into a fake romance for the cameras. E is an arrogant and brash casanova, sex-obsessed, and is proudly noncommital with string of rumors that follow them like their own entourage. Unfortunately for you, E's exploits can damage the carefully constructed facade you two have built. Of course, E doesn't give a damn.

THE REBEL

Vince/Vivian De Grasso [m/f] - (secretly) fresh out of jail and newly reformed (not) V's politician of a mother has asked in a favor from your family: to reform them and stifle their rebellious ways by adding them to your security detail. Your father having a soft spot for the kid, brings them in as one of your guards. Hopefully V keeps in line...or not.

THE COMMONER

Cordelia/Corden Bowen [f/m]- an employee at the country club you frequent, someone less polite would call them a 'nobody.' C has a bit of an attitude, but that's expected from someone who is used to getting berated by rich people all day. There's not much else to say about them...or maybe there is?

THE JOURNALIST

Romi Marshall [m/f]- a famed journalist with contempt for royalty and elitism. Their newsletters frequently slam you and your family's every move, and they don't like you one bit. You can confidently say they're your biggest hater.

THE ROYAL BEST FRIEND

Oliver/Olivia Ames-Astor [m/f]- a fellow prince/princess from another country and your best friend, who is still hung up on their ex. Forced to betroth someone else, O has so many problems you can hardly sort through them. Still, they're kind and as polite as you'd expect from a person who has had etiquette lessons drilled into them since childhood. They're also your best friend, so there's that.

[seraphim-if]

Your story is so impressive! All aspects from the lore to the writing and the game display are so beautiful!!

I want to ask about the 'look' feature in your game. Like, how to make it? What is the difference in the coding to make it open a separate textbox vs appear new sentences in the current passage? And how to code it for the game to realize that the players have clicked on it and let them continue to the next passage/remember that the players have look at something?

Thank you in advance! And sorry for my bad English 😭

Aww, thank you so much!! ;; I appreciate your kind words!

I made some quick and dirty macros just now if you're interested, so you don't have to do the somewhat ugly way I do it! Here's the itch.io link. Instructs on how to implement are on the page! Password is "looking". You can demo it + download it to see how it works!

The macros I made will probably be more than adequate for most of your needs, though it is limited to having 10 of each of the three different ways you can look at something in one passage (opens a new window of text, reveals some lines of text, or reveals new lines of text with the include macro).

Under the read more, I'll go over how I manually do it in Sugarcube—and it's going to be horrible to look at if you try to do it without syntax highlighting in your project. For the sake of this guide, I'll be highlighting it!

Separate textbox

I am going to show you two ways to do this—one, the way I typically do it; two, with Cycy's liveupdate macro (thanks to my friend, Gwen for teaching me this revolutionary way!!!). You'll need:

StoryFormat - SugarCube (need for both ways)

Chapel's Popover macro (need for both ways)

Cycy's liveupdate macro (if you're doing it With Cycy)

With Cycy - easier to understand, but the text replacement (when you click on the link and it gets replaced with new text to show you've already seen it) does not happen smoothly/with a transition.

Without Cycy - harder to understand, but can replace the link with a smooth transition so the text does not instantaneously and abruptly change.

Each guide is going to rehash pretty much the same information as the other way because I'll just assume you haven't read the other way.

With Cycy

Here is an example:

1. LIVEBLOCK. A custom macro from Cycy. Whatever is inside the ((liveblock)) will be updated when ((update)) is called inside of it. We need this because, once a passage is rendered, even if a variable is changed through ((click)) or ((link)), the text will not change to reflect these changes. What Cycy's liveblock macro offers is allowing you to live update the text! All the code we'll be writing will be contained inside liveblock.

2. VARIABLE. You'll need a variable to remember that you've looked at this specific place before, and you're going to have a make a variable everytime you have a looking place like this one. I'm guessing you can use temporary variables (which only apply to one passage) instead if you don't want to clutter your StoryInit with global variables (which apply to the entire IF).

The reason why I make my looking variables global variables is because I want to be able to remember that a player has looked at something to update the codex and/or remember that the player has looked at something, in case we want to check that they've done that in the future. It's also because, if a player goes and looks at their stat page, it may refresh the variable and let players look at the same thing again.

3. IF STATEMENT. Again, a simple if statement to test if a player has seen something won't work on its own, as the text does not update live to reflect the changes—even if you use ((link)) that has a ((set)). However, with Cycy's live update macro, this is actually very relevant. If the player hasn't seen the link, show the link; if the player has, show the text that will replace the link.

4. LOOK SPAN. I want the link for all my "looking" links to be distinct from actual choices, so I wrap (span id="look")...(/span) around the entire ((link)) that is in #5. This span is going to style the link to be a bold, gold color.

Here is how I style my links in my Story Stylesheet (here's a link to the Pastebin):

5. INSIDE THE LINK. Of course, make the ((link)) which the player will click on to look at something. Set the variable that tests if they've looked at it to true, and then call ((update)) to update ((liveblock))'s contents. Next, we will be using Chapel's Popover macro—what this does is "pop over" in a new dialog everything that is inside ((popover)...((/popover)). I specified "noclick" so the players click on an X instead of the screen to exit out. I use the ((include)) macro inside, which is especially useful if the text you're going to be "popping over" is quite long (which my character descriptions are).

Here, I put my closing ((/link)) and then also my closing (/span) for the look span.

6. ELSE — SPAN CLASS LOOKED. Just the same way where I use a (span) to style the link, I use a (span) to style the text that replaced the link. I classed the link with "looked" so that the text that replaced the link is gold, but not bold, and styles normal text instead of links.

Here's how I did it in the Story Stylesheet (also included in the Pastebin already):

Everything that is in ((else)) will be the text that replaces the link to show you've already looked at something. Sometimes I don't want the entire thing to be gold text, just an indicator of where it has changed; so I might only put the (span class="looked") around a part of the text and make the rest of the text normal.

7. ENDING. Close the if statement and close the liveblock.

Without Cycy

Here is an example, ripped straight out of the IF:

The reason I'm showing this way is because if you want to just reveal new lines of text instead of opening up a new window of text, the code for the way I teach you how to do that is basically the same, except you don't use ((popover)).

Also, the text replacement is smoother because the ((replace)) macro we'll be using has the option to use a transition/fade by simply adding "t8n". Cycy's liveupdate macro, when you call ((update)), instantaneously changes the text, which is abrupt.

1. THE IF STATEMENT AND VARIABLE. The if statement tests a variable. If it's true, it will show the link; if it's false, it does not.

This usually does not come into play. When a variable is changed with a link macro, the text does not live-update once the passage is fully rendered. Meaning, even if you click on the link changing $salvatore_looked[0] to true, it won't change the passage. What you'll want instead is the ((replace)) macro that is executed when you click on the link.

So why did I include an if statement anyway? If a player looks into their stat page, which counts as another passage, when they look back at what they were reading, they're able to look at the link again. If you don't care about this, you don't need the if statement—but I'll include it anyway.

2. THE LOOK1 SPAN. The look1 span contains the entire thing, because whatever is inside the span will be replaced when the replace macro is executed. You can call this span anything of course, just make sure the replace macro replaces the specified ID.

3. THE LOOK SPAN. This is actually entirely different from the previous span. The previous span is used by the replace macro to replace everything that it contains; this look span styles the link. If you want the link of your look interaction to look distinct from your other links, you'll want to include a span specifically for this.

Here's a link to the Pastebin of how I style my links in the Story Stylesheet:

4. INSIDE THE LINK, PART 1. Set the variable of the looking variable to true and use the popover macro from Chapel to popover the new screen. I use "noclick" because my popover dialog can be quite long, and I don't want them to accidentally click out of the popover while scrolling. Usually, you click anywhere on the screen to exit; with the "noclick", there is an X button instead.

The popover macro "pops over" in a new dialog everything that is inside it before its closing tag. I use the include macro to include a different passage (optional, but recommended if your popover is going to be long).

5. INSIDE THE LINK, PART 2. Now this is the replace macro. The replace macro I use here replaces everything inside the look1 span with whatever is inside the replace macro's contents. Meaning, what will your link look like after you click on it? The link said "Salvatore" previously, but after clicking on it, I made it so that it still only says "Salvatore" right after.

I used a span class called "looked" to style the text to show that you've clicked on the link before. I did this so that people know where the text has changed. Here's how I did it in the Story Stylesheet (also included in the Pastebin already):

Same color, no font weight, and styles normal text instead of links.

6. ELSE. Of course, if the player has already looked at the link before, you will want to do the same thing you did in Part 5, albeit without the replace. Again, this is only relevant when players can click on a different passage and return to that passage where it can be looked at (e.g. looking at a stat page and then returning).

7. CLOSING TAGS. Make sure to keep organized with your closing tags, there are many here. The looked span should end before the link ends; the look span ends after the link ends; the else statement comes next, with its own span that ends after the last if closing tag. This all sounds confusing on text, so go ahead and just look at the screenshot above.

New sentences in a passage

There is almost no difference if you don't use Cycy's way, except that I don't use the popover macro. You don't have to use the include macro here though, especially if the text that it reveals is minimal. In the case of revealing entire paragraphs or choices, though, I recommend using include.

If you do use with Cycy, I highly recommend looking at the guide "without Cycy". Again, the code is the same, except there is no ((popover))—just ((replace)) with ((include)) inside.

Closing Thoughts

I'm sorry if this guide or the demo on itch.io is a bit scuffed, it's late and I'm rushing to put it out, but I hope it helps! Please let me know if you have any more questions, and again, thank you so much for asking and being interested!! <3

[seraphim-if]

Top Tips for Clues, Red Herrings, and Breadcrumbs

One of the most important parts of writing MYSTERY is figuring out what to do with clues and red herrings - and how to use them effectively. Here’s some advice that’s never steered me wrong: 

Hide the real clue before the false ones! Most people, so by extent your readers and your sleuth, tend to focus on the last piece of information presented to them. A good strategy is to mention/show your real clue and then quickly shift focus. 

Do a clue cluster! Squeeze your real clue in among a whole pile of red herrings or other clues, effectively hiding it in plain sight. This works especially well with multiple suspect mysteries. 

Struggling to think of what a clue could be? Try this list: 

Physical objects: Letters, notes, tickets, emails, keepsakes, text messages, diaries, etc. 

Dialogue: voicemail recordings, overheard conversations, hearsay, gossip, rumours. All of these can hold grains of truth! 

Red herrings distract and confound your protagonist and your reader, so you should be careful not to overuse them. Well balanced, red herrings should lead your characters down false paths to create confusion, tension, and suspense.

Contradictions! Have characters claim they did so-and-so at such-and-such a time, but other characters have evidence that contradicts this.

Balance! Avoid a clue that’s so obvious it’s like a neon sign saying “Look at me, I’m a clue!” but don’t make it so obscure it’ll be missed entirely. A good clue should leave a reader saying “Damn, I should have noticed that” 

[seraphim-if]

[ MAIN POST ]

A/N: This is subject to change and be updated as the story goes on!

I M P O R T A N T T E R M S

Fallen - 

Immortal being with a human appearance. 

The fallen are angels who have 'fallen' from Heaven. They are NOT demons; therefore, they are not allowed in Hell. They are forced to roam the earth in a half-like state, leaving many of them constantly enraged. 

Before the war, many fallen had difficulty holding jobs and lived on the streets. They were often looked down upon by humans who assumed they were simply too lazy to work. 

Fallen can only be killed through decapitation.

Fae - 

Immortal beings with a relatively human appearance, aside from their pointed ears and otherworldly beauty. 

There are many different types of fae with unique magic, but most can perform telepathy, photokinesis, and portal creation. 

Adoncia and his bloodline also work with glamor magic and tongues (the ability to understand many languages). 

Fae are said to be excellent at working with plants, which explains why so many were farmers and florists before the war.

Fae can only be killed through decapitation or removal of their heart. 

Ghosts - 

Immortal beings with a human appearance. 

Ghosts are those who have passed away from the human world but have not moved on. 

The longer a ghost stays in the human world, the more angry and dangerous they become. 

Before the war, ghosts were not integrated into everyday human life. 

Ghosts cannot be killed. They must ‘move on.’ (Usually through a medium.)

Hunters - 

Human radicals who began popping up during the war. 

These individuals were known for hunting and killing any and all supernaturals. Their plan was to 'restore the world to its former glory.'

Can be killed as normal humans would be.

Mermaid - 

Non-immortal (but much longer life span) beings with a human-like appearance from the hips up. They have a tail that may be many different sizes, shapes, or colors from the hips down. 

They can work with water, as well as hypnosis. 

Before the war, they were not integrated into everyday human life. 

Can be killed through significant injury. 

Shifter - 

Immortal beings with a human appearance. 

There are many different types of shifters, but the few we discussed in our story are panther shifters. This means they can 'shift' into their panther that is currently always living inside of them. They can almost always communicate with their panther, and a good relationship is significant. If they constantly fight for power, the 'human' can only partially harness their powers. Letting their panther take over means letting their animalistic side run wild, which gives them more power. 

Before the war, shifters were often found in the military (in their human form, obviously). 

Can only be killed through decapitation or removal of their heart.

Vampire -

Immortal beings with a human appearance. Vampires can only be turned if they are bitten by another vampire and drink blood from the vampire. 

Vampires can harness many magical abilities, but they must be abilities the vampire who turned them held as well. 

Depending on the vampire, they may have superhuman speed, telepathy, superhuman strength, heightened sense of smell and hearing, hypnosis, and telekinesis. 

To live, vampires must drink blood; some may choose to do so legally or illegally. This may be through humans (willing or not), blood banks, animal blood, and synthetic blood. 

Before the war, many vampires held jobs in entertainment due to their striking looks.

Can only be killed through decapitation or removal of their heart.

Werewolf - 

Non-immortal being with a human appearance.

For the first few years as a werewolf, they can only change into their form under a full moon, which is a painful process. During this time, they must be locked up when they transform, as it's much harder to control themselves. 

After the initial years (the number depends on the person), werewolves can shift their form often, depending on their trigger. Some may be triggered by becoming too angry, passionate, or excited. The trigger depends on the werewolf. At this point, they are less likely to be in pain when they shift and tend to have more control of themselves when in their werewolf form. 

Before the war, many older werewolves tended to spend their time in the military or law enforcement. 

Can be killed by significant injury as a human or removal of their heart as a werewolf.

Witch - 

A typically non-immortal being with a human appearance. 

There are many different paths a witch can take - this typically depends on their family genealogy and interests. 

In our story, Saint is a witch with the power of clairvoyance. This is their specialty, but they also work as a green witch (with plants and herbs). 

Before the war, many witches worked as fortune tellers (the world didn't need to know what they heard was real), in healthcare, and the food industry. 

Can be killed as a normal human would. 

B A S I C S

The Flower Shop of Lyrielle is best described as a 'Rural (Urban) Fantasy with Paranormal Romance Elements' interactive fiction. For all intents and purposes, the town of Lyrielle likely looks similar to the small towns near you. 

There's quite a bit of discussion on the topic of 'urban fantasy and the correct time frame/timeline.' When I began creating my story, I wanted a world similar to the world around me today, but I also wanted the freedom to create my own fantasy world. (This is not uncommon in the genre!) While the timeline may take place in what looks like the 21st century, it does not follow our dates and history. It has its own past and timeline that's discussed throughout the story. 

Let's talk geography in the story. As you read the story, the location you'll spend the most time in is Lyrielle, a city inside the state of Aesira. Aesira is just one of ten states within Cheantrea, which is the main world of the story. (Under the read more is a map which shows the entirety of Chantea, important - capitals, and other secondary - cities within the states.)

S U P E R N A T U R A L S , W A R , A N D P O L I T I C S

Before the 'Great War, ' supernaturals existed everywhere. They were in the royal families, the bakeries, and the military. Everywhere. But humans didn't know. Of course, many supernaturals lived in their own towns - usually small and secluded. The type of town many would pass over, but this wasn't always the case. 

The early stages of the war started in a small town called Aldena. This was just two towns over from the capital city, Su'Veya, in the Kingdom of Elarios. During this time, the government was ruled by a royal family. This family lived in a castle just outside of the capital city. This was Calix's family. 

I cannot go into any more details about this time, as we'll discuss this in the main story, but you can thank 'The Fallen' for creating the war between humans and supernaturals. 

The government completely shifted after the 'Great War' and the treaty signing between supernaturals and humans. The royal family no longer ruled. Instead, the world of Chantrea turned to a government under the 'Table of Akantha.' 

It's not only the government that shifted, but geography as well. A war of that caliber changed the landscape as many knew it. States were shifted, capital cities changed, and new names were given all around. It's as if the world of 'Chantrea' completely revamped itself. 

Today supernaturals exist and are accepted in the day-to-day world. For the most part, humans and supernaturals live together in peace, but there are a few laws both sides must follow. For example, humans are no longer allowed to act as hunters against supernaturals, and supernaturals are not allowed to harm humans. They must take the necessary steps to ensure human safety (ex - locking up new werewolves during a full moon, drinking synthetic blood, and so on). Most cities have places to receive artificial blood, spaces to keep new werewolves contained, and groups who watch for hunting radicals. 

There are no laws against supernaturals using their magic daily so long as they do not take advantage of those without magical abilities. Keeping both humans and supernaturals in law enforcement ensures that this issue is consistently taken care of. However, all the reasons listed above are why the 'Human and Supernatural Peace Council' exists and reports to the 'Table of Akantha.' When issues are brought to the surface quickly, they can be taken care of.

[seraphim-if]

So no one has asked for more information about Abaddon. I personally love them and hope that this post listing general facts about Abaddon may inspire more interest in them.

General Facts about Abaddon:

Background: Abaddon is an Archdemon, a powerful entity within the demonic hierarchy. They have existed for countless centuries, and their reputation as a purveyor of chaos and destruction precedes them. Despite their position, Abaddon has always been a contentious figure among demons due to their penchant for stirring up trouble and reveling in chaos.

Personality: They possess a sharp and biting wit, coupled with a mischievous and cynical demeanor. Their charisma is undeniable, drawing others in with their magnetic presence, but it is often a façade used to manipulate and cause suffering. Abaddon is quick-witted, wickedly clever, and revels in their ability to outsmart and outmaneuver their opponents.

Quirks: Abaddon has developed a deep appreciation for theater and acting. They find joy in assuming different personas, both on and off the stage, and relish in the art of performance. Their skills as an actor in the human world provide them with a unique platform to manipulate and deceive others, blurring the lines between their demonic nature and the art of theater. Abaddon has a fondness for collecting vintage theater memorabilia, including playbills, masks, and antique props. They enjoy exploring abandoned theaters and believe they hold traces of the past performances that took place within their walls. In their spare time, Abaddon can be found studying different acting techniques and experimenting with new characters in front of the mirror.

Weakness: Abaddon's relentless pursuit of chaos can be a double-edged sword. Their need to constantly push boundaries and incite conflict can lead them to underestimate their opponents or overlook potential alliances. Additionally, their love for chaos and destruction can sometimes blind them to alternative paths or opportunities for personal growth.

Additional weakness: Despite acting like they don't care that other people tend to dislike them, this does affects them. They have a low sense of self-worth overall.

On previous romantic relationships: Abaddon has had their share of short-term romantic relationships. Abaddon seems unlikely to commit to something long-term. They prefer the excitement of new conquests and the thrill of the chase. Their attention spans may be short-lived, as they constantly seek novelty and variety in their romantic encounters.

Favorite love languages to give and receive are: Gifts and words of affirmation.

[seraphim-if]

Obsolete Stars

Last Update: 18/May 23

Currently available:

Prologue

Chapter 1 part I

Take me to the demo. Now.

You have no idea what you have done to deserve this fate, after years of forced isolation, your father, the King himself, decided that marrying you off is somehow a reasonable solution to getting rid of you. With your companions you are send to travel by foot your kingdom, to your wedding. Do you know who you are marrying? No. But your current concern lays with surviving the journey, and to not go crazy and rip your friends apart. You get to know just how terribly your kingdom is doing, and what secrets lay not only with your friends, but the magical realm that exists in a symbiosis with humanity. 

In this game you will explore your kingdom and what happened to the magic realm. It will include sensitive topics, and possible explicit content in the future.

The game focuses on interpersonal relationships.

What else?

Play as Male, Female, Nonbinary (option to customize your pronouns, future trans options planned)

Date one (or more) of your 7 friends

Play as straight, queer, poly, mono, or just be aro or ace

Be a total ass to your spouse or just accept your fate

Have fun seeing your kingdom in ruins!

Get your friends killed

Get yourself killed

Ę̸̱͌̌x̷͖̕p̵̣̰͐̓e̴̡̪̓̇r̸̨̹̉͘i̷͍̮̎͝e̴͇͋̒n̸̢̼͠c̵͎̳̓̈́e̵͙͇̽̄ ̴̼̈́͒j̵̨̢̈́͆ṳ̸͝͠d̶̝̈̇g̴̨͉̀̏e̸͎͒͛m̷̳̪̓ẽ̶̙͉ń̶͕͋t̵̺̾ ̵̘̓́d̵̹̈́å̵͚ȳ̸͓͗

Okay cool, but what about dating?

Keep reading

[seraphim-if]

I was wondering what would the RO's react when mc offers them a massage?

Since you didn't specify, I'm assuming this takes place before they have a relationship, but in the crushing stage.  

Michael/Michelle

They would be suspicious of why the MC would want to give them a massage.

If you display concern for their well-being and insist a massage would help them, then they would probably be shocked, but also pleased and happy that you want to help them.

After thinking about it, they would accept your proposal.

They would be inwardly nervous about displaying their naked back and thinks its an oddly vulnerable position. Their face, however, would show none of their nerves.  They would look the same always.

They might find it challenging to let their guard down and be vulnerable, especially in a situation involving physical touch and intimacy.

Still as the massage progresses, they gradually relax.

Lucifer/Lucielle

You would need to explain to them why you want to massage them.  Is it a flirtation? Or is it inspired by genuine concern?  Regardless of the reason, L would be flattered and smug at your attentions, and would tease you about how you can't wait to touch them.

They would then get serious. They would warn you that spending time alone with them in private would make people assume that they are together romantically.  Your social standing would be impacted.  Are you sure you want to associate with them on such a level?

If you say yes, they would accept your proposal and guide you to a private location.

They would be quiet and humm as you massage them. As their muscles untense and they look more relaxed, the massage from their crush might evoke mixed emotions within them. On one hand, they would relish the freedom and escape from the responsibilities and pressures of their position. On the other hand, they might feel a sense of vulnerability and insecurity, as their crush is someone who holds power over them.

As someone who struggles with doubts of their own worth and feels alienated from their fellow angels, Lucifer/Lucielle would crave reassurance and validation. The act of receiving a massage from their crush would serve as a physical manifestation of their worthiness and desirability. It would provide an opportunity for them to feel valued and loved, easing their doubts and filling a void within them.

Given their preference for words of affirmation and acts of service, Lucifer/Lucielle would appreciate verbal reassurance and compliments during the massage. Hearing their crush express their admiration and affection would have a profound impact on their emotional state, allowing them to temporarily escape their feelings of isolation and vulnerability.

The physical touch involved in the massage aligns with their preferred love language of physical touch. Lucifer/Lucielle would revel in the closeness and intimacy shared with their crush, finding comfort and solace in the connection. They would readily reciprocate with their own physical affection, using kisses, hugs, and other expressions of love to convey their emotions and desires.

They will eventually tell you they want to return the favor.  They would be very seductive and teasing while they massages you.  They will tempt you in to trying to kiss them or have sex with them.

Simeon/Simone

They would assume you're concerned about them. They will smile at you and tell you not to worry about them. You would have to insist that you want to do this for them.

They would grow serious as they stare in to your eyes.  After a moment of thought, they accept your proposal. It is probably a bad idea, they think, but they hunger for your touch and attention.

They would quietly grunt and moan, but it wouldn't be exaggerated reactions for your benefit but rather genuine reactions to the massage.

They would want to return the favor. They would worship your naked back and their fingers would tremble a bit as they touches you.

Would probably invite you to drink tea and eat something after. They would be mentally undressing you the entire time, but their face won't show it.

Callis/Charmaine

Initially, Callis/Charmaine may appear submissive and obedient, readily following the lead of the person providing the massage. Their low opinion of themselves might make them feel unworthy of such attention, but at the same time, they would deeply appreciate and enjoy the experience. Their empathetic and kind-hearted nature would allow them to receive the massage with gratitude, viewing it as a gesture of care and affection.

As someone who flusters easily, Callis/Charmaine's response to the massage would be characterized by blushing and a sense of shyness. They might struggle to maintain their composure, especially if the massage incorporates sweet or romantic gestures. The touch of the person they are attracted to would likely make them melt and feel a surge of warmth and affection.

Callis/Charmaine's love for cooking and baking might play a role during the massage. They may find themselves fantasizing about preparing a meal or a treat for the person providing the massage as a way to express their gratitude and affection. It could be a way for them to reciprocate the care and attention they are receiving.

Being introverted and hardworking, Callis/Charmaine may not be accustomed to receiving such focused and intimate attention. The massage would provide a quiet and serene environment, allowing them to relax and momentarily escape from their daily responsibilities. They would likely cherish the peacefulness and the opportunity to connect with the person they are crushing on in a calm and comforting setting.

Belphegor/Belle

They would probably be surprised by the offer of a massage, but ultimately agree to it, wanting your care, attention, and physical touch.

They would thoroughly enjoy the massage experience. They would revel in the sensations and the closeness shared with the person they are crushing on

While Belphegor/Belle can be bratty and bossy, during the massage, they would likely relinquish their need for control and allow themselves to be vulnerable and receptive to the care and pampering bestowed upon them. The physical and emotional closeness would deepen their attachment and reinforce their obsession with the person providing the massage.

They might find inspiration in the experience and express it through sketches or paintings afterward.  

Ellis/Elaine

Given their stoic/serious nature, they'll display their usual poker face while receiving a massage.  They may seem indifferent and unresponsive, not giving away any hints of their inner feelings or attraction. Their intimidating demeanor may create a slight barrier between you and E. Most people keep their distance because of E's cold aura.

Beneath their stoic facade, they feel a sense of vulnerability being touched by someone their attracted to. If you try to initiate conversation during the massage, you can detect their awkwardness.

Despite their initial reservations, they would ease up and show subtle signs of enjoyment. such as a softening of their expression or a relaxed posture.

Additionally, considering their role as a Saintess/Saint and the vow of celibacy they have taken, Ellis/Elaine would be torn between their feelings and the restrictions imposed by their position. The forbidden nature of romance and the potential conflict with their faith and the Church would weigh on their mind, causing inner turmoil even as they enjoy the massage.

Abaddon

Abaddon, being charismatic and mischievous, would likely approach the massage with a mix of curiosity and a desire to stir things up. They might view it as an opportunity to playfully push buttons or provoke reactions from you.

They might employ their biting and cynical nature to make snarky remarks or engage in playful banter throughout the session.

They'll try to return the favor which may lead them to experiment with unconventional or unexpected massage techniques, just to see how their partner reacts. They may enjoy testing boundaries and pushing the limits of comfort, seeking to elicit a response or create a memorable experience.

However, beneath their mischievous and provocative facade, Abaddon has a more vulnerable side. The act of receiving a massage, especially if it is given with care and genuine intent, could awaken their appreciation for moments of tranquility and connection.

Abaddon may find themselves surprisingly receptive to the physical sensations and relaxation that a massage offers. It might serve as a temporary respite from their usual chaotic nature and allow them to experience a moment of calm and rejuvenation.

Ultimately, Abaddon's reaction to the massage would likely be a unique blend of playfulness, provocation, and occasional glimpses of vulnerability.