DragonPalace

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A game Written by Kayla Bayens, Hayley Johnson & Julie Yllogique
Illustrated by Julie Yllogique

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/julxDaU.gif"></html> The [[letter|letter01]] was right. It's been far too long since you did anything for yourself. How long’s it been since you left your own neighbourhood? Two years? Three? [[>>>|car_01]] <<set $upstairs to false>> <<set $front_desk_conversation to false>> <<set $collision to false>>

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/9OwD76V.jpg"></html> Anna, I can tell from the way you haven’t been returning my calls and the fact that I haven’t seen you in months means you’ve got the blues something awful. I know you don’t like it when I pry, but I know you enough to tell myself that someone needs to step in and pull you out of your rut, because you sure as hell aren’t going to do it yourself.[[>>>|letter02]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/julxDaU.gif"></html> However long, you’ve fallen into a routine. Wake up at the same time each day. Eat at the same diner on the same block as your office. Come home to the same tiny apartment and try and find something to keep your hours occupied before you fall asleep. Rise and repeat. [[>>>|car_02]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/9OwD76V.jpg"></html> I’ve booked you a room at a little place that always brought me back to life when the world got to me. Don’t go blabbing about it to your friends in the office. This place is sacred to me. To just about everyone who walks through the doors, really. I hope it’ll do for you what it did for me.[[>>>|letter03]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/9OwD76V.jpg"></html> All of the arrangements have been made. Pack your things and meet your driver outside at 10:00am on the 17th. Tell whoever’s at the front desk “Triton sent me.” They’ll know what it means. Give me a call when you get home. I don’t expect to go back to the way things used to be, but it’d be nice to see you again. Like old times. - [[M.|car_begin]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/julxDaU.gif"></html> So, here you are. Sitting in the back of a chauffeur-driven car that you'd never even dream of being able to afford, staring out at the neon signs as you creep ever closer to this mysterious destination, wherever that might be. [[>>>|car_end]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/rtowTfW.gif"></html> <<cyclinglink "Grand Hawaiian Motel." "La Brea Radio." "76 Gasoline." "Astro Liquor." "American Electrical Supply Company." "Silver Dream Apartments.">> You hold out hope that it won’t be long before you [[get there.|get_there]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/YUtsBn3.jpg"></html> The lights outside your window are starting to get brighter. More garish. Great towering marquees like billboards, ten-story cowboys twirling their lassos in the same two frames. All at once, your driver turns towards the pavement and pulls to a stop. //“This is it.”// You [[step out|step_out]] onto the curb, and the driver tips his hat as he pulls back into the street.

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/OsoOLPA.gif"></html> It takes you a moment to drink it all in. The velvety red carpet leading up to those big, beautiful double doors. The twinkling shells that pepper the arches on either side. And just over your head, in bright aquamarine, lettering just subtle enough that your eyes would gloss right over it if you weren't looking for it...[[>>>|palace_entrance]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/1lBg3bs.jpg"></html> <<set $front_desk_conversation to false>><<set $knowledge to 0>><<set $friend to 0>><<set $couch to false>> It is like nothing you have ever seen before, your heels sink into the thick red carpet as you step forward. A bellhop rushes forward to unpack the single suitcase you packed and rushes off into the building before you are able to stop him. Taking a breath to steal yourself, you pad forward along the red carpet to the front door and into [[a different world|palace_foyer_desc]].

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/rsq0iGB.jpg"></html> Your first impression is that of vaulted ceilings, of light, and water. The chandelier that hangs in the center of the room is enormous and illuminates every bit of luxury that could be found in the world, all gathered nicely together and arranged within pillars of marble. [[>>>|palace_foyer]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/rsq0iGB.jpg"></html> You can not see where the water is but can [[hear the sounds|sneaking01]] of it falling gently into a pool of itself somewhere. [[A group of people|couch]] is chatting nearby as they lounge in circular seating off to your left and to your right seems to be the [[front desk|front_desk]] where a nice older couple is checking in. Of course you could go over there now and head off to your room, but this was supposed to be a relaxing vacation so you could always take the time to [[explore first|foyer_exploration]].

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/rsq0iGB.jpg"></html> You cannot place where the sound of falling water might be coming from, and it is like a worm in your ear. From experience you know you won’t be able to think of anything else till you settle it, so straining you follow the sound to the other side of the room. This area is darkened with a [[large and heavy red curtain|showroom_empty]] covering the wall. But [[it would be rude and nosy|palace_foyer]] to take a peek at what might be behind it, right?

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/gz8CsdC.jpg"></html> New things tended to make you nervous, probably why you stuck very close to your routine. You’d come here to shake that up already though, so what was the point of sulking through it? Taking a moment to try and talk yourself into it you begin to walk towards the group of people chatting while lounging on a couch that makes up a semi-circle. [[>>>|couch02]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/BmFdEKO.jpg"></html> <<if visited("front_desk_conversation01")>> The process of getting checked in, while a bit of a strange one wasn't all that unpleasant. In fact the attendant was very friendly once the card had been handed over, almost as if a sense of relief washed over them. //“If you have time later tonight you really should come down in time for our show tonight. It really is fantastic. Everyone comes dressed in their best formal wear for the occasion.”//[[>>>|front_desk_end]] <<else>> //“Hello and welcome to the Dragon Palace, I hope we can make your stay here magical! What can I do for you?”// a bright and perky attendant beams at you from behind the desk. The smart uniform of the hotel lobby employees fits snug on their body, just this side of uncomfortable looking. Clearing your throat you bring out the letter that had whisked you away to this strange place and set it down on the counter in front of you. [[ //"Triton sent me."// |front_desk_conversation01]] <<endif>>

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/lOMiynq.jpg"></html> It seems that like most places that have large groups of visitors filter through it, that Dragon Palace has signs to different portions of its luxury. Though these signs seemed to be gold plated with silver gilded letterings and etched ocean motifs. Still they hold the information you need to check the place out before you check in at the [[front desk|front_desk]] and head to your room. But which area to check out? [[Pool|main_pools]] [[Spa & Beauty Treatments|spa]] [[Dining hall|dining_hall]] [[Lift|lift up]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/NbJF8KJ.gif"></html> Following the sign for the pool you push through a set of heavy double doors and are hit by a burst of humid cooled air and the sounds of splashing. It seems that the pools this time of day are very popular as people mill about in the smaller pools dotted throughout the center, while those interested in laps do so in the two longest pools lining either side of the room[[>>>|main_pools02]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/5nSeJlt.jpg"></html> You turn into a small hallway off of the main foyer to walk towards the lift, no one seems to be in a hurry to go to their rooms since there isn’t anyone waiting to use the lift. After a moment you notice there isn’t a call button for the lift, just a small slot below what looks to be a call box. <<if visited("front_desk_conversation01")>> You take out your gold gilded card from your pocket and insert it into the slot next the elevator, a moment passes before a slight click happens. The lift doors slide open as the slot spits out your card. You decide between going to [[your room|inside_lift]] or back to the [[main foyer area|palace_foyer]]. <<else>> Running your hand along the wall next to the elevator you try to find some sort of button. //“Miss”// the sudden voice coming from the call box makes you jump. Trying to keep the shock out of your voice you lean towards where the voice came from, //“Yes?”//[[>>>|lift_camera]] <<endif>>

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/IaY2QBl.jpg"></html> You nod your head meekly, managing to get out a reply of //“Just arrived actually”// and release a breath as the smile on the woman’s face spreads. //“You are going to just love it here! Come and join us for a bit before you check in then.”// For the next few minutes you spend time on idle chatter, small talk as most call it. What does everyone do, where they are from, how glad they are to be taking a respite from the outside world, how excited they are for the show tonight.<<set $friend += 1>>[[>>>|couch04]] <<set $alix +=1>>

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/gz8CsdC.jpg"></html> The closer you get, the more you are sure they’ve probably been staying at the hotel for a while, a few of them have drinks in their hands and they are all dressed to the nines in what you can only describe at high fashion. As you reach them a few of them turn their heads towards you and one of the women smiles, //“Well hello there darling. First time at the Dragon Palace?”// [[>>>|couch03]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/gz8CsdC.jpg"></html> When you asked about the show they all made you promise you wouldn’t miss it tonight, it was the best part of the Dragon Palace, //“Dear you will just absolutely die of happiness. It is a sight of wonder that can never be explained to you until you’ve experienced it.”// You spend a while longer talking with everyone before excusing yourself as you [[haven’t actually checked in yet|palace_foyer]].

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/LHW810l.jpg"></html> There was almost a moment of panic as the phrase seemed to freeze the attendant in place. One beat, then another before they finally seemed to be kicked into high gear. //“Oh my gosh, yes of course. I can get you checked in right away miss.”// The poor attendant fumbled over themselves to get you checked in, you’ll have to remember the amount of clout that phrase has here for later. A lot of disjointed key stroke and apologies later you were handed a [[gold gilded card|card]] with the Dragon Palace’s logo on one side and a silver trident on the other. [[>>>|front_desk]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/O89Y2hM.gif"></html> Your room key card. It also allows you to schedule spa and private showings. [[>>>|front_desk]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/5nSeJlt.jpg"></html> //“You will need to put your Palace card into the slot in order to access the lift.”// A slight whirling sound had your eyes going to the center of the design above the lift’s doors where you noticed a small camera focusing on you. //“Oh, um thank you. I’ll go check in then.”// Feeling silly you give the camera a shrug as if to say you are sorry before heading back to the [[main foyer area|palace_foyer]].

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/NNKONvr.jpg"></html> Your head is still swimming a bit from everything you’ve seen in your short time at the Dragon Palace already. As the doors to the lift close you aren’t sure if you are supposed to be here or not. The lavishness, the extravagance, the posh and polis. They are all [[things you left behind]] a long time ago, all things you had [[never really felt comfortable]] with.

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/iJwAtCo.jpg"></html> A smiling attendant in a uniform similar to the one you spotted at the front desk but in an aquamarine color stepped forward out of nowhere to stop in front of you. //“Hi! Welcome to the pools of the Dragon Palace, are you a guest here?”// [[>>>|main_pools03]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/iJwAtCo.jpg"></html> <<if visited("front_desk_conversation01")>> //“Yes, I am”// You state as you fumble for a moment before producing the gold gilded card the front desk attendant had handed you. Holding out their hand for it, they produced a small machine from behind their backs as you place your card into it. Swiping it, the image of a trident flashed on the small screen for just a second but it was enough to cause the pool attendant to stand aghast for a moment.[[>>>|main_pools_04a]] <<else>>//“Yes, I just haven’t gotten a chance to check in yet and wanted to look around first.”// //“Ah~”// the attendant rubbed the back of his neck and looked apologetically at you. //“I’m sorry but I’m only allowed to let those guests with their Palace cards into the area.”// [[>>>|main_pools_04b]] <<endif>>

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/iJwAtCo.jpg"></html> //“I am so sorry miss, I didn’t know who you were. Here let me show you the pools amenities.”// Nervously moving off to your side they hold their arm out for you to take. Curious by what the symbol seemed to be doing to the hotel staff’s treatment of you, you gingerly take the pool attendant's arm.[[>>>|main_pools_05a]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/iJwAtCo.jpg"></html> At the small frown on your face, they clears their throat and rushes to make a sort of amends, //“But I’d be more than happy to give you the full tour and all-star service once you check in and get your Palace card.”// The poor pool attendant seems to stumble over the words to get them out quickly enough. Did guests here really get insulted so easily and act with such a vengeance that the staff was terrified of even inconveniencing them? You nod your head in understanding as you turn to go back through the doors into the [[main foyer area|palace_foyer]].

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/NbJF8KJ.gif"></html> After being lead around the entire pool area, shown the whirl pools and tide pools and hot tubs and every other kind of water luxury you could think of your head is spinning. Somehow you’ve also been signed up for a swim lesson with one of the Dragon Palace’s instructors before managing to assure the pool attendant enough to be allowed to leave. [[>>>|palace_foyer]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/tlydz6N.jpg"></html> The sign you follow leads you to plush red double doors, tall and skinny fitted with opaque glass squares fitted together like a puzzle to form small windows inside. You see the vague outlines of people moving about while the scents of lavender, peppermint, and jasmine leak out from between the doors. <<if visited("spa02")>> You'll have to come back here once you are [[settled in|palace_foyer]] <<else>>[[>>>|spa02]]<<endif>>

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/9ioxiPw.jpg"></html> As you follow the direction the sign pointed, you head down a long hallway that opens up to a large ballroom like area as you pass under a high arch. Throughout you see tables laid out with expensive table clothes and thick with waiters rushing about in preparation for the next meal. A few of the tables are holding single occupants or paired couples here and there, either people who either missed the last meals time or whose schedule keeps them from keeping to a strict meal time.[[>>>|dining_hall02]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/iEjhUCk.jpg"></html> <<set $knowledge += 1>> Trailing a hand along the curtain to where it started at one of the walls you pull it up just enough to peek around. Behind it is a large tank of water, for what you’d normally assume would be an aquarium of some sort for the guests to look at while waiting in the lounge or the foyer. [[>>>|showroom_empty02]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/iEjhUCk.jpg"></html> But this one is empty. Strange for sure but maybe it was under repair or being cleaned? Whatever the case this was the source of the sound of running water as you spot the water pouring from a filter back into the tank. [[Your curiosity satisfied|palace_foyer]] you put the curtain back into place and headed back into the foyer.

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/PYJ3QH9.jpg"></html> Walking towards them you had just put your hand against one to open it when the swing open faster and you are suddenly face to face with a [[robed woman in a face mask|collision]]. You apologize in a stuttering and flustered fashion as the robed woman [[smiles at you coyly|smile]] before winking and walking off towards the lifts. The sudden encounter though has you rethinking things as you head back towards the [[main foyer area|palace_foyer]]. You’ll have to be more cautious in your explorations so you don’t almost run head first into anyone else.

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/PYJ3QH9.jpg"></html> After a few blinks of her eyes the woman seems to quickly regain composure as she cocks a hip to rest a hand on and smiles at you. //“Come to enjoy the amenities? I find the spa is the best place for relaxation.”// You stand there still in a bit of shock when she winks at you, //“Of course running into cuties is a bonus as well. Would you be stepping in to be stripped down and pampered? Not that you look like you need any beauty treatments.”// Her eyes seem to twinkle as she continued to tease you. You manage to stutter out something close to [[“Not yet but maybe tomorrow.”|palace_foyer]] <<set $collision to true>><<set $jessie +=1>>

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/PYJ3QH9.jpg"></html> //“The name is Jessie.”// She took just a half a step towards you, enough to seriously cut into your personal space. Somehow she still looked completely at ease doing it. //“You should stop by room 12 if you ever have some… down time you want to fill. I know all the good stuff about this place. Breath hunny.”//[[>>>|smile02]] <<set $jessi +=1>>

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/PYJ3QH9.jpg"></html> You let the air escape your lungs as you realize you’ve been holding it since she had gotten closure. //"Better.”// Her smile widened. //“I bet I could show you all kinds of fun things, but at the moment I have to scurry off.”// As she stepped back you could feel the tension in you release, and from the laughter that hit her eyes it was visible enough that Jessie had noticed it too. [[“Hunny I don’t bite… much.”|palace_foyer]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/LHW810l.jpg"></html> <<if visited("couch01")>>This is the second time you’ve been informed that the show is a must see.<<endif>> You spend awhile talking to the attendant to try and get some details. All you could get out of them though was the time the show would start with the excuse of not wanting to ruin the surprise and wonder. Now all you had to do was decide how to kill the rest of your time by setting out to [[explore first|foyer_exploration]] or [[heading up to your room|lift up]].

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/9ioxiPw.jpg"></html> Despite the number of waiters running about it does seem like a good place to come to between meals if you needed time to yourself, as most of the guests seem to prefer to spend their time at one of the many amenities the Dragon Palace offers. Watching the flurry of activity though you decide it’s probably best to head back to the [[main foyer area|palace_foyer]] for now. <<set $knowledge +=1>>

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/ciNHpg9.gif"></html> A faint tinkle of bells. A [[smiling face|first_floor]] framed by an overly bushy mustache and a well-trimmed beard. The flash of a silver pen as a steady hand wrote at a desk. Giggles as you tumbled around a lush garden decked out with flowers from all parts of the world. Screams of laughter as you race down a hallway trying to tag a tall male figure dressed in a grey suit. More fits of laughter as that man spun around and scooped you up to tickle you.

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/GZWeQ82.gif"></html> Blank faces of servants as they ushered you from place to place, as they took over the care of you when others were too busy. Tugging at the heavy dress you wore as you stood at the top of a rise of stairs waiting. The looks and whispers and pointing and judging. A [[dour frown|first_floor]] that cut deep into your heart when you brought a her home for the first time.

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/bULSaup.jpg"></html> As memories swirl around in your head, the lift doors smoothly slide open to the sight of a quiet, gently lit hallway with deep royal blue carpets blended into walls that almost mimicked water. Stepping off the lift your foot steps are swallowed by the carpet. The silence is bordering on either sacred or spooky. [[>>>|first_floor02]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/bULSaup.jpg"></html> Slowly you make your way down the hall, pausing when you see a door with a silver trident on it. Taking out your gold gilded card you see that the trident on the back matches the one on the door. Beside it is the number 5 in gold letter. Stepping forward you notice a small slot beside the door much like the one for the lifts. Inserting your card into it there is a small whirl before the door unlocks and your card is spit back out. Taking a breath you reach for the handle and [[slowly push it open|room]].

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/JguQEwp.jpg"></html> The first thing that hits you about the room is comfort. Big, plushy, deep, sink into it for days on end comfort. You suppose this is a good thing given that the Dragon Palace is an escape from the harsh world. Your single suitcase is laid neatly next to the foot of the bed which reminds you of the fact that you need to get dressed for whatever show the Dragon Palace puts on tonight. [[>>>|room02]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/JguQEwp.jpg"></html> Just thinking about it makes you cringe and sigh because you don’t have anything you think will hold up to the standards of formal wear the other guests will be wearing. Taking a tired step into the room you notice [[a note|note]] sitting on the pillow of your bed as the door gently closes with barely a sound behind you.

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/oFP2m8c.jpg"></html> Anna I know this is all still probably a lot for you to take in but I want you to have a good time while you are here. I hope you don’t mind but I took the liberty of having [[a few things]] brought to your room to make you more comfortable. There should be [[a few formal dresses]] up to standard in the wardrobe behind you. We haven’t really talked in awhile but I hope your tastes haven’t changed so much that you dislike any of the ones I picked out for you. If any of them don’t fit or aren’t to standard please let one of the attendants know and they’ll take care of it. M.

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/A8Ptvo6.jpg"></html> Looking around you notice the things that have been added, mostly by the slight tarnish of age and wear on them. A silver pen resting on top of a small stack of paper similar to the one the note is on. An old mahogany box that when open hold a small pair of bells and emerald ear drops.[[>>>|things02]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/0w12K8t.jpg"></html> Walking over to the wardrobe you open it up to find the lush kinds of formal wear you knew would also be waiting downstairs. Skimming your hand down first a royal blue beaded one, then a gold flapper meant for dancing, and one whose plunging neckline makes your cheeks flaming red, you land on a simple green one. The fabric of it is silky and soft, and it looks like it'd fit you snuggly. It would match the definition of formal wear without being dramatic and overly extravagant. [[>>>|dress]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/m32ID6A.jpg"></html> But the thing that makes your heart hurt the most is the picture in the frame that has been left by the bed : a tall man with an overly bushy mustache and a well-trimmed beard crouched next to a [[smiling excited young girl|note]] in a sun dress with her arms around his neck.

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/6v1I0p1.jpg"></html> Putting it on, you look at your reflection a few times, twisting to look over your shoulder and examine the back of it in the mirror. Walking over to the mahogany box on the desk and pulling out a pair of emerald drops, you hold them up to your ears to examine them. Nodding in approval you put them on and take a deep breath as you adjust the dress one last time before [[heading down|foyer_show]].

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/aLMBMVG.jpg"></html> The trip in the lift felt too short to prepare yourself as the doors slide away. The main area was dimmer now, the lights turned down to a softer level. You step out and walk down and into the foyer where everyone is milling about, waiters walk around with trays of drinks.[[>>>|foyer_show02]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/WOUeHd5.jpg"></html> As one passes you snag a flute of champagne to take a small sip and calm your nerves. Crowds always did have a way of setting you on edge. You had just taken a breath and steeled yourself to step into the crowd when the faint sound of chimes calls your attention. Everyone in the room turn and start to head towards where the red curtain had been earlier, only now it had been pulled aside and tied back with a golden rope.[[>>>|showroom01]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/cNt98ql.jpg"></html> Following the crowd you gathered in front of another set of smaller temporary curtains that hide the sound of running water behind it. The murmur of excitement passed back and forth through the crowd and seemed to swell. Sounds of a harp of some kind started and the audience went dead silent as the curtains dropped to the floor.[[>>>|showroom02]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/OsoOLPA.gif"></html> In front of you was the most beautiful person you had ever seen swimming gracefully around. No, that wasn’t right. Wasn’t fully right anyways you realize as you got a closer look at her. [[>>>|showroom03]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/FZk2yct.gif"></html> Only the top half of her was human. The other half, the lower half, was a long jeweled tail and fin. A mermaid! You were staring at an actual mermaid! She seemed to dance and twirl in the water to the music. Every movement drew you further in till you were right in front of the glass. You hadn’t even noticed that you’d moved through the crowd to get closer. [[>>>|showroom04]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/qhW1ght.jpg"></html> The mermaid seemed to relish in the dance and in the music as she moved through the water. It was the most beautiful scene, she was the most beautiful. As she moved in front of you and twirled in place you held your breath and for a split second your eyes locked. Something shot between you and the mermaid. But then she was twirling and dancing again, your [[eyes never leaving her|sleep01]].

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/iqWyTE9.jpg"></html> You honestly don’t remember making it back to your room, or getting dressed for bed. All that was running through your head was the mermaid. [[>>>|sleep02]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/iqWyTE9.jpg"></html> An actual mermaid. An actual honest to god mermaid. The flash of light dancing across her jeweled tail as it sliced through the water.[[>>>|sleep03]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/RQdHAjR.jpg"></html> She was the most beautiful thing you had ever seen. It had almost seemed cruel when attendants had shown up to usher people back out into the main area and away from the tank. [[>>>|sleep04]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/LAj2AKH.jpg"></html> Even after the music had stopped you’d just stood there fascinated and unable to look away from her.[[>>>|sleep05]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/59262BM.jpg"></html> Sighing wistfully you climb into bed and pull the covers up over your shoulders and settle in to sleep. [[To sleep, perchance to dream|dream01]].

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/ZjoAyn3.gif"></html> You were back in front of the tank as the mermaid swam around, the soft light from the tank just bright enough to form a little pool of light around you. She stopped in front of you and held a hand out to you. You didn’t even think about the glass as you reached for it.[[>>>|dream02]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/zZN4B6q.jpg"></html> As your hands met she pulled you to her and suddenly you were in water. Spinning together in the water with your bodies close. [[>>>|dream03]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/fsYX9eX.gif"></html> She smiled and playfully wrapped your tail around you before [[sliding away|dreamA01]]. Looking over her shoulder at you expectantly. Kicking your legs you swam after her in a sort of chase that became a game. She’d let you get close, swim close enough to brush against you and then be off again for you to [[swim after|dreamB01]]. The mermaid seemed to laugh when you finally caught up to her enough to wrap your arms around her and you couldn’t help but [[smile|dreamC01]].

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/3tipXjX.jpg"></html> Something was wrong. You gasped for air and clawed at your throat. She came back to you and looked worried tried to help, to push you to the surface. But you were already drowning as you took in a gulp full of water. You sank lower and lower, the mermaid trying to tug you up and to the surface a look of horror on her face. [[>>>|dreamA02]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/IluAfRq.jpg"></html> Suddenly you feel a tug on your leg and look down to a hand wrapped around your ankle. The strength behind it rips you away from the mermaid and down. Kicking you try to get away, the mermaid grabs your hands and tries to pull. But you are slowly and steady pulled downward till you see the shape of a uniform. [[>>>|dreamB02]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/ZHCbr2R.jpg"></html> You opened your eyes to the beam of sunlight coming from the window to land across your face with the smile still on it. The dreams sweetness sinking deep into your bones. You had to see her again, you had to see your mermaid.[[>>>|firstday01]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/m5Qh8zt.jpg"></html> Sitting up bolt right in bed with a gasp your hand went to her neck as your lung took in huge gulps of air. //“It was a dream, it was only a dream”// you mutter to console yourself as you throw back the covered and place your head in your hands to steady yourself. The dream had shook you but you knew one thing for certain. You had to see her again, your mermaid.[[>>>|firstday01]] <<set $escapeplan to 1>> <<set $drowningwarn to 1>>

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/5lUSTsY.jpg"></html> But the uniform isn’t worn by an attendant, it is worn by something masquerading as human with a blank space where a face should be. You try screaming and kicking, you struggle harder but still the thing pulls you closer. Pulling you out of the tank as the mermaid beats her hands against the glass with a horrified look on her face as the thing wraps its hands around your neck.[[>>>|dreamB03]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/m5Qh8zt.jpg"></html> Sitting up bolt right in bed with a gasp your hand went to her neck as your lung took in huge gulps of air. //“It was a dream, it was only a dream”// you mutter to console yourself as you throw back the covered and place your head in your hands to steady yourself. The dream had shook you but you knew one thing for certain. You had to see her again, your mermaid.[[>>>|firstday01]] <<set $escapeplan to 1>> <<set $employeewarn to 1>>

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/JguQEwp.jpg"></html> You rub your face tiredly as you try and shake the cobwebs of sleep from your head. Glancing at the clock you are surprised by how late in the morning it is already. But you remind yourself that is what a vacation is for as you move towards the bathroom to get ready for the day. [[>>>|firstday02]]

<<if visited("main_pools_05a")>> <html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/O8C4qbP.jpg"></html> As you step out of the bathroom in a robe, steam rolling out from around you, the phone rings. When you pick it up a cheerful front desk attendant reminds you that you have scheduled time for a swim lesson in the early afternoon with one of their [[premium swim instructors|swimlesson01]]. Reassuring them that you’ll be there you sigh as you sit the phone down to turn and finish getting ready for the day. Maybe you’ll [[stop by the front desk|front_desk_day01]] on your way to your swim lesson to see if you can get more information about the mermaid. <<else>> <html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/0yH8G66.jpg"></html> As you step out of the bathroom in a robe, steam rolling out from around you. Your day is so open ended you don’t know what to do really. But you suppose that you could [[go to the pool area|main_pools_day01]] again, [[check out the spa treatments|spa_day01]], [[grab a bite to eat|dining_hall_day01]], [[explore some more|employees_only_door]] or [[stop by the front desk|front_desk_day01]] to try and learn more about the mermaid. <<endif>>

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/NbJF8KJ.gif"></html> You make your way down to the pool area in a bathing suit you had called down to the front desk for. Since you didn’t know what to expect from this trip you really hadn’t packed for swimming. In fact you weren’t even really good at swimming. Somewhere in your childhood something had happened, maybe you’d just gotten bored from always having access to it or maybe it was something bad, but somewhere along the way you’d stopped swimming.[[>>>|swimlesson02]] <<set $swimming +=1>><<set $hannah +=1>><<set $event +=1>>

<<if visited("collision")>> <html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/8qsHAmu.jpg"></html> <<set $jessie +=1>><<set $event +=1>> As you step off the elevator you almost walk right into the flirting robed woman from yesterday. Heat flushes your face as you take a hurried step backwards as a bubble of laughter escapes from the woman in front of you. //“Well darling, I don’t bite… much.”// She winks stepping to the side and holding out an arm. //“Aren’t you getting off here hun?”//[[>>>|jessie_day01]] <<else>> <html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/72l3T2r.jpg"></html> Making your way over to the front desk you notice that someone new is working it today. Glancing up as you approach to smile is a tall and very skinny androgynous employee, who you notice has added a little bit of flair to the typical hotel uniform by adding a little bit of a shiny trim to their sleeves. //“Hi! What can I do for you?”// What would you like to ask about? [[Pool area]] [[Spa treatments]] [[Dining hall service]] [[Mermaid show]] [[Dragon Palace]] [[Feeling a bit overwhelmed]] <<endif>>

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/NbJF8KJ.gif"></html> You’ve barely even stepped through the pool area doors when suddenly an attendant is right beside you smiling. //“Hi! Welcome to the pools of the Dragon Palace, are you a guest here?”// Nodding you hold out your card for them to swipe through the machine. Again the flash of a trident on the screen makes the employee freeze with a smile plastered to their face for just a moment to long before they recover. //“What can I do for you today?”// [[I’d like to swim|swimlesson03]] [[I’d like a tour|pool_tour_day01]] [Just looking]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/tlydz6N.jpg"></html> You leisurely make your way down to the spa treatment area, this is a vacation after all. Pushing open those padded doors into the most lavish display of pampering you have ever witnessed. Every type of pleasure and relaxation from every corner of the globe all under one large and poshly decorated space. [[>>>|spa_day01_02]] <<set $event +=1>><<set $calm +=1>>

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/QZZ1GwH.jpg"></html> Making your way into the dining hall you are a little thrown off as it seems someone is waving at you and gesturing you over to their table. It’s the woman from the lobby with her group of friends from yesterday. A little relieved at not having to eat alone, you walk over and take a seat beside her. [[>>>|dining_hall_day01_02]] <<set $event +=1>><<set $alix +=1>><<set $knowledge +=1>>

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/VckzORE.jpg"></html> You wander around through the first floor for awhile, stopping at the paintings and sculptures scattered throughout before coming across a door marked ‘EMPLOYEES ONLY’. Looking around you notice that there is no one else here to see if you [tried the door] but then again it says to [leave it alone]. <<set $event +=1>><<set $knowledge +=1>>

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/H9qlXWA.jpg"></html> Having barely even stepped through the pool area doors, suddenly an attendant is right beside you smiling. //“Hi! Welcome to the pools of the Dragon Palace, are you a guest here?”//. Nodding, you hold out your card for them to swipe through the machine. Again the flash of a trident on the screen makes the employee freeze before another message pops up. //“Ah I see you’ve scheduled time with one of our premier swim instructors, they are absolutely fantastic! Right this way they are all ready to go for you.”//[[>>>|swimlesson03]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/Kuyqix0.jpg"></html> Leading you in-between the small lounge pools you head towards the far end of the room where one of the elongated lap pools is empty and the pool attendant from yesterday is dressed in swim gear sitting on the side of the pool. //“Here you are miss I hope you have a great lesson.”// Handing your card back to you they leave as your swim instructor jumps up to come over.[[>>>|swimlesson04]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/Jkbz9CH.jpg"></html> //“Hi! Sorry I forgot to mention yesterday that I’m one of the instructors. I actually just got certified for it last week so I’m still doing double duty with pool attendant shifts as well.”// They shift nervously from foot to foot as you take a second to look at them. [[>>>|swimlesson05]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/Jkbz9CH.jpg"></html> She’s not much taller than you but certainly more built. It seems like they work out even more than this job would entail, the one piece suit hugging nicely to them but in a prime competing athlete kind of way. //“I’m Hannah by the way.”// Taking the offered hand you relax and smile, //“Anna”. “Well Anna, [[let’s get you swimming|swimlesson06]]!”//

//Coming soon ! Refresh page to play again, or [[go back|firstday02]]//

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/8qsHAmu.jpg"></html> Stealing yourself you manage a small nod before stepping forward to take her offered arm. //“I was actually hoping I’d run into you, since you did promise to come to the spa today and all.”//. You barely manage to avoid gulping, at least you saved yourself that embarrassment but the openness with which the woman flirts is all a bit overwhelming. //“Actually I was headed to the front desk to-“//[[>>>|jessie_day01_02]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/US0o7ge.jpg"></html> //Coming soon ! Refresh page to play again, or [[go back|front_desk_day01]]//

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/US0o7ge.jpg"></html> //Coming soon ! Refresh page to play again, or [[go back|firstday02]]//

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/US0o7ge.jpg"></html> //Coming soon ! Refresh page to play again, or [[go back|front_desk_day01]]//

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/8qsHAmu.jpg"></html> //“Book a spa appointment I’m sure. But no need to worry about that, you’re mine now.”// You are unable to form enough of a coherent thought with her arm weaved through yours keeping your body pressed to hers, much less to argue anything other than what this intoxicating brass woman has decided. You let yourself be lead through the spa doors into the most lavish display of pampering you have ever witnessed.[[>>>|jessie_day01_03]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/rlnbyRB.jpg"></html> Every type of pleasure and relaxation from every corner of the globe all under one large and poshly decorated space. The next few hours are spent in valleys of deep relaxation from the spa’s treatments and spikes of anxiety as Jessie, a name you find very fun to say it turns out, turns up the flirting whenever she gets the chance. The hours speed by so much you actually didn’t realize how late it has gotten until your stomach growls.[[>>>|jessie_day01_04]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/DFDoMym.jpg"></html> Laughing Jessie turns to you. //“Well I guess we did kind of skip meals today, seeing as how it’s already the evening.”// You realize in shock that she’s right. There had been small finger foods and snacks brought around during the more lounging treatments like face masks so you hadn’t really noticed before now. //“How about we go back to my room and have room service bring us something to eat?”// The twinkle in Jessie’s eyes is extremely hard to miss as she slowly stands up and prepares to leave. Do you [[join her for dinner|jessie_dinner]] or do you [[go back to your own room|room_day01]]?

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/6YdEVSJ.jpg"></html> //Coming soon ! Refresh page to play again, or [[go back|firstday02]]//

//Coming soon ! Refresh page to play again, or [[go back|firstday02]]//

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/rlnbyRB.jpg"></html> The next few hours are spent in valleys of deep relaxation from the spa’s treatments as your mind floats around in total oblivion to any actual thought. They even do a class on breathing, meditation and yoga that you manage to join. <<if $event >= 2>> You stretch in the chair you are lounging in and your head starts to nod before you jerk awake. You’ve had a long day, all of the stress has been drained from your body so now its time for you to head back to your room. [[>>>|showanticipation_day01]] <<else>> When the clock chimes you finally rouse yourself enough to slowly make your way back to your feet. As much as you’ve loved your little day, there is still so much to check out at the Dragon Palace. You could [[go to the pool area|main_pools_day01]] again, [[grab a bite to eat|dining_hall_day01]], [[explore some more|employees_only_door]] or [[stop by the front desk|front_desk_day01]] to try and learn more about the mermaid. <<endif>>

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/yfGLOYE.jpg"></html> As you make your way towards the elevators you notice that they seem to be setting something up on the other side of the lobby. Images of swirling scales the colors of jewels flash through your mind. Your mermaid, she has a show again tonight. Picking up the pace you head back upstairs to [[get dressed for the show|room_day01]].

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/76Uqorm.jpg"></html> //“I’m afraid in all the excitement yesterday we forgot to do proper introductions. I’m Alix, that’s Dan and Kerry, over there is Nadine and that’s Franklin.”// You nod and smile at everyone as they are introduced before turning your attention back to Alix. //“I’m Anna and its very nice to meet all of you.”// [[>>>|dining_hall_day01_03]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/9ioxiPw.jpg"></html> The food is fantastic and you devoured every bit of it. Who knew that relaxation made you so hungry? But the people are even better: it seems like Alix a religious regular to Dragon Palace. She gives you all sorts of useful things you should try and check out while you are here, and absolutely raves about the entertainment. [[>>>|dining_hall_day01_04]]

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/9ioxiPw.jpg"></html> What catches your attention the most is when she mentions that you could even get private time with the mermaid scheduled if you [stopped by the front desk]. <<if $event >= 2>> You stretch in the chair you are lounging in and your head starts to nod before you jerk awake. You’ve had a long day, all of the stress has been drained from your body, so now its time for you to head back to your room. [[>>>|showanticipation_day01]] <<else>> Once everyone is done eating you say your goodbyes as they all head off to do their own versions of relaxation. It seems Kerry and Dan are doing some couples dance classes, who knew so much was offered here? You could [[go to the pool area|main_pools_day01]], [[check out the spa treatments|spa_day01]], [[explore some more|employees_only_door]] or [[stop by the front desk|front_desk_day01]] to try and learn more about the mermaid. <<endif>>

<html><img src="https://i.imgur.com/niVgX6k.png"></html> Please enable full screen (right hand bottom corner of this window) for optimal experience !!![[Start adventure|car_begin]] <html>A game Written by <a href="https://justkay.itch.io/" target="_blank">Kayla Bayens</a>, <a href="https://mobiushighway.itch.io/" target="_blank">Hayley Johnson</a> & <a href="http://yllogique.tumblr.com" target="_blank">Julie Yllogique</a><br>Illustrated by <a href="http://yllogique.tumblr.com" target="_blank">Julie Yllogique</a><br></html>