Everland - T1 Gym Demo

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After washing up on the shore, you've made your way to Evergreen, capital of Everland. Before you get too far, a little voice in the back of your mind asks a very important question: What do people call you? <<textbox "$playerName" "">> <<button "That's my name.">> <<if $playerName is "">> You should probably give some name, even if it is fake. <<else>> <<goto "MayorLamarIntro">> <</if>> <</button>>

<<set $playerName = "">> <<set $persona = "">> <<set $alignment = "">> <<set $entranceVibe = "">> <<set $finisherName = "">> <<set $hasLamarQuest = false>> <<set $mayorQuestActive = false>> <<set $needsTyler = false>> <<set $metMayor = false>> <<set $metTyler = false>> <<set $tylerMeetingAgreed = false>> <<set $reportedTyler = false>> <<set $mayorDifficulty = "">> <<set $gymMember = false>> <<set $rejectedBribe = false>> <<set $knowsBasement = false>> <<set $showedCardToRey = false>> <<set $beatBart = false>> <<set $beatAndy = false>> <<set $talkedBart = false>> <<set $talkedAndy = false>> <<set $talkedIgneous = false>> <<set $angieIntro = false>> <<set $angiePassed = false>> <<set $knutIntro = false>> <<set $knutApproved = false>> <<set $withKnut = false>>

A tall, green-scaled lizard in a sash waves you over. His tail swishes with practiced mayorly enthusiasm. "Welcome to Evergreen, capital of Everland," he says. "Name’s Mayor Lamar. You look like someone who appreciates a good workout and low property taxes." He nods toward the cobblestone square behind him. "Sorry about the boat. Seems like more and more people are washing up on shore these days." "When you're ready to do a little work for the town, come find me in my office. For now, explore. Meet people. Try not to knock anything over." <<set $metMayor = true>> <<link "Head into the town square">><<goto "TownSquare">><</link>>

You stand in the heart of Evergreen. Stalls, shops, and signposts cluster around a central fountain. Ahead is a tidy stone building with a lizard crest – Town Hall. To the east, a glass-fronted building with bright lights and a bold sign. A massive bald head and biceps, looking like a giant tourist trap sculpture, rest above the sign: T1 GYM. Where do you want to go? * [[Visit Mayor Lamar's office.|TownHall]] * [[Check out T1 Gym.|T1GymEntrance]] <<if $knowsBasement and not $gymMember>> * [[Check out the alley behind T1 Gym.|BasementHall]] <</if>>

You step into Evergreen Town Hall. The air smells faintly of ink and lemon oil. A few clerks shuffle papers at side desks. One of the clerks stops and calls out to you. "New in town? Mayor Lamar is upstairs." A wooden sign near the stairs lists the floors: Town Hall Library – Ground Floor Event Center – Second Floor - CLOSED Wall of Mayors & Mayor's Office – Third Floor Where do you want to go? * [[Go upstairs to the Mayor's office.|MayorsOffice]] * [[Visit the Town Hall Library.|TownHallLibrary]] * [[Head back outside to the square.|TownSquare]]

The glass doors of T1 Gym slide open. Inside, you hear music and the faint squeak of shoes on rubber mats. A bright lobby stretches ahead. A front desk sits in the center, with a staircase leading up and hallways leading deeper into the gym. To your left, you can see a room full of weights and benches. To your right, colored lights pulse from behind frosted glass, probably an aerobics or dance studio. A discreet door near the back has a STAFF ONLY sign on it. You probably aren't allowed over there. Offset from the desk to the right is a set of polished wooden stairs and a sign that reads Tyler's Office. What do you want to do? * <<link "Talk to Rey at the front desk">><<goto "ReyDesk">><</link>> * <<link "Check out the weight area">><<goto "KnutArea">><</link>> * <<link "Check out the aerobics studio">><<goto "AngieStudio">><</link>> * <<link "Look for Tyler's Office">><<goto "TylerOffice">><</link>> * <<link "Head back outside to the square">><<goto "TownSquare">><</link>>

<<if $gymMember and not $showedCardToRey>> A young woman with a bright smile and a ponytail is manning the front desk. A little name badge reads: Rey – Junior Trainer. She starts into her usual greeting, then her eyes land on the card in your hand. "Whoa, hold up," she says, leaning over the counter. "Is that a real T1 Gym membership card?" She plucks it from your fingers, turning it over, checking the hologram and the tiny barbell logo. "Allen actually came through," she says, sounding half impressed and half surprised. "All right, <<print $playerName>>, looks like you are officially one of us now." She taps a few keys on the terminal, then hands the card back. "There. You are in the system. Members get access to training with Angie in the studio and Knut in the weight room. And if you really want to make the boss notice you… well, getting on his calendar is easier when you are not just some random walk–in." <<set $showedCardToRey = true>> "What do you want to do next?" * [[I want to start training.|ReyTraining]] * [[Mayor Lamar sent me. I need to talk to Tyler.|ReyAskTyler]] * [[I’ll just look around for now.|T1GymEntrance]] <<elseif $gymMember and $showedCardToRey>> Rey flashes you a quick grin as you walk up. "Hey again, <<print $playerName>>. Membership’s still looking shiny." <<if $angiePassed and not $knutApproved>> She taps a few keys on her terminal. "Looks like Angie already flagged you as 'Angie-approved'," she says. "Nice. That means you survived at least one disco playlist." She leans on the counter. "If you want to impress the boss, you will probably want Knut's approval too. He is in the weight area, pretending he does not care about anybody." You have Angie's approval. Maybe you should talk to Knut next. "What do you want to do now?" * [[I want to start training.|ReyTraining]] * [[I’ll just look around for now.|T1GymEntrance]] <<elseif $knutApproved and not $angiePassed>> She glances at the screen and lets out a low whistle. "Wow. Knut already marked you as 'approved'," she says. "He does not put that next to many names." She raises an eyebrow. "Usually he likes people to go through Angie's warmup first. She is better at making sure you do not destroy your joints in week one." You have Knut's approval. Maybe you should check in with Angie too. "What do you want to do now?" * [[I want to start training.|ReyTraining]] * [[I’ll just look around for now.|T1GymEntrance]] <<elseif $angiePassed and $knutApproved>> She studies her screen for a long moment, then looks back up at you. "Okay, this is interesting," she says. "Angie approved you. Knut approved you. That is basically the gym saying, 'this one is serious.'" She glances toward the weight area and raises her voice. "Hey, Knut! Our overachiever is here!" After a moment, Knut appears at your side, arms folded. "I saw the notes," he says. "Cardio, strength, and you did not complain once." He nods toward the stairs leading up. "I will take you to Tyler. He is more likely to answer the door if I am standing next to you." You have Angie's approval and Knut's approval. It is time to meet Tyler. <<link "Follow Knut upstairs to Tyler's office.">> <<set $withKnut = true>> <<goto "TylerOffice">> <</link>> <<else>> She gives you a friendly shrug. "Looks like you are all checked in, but I do not see any trainer notes yet," she says. "That is fine. Everyone starts somewhere." "If you want to get noticed around here, working with Angie and Knut is the best way. Tyler listens to them more than anybody." "What do you want to do now?" * [[I want to start training.|ReyTraining]] * [[Mayor Lamar sent me. I need to talk to Tyler.|ReyAskTyler]] * [[I’ll just look around for now.|T1GymEntrance]] <</if>> <<else>> A young woman with a bright smile and a ponytail is manning the front desk. A little name badge reads: Rey – Junior Trainer. "Welcome to T1 Gym!" she says. "Looking for gains, glory, or just a towel?" What do you say? * [[I want a gym membership. I want to get stronger.|ReyMembership]] * [[Mayor Lamar sent me. I need to talk to Tyler.|ReyAskTyler]] * [[Never mind, I’ll look around.|T1GymEntrance]] <</if>>

Rey taps a clipboard and pulls a face. "Good news: you definitely look like you belong here," she says. "Bad news: memberships are kind of a mess right now. Officially, we are sold out." She leans in a little. "I might have one extra card I could sell you under the desk for, say... 5000 Starlight." She watches your reaction carefully. * [[That is way too much.|ReyBasementHint]] * [[I'll think about it and come back later.|T1GymEntrance]]

Rey blinks, then nods slowly. "Going straight for the boss, huh? Bold move," she says. "Tyler usually keeps to himself up in the loft." She glances toward the ceiling. "Thing is, he only deals with people that Knut or Angie vouch for, and we’re not supposed to train anyone without a membership." <<set $needsTyler = true>> * <<link "Ask about getting a membership">><<goto "ReyMembership">><</link>> * <<link "Head back to the lobby">><<goto "T1GymEntrance">><</link>>

<<if not $gymMember>> You step into the weight area. Racks of dumbbells, benches, and squat racks fill the room. A massive trainer with a clipboard eyes you for half a second. "Members only," he grunts, jerking his chin toward the lobby. "Talk to Rey at the front desk." You get the feeling you should not argue with him. * [[Head back to the lobby.|T1GymEntrance]] <<elseif not $angiePassed>> You find the weight area buzzing with effort and metal. A huge trainer with a beard like a steel brush is watching someone struggle through a bench press. When he notices you, he nods once. "New member," he says. "Name is Knut. I run the weight training here." He looks you up and down, thoughtful. "Cardio first," he decides. "Get your heart and joints used to moving before you start trying to impress the mirrors." He jerks his thumb toward the studio. "Go let Angie run you through her basic class. When she says you survived, come back and we will talk." <<set $knutIntro = true>> * [[Head to the aerobics studio.|AngieStudio]] * [[Head back to the lobby.|T1GymEntrance]] <<elseif not $knutApproved>> The weight area hums with effort. Plates clank, bars rattle, and people breathe in short, focused bursts. Knut is there, checking a clipboard and correcting someone's form with a nod. When he sees you, he gives a short grunt that might be approval. "So you made it through Angie's class," he says. "Good. Now I need to see how you move under load." He taps the clipboard. "Pick one focus for today. Tanks do not try everything at once." What do you want to try? * [[Bench press. Push strength.|Knut_Bench]] * [[Pull-ups. Back and grip.|Knut_Pullups]] * [[Squats. Legs and balance.|Knut_Squats]] * [[Maybe I should come back later.|T1GymEntrance]] <<else>> The weight area feels a little more familiar now. Knut is in his usual spot, watching the racks and benches like a hawk. When he spots you, he gives a small nod. "Good work the other day," he says. "You handled yourself well enough on the floor." He taps his clipboard once. "Come find me when you want a real program. We will build something that fits you." You get the sense that more structured training will be available here later. * [[Head back to the lobby.|T1GymEntrance]] <</if>>

<<if not $gymMember>> You follow a narrow alley that runs along the side of T1 Gym. The music from inside is just a dull thump through the walls. At the end of the alley, you find a metal door with a small light over it. Someone has scratched T1UWL into the paint and doodled a tiny flexing bicep underneath. The handle turns easily. Stairs lead down into a low hallway that smells like chalk, sweat, and just a little glitter. At the far end, under a buzzing light, an alligator in a shiny jacket paces back and forth, talking to himself. This must be Allen Starmaker. * [[Talk to Allen Starmaker.|AllenIntro]] * [[Head back to the town square.|TownSquare]] <<else>> You climb the stairs from the basement event space and push open the metal door into the alley behind T1 Gym. The music and crowd noise from below fade to a steady thump under your feet. The narrow alley is quieter now. The little T1UWL sign over the door looks almost ordinary after everything that just happened. Whatever deals are going on down there doesn't matter. You have what you came for. * [[Head back to the town square.|TownSquare]] <</if>>

<<if not $withKnut>> You follow the staircase up a few steps and find a heavy door with a small frosted window. A handwritten sign reads: //LOFT – STAFF ONLY// You knock once. No answer. From downstairs, you hear Rey call out, "Sorry! Members only beyond the lobby. And Tyler doesn't do surprise visits." Looks like you'll need someone to vouch for you before you can get in. * <<link "Head back down to the lobby">><<goto "T1GymEntrance">><</link>> <<else>> You follow Knut up the polished wooden stairs to the loft above T1 Gym. The sounds of the lobby fade, replaced by the clicking of keys and the rapid tapping of a mouse. At the top, you pass a heavy door with a small frosted window. A handwritten sign reads: //LOFT – STAFF ONLY// Knut pushes it open without hesitating and steps aside to let you in. Inside, you find a surprisingly cozy office. One wall is covered in framed posters of fictional teams and wrestling events. In the center of the room sits a large desk with multiple monitors, all focused on a single game. Behind them, in a tank top with the T1 Gym logo stretched over his chest, sits Tyler. His headset is slightly askew, and his eyes are locked on the screen. "Bro, stop running it down mid!" he shouts at the monitor. "It is still WINNABLE!" On screen, tiny characters clash in a colorful battlefield. The words Alliance of Superstars are stamped in the corner of one monitor. Knut clears his throat. "Boss," he rumbles. "This is <<print $playerName>>. Not only did they get a membership card out of Allen, they passed Angie's warmup and one of my strength tests." Tyler waves a hand without looking away. "Yeah, yeah, put it on my desk," he mutters. "Do not int the fight, we are scaling. It is still winnable." You wait while he plays out the last frantic minutes of the match. [INSERT CUTSCENE: TYLER FINISHES HIS ALLIANCE OF SUPERSTARS GAME] At last, the victory/defeat screen flashes. Tyler rips off his headset, tosses it onto the desk, and leans back in his chair with a groan. "These teammates are actually griefing me," he says. Then he glances up at you for the first time. "All right," he says. "I see you brought someone real." He jerks his chin at Knut. "I got it from here, big guy." Knut nods once. "I will be downstairs," he says, then heads back toward the stairs. <<set $metTyler = true>> <<set $withKnut = false>> * [[Stay as Tyler turns his full attention on you.|TylerOfficeAlone]] <</if>>

Rey gasps in mock offense. "Turning down my scam? You must be a hero." She drops her voice. "Okay, fine. If you really want a card and you are not made of Starlight, there is another way. Around the back of the gym, there’s an alley door that leads down to a little… 'event space'. Look for the sign that's definitely not about an underground wrestling league." <<set $knowsBasement = true>> "Talk to Allen Starmaker down there. If he likes you, you might walk out with a membership." * [[Head back to the gym lobby.|T1GymEntrance]]

The alligator in the shiny jacket spins on his heel when he notices you. His star-shaped sunglasses catch the buzzing light. "Kid, look at you," he says. "Fresh face, good posture, potential. I am '''Allen Starmaker''', promoter of the finest underground wrestling league this side of '''Evergreen'''!" He circles you thoughtfully, nodding to himself. "So what brings you down to my little event space? Looking for glory, or did '''Rey''' send you hunting for a gym membership?" What do you say? * [[I heard I can win a membership card here.|AllenMembership]] * [[Glory, obviously. And maybe a membership, if it falls on me.|AllenGlory]] * [[Maybe this was a mistake. I should go back upstairs.|BasementHall]]

"Rey sent you, huh?" '''Allen''' snaps his fingers. "Smart girl." He nods toward the faint outline of the ring beyond a curtain. "Here is the deal. You cannot just step into my ring as ''you''. You need a persona. Something big. Something the crowd can chant." He spreads his arms wide. "Pick your flavor." [[Choose a wrestling persona.|AllenPersona]]

"Glory first, membership second," '''Allen''' laughs. "Now ''that'' is the attitude I like." He claps his hands once. "But rules are rules. Even legends need a persona." [[Choose a wrestling persona.|AllenPersona]]

:: AllenPersona '''Allen''' rubs his hands together. "All right, rising star. What kind of presence are we building here?" * <<link "A mysterious masked technician who wins with clever holds.">> <<set $persona = "The Enigma">> <<goto "AllenFinisher">> <</link>> * <<link "A loud, flashy showboat who plays to the crowd.">> <<set $persona = "Starburst">> <<goto "AllenFinisher">> <</link>> * <<link "A stoic powerhouse who lets their muscles do the talking.">> <<set $persona = "The Grizzly">> <<goto "AllenFinisher">> <</link>>

:: AllenFinisher '''Allen''' snaps his fingers. "Nice. <<print $persona>> has a good ring to it." He leans in, eyes sparkling behind the star-shaped shades. "Every legend needs a signature move. When the crowd is on their feet and your opponent is wobbling, what do you call the move that ends it?" Type the name of your finishing move: <<textbox "$finisherName" "">> <<button "That sounds perfect.">> <<if $finisherName is "">> You should probably ''name'' it before we print it on t–shirts. <<else>> <<goto "AllenEntranceMusic">> <</if>> <</button>>

:: AllenEntranceMusic '''Allen''' nods solemnly. "<<print $finisherName>>," he repeats. "I can already hear the crowd yelling it." He taps the side of his sunglasses. "Last question before we throw you to the wolves: entrance music. You cannot just ''walk'' to the ring. What vibe are we going for when '''<<print $persona>>''' steps through the curtain?" * <<link "Heavy, dramatic rock that makes the whole room feel bigger.">> <<set $entranceVibe = "heavy rock">> <<goto "AllenAlignment">> <</link>> * <<link "Upbeat, high–energy pop that gets everyone clapping along.">> <<set $entranceVibe = "upbeat pop">> <<goto "AllenAlignment">> <</link>> * <<link "Weird, atmospheric synth that makes people wonder what you are about to do.">> <<set $entranceVibe = "weird synth">> <<goto "AllenAlignment">> <</link>>

:: AllenAlignment '''Allen''' tilts his head, studying you. "All right. Persona, finisher, entrance music…" He ticks them off on his claws. "One more question." He points a finger at you like he is calling a spot in the ring. "Are you a good guy or a bad guy?" * <<link "I’m a good guy. I want the crowd on my side.">> <<set $alignment = "face">> <<goto "AllenPersonaChosen">> <</link>> * <<link "I’m a bad guy. I want them to boo me.">> <<set $alignment = "heel">> <<goto "AllenPersonaChosen">> <</link>> * <<link "Somewhere in between. I’ll do what I have to.">> <<set $alignment = "tweener">> <<goto "AllenPersonaChosen">> <</link>>

:: AllenPersonaChosen '''Allen''' throws his head back and laughs. "<<print $playerName>> as '''<<print $persona>>''', finishing with <<print $finisherName>>," he says. "Walking in to <<print $entranceVibe>> as a..." <<if $alignment == "face">> " ...dyed–in–the–wool good guy." <<elseif $alignment == "heel">> " ...glorious bad guy the crowd will love to hate." <<else>> " ...wildcard. I like that." <</if>> He claps once, sharply. "That is a whole ''brand'' right there." He jerks a thumb toward the curtain at the end of the hall. "First, you go up against '''Bart "The Breathman" Lung'''. He is all huff and puff, but do not underestimate him. Beat Bart, and you get a shot at '''Buff Man Andy Ruthless'''. Beat Andy, and I will put a shiny '''T1 Gym''' membership card right in your hand." He leans in. "No biting, no punching the audience, and if you break my ring, you help me fix it. Clear?" * [[Step into the ring for your first match.|MatchBartIntro]] * [[Chicken out and head for the door.|BasementHall]]

:: MatchBartIntro The curtain parts, and you step into a small ring under bright lights. A crowd of Evergreen locals, gym regulars, and a few confused tourists cheer from the shadows. Bart "The Breathman" Lung is already in the ring, doing dramatic breathing exercises that fog the air. From somewhere above, Allen’s voice booms: "Ladies and gentle–beasts, please welcome our newest contender, hailing from Parts Unknown: <<print $persona>>! Watch out for their ruthless finisher: <<print $finisherName>>!" The sound system crackles to life. <<if $entranceVibe == "heavy rock">> A wall of heavy, dramatic guitar crashes over the basement, drums pounding in time with your footsteps as you walk toward the center of the ring. For a moment, it feels like the whole room is vibrating with you. <<elseif $entranceVibe == "upbeat pop">> Bright, high–energy pop explodes from the speakers, handclaps and synth hooks bouncing off the concrete walls. A few people in the crowd start clapping along as you make your way to the ring. <<else>> Weird, atmospheric synth hums through the air, a low, pulsing melody that makes the hairs on the back of your neck stand up. The crowd quiets just a little, unsure what you are about to do as you step between the ropes. <</if>> Bart stomps once, snorts, and points at you. "Hope you like second place," he wheezes. [INSERT TASK: WRESTLING MINIGAME VS BART] <<set $beatBart = true>> You find a rhythm, timing your moves just right. Bart overextends on a big lunge, and you use his momentum to send him rolling to the mat. The crowd roars. Back in the hallway, Allen claps you on the shoulder and points you toward the locker room. "Catch your breath," he says. "Bart will be in there, and so will some of the others. When you are ready, we will see what you can do against Buff Man Andy Ruthless." * [[Head to the locker room to ask the champ for advice.|LockerRoom]] * [[No time to chat. Straight to the match.|MatchAndyIntro]]

You push open the door to the locker room. The air is warm and smells like sweat, soap, and cheap spray deodorant. Bart "The Breathman" Lung sits on a bench with a towel over his head, breathing a little less dramatically than before. Buff Man Andy Ruthless is tightening his wrist wraps, glancing up at you now and then. Near the far wall, the current champ, Igneous, leans against a row of lockers, arms folded, watching everything with a relaxed, amused expression. Who do you want to talk to? <<if $talkedBart is false>> * [[Talk to Bart "The Breathman" Lung.|LockerRoom_Bart]] <</if>> <<if $talkedAndy is false>> * [[Talk to Buff Man Andy Ruthless.|LockerRoom_Andy]] <</if>> <<if $talkedIgneous is false>> * [[Talk to Igneous, the champ.|LockerRoom_Igneous]] <</if>> * [[I am ready. Let’s start the match with Andy.|MatchAndyIntro]]

You step back through the curtain into the ring. The lights dim for a moment, then slam back on as your next opponent climbs between the ropes. Buff Man Andy Ruthless is taller, broader, and much more composed than Bart. He cracks his neck, then gives you a respectful nod. "Nothing personal," Andy says. "But I am not planning to lose in front of my favorite crowd." From the sidelines, Allen’s voice booms again: "In this corner, hometown hammer, Buff Man Andy Ruthless! And in the other, the rising star you just met – <<print $persona>>!" [INSERT TASK: WRESTLING QTE VS ANDY] <<set $beatAndy = true>> The match is tougher, longer, and louder than the first. At the last moment, you see an opening and hit <<print $finisherName>> exactly right. Andy hits the mat, the crowd explodes, and the bell rings. * [[Take in the victory and see what you’ve won.|MembershipAward]]

Bart pulls the towel off his head as you approach. He looks tired, but not angry. "Hey," he says, rubbing the back of his neck. "You got me fair and square out there." He takes a deep breath that is only mildly dramatic this time. "I used to blow people over with that last lunge," he admits. "Guess I should stop relying on the same old trick." He grins, a little sheepish. "Do not let it go to your head, okay? But, uh… nice work." He offers you a fist bump. <<set $talkedBart = true>> * [[Take a look around the locker room again.|LockerRoom]]

Buff Man Andy Ruthless finishes tightening his wrist wraps and looks up as you approach. "So you are <<print $persona>>?" he asks. "Saw your match with Bart. Clean win." He tilts his head, studying you for a moment. "I like knowing who I am stepping into the ring with," he says. "You do not have to tell me your whole life story, but…" He smiles. "Are you here more for the T1 Gym membership, or for the rush of the crowd?" * [["Honestly? I just really want that membership."|LockerRoom_Andy_Membership]] * [["I live for the crowd reaction."|LockerRoom_Andy_Crowd]] * [["Bit of both. Why not?"|LockerRoom_Andy_Both]]

Igneous looks up as you approach, one eyebrow ridge lifting. "So you are the new heat Allen keeps talking about," he says. His voice is warm, with a hint of gravel. He nods toward the door that leads back to the ring. "Not everyone makes it past Bart. You did." He studies you for a moment longer. "How did it feel? First win down here in the basement?" * [["Honestly? I am still shaking a little. In a good way."|LockerRoom_Igneous_Nervous]] * [["Felt natural. Like I belong out there."|LockerRoom_Igneous_Natural]] * [["Loud, sweaty, and kind of amazing."|LockerRoom_Igneous_Loud]]

Igneous smiles. "Good," he says. "If you are not feeling anything, you are not paying attention." He uncrosses his arms. "Nerves mean you care. Just do not let them freeze you." <<set $talkedIgneous = true>> * [[Look around the locker room.|LockerRoom]]

Igneous nods slowly. "Some people need a dozen matches to find their footing," he says. "Some walk in and the ring just… fits." There is no jealousy in his tone, just observation. "Keep your head clear and your ego in check and you will go far." <<set $talkedIgneous = true>> * [[Look around the locker room.|LockerRoom]]

Igneous chuckles. "That is about right," he says. "If it ever stops feeling loud and sweaty and amazing, that is when I will hang up my boots." He gives you a friendly nod. "Enjoy it while you can." <<set $talkedIgneous = true>> * [[Look around the locker room.|LockerRoom]]

Andy chuckles. "Practical. Nothing wrong with that," he says. "Gym changed my life. Got me out of some bad habits." He nods once. "If you win out there, I hope you actually use the place." <<set $talkedAndy = true>> * [[Return to the locker room.|LockerRoom]]

Andy grins. "Can’t argue with that," he says. "The lights, the noise… it gets into your bones." He gives you a respectful nod. "Just remember: the crowd loves a good show, but they also love a good sport." <<set $talkedAndy = true>> * [[Look around the locker room.|LockerRoom]]

Andy laughs softly. "Balanced answer," he says. "Gym keeps you grounded. Crowd reminds you you’re alive." He glances toward the door. "Whatever your reasons, bring your best out there." <<set $talkedAndy = true>> * [[Look around the locker room.|LockerRoom]]

You are still catching your breath when Allen slides into the ring. He grabs your wrist and hoists your arm into the air, turning you to face every corner of the room. "That," he shouts, "is how a legend is born!" The crowd slowly starts to settle as he presses a plastic card into your free hand. It gleams with the T1 Gym logo and a tiny holographic barbell. "A genuine, official T1 Gym membership card," Allen says. "Take it upstairs to Rey and she will get you fully registered." <<set $gymMember = true>> He leans closer for a moment, lowering his voice so only you can hear. "And hey, <<print $playerName>>," he adds quietly. "If anyone asks, this was all extremely above–board, all right?" He straightens up again, slipping back into promoter mode. "Enjoy the win. Then get out there and make that membership mean something." You got a T1 Gym membership. Check in with Rey to activate it. * [[Head back to the alley behind T1 Gym.|BasementHall]]

You walk up several flights of steps, passing the Town Hall Library, the Event Center, and the framed portraits along the Wall of Mayors before finally reaching Mayor Lamar's office. As you enter, behind a tidy main desk, sits Mayor Lamar. His red mayoral sash is perfectly straight; his stack of paperwork is not. He wears a tall black hat with a band around it. All in all, he's a dapper, lizardy fellow. He looks up and smiles when he sees you. <<if not $tylerMeetingAgreed>> "Ah, there you are!" he says. "Either you love paperwork, or you are ready to help Evergreen." He folds his hands on the desk. "I'm trying to get the Commerce Council together, but Tyler, the owner of T1 Gym, is not answering my calls. If you can track him down and convince him to attend the next meeting, it would be a big help to the town." <<if not $mayorQuestActive>> <<set $mayorQuestActive = true>> <<set $hasLamarQuest = true>> <</if>> "What do you say?" * [[I'll head over to T1 Gym.|T1GymEntrance]] * [[I'll think about it and come back later.|TownHall]] <<elseif $tylerMeetingAgreed and not $reportedTyler>> His eyes widen. "You are back already," he says. "Tell me, was it easy to convince Tyler to come to the Commerce Council meeting?" * [[It was easy.|MayorRewardEasy]] * [[It was difficult.|MayorRewardHard]] <<else>> "<<print $playerName>>! Good to see you again," he says. "Thanks to you, we have a full Commerce Council for once. Things might actually move forward around here." He gives you a warm smile. "Remember, you can always check in with me if you want more work. For now, though, if I were you, I would see what is going on at the ARC protests down south." * [[Head back down to the main hall.|TownHall]] <</if>>

You step into the Town Hall Library. Tall shelves packed with books line the walls, and a sleepy clerk dozes behind a small desk. The smell of leatherbound books and yellowing pages hits you. A few titles on display catch your eye. Which book do you want to skim? * [["The Discovery of Starlight"|Library_Starlight]] * [["Bartuga Bay: A Council Seat Up for Grabs"|Library_BartugaBay]] * [["Keishi Metro and the Houses Above the Desert"|Library_KeishiMetro]] * [["Mount Mythic: Trail Closures and Warnings"|Library_MountMythic]] * [[Put the books back and return to the main hall.|TownHall]]

You pull The Discovery of Starlight from the shelf and flip it open. Starlight is the power of creation in its rawest form. Starlight can be used to fabricate mundane objects like furniture, clothes, and tools. Today, Starlight is used as Everland's currency. You check your pockets. No Starlight to be found, unfortunately. You wonder how you might get some. * [[Return the book to the shelf.|TownHallLibrary]]

You open a worn volume titled Bartuga Bay: A Council Seat Up for Grabs. Bartuga Bay is without a councilor, as two savvy ship captains continue to vie for control over the area. If you ever visit those scallywags, you'll have to pick which crew to compete for. Everything you do in Bartuga Bay will give your crew points and bring your captain one step closer to the council seat! You close the book, wondering if Bartuga Bay is safe. * [[Return the book to the shelf.|TownHallLibrary]]

You find a slim book titled Keishi Metro and the Houses Above the Desert. The houses of Keishi Metro are always competing with one another, but it doesn't affect us much. Ever since they decided to propel themselves into the sky and float above the desert, it's been difficult to trade with them. You stare at the page for a moment, picturing a whole city floating over a desert. You wonder how you could ever get up there. * [[Return the book to the shelf.|TownHallLibrary]]

A heavy guidebook labeled Mount Mythic: Trail Closures and Warnings catches your attention. The mountain pass is closed. Dangerous monsters of the gloom patrol its hiking trails. Until we can clear it out, all citizens are barred entry. You swallow, imagining shadowy shapes moving along narrow mountain paths. Sounds pretty scary. * [[Return the book to the shelf.|TownHallLibrary]]

Rey perks up when you mention training. "Nice. Members who actually use the gym are my favorite kind," she says. "If you want to work on cardio, rhythm, or anything that involves moving to music, talk to Angie in the studio. Colored lights, loud playlists, lots of sweat." "If you want to lift heavy things and put them back down again, talk to Knut in the weight area. He is grumpy, but in a motivating way." She leans on the counter. "Most people start with Angie. She is good at showing you your limits without breaking you." "You'll have to get approval from both of them before Tyler will talk to you." What do you want to do? * [[Head to the aerobics studio to find Angie.|AngieStudio]] * [[Head to the weight area to find Knut.|KnutArea]] * [[Maybe later. I’ll go back to the lobby.|T1GymEntrance]]

<<if not $gymMember>> You follow the music and colored lights to a glass-fronted studio, but the door is closed. A small sign reads: MEMBERS ONLY – CHECK IN AT FRONT DESK. Looks like you will need a proper membership before you can join any classes. * [[Head back to the lobby.|T1GymEntrance]] <<elseif not $angieIntro>> Inside the studio, colored lights pulse over rows of mats. At the front, a dance instructor in bright workout gear is syncing a playlist on a tablet. She notices you and waves. "Hey there!" she calls. "New face! I am Angie, your friendly neighborhood cardio wizard." She gives you a quick once-over. "Tell you what. Before we get serious, I like to run everyone through a basic warmup class. Low impact, easy steps, just enough to see how your body moves." She grins. "If you can make it through without collapsing, we will call it a success." <<set $angieIntro = true>> * [[Take Angie's basic cardio class.|AngieWarmupClass]] * [[Maybe I should come back later.|T1GymEntrance]] <<elseif not $angiePassed>> Angie cues up another track as you come in. "Back again?" she says. "Perfect. We still need to get you through that basic warmup." She points to an open spot on the floor. "Do not worry. I will not make you dance in front of the whole gym. Yet." * [[Take Angie's basic cardio class.|AngieWarmupClass]] * [[On second thought, another time.|T1GymEntrance]] <<else>> The studio is in full swing when you arrive. Angie is leading a group through a routine, but she spots you in the doorway and gives you a thumbs-up. "Hey, it is my warmup champion!" she calls between counts. "You are cleared for the real fun now. Drop in anytime." You get the feeling you can join more advanced classes later if you want. * [[Head back to the lobby.|T1GymEntrance]] <</if>>

You join Angie on the studio floor. The music starts low and steady, then builds as she walks you through simple steps: side to side, arm lifts, gentle turns. It is harder than it looks, but she keeps the energy up, calling out encouragement and laughing whenever anyone stumbles. [INSERT QTE DANCE GAME] By the end, you are breathing hard but still standing. Angie claps her hands. "Nice! That is all I needed to see," she says. "You can handle more than you think." She gives you a bright grin. "Consider yourself officially 'Angie-approved.' If anyone asks whether you can keep up, I will vouch for you." You gained Angie's approval. Maybe you should talk to Rey again to proceed. <<set $angiePassed = true>> * [[Head back to the front desk.|ReyDesk]]

Knut leads you to a bench and racks a light bar for you. "Bench press," he says. "People love this one a little too much." He walks you through the setup. Feet flat, back set, hands even on the bar. "Control the weight," he says. "Do not let it control you." [INSERT QTE BENCH PRESS MINIGAME] You finish the set with shaking arms, but the bar never slips. Knut nods once. "Not bad," he says. "You listened. That is worth more than adding plates too early." He scribbles something on his clipboard. "All right. You have my approval," he says. "If anyone asks, I will tell them you can handle real work." You gained Knut's approval. Maybe you should talk to Rey again to proceed. <<set $knutApproved = true>> * [[Head back to the front desk.|ReyDesk]]

Knut brings you over to a pull-up bar. "Pull-ups," he says. "No machine can fake these." He has you grab the bar with a steady grip. "Full range of motion. No half reps. Breathe, brace, then pull." [INSERT QTE PULL-UPS MINIGAME] Your grip burns, but you manage a clean set without flailing or dropping. Knut gives a short nod. "Good control," he says. "Most people try to cheat these. You did not." He marks something on his clipboard. "You have my approval," he adds. "If someone needs a reference, I will tell them you did the work." You gained Knut's approval. Maybe you should talk to Rey again to proceed. <<set $knutApproved = true>> * [[Head back to the front desk.|ReyDesk]]

Knut walks you to a squat rack and sets up a modest weight. "Squats," he says. "This is where we find out if your legs are just decoration." He talks you through your stance and how to brace. "Chest up, knees tracking over your toes, sit down like there is a chair behind you. No bouncing. No rushing." [INSERT QTE SQUATS MINIGAME] Your legs tremble by the end, but you keep your balance and rack the bar safely. Knut nods, satisfied. "Solid base," he says. "We can build on that." He jots a note on his clipboard. "You have my approval," he says. "If anyone asks whether you can handle training, I will say yes." You gained Knut's approval. Maybe you should talk to Rey again to proceed. <<set $knutApproved = true>> * [[Head back to the front desk.|ReyDesk]]

Tyler swivels his chair to face you fully, sizing you up like you are another challenger in the ring. "So," he says, grinning. "You are the one who impressed my entire staff. Membership out of Allen, passed Angie's class, got Knut to write 'approved' next to your name. That is not easy. Mostly because I didn't even know Knut could write." He points two fingers at you. "You must be a superstar. Nobody grinds through all that for nothing." He leans forward, elbows on his knees. "All right, hotshot," he says, voice loud but curious. "What do you need from me?" What do you say? * [[Nothing, I just wanted to meet you.|TylerOfficeNothing]] * [[Mayor Lamar sent me. He needs you at a Commerce Council meeting.|TylerCommerce]]

You shrug. "Nothing, really. I just wanted to meet you." Tyler stares at you for a second, then barks out a laugh. "Yeah, okay, sure," he says. "You fought through my entire funnel just to vibe in my office. Are you a Tier 3 subscriber?" He shakes his head. "Listen, nobody climbs the ladder, grinds through cardio, lifts with Knut, and gets dragged up here by him just to say hi. That is not how this works." He leans back, folding his arms. "Try again. What is the real reason you are here?" * [[Mayor Lamar sent me. He needs you at a Commerce Council meeting.|TylerCommerce]]

You take a breath. "Mayor Lamar sent me," you say. "He is trying to get you to show up for a Commerce Council meeting." Tyler tilts his head, considering you. "So the Mayor is sending <<print $persona>> to drag me into meetings now," he says. "That is kind of wild." <<if $alignment == "face">> He smirks. "Figures the hero type would be the one running errands for City Hall," he says. "All shiny, responsible, doing the right thing." He jabs a thumb at his chest. "But you know what? A stable town means stable gym memberships. If Evergreen falls apart, who is going to pay for day passes and merch?" <<elseif $alignment == "heel">> He grins wide. "So they sent the bad guy to come knock on my door," he says. "I like that. Menace with a side of civic duty." He rolls his eyes. "Look, if the town’s money people implode, I lose clients, I lose sponsorships, I lose stream subs. I am not about to let that happen because some suits cannot get in the same room." <<else>> He raises an eyebrow. "Wildcard messenger, huh?" he says. "Not quite hero, not quite villain. Just… whatever you feel like that day." He shrugs. "Honestly? That is kind of my vibe too. If this Commerce thing blows up, it blows back on T1 Gym, and that means it blows back on me. I am not letting somebody else fumble my bag." <</if>> He leans back in his chair, drumming his fingers on the armrest. "Fine," he says at last. "I will go. But it better be important. I am not missing a winnable game or a packed training block so somebody can argue about snack budgets." He points at you again. "Tell Mayor Lamar I will be there. And tell him if this meeting is a waste of my time, he owes me at least one free promotional poster in Town Hall." <<set $tylerMeetingAgreed = true>> You convinced Tyler to attend the Commerce Council meeting. Mayor Lamar will want to hear about this. What do you want to do next? * [[Head back down to the lobby of T1 Gym.|T1GymEntrance]]

"Easy, huh?" Mayor Lamar says, eyes twinkling. "Well, you are not the first talented individual to wash up on our shore, but you are certainly something, <<print $persona>>!" He gives a knowing wink and slides a glowing jar across the desk toward you. "Five hundred Starlight," he says. "That should be enough to get you going. And you can always check in with me to see if I have more work available." He taps the jar lightly. "For now, if I were you, I would see what is going on over at the ARC protests down south." You gained 500 Starlight! Mayor Lamar suggested you investigate the ARC protests down south. <<set $mayorDifficulty = "easy">> <<set $reportedTyler = true>> * [[Thanks!|GameOver]]

You shake your head. "It was difficult," you admit. Mayor Lamar chuckles softly. "Well, nothing worth doing is easy," he says. "I just hope you had fun, <<print $persona>>!" He gives a knowing wink and slides a glowing jar across the desk toward you. "Five hundred Starlight," he says. "That should be enough to get you going. And you can always check in with me to see if I have more work available." He taps the jar lightly. "For now, if I were you, I would see what is going on over at the ARC protests down south." You gained 500 Starlight! Mayor Lamar suggested you investigate the ARC protests down south. <<set $mayorDifficulty = "hard">> <<set $reportedTyler = true>> * [[Thanks!|GameOver]]

<<set _alignText = "a wildcard">> <<if $alignment == "face">> <<set _alignText = "a good guy">> <<elseif $alignment == "heel">> <<set _alignText = "a bad guy the crowd loves to hate">> <</if>> <<set _entranceText = "mysterious, atmospheric synth entrance music">> <<if $entranceVibe == "heavy rock">> <<set _entranceText = "heavy rock entrance music">> <<elseif $entranceVibe == "upbeat pop">> <<set _entranceText = "upbeat pop entrance music">> <</if>> YOUR STORY THIS SESSION You chose to compete for the gym membership in the T1 Underground Wrestling League. Your wrestling persona was <<print $persona>>, <<print _alignText>> who comes out to <<print _entranceText>>. You proved you have dance moves to Angie and gained her approval. You proved you are strong to Knut and gained his approval. You convinced Tyler to attend the Commerce Council meeting, ensuring Evergreen is ready for what is to come next. <<if $mayorDifficulty == "easy">> You thought convincing Tyler was easy. Everyone is happy you are here in Everland. <<elseif $mayorDifficulty == "hard">> You thought convincing Tyler was difficult. Everyone is happy you are here in Everland. <<else>> Everyone is happy you are here in Everland. <</if>> * [[Proceed to Portfolio Info.|PortfolioInfo]]

Thank you for playing! This is a questline I created during my role as Lead Narrative Designer for Everland MMO. As you may know, the Everland project was shut down due to the tragic passing of the company's owner, Reckful. While a version of the game still exists on Steam, that version was before we implemented branching dialogue and questing that had already been designed on paper. I repurposed the quest into this novel game format both so I could include it in my portfolio, and to show people what we might have had in store for them if we had been able to continue development. Obviously, the original scripts only had dialogue and cutscene descriptions. In this case, a cutscene would have played upon first walking into the Town Square, as well as during the Tyler scene. I modified them to fit this format. Please feel free to return to my portfolio: <a href="https://nicholasgalinski.com" target="_blank">nicholasgalinski.com</a>. * [[Restart the demo.|Start]]

:: StoryMenu [[Journal|Journal]] [[Restart Demo|Start]]

Journal <<if not $mayorQuestActive>> 1. I should go see the Mayor upstairs in Town Hall. <</if>> <<if $mayorQuestActive and not $tylerMeetingAgreed>> 2. The Mayor wants me to convince Tyler, the owner of T1 Gym, to come to the Commerce meeting. I should check out T1 Gym. <</if>> <<if $knowsBasement and not $gymMember>> 3. It sounds like I need a gym membership. I should head back to the Town Square and find the entrance to T1UWL. <</if>> <<if $gymMember and not $showedCardToRey>> 4. I won a gym membership. I should talk to Rey again in T1 Gym. <</if>> <<if $mayorQuestActive and $showedCardToRey and not $angiePassed and not $knutApproved and not $tylerMeetingAgreed>> 5. I need both Knut and Angie's approval to meet Tyler. <</if>> <<if $mayorQuestActive and $knutApproved and not $angiePassed and not $tylerMeetingAgreed>> 6. I have Knut's approval, but I still need Angie's approval to meet Tyler. <</if>> <<if $mayorQuestActive and $angiePassed and not $knutApproved and not $tylerMeetingAgreed>> 7. I have Angie's approval, but I still need Knut's approval to meet Tyler. <</if>> <<if $mayorQuestActive and $angiePassed and $knutApproved and not $tylerMeetingAgreed>> 8. I have Knut and Angie's approval. I should check with Rey again to see if I can go upstairs now. <</if>> <<if $tylerMeetingAgreed and not $reportedTyler>> 9. I met Tyler and convinced him to show up to the Commerce meeting. I should let Mayor Lamar know. <</if>> <<if not ($metMayor or $mayorQuestActive or $knowsBasement or $gymMember or $tylerMeetingAgreed)>> You have not picked up any major tasks yet. <</if>> * <<link "Close Journal.">><<back>><</link>>