*save_checkpoint

*text_image chap_10.png center Chapter Ten
*temp withtheron false
*temp alone false
*temp guilty false
*temp seenaphrodite false
*temp spotposeidon false
*temp brutal false
*temp daemons false
*temp persephonehelps false
*temp averna false
*temp sawolympians false
*temp iristhere false


As evening dawns on the day the Giants and the Gods are to convene, chaos takes over.

And by chaos, you of course mean @{(chose) the hatchlings|the Leukans|Hypnos's sons|your mother}.

*if chose = 1
    Except they're no longer hatchlings. They have grown to half your height, their nest abandoned in favor of the same tree's thick, gnarled branches.

    Not that they're paying their home any attention. No, their focus is on the war god keeping them busy–and thoroughly entertained–with games of catch and tug-of-war.
    *goto decideentrance
*elseif chose = 2
    A great number of them have gathered in Theron's home. Some sharpen their spears and fletch their arrows by the hearth, others deliver warnings to their children as they clutch their small hands tight. All are afraid.

    Their dread is palpable, a dark shadow hanging over what would otherwise be a pleasant afternoon heralding the arrival of spring.

    When the Lord of Leukas is near, however, it retreats.
    *goto decideentrance
*elseif chose = 3
    Now you understand the abundance of plush cushions and musical instruments in Morpheus's chambers. Fifteen godlings have gathered around the hearth thus far, and have wasted no time making themselves at home. 
    
    Bickering pocked with laughter and idle strumming echoes all around you, but it doesn't seem to bother Morpheus.
    *goto decideentrance
*else
    *set alone true
    *set entrance 1
    She had descended on your chambers like a tsunami, obliterating any complaints before they had the chance to arise with the power of her glare, and barking orders at anyone who had the misfortune of crossing her path.
    *goto main75

*label decideentrance

Your beloved, as Zagreus insists on calling @{(chose) Ares|Theron|him|na}, had wanted to check in on @{(chose) his scaly friends|his people|his brothers|na} before the feast, which you have decided to arrive at….

*fake_choice
    #Together, just the two of us.
        *set entrance 2
        *set demure %-5
    #Together, with his family.
        *set entrance 3
        *set leadership %+5
    #Together, with my family.
        *set entrance 4
        *set parents %+5
    *if (chose != 1) and (marriage != 1)
        #Separately.
            *set diplomacy %+5
            *set entrance 5 

After all, tonight is about sending a message. To the Giants, about the gods' might.

*if entrance = 2
    *goto prereaction
*elseif entrance = 3
    *if chose = 1
        @{(marriage) If you and Ares are by Zeus and Hera's side, if Olympus and the Underworld present a united front, there's a higher chance of avoiding a demonstration of that might. Of avoiding bloodshed. And that's all you've ever wanted. All Ares ever wanted, too. That you would've chosen each other anyway is a bonus, of course|But also to the pantheon, about where you stand. A goddess of the Underworld honored so by Olympus will certainly raise your rank. Maybe even your worship|Let Zeus have his show of strength. His scheming is what led you to the love you've always dreamed of, after all|Marriage or no, a princess of the Underworld attending with an Olympian god ought to accomplish that}.

        The fact Ares had only agreed to it after he'd made sure it truly was what [i]you[/i] wanted, and it wouldn't put you in an awkward position with [i]your[/i] family, had only made you more certain.
        *goto main75
    *else
        *goto prereaction
*elseif entrance = 5
    @{(marriage) Peace between the realms is all you've ever wanted, but it shouldn't depend on your love life|The pantheon's respect is all you've ever wanted, but it shouldn't depend on your love life|Your love life ought to be kept out of such matters|Your love life ought to be kept out of such matters}.

    @{(chose) Ares|Theron|Morpheus|na} had agreed, of course.
    *goto main75
*else
    But also to the pantheon, about where your loyalties lie; and that is squarely with the Underworld.

    *if chose = 2
        The potential political implications of having Theron by your side while you send such a message are a bonus, however.
        *goto theronreaction
    *else
        *goto othersreaction

*label prereaction

But also to the gods, about where your loyalties lie; and that is squarely with your heart. 
    
With @{(chose) Ares|Theron|Morpheus|na}.

*if chose = 2
    *goto theronreaction
*else
    *goto othersreaction

*label othersreaction
*page_break

@{(chose < 2) Ares|Morpheus} had been thrilled when you suggested it.

*if entrance != 4
    But he had also been concerned about how such a move might impact not just your standing in the pantheon, but also your relationship with your family.
    *goto main75
*else
    *if chose = 1
        Though the fact he was surprised your family would want him by their side in the first place had made you want to @{(ruthless > 60) annihilate|shake} his.
        *goto main75
    *else
        "Being by your side and sticking it to the Olympians all in one?" he'd purred. "Count me in."

        Despite his initial excitement, however, he had been worried about how your family might feel about his presence. Or rather, how what they might feel about his presence could affect you.
        *goto main75

*label theronreaction
*page_break

Theron had been reluctant, at first. Attending on the arm of a goddess might be advantageous for him. It implies he and his people are under @{(entrance) na|your, and by extension, the|your, and by extension, the|the|na} Underworld's protection, an honor bestowed upon few mortals.

And yet, he had worried about how throwing your lot in with him in such a public manner might land you in trouble. How it might affect your standing in the pantheon.

How it might affect your relationship with your family.

Alas, the night @{(confession) you had laid your|he had laid his|he had laid his} feelings bare, he said he wanted to stop pretending. To stop wishing for things to be different.

In order to accomplish that, you must stop pretending and wishing, and start accepting and acting.

@{(dutiful > 60) Even if it means going against the grain|If anyone has a problem with your choices, to Tartarus with them}.

*label main75
*page_break

*if parents > 55
    *set happyparents true
    @{(chose > 1) Perhaps surprisingly|Unsurprisingly}, your parents have taken your decision well, @{(chose > 1) including|especially} your mother.

    @{(chose < 4) "Yes, your father and I may have encouraged you to hear Zeus out for the sake of diplomatic relations," she had told you. "But we also thought it would be good for you to open your mind a little, if not your heart. It's not a bad thing, daughter, to put yourself out there. Even if what you find isn't what you were looking for. Better to know it for certain. Eternity is a long time to dwell on what ifs. I'm glad you won't have to."|"I am glad you made your choice, and I respect it," she had told you}.

    @{(parentsrel) Even more surprising is the fact|Unsurprisingly,|Even more surprising is the fact} you believe her.
    *goto main76
*elseif (parents < 55) and (chose = 1)
    Strangely, your parents are not as outwardly pleased about you and Ares as you might've imagined.

    While you understand their main focus is the feast, you can't help but be hurt by their indifference.

    @{(entrance) na|Making your own way there should offer a welcome respite from its sting|Attending with the Olympians should offer a welcome respite from its sting|Even if it doesn't change where your loyalties lie|Yet another reason to keep the feast and your love life separate}.
    *goto main76
*else
    Unsurprisingly, your parents haven't been exactly supportive. 

    They wouldn't have married you off to Ares against your will, but that doesn't mean they're @{(chose) na|happy about Theron|happy about Morpheus|happy you didn't cave to the pressure they were putting on you anyway}.

    @{(entrance) It stings, you won't lie, but you refuse to second guess yourself|Making your own way there by his side should let them know how little you care|Attending with his family should let them know how little you care|It stings, you won't lie, but it doesn't change where your loyalties lie. If nothing else, the fact they have allowed him to attend with them goes to show they understand how unlikely you are to change your mind|Yet another reason to keep the feast and your love life separate}.
    *goto main76

*label main76

"Are you alright?" @{(chose) Ares|Kleia|a godling you've recently become well-acquainted with|Zagreus} asks, pulling you back to the present. 

To @{(chose) the grove and the hatchlings and your beloved|the courtyard and the Leukans and your beloved|the music and the bickering and your beloved|your chambers}. 

*fake_choice
    *if parents < 55
        #"I will be," I vow.
            @{(chose) "I'm sorry," he says, sensing your sorrow|Your words don't lessen the worry adding more lines to her face|Ikelos frowns at you|Sensing your sorrow, Zagreus frowns}.
    #"Are you?" I retort.
            @{(chose) "Well, that one almost took a chunk of my shoulder out." He gives the hatchling currently wrapped around his leg a pat. When he addresses her, his voice goes all gooey and high-pitched. "But you didn't mean it, did you?"|She shakes her head, a sorrowful smile wrinkling her face further.|Ikelos rises a suspicious eyebrow at you.|Zagreus shrugs, but it doesn't hide his nerves.}
    #"Why do you ask?" I wonder.
            @{(chose) "Oh, no reason other than we're about to walk into the belly of the beast,"|"Oh, no reason other than we're about to walk into the belly of the beast,"|"Just curious,"|"Oh, no reason other than we're about to walk into the belly of the beast,"} @{(chose) Ares|Kleia|Ikelos|Zagreus} shoots back.
    *if chose != 2
        #"Never better," I grin.
            @{(chose) He grins back, wide and dimpled|na|Ikelos grins back at you|Zagreus grins back at you}.
    *if chose != 2
        #"Better than you," I tease.
            @{(chose) "Always."|na|"Rude," Ikelos sighs.|"Rude," Zagreus sighs.}
    *if chose = 2
        #"Of course," I reassure her.
            Still. It doesn't lessen the worry adding more lines to her face.
    *if chose = 2
        #"It's them you should worry about," I sigh.
            She laughs, soft and mirthless.

*if chose = 1
    Then he breaks free from the drakons and pulls you into his arms.
    *goto littleupdate
*elseif chose = 2
    Then her attention shifts to the mortals distracting themselves from what's to come all around her. And to her son, offering them reassuring smiles and words of encouragement as he makes his way to the heart of the courtyard.

    He must sense his mother's distress, for he stops to cast a smile in her direction. Warm and calming. When his eyes find yours, his whole face brightens.

    He's wearing leather armor embossed with waves under a fine cloak. His beard is tidier than usual, and a laurel crown glints atop his dark curls. It's far less grand than the one your mother insisted you wear–radiant gold embellished with adamant–but it makes him look every bit the charming leader that he is. 
    
    Especially after he tears his gaze away from yours and addresses the crowd.
    *goto theronpeople
*elseif chose = 3
    @{(goinginlake) The second youngest of Morpheus's brothers has taken a shining to you|There may be scores of them, but you've made a point of remembering all their names. In some cases, it's more than Hypnos has bothered doing}.

    @{(goinginlake) At least that's how you've decided to take the fact he keeps bombarding you with questions, snacks and requests to play knucklebones. This time, however, he appears to have a different idea in mind|It's a shame, because most of them look exactly like him. Warm brown skin, curls dark as midnight and soft hazel eyes}.
    
    @{(goinginlake) His gaze snags|Ikelos's are currently trained} on the laurel crown your mother had insisted you wear–bright gold embellished with shimmering adamant–and his throat bobs, as though he's scared to utter his next words.

    "Morpheus says you're @{(hobby) the best weaver|the strongest goddess|the best aulos player|toughest petteia player} in the realms," he manages. Then he looks you up and down, trying to determine whether it's true. 

    What do you reply?

    *fake_choice
        #"He does?"
            Ikelos nods matter-of-factly. "Well, are you?"
        #"He's right."
            Ikelos's eyes widen. You're certain he has follow-up questions, but he's promptly interrupted by his eldest brother before he can ask them.
        #"He's exaggerating."
            Ikelos's eyes narrow, and you're certain he doesn't believe it.
        #"He's underselling it."
            Ikelos narrows his eyes, and you're not certain he believes it.
    
    "Iki, stop bothering my beloved," Morpheus snaps, shooting you a wink.

    Fates, it's catching on.
    *goto morpheusbrothers
*else
    The Queen had summoned him from his chambers shortly after ushering you out of yours.
    
    His presence has been a @{(Zagreus > 50) calming|somewhat calming} balm against your mother's verging-on-unhinged energy.

    And, after your father joins you, his usual somberness.
    *gosub familyappearance
    *goto nopartner

*label theronpeople
*page_break

"My fellow Leukans," he says, voice steady, arms spread. "I know you are tired. I know you are scared. I too fear for our home and our safety."

He glances at you, dark eyes as warm as they had been that night in the agora, when he had first told you how your nightmares had helped him become a better leader.

Based on how easily he commands everyone's attention, how enraptured they are by his words, he never needed them.

"But, if I've learned anything about fear, it's that it must be welcomed. Not coveted. Not indulged. But understood. Only then can it be overcome. For what awaits us on the other side of it could be far greater than the fear itself."

*page_break Can Goddesses Swoon?

This one certainly might.

"Tonight, we face the Fates' biggest test yet, alongside the gods. And I have faith in them, I do.""

Some of the Leukans cast curious, even hopeful glances your way at the mention of gods.

*label mortalreaction

Under their scrutiny, you

*fake_choice
    #Stand tall and mighty. I ought to project strength.
        You draw yourself up and square your shoulders back.

        *if fitness > 70
            *set peoplepleaser %+10
            *set worship %+10
            The effect is immediate.

            Some mimic your shift in posture, others raise their weapons at you in acknowledgement. 

            And you know that they haven't just been inspired by your strength, they will add to it with their worship, too.
            *goto theronpeople1
        *else
            *set worship %-10
            But you haven't been stretching as much as you should lately, what with all the extra flying around. 

            Immediately, you feel a muscle pull in your back. You smother the cry rising up your throat, but the flinch you can't hold back. 

            It takes all your clearly withering strength to bear their confused frowns and concerned looks without squirming. But it's not hard to guess what they're thinking. 

            Have they been putting their worship in the wrong deity again?

            You can't blame them.
            *goto theronpeople1
    #Stand tall and proud. I ought to inspire confidence.
        You lift your chin up and square your shoulders back. Your divinity wraps around you like a shroud, your hair wavers though there's no wind.

        You are the goddess of nightmares, you tell them with every part of you but your words, and you will not lead them astray.

        *if leadership > 70
            *set peoplepleaser %+10
            *set worship %+10
            They hear you.
            
            They perk up, gripping their weapons tighter and nodding at one another with renewed hope.
            *goto theronpeople1
        *else
            *set peoplepleaser %-10
            You will, however, add to their panic.

            At least that's what such a show of power does. 

            You realize you've gone too far when the mortals around you shift uneasily on their feet. Some share alarmed glances, others take a few steps back.

            Instead of lessening the divide between gods and mortals, you appear to have highlighted its vastness. 
            *goto theronpeople1
    #Stay calm and collected. I ought to encourage goodwill.
        *if diplomacy > 70
            *set peoplepleaser %+10
            *set pantheonplayer %+10
            You school your face into a pleasant expression, reassuring them with smiles and nods.

            If we work together, you say with everything but your words, we can get through this.

            By the time 
            *if chose = 2
                Theron resumes his speech, you get the impression they believe it.
                *goto theronpeople1
            *else
                they return their attention to the feast, you get the impression they believe it.
                *goto theronpeople1
        *else
            *set pantheonplayer %-10
            But it's hard, what with @{(chose) everything happening around you|what's about to unfold|everything happening around you|everything happening around you}.

            Your own panic flares at the thought. Then, it spreads.

            You feel it in the way the mortals shuffle uneasily on their feet, in the nervous glances they exchange. In the unsure way they whisper about the gods.

            So much for goodwill.
            *goto theronpeople1
    *if (didnotwarntheron = false) or (theronreason != 3)
        #Feel plagued by guilt. They shouldn't have been dragged into this.
            *set guilty true
            Kleia must sense your turmoil, for 
            *if ruthless < 30
                *set peoplepleaser %+20
                she gives @{(chose) you a steadying smile, and you immediately you feel better|your arm a gentle pat|you a steadying smile, and you immediately you feel better|you a steadying smile, and you immediately you feel better}.

                Perhaps it isn't fair, that she should offer you comfort when she has far less chances of surviving the night. But you're grateful for it anyway.
                *goto theronpeople1
            *else
                *set peoplepleaser %-15
                @{(chose = 2) she tenses beside you|her gaze grows weary}.

                And why shouldn't @{(chose) it|it|she|it}? Your guilt is the least of her worries.
                *goto theronpeople1
    *if (didnotwarntheron = true) or (theronreason = 3)
        #Scowl. If they intend to survive the night, they had better get a grip.
            *if charm < 30
                *set maverickgoddess %+15
                *set peoplepleaser %-5
                Your lack of sympathy makes them nervous. That much is obvious in the uneasy way they shuffle on their feet and how tightly they grip their weapons.

                But it also makes them furious. That, you feel in their glares, their head shakes, their angry whispers.

                Good.

                At least they don't look so afraid anymore.
                *goto main78
            *else
                *set maverickgoddess %-10
                Alas, no matter how intimidating you make yourself appear, they're too busy panicking to pay you any mind.
                
                You won't lie; their indifference stings.

                How dare they be too busy being afraid of what's about to unfold to be afraid of [i]you[/i]?
                *goto main78

*label theronpeople1
*page_break

*if chose = 2
    *goto theronpeople2
*else
    Theron's eyes are still fixed on you. 

    *if (theronoutcome = 1) or (theronoutcome = 3)
        Then he nods, a friend saluting a friend, and resumes his story.
        *goto main78
    *elseif theronoutcome = 2
        Then he nods, a mortal saluting a god, and resumes his story.
        *goto main78
    *else
        *goto theronrejection

*label theronpeople2

"But most of all," Theron adds. " I have faith in all of you."

He pauses, meeting the eyes of those who look the most afraid.

"I know we can weather whatever this feast brings, like we have weathered everything else the Fates and the Gods have thrown our way. And after, we will enjoy whatever awaits us on the other side, together."

The courtyard erupts in cheering and whistling, a rousing chorus that chases away the dread that had been poisoning the air and the Leukans' spirits.

*page_break

When they finally quiet down enough, Theron points at his general, who had been standing guard by the front doors. At his silent command, she flings them open.

"Now, you are each aware of what you must do should fighting break. Follow Roxana to your stations, and remember to have faith."

The Leukans file out of the courtyard, their faces less drawn, their steps more sure.

*if entrance != 3
    After bidding you farewell, Kleia gathers her husband and follows after them.
    *goto littleupdate
*else    
    "We'll be right behind you," Kleia assures you. Then she's off to gather her husband, who had been helping wrangle the children by the hearth.
    *goto littleupdate

*label morpheusbrothers
*page_break

"Alright everybody, quiet down and listen up," Morpheus shouts.

He's by the hearth, hovering mid-air so that he can't be ignored. Still, much to his chagrin–and your amusement–some of the godlings take their sweet time putting down their games and instruments before giving him their attention.

After a pained sigh, he resumes his speech. "As I was saying, I need every single one of you to focus. This feast is more than just another chance for the Olympians to prance and preen. Things will definitely get dangerous, but they might also get ugly. What do you do at the first sign of trouble?"

They reply as one. "Return here at once."

"And what will happen if you don't?"

Again, in unison, they answer, "You will throw us into Tartarus yourself."

Morpheus nods approvingly. 

"Good. Now get out of here. And remember, I'm right behind you, so [i]behave[/i]."

They file out of his chambers, some on winged backs, others on winged sandals or helms or both.

One–Phobetor, you believe his name is–has even got a pair of tiny wings sprouting from behind his ears.

*label littleupdate
*page_break

@{(chose) You bury your face in the crook of his neck, breathing in his fresh scent|As soon as you're alone, Theron crosses the distance between you and pulls you into his arms|As soon as you're alone, he glides towards you and pulls you into his arms|na}.

These stolen moments have kept you going, on the run up to the feast.

After tonight, you won't have to steal them any longer.

*fake_choice
    #Sneaking around has been rather hot.
        *set demure %-5
        The fact you can't get enough of each other isn't surprising. But it's rather impressive, given how demanding your duties have been.
    #Sneaking around has been rather fun.
        *set dutiful %-5
        You've managed an impressive amount of @{(chose) baking session|star-gazing sessions|swims in the lake|na}, given how demanding your duties have been.
    #Thank the Fates. I need a break from all the sneaking around.
        *set dutiful %+5
        Not that your relationship is a secret. 
        
        But, with everything else going on, it certainly didn't seem wise to @{(chose > 1) flaunt it|flaunt it before the Olympians}.
    #Thank the Fates. I want to show him off.
        *set leadership %+5

@{(chose) His hands wrap around your waist and he sighs into your hair|You bury your face in the crook of his neck. "That was quite the speech."|"You must stop calling me that," you sigh, tugging one of his braids}.

@{(chose) It's all too easy to close your eyes and lose yourself in the vastness of his chest|He wraps his hands around your waist. "Why thank you."|"What? My beloved?" His grin turns wicked, and you immediately realize your mistake.}

*if chose = 1
    *if entrance = 3
        *set sawolympians true
        *set iristhere true
        Until someone politely clears their throat.
        *goto prearesfamily
    *elseif entrance = 5
        *set iristhere true
        Until someone politely clears their throat.
        *goto prearesfamily
    *else
        *goto preareschoice
*elseif (entrance = 4) and (chose = 2)
    *set theronfam true
    Then a great shadow engulfs the sky.

    Your father's chariot is here.

    You step away from one another, but his hand finds yours and holds it even after your family descends on the courtyard.
    *gosub familyappearance
    *goto familyinteraction
*else
    @{(chose < 3) Then he gestures towards the exit|"As you wish, my dove." He gestures towards the exit, delighted by your huff}.
    *if entrance = 5
        "See you there, yes?"

        @{(chose < 3) Bidding him farewell is getting harder and harder. By the time you reach the Underworld and meet your family in the courtyard, you're already aching for his company anew|You shake your head at him–which delights him even more–and the pair of you follow after his brothers. It's strange, parting ways in the sky and returning to the Underworld instead of racing him all the way home, where your family is already waiting for you}.
        *gosub familyappearance
        *goto nopartner
    *else
        @{(chose < 3) "Shall we?"|"On that note, shall we?"}
        *if entrance = 4
            *gosub familyappearance
            *goto familyinteraction
        *else
            *gosub feastintro
            *goto olympianshere

*label prearesfamily
*page_break

Iris hovers by the stream nearby. A fresh rainbow glints above the water, its colors made even more radiant by Olympus's golden glow.

A knowing smile dangles from their lips. "I hate to ruin the moment, but King Zeus and Queen Hera await."

*label preareschoice
*page_break

Ares squeezes his eyes shut and touches his forehead to yours. You're both wearing golden laurel crowns woven with adamant, and the movement makes his slide from his head.

"Do you think they'll notice if @{(sawolympians) we|I} don't show?" he wonders.

@{(iristhere) Iris snorts. You|You} shake your head before

*fake_choice
    #Coaxing him along. @{(sawolympians) We|He} shouldn't be rude.
        *set charm %+5
    #Hurrying him along. @{(sawolympians) We|He} shouldn't be late.
        *set dutiful %+5
    #Stepping away from him. I don't want to make this harder.
        *set ruthless %-5
    *if iristhere
        #Glancing at Iris. Will they?
            *set diplomacy %+5
            Alas, they shake their head.
    #Petting the hatchlings goodbye.
        *set daemonhandling %+5
        @{(bitbydrakon) You're still wary of them–who wouldn't be, after that dreadful debacle with the baby tooth–but they've grown used to you at least|They practically purr under your gentle pats, scales cool against your skin}.

        @{(iristhere) Ares and Iris follow suit. It certainly improves the former's soured mood|Ares follows suit}.

*if entrance = 3
    *goto prearesfamily1
*elseif entrance = 5
    "I'll see you there, okay?" you assure him.

    He drags himself over to Iris's side. The aide rolls their eyes at his sulking, then places a hand on his back as though scared he might try to run away otherwise.

    Who knew your beloved could be this dramatic?

    You can't blame him, however, for you already miss his company by the time you reach the Underworld, and meet your family in the courtyard.
    *gosub familyappearance
    *goto nopartner
*else
    "C'mon," you say, gently dragging him 
    *if entrance = 4
        through the Cloud Gate and back to the Underworld, where your family has gathered in your parents' courtyard.
        *gosub familyappearance
        *goto familyinteraction
    *else
        towards the Cloud Gate.
        *gosub feastintro
        *goto olympianshere

*label prearesfamily1

The three of you make your way to the palace. 

Tonight, you won't be using the Cloud Gate. 

No, tonight you shall leave Olympus the same way you arrived to discuss marrying Ares all those moons ago.

*page_break Through The Front Door

Zeus, Hera and their well-turned-out retinue have already gathered outside the palace, their chariots arranged in a line that is as neat as it's long.

Ares's paraents will lead the procession, of course.

*label aresfamily

The Queen and King of Olympus don matching outfits of rich purple embroidered with gold. @{(sawolympians) Their crowns match yours|They wear gilded laurel crowns too, bigger and brighter than yours}, and brandish large scepters carved with their divine attributes. 

Lotus flowers and peacocks for Hera, eagles and lightning bolts for Zeus.

A retinue of deities surrounds them.

Among them is Athena, who makes a big show of ignoring you.

*if (hermesoutcome = 4) or (hermesoutcome = 5)
    *set hermesok true
    Hermes, who roguishly tips his helm at you.
    *goto aresfamily1
*else
    A @{(hermespunishment) more dishevelled than usual|haunted-looking|more dishevelled than usual|haunted-looking|haunted-looking} Hermes, who has been released for the occasion, and who is being closely watched by a couple of harpies.
    *goto aresfamily1

*label aresfamily1

*if chose != 1
    And Ares, who is cheerfully chatting to Jason and his crew nearby. 
    *goto aresrejection
*else
    *set seenaphrodite true
    And Aphrodite, who is too busy exchanging sharp words with her sullen-faced husband to pay you any mind. 
    *goto aresfamily2

*label aresfamily2
*page_break

The Queen greets you first. 

@{(sawolympians) "Look at you," she gasps, waving you closer. "A sight to behold indeed."|"Welcome." Her smile is courteous, the slight flutter of her specter graceful.}

She was never impolite, before, but her demeanor towards you has become @{(chose > 1) even more distant since you rejected her son. The glance she casts you now proves it. Though its touch is fleeting, it's also cold as a blade|less distant since being with Ares. The glance she casts you now proves it. Not warm but something close to it}.

*if sawolympians = true
    Iris slips you a farewell glance then takes their place in one of the chariots flanking Zeus's. 
    
    "Let us hope it is enough," the thunder god booms, making Ares stiffen. Then he steps into his chariot and takes the reins. "Shall we?"
    *gosub feastintro
    *goto olympusarrives
*else
    *if chose = 1 
        *if entrance = 4
            It softens fully when it settles on her son, who beams at her in return. Then she turns her focus to your parents.
            *goto aresfamily3
        *else
            *goto aresfamily3
    *elseif chose = 4
        The reception she gives your parents is better, but not by much.
        *goto aresfamily3
    *else
        *if (entrance = 2) or (entrance = 3)
            @{(chose) na|The reception she gives Theron is even chillier|The reception she gives Morpheus is even chillier|na}; an almost imperceptible tilt of the chin before Zeus address the pair of you.

            "Thank you for joining us," he says, as though the island his home instead of Theron's.
            
            If he's annoyed about his attempt at marrying you off to Ares failing, he doesn't let it show.
            *goto aresfamily4 
        *else
            an almost imperceptible tilt of the chin before turning her focus to your parents.
            *goto aresfamily3

*label aresfamily3

"Hades. Persephone. Lovely evening isn't it?" Hera offers once the greetings are over and the feasting is underway.

*label aresfamily4

The Olympian king @{(feastdecor) leans forward in his great throne|leans forward in his ridiculous throne|leans forward in his seat, which happens to be at the head of the table|leans forward in his throne|comes to stand by your father's side}.

"Spring is in the air, and your work hasn't even begun, Persephone. Must be a good sign."

He speaks loudly, as though he wants the nearby guests to hear.

*if chose = 2
    *goto main78
*else
    Especially the mortals.
    *goto premortals

*label entrancewatch
*page_break

*if (sawolympians = false) and (entrance = 3)
    @{(happyparents) All three of them smile|All three of them watch} as you and @{(chose) na|Theron stride to the Olympians' side, flanked by his parents and surrounded by Leukans|Morpheus land before the Olympians on the back of his brothers|na}.
    *goto aresfamily
*elseif entrance = 2
    @{(happyparents) All three of them smile|All three of them watch} as you and @{(chose) Ares land before the Olympians|Theron stride to the Olympians' side|Morpheus land before the Olympians|na}.
    *goto aresfamily
*else
    @{(happyparents) All three of them smile|All three of them watch} as you alight and accompany Zeus and Hera to their places of honor, and join the feast.
    *goto aresfamily3

*label familyinteraction
*page_break

Your mother is cataloguing @{(chose) Ares's|Theron's|Morpheus's|na} appearance @{(theronfam) even before she sets foot on the courtyard|as soon you land}.

@{(happyparents) She must approve, because she offers a warm, "I must admit the pair of you look rather fine together,"|You can't tell if she approves, especially after all she declares is a rather chilly, "You're ready. Good."}

@{(happyparents) "Whatever,"|"No, not good. Not good at all,"} Zagreus grumbles.

"What's up with him?" you ask your father. 

"Something about a wager." Hades shrugs.

"If you must know, I had bet Averna that @{(theronfam)  we would find you canoodling. I don't think handholding counts, so thanks|you would be too busy canoodling to make it on time. Thanks} for robbing me of a new gown." 

*fake_choice
    #"Zagreus!" I gasp.
    #"Classy," I observe.
    #"Do [i]not[/i] call it canoodling."
    #"If anything, I saved myself one."
        The nymph would've stolen it from you anyway.

"Shall we?" @{(theronfam) Hades cuts in. Then, to Theron, he adds. "If this is your first time flying, may I suggest holding on tight?"|Hades cuts in.}

*gosub feastintro
*goto olympusarrives
    
*label olympianshere

Zeus and Hera are already @{(feastdecor > 1) here|here. The former, sat on his great chair, the latter pretending it doesn't bother her that he's the only one who got one}.

*if entrance = 1
    *goto aresfamily
*if entrance = 5
    @{(chose) Ares is by their side and doing a good job at hiding his sulkiness|As Leukas's leader, Theron has been given a place of honor by their side|Morpheus leans against one of the torches nearby, quietly smirking at them}.
    *goto underworldarrives
*elseif (entrance = 2) or (entrance = 3)
    @{(feastdecor > 1) As are your parents|Your parents, too}.
    *gosub familyappearance
    *goto entrancewatch
*else
    *goto underworldarrives

*label olympusarrives

Trumpets announce your party's arrival, and all eyes turn to the sky.
    
The four great stallions pulling Zeus's chariot begin their descent. The god makes them put on a show; they twirl you around, gracefully flapping their white wings as they ride the breeze.
    
When they land, not a single grain of sand kicks up in their wake.

Your family is already here, and settled @{(feastdecor) by the throne|by the throne|in their seats|in their thrones|in their seats}.

*gosub familyappearance
*goto entrancewatch

*label underworldarrives

Your family's arrival is announced with trumpets.

After a graceful landing, you @{(theronfam) help a very wobbly-legged Theron alight|alight} and march to the Olympians' side.

*goto aresfamily

*label premortals
*page_break 

Their dread is palpable, a dark shadow hanging over what would otherwise be a pleasant afternoon heralding the arrival of spring.

When the Lord of Leukas is near, however, it retreats.

You spot him at a table nearby, clad in leather armor and entertaining a group of wary-faced Leukans with a story about a nightmare of a ship. The more he speaks, the less wary their faces appear.

His parents sit at either side of him, equally enraptured. Until Kleia's gaze finds yours, and she waves @{(awkwardkleia) politely|warmly}.

The movement catches her son's attention, and that of the Leukans who had been listening.

*goto mortalreaction

*label aresrejection
*page_break

You had written to him to let him know of your @{(aresoutcome) decision, and to thank him for being such a wonderful friend|decision|decision, and to thank him for being such a wonderful friend|and to thank him for not pushing you into making it|and to thank him for not pushing you into making it}.

His reply had been as @{(aresoutcome) warm|boring|polite|heartfelt|heartfelt} as you've come to expect from the god of war.

*if aresoutcome = 2
    [i]Wishing you all the best in all your future endeavors[/i], he'd written, as though you were a record-keeper being let go from her position at the archives, rather than a potential mate.

    You don't bother acknowledging him on your way to his parents.
    *goto aresfamily2
*else
    @{(justfriendsares) [i]I am[/i]|[i]While I was hoping for a different outcome, I am[/i]} [i]glad you have found happiness. As glad as I am to have gotten to know you again, in fact[/i], he'd written.

    @{(justfriendsares) [i]Let[/i]|[i]I will always cherish the time we recently spent together, just like I have always cherished the memories of our childhood adventures. Let[/i]} [i]us not lose touch again, for true friends are hard to come by in the pantheon, and few of them appreciate my excitement about ambrosia cake[/i].

    As you approach his parents, you acknowledge one another with a smile.
    *goto aresfamily2

*label theronrejection

As much as you enjoyed @{(theronoutcome < 5) the night you shared|the kiss you shared}, it would've never worked out between you.

You had told him as much, during one of your many errands.

And, of course, pragmatic lord that he is, he had understood.

He deserves the kind of love his parents share, and he could've never had that with you. You wouldn't have been able to grow old with him, to have your ashes scattered over his beloved cliffs together, to find his soul in the Underworld, even after your memories are gone.

All obstacles you might've overcome, if you didn't love someone else. Someone who loves you in a way he never could.

Love like that will one day find him. Of that, you have no doubt.

You hold his gaze a moment longer, a friend acknowleding a friend, then return your attention to the feast.

*label main78
*page_break

You @{(feastdecor) and your family are to stay close to Zeus's throne for appearances' sake|and your family are to stay close to Zeus's throne for appearances' sake|are to stay put on your spot on the platform for appearances' sake|are to stay close to the thrones for appearances' sake|and your family are to stay close to the Olympians for appearances' sake}.

When the Giants deign to emerge from the sea, they must see three realms united against them.

Whether or not they take them on anyway is another matter.

At least you get a good vantage point. 

*if (chose != 3) and (morpheusoutcome > 3) 
    *goto morpheusrejection
*elseif (chose != 3) or (justkissedmorpheus = true)
    *goto morpheusrejection
*else
    *goto vantagepoint

*label morpheusrejection
*page_break

Until Morpheus decides to get in the way, that is.

The god of dreams is chasing after one of his brothers. The godling has stolen a lyre that looks suspiciously like Apollo's, and refuses to heed Morpheus's commands.

"Phobetor! Come back here at once!"

The sound of his voice-sharp, almost desperate-makes you remember the last conversation the pair of you had by the Dream gate.

*page_break

You had told him that he deserved better than the love he'd known thus far, even though you're not the one who can give it to him.

"This @{(chose) Olympian|mortal|na|na} of yours. Does he make you happy?" he'd asked.

The answer had come easy. "Very."

He'd cleared his throat. "Good. More importantly, though, does he have a throne in his chambers?"

You'd shaken your head and gone through the gate.

"That's a no on the throne, then," he'd called after you.

"Come back here or I'll throw you into Tartarus myself," he's screaming at the fleeing godling.

If you're enjoying witnessing him get a taste of his own medicine, you don't show it. You merely smile and turn your attention elsewhere.

*goto vantagepoint1

*label vantagepoint

What will you do, until then?

*label vantagepoint1


*choice
    #I keep an eye on the shore.
        *set spotposeidon true
        The sea's surface is smooth as oiled skin, a black field lit by the stars and the orange glow of the torches.

        If you hadn't been staring out to it, you would've missed the god planted before it. Bare-foot and long-haired, and holding a huge trident.

        He crouches, resting the fearsome weapon across his knees, and buries his hands in the sand.

        Waves rush to meet him, but not the rest of the beach. He closes his eyes, as though speaking with them. 

        Then, so abruptly you startle, he rises and makes for @{(feastdecor) Zeus's throne|Zeus's throne|the dais|the dais|your table}. And, as he draws nearer, who he is becomes clear.
        *goto main79
    #I keep an eye out for Medea.
        You spotted Jason and the heroes chatting to @{(chose > 1) Athena|Ares}, already a few wines deep, but not the former's paramor.
    
        When you do make out the priestess, you understand why she wasn't with the rest of her crew. 

        She is hunched over a table nearby, engaged in what appears to be a fierce game of petteia. Her opponent–a delighted-looking Averna-is clearly giving her a hard time, much to the delight of Aphrodite, who watches over them with rapt interest.
        *goto main79
    #I keep an eye out for Aphrodite.
        @{(befriendrival > 50) You must admit you've grown used to–perhaps even fond of–her company. Being on this beach without it doesn't feel quite right|You don't trust her not to pull a stunt to undermine you}.
        
        @{(seenaphrodite) Back in Olympus, she had seemed upset with husband, Hephaestus, who|You expect her to be near her husband. Hephaestus} isn't hard to spot. He's a sturdy god, so tall and broad and muscular that, even sitting down, he cuts a striking figure.
        
        The adamant staff he carries to account for his limp occupies an empty chair beside him, but there's no sign of his wife.

        Until your gaze moves away from him–in the complete opposite direction, in fact–and finds her enraputred by a game of petteia. 
        
        Unsurprisingly, its Medea and Averna battling it out on the board.
        *goto girlfriends
    #I keep an eye out for Averna.
        The nymph had left the Underworld early, and is no doubt lurking somewhere in the shadows.

        Or not, you quickly realize when you spot her, bathed in the orange light of a torch, and engaged in what appears to be a fierce game of petteia against Medea. 

        A small audience has gathered to watch them battle it out, Aphrodite among them.
        *goto girlfriends
    *if chose != 4
        #I can't keep my eyes off of @{(chose) Ares|Theron|Morpheus|na}
            He has been nothing but @{(chose) courteous|courteous|subtly scornful|courteous} to the @{(entrance < 5) Olympians not-so-subtly glaring at him from the sidelines|Olympians}.
            
            @{(chose) His father may have only wanted to use him as a symbol, and his siblings may hate him for it, but you know the smiles he offers them and the openness with which he addresses them are genuine. It's one of his greatest strengths, to wage war on the battlefield, and nowhere else|They are jealous he has a place so close to Zeus, when they ought to be afraid. He may not have a divine bone in his body, but he's far more capable of earning their King's respect than they will ever be|You have no doubt he's greatly enjoying getting under their skin, for he is positively glowing|na}.

            He must feel the pull of your thoughts, @{(entrance < 5) for he gives your laced fingers a gentle squeeze. He might've even pressed a kiss to your forehead–in fact, you're leaning in closer for it–if Zagreus hadn't decided to interrupt him|for he meets your gaze, and doesn't let go of it until Zagreus decides to cut in}.

            "Will you two please stop that?"

            With much difficulty, you drag your attention away from @{(chose) Ares|Theron|Morpheus|na} to glare at your brother. "Stop what?"

            "Swooning. You're worse than they are." 
            
            He nods at your parents, then freezes.
            *goto premain79

*label girlfriends

It looks enticingly fun. You're half considering risking your mother's wrath to join them when @{(chose) Ares|Theron|Morpheus|Zagreus} gently clasps your arm.

*label premain79

Startled, you follow his gaze to the god approaching @{(feastdecor) Zeus's throne|Zeus's throne|the dais|the dais|your table}.

*label main79
*page_break Poseidon

The god of the sea @{(spotposeidon) doesn't waste time when he reaches your side|is barefoot. Torchlight glints off his great trident, and dread warps his face}. 

@{(spotposeidon) He|When he reaches your side, he} speaks only three words, but they are enough to rip the breath from every mortal and stir the ichor of every god that hears them.

"They are here."

*page_break

@{(chose) Ares's grip on your hand tightens as everyone's|Theron's grip on your hand tightens as everyone's|Morpheus's grip on your hand tightens as everyone's|Everyone's} eyes jerk to the shore just as the beach begins to tremble.

The music stops. Sand shifts all around you as though struck by invisible fists. Poseidon had been keeping the sea at bay, but it breaks free from his grasp with a deafening roar. Waves charge at the shore, spraying guests and extinguishing a few of the flickering torches.

*page_break

After a breath, or perhaps a thousand, they emerge from the sea. One by one like sea stacks come to life. A dozen giants, each wielding a spear the size of a large god. Flames lick the weapons' blades, even the ones that are still submerged. 

Queen Periboia is the first to reach the shore. Shorter than Argus, but much wider, and far more commanding. Neither her nor her companions have spent the past few centuries rotting away in Tartarus, and it shows.

Fully armored and stone-faced, they make for quite the formidable bunch.  

*page_break

Everyone is supposed to continue feasting as though the Giants' presence doesn't bother them, let alone scare them. 

Still, it's hard not to stare as they close the distance between the sea and @{(feastdecor) the throne|the throne|the dais|the dais|your table} in just a few short, earth-shaking steps.

"There are fewer among their ranks than we suspected," Zagreus murmurs.

*fake_choice
    #"They've done a good job at hiding their true numbers," I observe, impressed.
        "Or perhaps not everyone amongst her people is prepared to go to war," @{(chose) Ares|Theron|Morpheus|he} whispers.
    #"Perhaps not everyone amongst her people is prepared to go to war," I wonder.
    #"That doesn't mean we should let our guard down," I assert, glancing at Zeus.
    #"That doesn't make them any less dangerous," I remind him.

The King of Olympus shoots the musicians a murderous glare. Only then do they resume playing, just in time for him to receive his guests.

"Queen Periboia. How delightful of you to grace us with your presence. And what a…formidable escort you've brought with you. Though I was under the impression there would be more of you joining us."

The Giant Queen may tower over him but, to his credit, he holds his own well enough in spite of it. Meeting her eye without craning his neck too obviously, smiling up at her without appearing too submissive, spreading his arms without highlighting how much smaller than hers they are.

"As was I." 

Her voice sounds like an avalanche. Deep, rumbling and forebodding. Water drips from her long auburn hair and the cracks between her armor in thick rivulets, forming puddles at her feet. Argus hadn't had eyes, only scars. But she does. Just the two, trained on Zeus like a pair of arrows about to be loosed.

"Alas, you know what they say," she adds casually. "One Giant is worth a hundred Olympians."

A peal of thunder rattles the marble statues as she glances at your father's scar.

*page_break A Bad Sign

Still, Zeus's perfect host façade doesn't waver when he addresses her in return.

"You would believe that, wouldn't you?" He even throws in a chuckle for good measure before adding, "Well, please don't let me keep you from enjoying the festivities. There's enough meat and wine for a hundred Giants, and Poseidon will make sure your dancing doesn't split the island in half." He points to Theron, who regards the giant queen with as much awe as he does apprehension, "I believe its Lord is rather fond of its current shape."

"Indeed," Theron @{(chose) allows. You had been too preoccupied by the giants' entrance to notice him draw nearer|allows|allows. You had been too preoccupied by the giants' entrance to notice him draw nearer|allows. You had been too preoccupied by the giants' entrance to notice him draw nearer}. "And yet, myself and my people are honored to have both gods and giants feasting on our humble shores."

Periboia ignores him. 

"I am afraid we will not be engaging in any of these so-called festivities."

Gasps echo across the beach, yours among them. Insulting a host so blatantly is no small offence.

*fake_choice
    #I'm just as shocked as everyone else.
    #I'm not surprised. Argus was hardly pleasant.
    #I know it's wrong, but I'm almost impressed.
    #I'm more offended on Aphrodite's behalf.
        She has worked too hard on these "so-called festivities" for them to be dismissed so.

Besides, Zeus has started wars for less.

"Let us drop the pretenses, Olympian." Periboia spits out the last word as though it were an insult. "I am not here to contest your rule, even if I believe you are not worthy of it. But the fact you have gone to all this trouble based on rumors that were far too easy to disseminate tells me you know I could. So, let me put you at ease. I am here for one thing and one thing alone. Release my wife from Tartarus willingly, or I will have to force your hand."

[i]Her kin have been imprisoned in Tartarus for, well, an eternity, her wife among them. I think she's angling for her release[/i], Ares had said what feels like eons ago.

But this isn't angling. It isn't even insulting. It's a brazen, outright threat.

A flash of lightning. More thunder. And every pair of eyes on the beach fixes on Zeus.

Yours included.

You expect the god to be furious. The sky certainly sounds it. But, instead, he seems almost pleased. There's an eagerness to the way he's watching her, a sharpness to his grey eyes. 

He looks like a lion ready to pounce on its prey.

*page_break A Terrible Sign

"Force my hand, huh?"

"Zeus," Hera tries, gaze darting between her husband and the roiling sky.

But it doesn't deter Periboia.

"You Olympians. It seems you are as inferior in intelligence as you are in size." She bends her waist, unleashing the full weight of her glare on Zeus. "Let me put it in simpler terms so that you understand. Free my wife, and I'll let you live."

*page_break Forget Signs, This Is War

Zeus makes the decision for you, when he delivers his answer without so much as a glance in your direction. "No."

Then he leaps @{(feastdecor) from his throne|from his throne|from his seat|from his throne|from his seat} just as the sky parts, and a lightning bolt drops right into his waiting hand.

*page_break Mayhem Ensues

You barely get a second to process what's happening before fighting erupts all along the beach.

Zeus's lightning bolt smashes into Periboia's raised bracer. You don't just hear the collision, you feel it in your marrow.

Deities summon their weapons. Giants swipe at them with theirs. Mortals are caught in the crossfire.

There's no time to dwell on whether it's right or wrong. You must focus. 

But what do you focus on?

*choice
    #The pantheon is my priority. They must be supported at all costs.
        *set priority 1
        *goto prefight
    #My family is my prioirty. They must be supported at all costs.
        *set parents %+10
        *set Zagreus %+10
        *set priority 2
        Out of the corner of your eye, you glimpse your parents, already in the heart of the fray. 

        Without missing a beat, Zagreus joins them.
        *goto prefight
    #The mortals are my prioirty. They must be protected at all costs.
        *set priority 3
        @{(zeustheron) They are wilfully unprepared for this, that much is obvious. Perhaps if you had warned them when you had the chance, they wouldn't be. You can feel bad about that later. Now is the time to act|Already, they're making for the escape routes you instructed them to establish|Already, they're either retreating to their stations or, if too young or unable to fight, to safety|Some have already started fleeing, others drawing their weapons. Others still are frozen in place|Some have already started fleeing, others drawing their weapons. Others still are frozen in place}.
        *goto prefight
    *if chose != 4
        #@{(chose) Ares|Theron|Morpheus|na} is my priority. He must be protected at all costs.
            *set priority 4
            *if chose = 1
                *set Ares %+10
                Yes, he's the god of war. But these are no regular foes. @{(injured) Your own scar is|Your father's–and Morpheus's–scars are} proof.
                *goto prefight
            *elseif chose = 2
                *set Theron %+10
                You have no doubt he's a capable fighter, but this is a fight even the Gods stand to loose. 

                What chance does a mortal have?
                *goto prefight
            *else
                *set Morpheus %+10
                @{(injured) The pair of you|He} barely survived the last time you faced off against a Giant.

                You won't let him get hurt again.
                *goto prefight

*label prefight

How will you @{(priority) aid them|aid them|aid their efforts|keep him safe}?

*choice
    #By bending with the wind; I strike hard and move fast.
        *set giantsapproach 1
        *if fitness > 65
            *if priority = 1
                *set pantheonplayer %+15
                *goto success
            *elseif priority = 2
                *goto success
            *elseif priority = 3
                *set peoplepleaser %+15
                *set maverickgoddess %+10
                *set worship %+5
                *goto success
            *else
                *set maverickgoddess %+15
                *goto success
        *else
            *set failedgiants true
            *if priority = 1
                *set pantheonplayer %-15
                *goto failure
            *elseif priority = 2
                *goto failure
            *elseif priority = 3
                *set peoplepleaser %-5
                *set maverickgoddess %-5
                *goto failure
            *else
                *set maverickgoddess %-15
                *goto failure
    #By showing no mercy; I fight the Giants tooth and nail.
        *set brutal true
        *set giantsapproach 2
        *if ruthless > 60
            *set maverickgoddess %+10
            *if priority = 1
                *set pantheonplayer %+20
                *goto success 
            *elseif priority = 2
                *set olympusinfluence %+10
                *goto success
            *elseif priority = 3
                *set peoplepleaser %+20
                *set worship %+10  
                *goto success
            *else
                *set maverickgoddess %+10
                *goto success
        *else
            *set failedgiants true
            *set maverickgoddess %-10
            *set olympusinfluence %-5
            *if priority = 1
                *set pantheonplayer %-20                                
                *goto failure
            *elseif priority = 2
                *set underworldinfluence %-10
                *goto failure
            *elseif priority = 3
                *set peoplepleaser %-10
                *set worship %-10
                *goto failure
            *else
                *set maverickgoddess %-10
                *goto failure
    #By taking charge; I don't just join the action, I lead it.
        *set giantsapproach 3
        *if leadership > 65
            *set olympusinfluence %+10
            *set peoplepleaser %+10
            *set worship %+10 
            *if priority = 1
                *set pantheonplayer %+25
                *set underworldinfluence %+10
                *goto success
            *elseif priority = 2
                *set underworldinfluence %+5
                *goto success
            *elseif priority = 3
                *set underworldinfluence %+10
                *set peoplepleaser %+10
                *goto success
            *else
                *set underworldinfluence %+10
                *set maverickgoddess %+25
                *goto success
        *else
            *set failedgiants true
            *set peoplepleaser %-10
            *set olympusinfluence %-10
            *set underworldinfluence %-10
            *if priority = 1
                *set pantheonplayer %-25
                *goto failure
            *elseif priority = 2
                *goto failure
            *elseif priority = 3
                *set worship %-10
                *goto failure
            *else
                *set maverickgoddess %-25
                *goto failure
    #By avoiding detection; I sneak up on the Giants via the Halfrealm.
        *set giantsapproach 4
        *if stealth > 55
            *set maverickgoddess %+10
            *if priority = 1
                *set pantheonplayer %+15
                *goto success
            *elseif priority = 2
                *goto success
            *elseif priority = 3
                *set peoplepleaser %+15
                *set worship %+5
                *goto success
            *else
                *set maverickgoddess %+10
                *goto success
        *else
            *set failedgiants true
            *set maverickgoddess %-15
            *set pantheonplayer %-15
            *if priority = 1
                *set pantheonplayer %-5
                *goto failure
            *elseif priority = 2
                *set underworldinfluence %-5
                *goto failure
            *elseif priority = 3
                *set worship %-5
                *set peoplepleaser %-5
                *goto failure
            *else
                *set maverickgoddess %-5
                *goto failure
    #By unleashing my Epiali upon the beach; they can help.
        *set giantsapproach 5
        *set daemons true
        *if daemonhandling > 60
            *set maverickgoddess %+10
            *set pantheonplayer %+10
            *if priority = 1
                *set pantheonplayer %+5
                *goto success
            *elseif priority = 2
                *set worship %+10
                *set olympusinfluence %+10
                *set peoplepleaser %+10
                *goto success
            *elseif priority = 3
                *set peoplepleaser %+15
                *set worship %+5
                *goto success
            *else
                *set maverickgoddess %+10
                *set worship %+5
                *goto success
        *else
            *set maverickgoddess %-10
            *set pantheonplayer %-10
            *set worship %-5
            *set peoplepleaser %-5
            *set failedgiants true
            *if priority = 1
                *set pantheonplayer %-5
                *goto failure
            *elseif priority = 2
                *set underworldinfluence %-5
                *goto failure
            *elseif priority = 3
                *set worship %-5
                *set peoplepleaser %-5
                *goto failure
            *else
                *set maverickgoddess %-10
                *goto failure

*label success

*if priority = 2
    *set parents %+15
    *set Zagreus %+15
    *set underworldinfluence %+20
    *goto main80
*else
    *set worship %+10
    *set olympusinfluence %+10
    *set underworldinfluence %+10
    *goto main80

*label failure

*set peoplepleaser %-10
*set worship %-10
*set olympusinfluence %-10
*set underworldinfluence %-10

*if priority = 2
    *set parents %-15
    *set Zagreus %-10
    *goto main80
*else
    *goto main80

*label main80

The clamor of battle echoes all around you as you summon your @{(weapon) bident|bow|scythe|sling|staff}.

*if (entrance = 5)
    @{(chose) Ares|Theron|Morpheus} is by your side before it's in your hand. @{(chose) Wielding his spear and clad in his armor, he looks every bit the brutal and bloodrhirsty warrior the poets believe him to be|Wielding a couple of daggers and a determined expression|Wielding his blowgun and a determined experssion|na}.
    *goto setup
*elseif (chose = 4)
    *goto setup
*else
    @{(chose) Ares does the same with his spear, and the rest of his armor. With his face hidden under his helmet, he looks every bit the brutal and bloodrhirsty warrior the poets believe him to be|Theron pulls a couple of daggers from his belt|Morpheus does the same with his blowgun|na}.
    *goto setup

*label setup

*if priority = 1
    *if chose = 2
        *goto battletheron
    *else
        "We must hold the line," you tell @{(chose) Ares|na|tell Morpheus|Zagreus}.
        *goto main81
*elseif priority = 2 
    "Hades! ${name}!" your mother yells. 
    
    She's in the middle of fighting a giant that moves surprisingly fast, for the amount of fur he's @{(gothelp) draped in|draped in. Vines shoot from her hands like whips, and each time the giant swings, she summons shields of bark that can somehow withstand the brush of his spear's flames}. "Help Zagreus!"

    One of her vines points at your brother, who is currently being backed into a corner by a pair of giantesses wearing matching helmets.

    @{(giantsapproach) "Cover me!" your father yells in your direction|"Cover me!" your father yells in your direction|"I'll cover you," you yell at your father|"Cover me!" your father yells in your direction|"Cover me!" your father yells in your direction}.

    *if chose = 2
        *goto battletheron
    *elseif chose = 4
        *goto main81
    *else
        @{(chose) Ares|na|Morpheus|na} doesn't hesitate. "I'm right behind you." 
        *goto main81
*elseif priority = 3
    @{(chose) "We must aid the mortals,"|"We must help your people,"|"We must aid the mortals,"|"We must aid the mortals,"} you tell
    *if chose = 2
        Theron. "Take your station. I'm right behind you."
        *goto main81
    *else
        @{(chose) Ares|na|Morpheus|Zagreus}.
        
        He doesn't hesitate, already @{(chose) rising his spear|na|up in the air|nocking an arrow}.

        @{(giantsapproach) "Cover me!" you command|"I'll cover you!" he yells|||}.
        *goto main81
*else
    *if chose = 1
        You know the only reason Ares hasn't joined them yet is because of you.

        "I'm right behind you," you reassure him. That way, no giant will get the jump on him.
        *goto main81
    *elseif chose = 2
        "I must get to my station," Theron yells.

        *if giantsapproach = 3
            One quick scan of the battlefield tells you that the safest way to get him there is if you clear a path for him

            "Follow me," you yell back.
            *goto main81
        *else
            You're prepared to do anything to get him there.

            "I'm right behind you," you yell back.
            *goto main81
    *else
        "So, what will it be this time, Princess?" Morpheus asks, already positioning himself between you and the closest giant.

        You had better get him out of here before he does anything foolish.

        "Let's get some altitude, hit them from above."
        *goto main81

*label battletheron

"Go help your people. @{(priority > 1) I'll cover you as well,"|I'll hold the line,"} you tell Theron.

He opens his mouth as though to argue. But something in your face must've made him realize how foolish it would be to do so while his island is crumbling around you.

Instead, he brushes his lips against yours. "Be careful."

You won't let worry your for him slow you down. As much as you had both hoped it wouldn't come to this–and certainly not so abruptly-he had planned for it anyway.

The best thing you can do to help him now is to stay the course.

*label main81 
*page_break

*if failedgiants
    @{(giantsapproach) But you don't even get the chance to take off|But you don't even get the chance to take a single swing|But that's the only decision you get to make|But you barely get the chance to wave the Halfrealm out of the shadows|But you only get as far as calling out a handful of daemons|} before the tip of a giant's spear catches you square in the chest.
    
    It's a stray blow, a lucky–for the Giant–find, and yet it's enough to knock you right into the cliffside.
    
    @{(argusencounter > 1) You hear the rock crack, or perhaps it was your skull. Most likely, it's both.|What is it with Giants and slamming you into rocks?}

    Pain sears into you, too fast and too great for the power in your ichor to absorb all at once.

    The force of the impact alone had shattered a few of your bones, and though they had begun healing as soon as they snapped, you can barely feel your body, let alone move it.

    *fake_choice
        #But I can whimper.
        #But I can swear.
        #But I can groan.
        #But I can grumble.

    *goto goingbad
*else
    *if giantsapproach > 3
        You wave the Halfrealm out of the shadows. It winds through the beach like a serpent. @{(daemons) Daemons|Daemons and nightmares} flicker in its depths, @{(daemons) eagerly awaiting your instructions|beckoning you forth}

        *if daemons
            You deliver them without hesitation.

            *if priority = 4
                [i]Protect @{(chose) Ares|Theron|Morpheus|na}[/i].
                *goto epiali
            *else
                [i]@{(priority) Rally around the pantheon|Cover Hades and protect Zagreus|Protect the Leukans|na}[/i].
                *goto epiali
        *else
            You dive in without hesitation, using the murky waters as cover.
            *goto goingwell
    *else
        @{(flightstyle) A flick of your wings|A push on your shadows|A flex of your toes} and you're airborn.

        *if giantsapproach < 3
            @{(brutal) Then, you become a weapon|With strength to rival the giants' and speed to match the arrows flying all around you, you get to work}.
            *goto goingwell
        *else
            *goto goingwell

*label epiali

An army of shadowy @{(epiali) snakes|bats|ravens|cats|spiders} swarms the battlefield at once. @{(epiali) Fangs bared|Wings splayed|Wings splayed|Fangs bared|Fangs bared}, eager to obey your command.

*label goingwell

@{(priority) Giants|Bident in hand, Hades dashes towards Zagreus. Giants|Mortals scatter across the beach. Giants|Giants} swipe at @{(priority) Olympians and the denizens of the Underworld|him|them|him} with their flaming spears. Lightning rains down @{(priority) around them|on him|on them|on him} from the skies. Sand is flung into @{(priority) their|his|their|his} path.

Before they can find their @{(priority) marks|mark|marks|mark}, @{(daemons) your daemons are|you're} there to stop them. 

*if giantsapproach = 3
    Warnings fly from your lips and are eagrely heeded.

    On your left. Duck. Watch out.
    *goto goingwell1
*elseif daemons = true
    *goto goingwell1
*else
    @{(weapon) Swiping your bident|Delivering arrows|Swiping your scythe|Slinging pellets|Swiping your staff} with @{(brutal) vicious|limber} 
    *if giantsapproach = 4
        precision before disappearing back into the Halfrealm.
        *goto goingwell1
    *else
        precision
        *goto goingwell1

*label goingwell1
*page_break

*if priority = 1
    Thanks in no small part to @{(daemons) them|your efforts}, the gods manage to push the giants @{(chose) back|back, and Theron clears the front line without a scratch|back|back}.
    
    "Nicely done!" Athena shouts at you, making you wonder whether she's hit her head before she smashes her aegis into a giant's chest with enough force to fling them into the sea.
    *goto main82
*elseif priority = 2
    @{(daemons) Thanks to them, Hades|Thanks to your efforts, Hades easily} makes it to Zagreus's side in time to save him from what could've been a fatal @{(chose) blow|blow, and Theron clears the front line without a scratch|blow|blow}.

    "Nicely done!" Persephone shouts, relieved but also proud.
    *goto main82
*elseif priority = 3
    *set patron true
    @{(daemons) Thanks to them,|Thanks to your efforts,} the Leukans who hadn't already clear the front line without a scratch.

    @{(zeustheron) A handful of them remain on the battlefield while the others make for the safety of the agora|They make for the catacombs, just like you had instructed. Roxana leads their ranged attack from the temple, while Theron instructs the soldiers on the ground|A handful of them remain on the battlefield while the others make for the safety of the agora|A handful of them remain on the battlefield while the others make for the safety of the agora|}.

    And, woven into the prayers they utter under their breaths as they @{(zeustheron) flee|flee|fight|flee|flee}, is your name, followed by a single word. 

    Patron.
    *achieve patron
    *goto main82
*else
    *if chose = 1
        @{(daemons) Thanks to them,|Thanks to your efforts,} Ares stays out of harm's way.

        The pair of you slip into an easy rhythm as you drive the giants back towards the shore.
        *goto main82
    *elseif chose = 2
        *set withtheron true 
        *set withlover 2
        @{(daemons) Thanks to them, Theron|Thanks to your efforts, Theron} clears the front line without a scratch.

        The pair of you slip into an easy rhythm as you @{(zeustheron) help his people to the safety of the agora|help his people to the catacombs|aid his soldiers' ranged attack on land|help his people to the safety of the agora|}.
        *goto main82
    *else
        @{(daemons) Thanks to them, Morpheus|Thanks to your efforts, Morpheus} stays out of harm's way.

        The pair of you slip into an easy 
        *if argusencounter = 2
            rhythm, just like you had with Argus. Once again, Morpheus's darts make the giants sloppy, allowing you to sweep in and drive them back to the shore
            *goto main82
        *else
            rhythm. Morpheus's darts bury into the giants' skin. They don't put them to sleep like they would a mortal, but they make them sloppy, allowing you to sweep in and drive them back to the shore.
        *goto main82

*label goingbad

No, you realize as you attempt it, you can't do that either. There's too much dust and rubble crusting your eyes and the inside of your throat.

But not your ears. 

You hear thunder, fire and ocean waging war on one another. The sharp whoosh of flying arrows and the dull thuds of felled targets. The ringing bellow of clashing steel and the echoing bang of wrecked furniture.

*page_break The Screams

When you finally regain your vision, things are more dire than you could've imagined.

Few of Aphrodite's statues remains standing and whole. @{(feastdecor) Zeus's throne|Zeus's throne|Her dais|The thrones|Wooden tables} lay in tatters on the sand.

*if giantsapproach > 3
    The Halfrealm winds through the beach like a serpent. Daemons spill from its shadowy belly, wreaking havoc on gods, giants and mortals alike.

    *if priority = 1
        Your name is being flung at the wind over and over, alongside orders–and pleas–to call them back. 

        "Is she trying to activately sabotage us?" Athena bellows somehwere far, far below.

        More complaints rise from the pantheon. From Olympians, Chtonic deities, mortals and even some giants.
        *goto cliffoff
    *elseif priority = 3
        No. That's a lie.

        It's not alike. Not alike at all. Mortals are the ones bearing the brunt of the dameons' confusion.

        Their fear rises all around you like steam. 
        
        Because, in their hour of need, the daughter of Hades and Persephone had gone and unleashed their nightmares upon them.
        *goto cliffoff
    *else
        *goto cliffoff
*else
    *goto cliffoff

*label cliffoff

Worse, a chunk of the cliff had come off when you crashed into it.

A big chunk.

*page_break

*if priority = 1
    Many mortals have been injured by the debris, and some deities are still clawing their way out from under the rubble.

    Athena is among them. Most of the cliff appears to have collapsed on or around her, but she still manages to glower up at you and bellow, "What is wrong with you? You couldn't even handle the butt of a spear?"
    
    The disdainful sneers from the deities surrounding her hurt more than your broken body.
    *goto main82
*elseif priority = 2
    *set injuredzagreus true
    Many mortals have been injured by the debris, and some deities are still clawing their way out from under the rubble, including your father and Athena. 

    Most of the cliff appears to have collapsed on or around her, but she still manages to glower up at you and bellow, "What is wrong with you? You couldn't even handle the butt of a spear?"

    "Zagreus!"

    Your mother's panicked voice rises above Athena's, pulling your attention back to the corner where Zagreus had been fighting the giantesses.
    
    They're gone, moved onto a sword-wielding Aphrodite. Your brother, however, is still there. Lying on the sand, still and pale as a felled statue, ichor gushing from a hole in his chest.
    *goto lovedonehurt
*elseif priority = 3
    "What is wrong with you? You couldn't even handle the butt of a spear?" Athena, who is clawing her way out from under the rubble, bellows at you. 

    *if giantsapproach > 3
        Which, of course, had left a trail of injured, bleeding and unconscious mortals in its wake.
        *goto main82
    *else
        But her disdain–and that of the pantheon's–is the least of your worries.

        While the deities caught by the debris have mostly picked themselves up and rejoined the fold, the mortals didn't get so lucky.

        Many are injured, unconscious, or bleeding.

        Witnessing it hurts more than your broken body.

        Not only have you failed them in their hour of need, but you have put them in even more danger than they already were.
        *goto main82
*else
    *set injuredlover true
    Many mortals have been injured by the debris, and some deities are still clawing their way out from under the rubble, including Athena. 

    "What is wrong with you? You couldn't even handle the butt of a spear?" she bellows, glowring up at you.

    "@{(chose) Ares|Theron|Morpheus|na}!"

    Your brother's panicked voice snatches your attention away from the goddess. He's right below you, dragging slabs of rock away from the section of beach that had born the worst of the cliff's impact. 

    @{(chose) Ares's spear and helmet lay|Theron's daggers lay|Morpheus's blowgun lay|na} discarded on the sand at his feet.
    *goto lovedonehurt

*label lovedonehurt
*page_break No

No, no, no, no.

Then, @{(injuredzagreus) just as Averna emerges from the shadows by his side, he coughs. More ichor than breath, but stil|the rock begins to move}.

*if injuredzagreus
    He isn't dead. @{(Zagreus > 55) Good. You might never forgive yourself otherwise|Good. Your parents will never forgive you otherwise}.

    Still, he isn't out of the woods just yet. Not with that open wound.

    "I've got him!" the lampad shouts.

    Darkness engulfs her as she gathers him into her limber arms, and does what you couldn't do; save your brother's life.
    *goto main82
*else
    Bit by bit and with Zagreus's aid, @{(chose) Ares|Theron|Morpheus|na} pulls himself free from the tomb of rock you unwittingly buried him in, and collapses onto the sand.

    Coughing and covered in @{(chose) dried ichor|blood|in dried ichor|na} but alive.

    No thanks to you.
    *goto main82

*label main82
*page_break

@{(failedgiants) Mercifully, it appears you're the only one who has made such a mess of things|The smell of blood and ichor sours the air and the bellow of thunder, fire and ocean waging war on one another rings in your ears. But it doesn't make neither you nor those around you lose sight of your goal}.

@{(injuredzagreus) Aphrodite's husband has joined her efforts to drive back the giantessess|Aphrodite and, perhaps surprsingly, her husband are fighting side-by-side}. @{(injuredzagreus) Iris is|Iris and Averna are} busy helping wounded mortals to safety. Hermes has joined forces with a harpy to blind any giant that crosses their path. Medea is offering prayers to faltering deities to increase their worship.

Your father has summoned Argus's spear and is wielding it against three giants at once.

*if failedgiants
    *if (injuredlover = false) and (chose != 4)
        *if chose = 2
            *set persephonehelps true
            Theron is alive, and leading his 
            *if zeustheron = 3
                diminished people's ranged attack.
                *goto outofcliff
            *else
                diminished people to safety.
                *goto outofcliff
        *elseif chose = 1
            *set withlover 1
            And Morpheus is searching the lightning-struck sky for you.
            *goto outofcliff
        *else
            *set withlover 3
            And Morpheus is searching the lightning-struck sky for you.
            *goto outofcliff
    *else
        *set persephonehelps true
        *goto outofcliff
*else
    *if chose = 4
        *goto main83
    *else
        And @{(chose) Ares is whole and by your side|Theron is alive|Morpheus is whole and by your side|na}. There's nothing more you could ask of the Fates.
        *if chose = 1
            *set withlover 1
            *goto main83
        *elseif chose = 3
            *set withlover 3
            *goto main83

*label outofcliff
*page_break

"${name}! ${NAME}!"

Your name is almost a prayer on @{(persephonehelps) her|his} lips.

"I'm here," you croak.

"Thank the Fates."

Carefully, @{(persephonehelps) she|he} pulls you out of what's left of the cliffside.

By the time @{(persephonehelps) she|he} deposits you on the edge of the battle, you've almost recovered full use of your limbs.

*if persephonehelps = true
    The glint of lightning catches on the leaves of her laurel crown.

    You become vaguely aware that you're no longer wearing yours, and that you have no idea when or where you lost it.

    "Stay out of trouble," she commands, leaving you to lick your wounds alone.
    *goto main83
*else
    Though you might lose it again soon, if he keeps holding you so tight.
    
    You become vaguely aware that you're no longer wearing your crown and you have no idea when or where you lost it.
    *goto main83 

*label main83
*page_break

@{(failedgiants) Dawn is a long way away, but not even she could wake you from this nightmare|And yet, despite all the ground you're gaining, there's plenty to be lost}.

@{(failedgiants) Still, you|You} regard the destruction unfolding on the sand. Queen Periboia and Zeus are at the heart of it, shrouded in lightning and smoke.

Both have dragged their peoples into this. She for the sake of her wife. He for the sake of his pride.

So they both claim. But, if it were you brokering @{(chose) Ares's|Theron's|Morpheus's|your wife's} release from Tartarus, would you have insulted and threatened the one who could grant it as soon as you stepped foot in his party? 

And if it were you responsible for the safety of the realms, would you have cast it aside so readily over a few unsavory words?

When Zeus and Periboia are finally done pommelling one another, how many deities will be forever scarred? How many more mortal lives will be forever lost? How much of Leukas will be forever gone?

Do you have what it takes to see it through to the end? 

Or should you be attempting to negotiate a truce instead?

*choice
    #The fighting must stop. I plead with the King of Olympus to make it so.
        While you sympathise with Zeus, this has gone too far. 

        But, in order to get through to the King of Olympus, you'll need some divine help.

        @{(withlover)  So you turn to his son. "Fancy talking some sense into your father?"|"There's something I must do," you say, turning to Theron. "In the meantime, I forbid you from dying."|"Fancy doing something that might put the Underworld and Olympus at odds?" you ask Morpheus.}

        @{(withlover)  "I feel like you don't know my father if you think he possesses even a shred of sense." He flings his spear at a Giant on the other side of the beach. "But it's worth a try."|He ducks out of the way of an arrow. "I'll do my best."|Morpheus flings his wing around you to protect you from an incoming ball of flame. "Always."}
        
        *if (olympusinfluence > 60) or (pantheonplayer > 50)
            *set giantsuccess 1
            *set finalbattle 1
            *set stoppedfight true

            *if withlover = 3
                *set distraction 1
                "You distract Periboia while I talk some sense into Zeus."

                "Deal."
                *goto zeustalk
            *elseif (injuredzagreus = false) and (Zagreus > 55)
                *set distraction 2
                *set averna true
                You take off in search of Averna. She can use her shadows to sneak up on Periboia to buy you some time.
                *goto prezeustalk
            *elseif withlover = 2
                *set distraction 3
                "You distract Periboia while I attempt to talk some sense into Zeus."

                "Deal."
                *goto zeustalk
            *else
                *set distraction 4
                And who better to help you than your own brother?
                *goto prezeustalk
        *else
            *set giantfailure 1
            *set badfight true
            *set finalbattle 3
            "You distract Periboia while I attempt to talk some sense into Zeus."

            "Deal."
            *goto parentsconfront 
    #The fighting must stop. The Underworld must take a stand against Zeus.
        This has gone too far. Every Chthonic deity on this beach knows it.

        But the Underworld won't rally against Zeus, without its King and Queen.

        @{(withlover)  So you turn to Ares. "Fancy talking some sense into your father?"|"There's something I must do," you say, turning to Theron. "In the meantime, I forbid you from dying."|Especially the one right by your side. "Fancy knocking Zeus down a peg?"}

        @{(withlover)  "I feel like you don't know my father if you think he possesses even a shred of sense." He flings his spear at a Giant on the other side of the beach. "But it's worth a try."|He ducks out of the way of an arrow. "I'll do my best."|Morpheus flings his wing around you to protect you from an incoming ball of flame. "Can we make it two or three, please?"}

        Your parents are aiding a family of mortals retreat. You join their efforts. After the Leukans have been led to safety, you make your case.  

        *if underworldinfluence > 55
            *set giantsuccess 2
            *set stoppedfight true
            *set stoppedzeus true
            *set finalbattle 1
            *goto makeyourcase
        *else
            *set giantfailure 2
            *set badfight true
            *set finalbattle 3
            *goto makeyourcase
    #We must switch up the fight. I call Cerberus in; he's the perfect wild card. 
        One giant may be worth a hundred Olympians. But one Cerberus is worth a thousand giants.

        They won't see the Underworld's fiercest sentinel coming. 

        And that's precisely why it ought to work.
        
        @{(withlover)  "There's something I must do," you say, turning to Ares. "Watch my back, will you?"|"There's something I must do," you say, turning to Theron. "In the meantime, I forbid you from dying."|"There's something I must do," you say, turning to Morpheus. "Watch my back, will you?"}

        @{(withlover)  He flings his at a Giant on the other side of the beach. "Of course."|He ducks out of the way of an arrow. "I'll do my best."|He flings his wing around you to protect you from an incoming ball of flame. "With pleasure."}

        *if maverickgoddess > 50
            *set giantsuccess 3
            *set gotcerberus true
            *set finalbattle 2
            *goto cerberusfight
        *else
            *set giantfailure 3
            *set finalbattle 3
            *set badfight true
            *goto cerberusfight
    #We must keep fighting. I urge the mortals to join Medea's prayers.
        @{(withtheron) You turn to Theron|But first, I must get to their Lord}. @{(withlover) Ares watches your back from the ground, helping you reach the Lord of Leukas safe and sound|Panic seizes you at the sight of him|Morpheus watches your back from the ground, helping you reach the Lord of Leukas safe and sound}.

        He's covered in bruises and scrapes. Blood soaks his leather armor and coats his hands. But, since he's still standing and still wielding a pair of daggers, you can safely assume most of it isn't his.

        @{(chose) Which is good, because you need him to listen if you are to rally his people|Alas, you can't allow your worry for him distract you. Not when you have his people to rally|Which is good, because you need him to listen if you are to rally his people|Which is good, because you need him to listen if you are to rally his people}.

        "Gather as many Leukans as you can and join Medea in prayer. We need your worship if we're going to turn this tide."

        He frowns, eyes darting towards the priestess. To his credit, understanding dawns on him fast.

        *if peoplepleaser > 50
            *set giantsuccess 4
            *set finalbattle 1
            *goto prayercircle
        *else
            *set giantfailure 4 
            *set badfight true
            *set finalbattle 3
            *goto prayercircle
    #We must keep fighting. I dig deeper into my worship reserves.
        @{(failedgiants) Zeus's decision to start a war had caught you by surprise, but now that you know what you're up against, you won't fail|You're young for a goddess, but you're far from weak}.

        Determined, you close your eyes and reach into the well of your power.
        
        *if worship > 50
            *set giantsuccess 5
            *set performedmiracle true
            *set finalbattle 2
            *set daemons true
            It rushes up to meet you like an old friend.

            And old friend who has grown far stronger than you realized.

            Strong enough for you to rejoin the fight with renewed vigor.  

            Strong enough for you to perform a miracle.
            *goto miracle
        *else
            *set giantfailure 5
            *set badfight true
            *set finalbattle 3
            And reach. 

            And reach. 

            And reach. 

            It takes you far longer than it should to accept the truth. Not only is your reserve is almost spent, but there wasn't as much worship there as you'd hoped to begin with.

            Alas, you scrape together what you can and rejoin the fight.
            *goto slogfight

*label makeyourcase
*page_break

"We can't let him go on like this," you say, glancing at Zeus. 

A shield of lightning crackles around him as he parries another of Periboia's fierce blows. Even from here, you can tell he's savoring every drop of ichor he wrenches from her near-impervious veins.

"Defy him. If he doesn't want to hear Periboia out, the Underworld should. We're strong enough to rein him in. Tartarus is in our realm, after all. We are its keepers, [i]not[/i] Zeus's pawns."

*if stoppedfight
    *set confrontzeus true 
    There are a thousand conversation in the glance they exchange.

    Then your mother nods, and your father returns his gaze to you. 
    
    "You're right. The truth is, we have been preparing to do so for some time. But, up until now, the risks seemed far too great."
    
    With that, Persephone wastes no time laying out the plan. It's a rather simple one.

    *if withlover = 3
        *set distraction 1
        "Morpheus, let us you and I keep Periboia distracted while these two knock some sense into that oaf."
        *goto zeustalk
    *elseif injuredzagreus = false
        *set distraction 2
        *set averna true
        "Averna and I will distract Periboia while you two knock some sense into that oaf," shey says, rushing to fetch the nymph.
        *goto zeustalk
    *elseif withlover = 2
        *set distraction 3
        "Ares, let us you and I keep Periboia distracted while these two knock some sense into that oaf."
        *goto zeustalk
    *else
        *set distraction 4
        "Zagreus and I will distract Periboia while you two knock some sense into that oaf," she says, rushing to fetch your brother.
        *goto zeustalk
*else
    *goto hadessaysno

*label prezeustalk
*page_break

You find @{(averna) her|him} aiding a family of mortals retreat and join in. After the Leukans have been led to safety, you make your case.  

"Fancy doing something that will @{(averna) make you look good in front of the naiads|likely make our parents very mad}?" you ask.

@{(averna) She|He} doesn't hesitate. "Always."

"Good. You distract Periboia while I talk some sense into Zeus."

"Deal."

*label zeustalk
*page_break

@{(distraction) Morpheus|Averna|Ares|Zagreus|} @{(giantsuccess > 1) and your mother charge|charges} Periboia.

"What do you think you're doing?" Zeus roars. "Get away from her, @{(giantsuccess > 1) fools|fool}. She's mine!"

"Zeus!"

@{(giantsuccess > 1) Your father's|Your} voice rises above the constant crack of thunder.

Reluctantly, Zeus drags his gaze away from his mark. His eyes are no longer grey, but the glowing white of a thunder-lit sky. They narrow when they find @{(giantsuccess > 1) you and your father, approaching him with your weapons drawn|you approaching him}. "What is this?"

*if giantsuccess = 1
    "We have to talk."

    The words draw the attention of a few deities nearby. Hera, bashing a giant's skull with her pretty scepter. Athena, tearing through the same giant's armor with her aegis. Iris, still aiding any mortal in their path. 

    You expect anger from Zeus, as do they. Hera pauses her skull-bashing. Athena smirks. Iris's eyes flash amber with worry.
    
    But the King of Olympus merely blinks until some of the grey returns to his eyes before stating, rather politely, "Your timing isn't great, ${name}. But by all means, speak."
    *goto convincezeus
*else
    Your fahter lands before the King of Olympus, flaming spear first. You're right behind him. 

    "You've had your fun, but I'm afraid it's time to end this," Hades says.

    The lightning bolt in Zeus's grip spits sparks onto the sand. "Away with you, Hades. We're only just getting started with this war, we needn't concern ourselves with another one."

    Shadows creep into the beach, encroaching on the maelstrom of lightning and smoke, and blotting out the stars.

    "There isn't going to be a war."
    *goto standagainstzeus

*label convincezeus
*page_break

"This feast was to be a reminder of your generosity and might. And yet, look around you."

You wave at the ongoing carnage, hoping he sees what you do. Marred divine flesh. Mortals bleeding. Leukas's eastern coast slowly being blugdeoned to death.

The glow of his eyes dims. More deities gather round you, including your parents. But you don't let their worried expressions stop you.

"Is this what generosity and might truly look like?"

Sparks fly from his hands and the roar of thunder ramps up anew. "You heard what [i]she[/i] had to say about my generosity and might, did you not?"

He aims his lightning bolt at Periboia.

"Her delivery was lacking," you allow. "But I'm certain we can extract something far more valuable from her than ichor if we agree to release her wife."

You spy a few nods of assent amongst the deities surrounding you.

They're followed by a voicing of support.

*page_break @{(respect > 55) Iris's|Your Father's}

"${name} is right."

@{(respect > 55) The messenger|Hades} is the first to speak. 

For a moment, the words are the only sound hanging in the smoke-filled air. 

You can't be sure but, in the sudden quiet, you think you might sense the Fates' frantic weaving. 

"As do I."

Other deities join the pleas. @{(respect > 55) Your parents|Iris. Your mother}. Hera. Athena. Even Hermes and a couple of the harpies.

All voicing their support for a ceasefire. All standing by you.

But your gaze doesn't waver from Zeus's.

*goto then

*label standagainstzeus
*page_break The Thunder Grows Louder

@{(chose > 1) "First, you reject my very generous offer to formally unite our realms and now, this?"|"We are family now, Hades," Zeus says, fixing the glowing orbs that have become of his eyes on you.}

@{(chose > 1) "I rejected it, actually," you cut in, drawing the glowing orbs that have become of his eyes.|Your father cocks an eyebrow at him. "That has never stopped you from waging war before.}

"I control the Underworld's supply of ambrosia. I can weaken your forces before you even get the chance to rally them."

The shadows grow hungrier. Darkness shrouds you from the carnage still raging around you, greeting your father like an old friend.

"I thought you might say that," Hades says. "Alas, one of the first things one must learn when one rules a realm as crowded as mine, is resource management. As far as my supply of ambrosia goes, let's just say, it's well-managed."

"Even if it weren't," you offer, @{(weapon) glancing at your bident|fingering the string of your bow|twirling your scythe|twirling your sling|glancing at your staff}. "When we broker our own deal with Queen Periboia for her wife's release, what are the chances she'll join our supposedly weakened forces, do you think, Father?"

Your father pretends to ponder it. "Quite high, I'd wager. Best to cut your losses now, Zeus. I'll even let you be part of the negotiations, which is more than you allowed us, before dragging us into this mess."

*label silence
*page_break Silence

Outside of your dome of shadows, the fight is in full swing. But under its dark canopy, you can't hear a single sound.

Other than, perhaps, the Fates' frantic weaving. 

*label then
*page_break Then

Zeus waves away his lightning bolt. @{(giantsuccess > 1) "Fine."|"You're right."}

*if giantsuccess = 1
    Every mortal who hears him breathes a sigh of relief.
    *goto negotiations
*else
    The glare he gives the pair of you promises retribution.

    But that's a problem for another day.
    *goto negotiations

*label cerberusfight
*page_break Release The Hound

*if gotcerberus
    Of all your many round trips to the Underworld lately, this one is the shortest.

    The sky is still brimming with stars when you return to the battlefield. You have your three-headed ride to thank for the speed.

    Cerberus @{(friendly) hadn't just come willingly. He had also come eagerly. Wagging his tail and lolling his tongues from the moment you approached the gate|had been hesitant to leave his post at first. Nothing some choice treats and a little begging couldn't fix}. 
    
    Charon had agreed to cover for him until the battle is won.

    On his back, with the earth shuddering under the weight of his paws and the wind lashing your cheeks, you have no doubt whose side victory is on.

    He's just as colossal as the giants. Just as fearsome to behold.
    
    And just as deadly on the battlefield.

    He tears through the beach, ramming into giants, clawing off their armor, rending their flesh.
    *goto goodfight
*else
    *goto parentsconfront

*label parentsconfront

You set the course, but you only manage a few @{(flightstyle) flicks of your wings|shadow steps|flicks of your wings} before a vine wraps areound your ankle.

"Where do you think you're going?" Persephone demands to know. 

Both her and your father regard you from the shore with matching looks of suspicion.

*if giantfailure = 1
    "To put an end to this madness."
    *goto hadessaysno
*elseif giantfailure = 3
    @{(dutiful > 55) You confess immediately|When you don't answer, the vine's grip tightens around your ankle}.

    "To get @{(dutiful > 55) Cerberus."|Cerberus," I finally sigh}.
    *goto hadessaysno
*else
    "To talk some sense into Zeus."
    *goto hadessaysno

*label hadessaysno
*page_break

To your surprise, it isn't your mother who answers. It's Hades.

"No."

The same word Zeus had hurled at Periboia, in the same deadly tone.
*if (withlover = 1) or (withlover = 3)
    Upon hearing it, @{(withlover) Ares|na|Morpheus} clenches his jaw.
    *goto hadessaysno1
*else
    *goto hadessaysno1
 
*label hadessaysno1

"Are you out of your mind? We can barely handle the Giants, but you would have us
*if giantfailure = 1
    start another war before this one is even finished?"

    "Starting a war? I merely meant to reason with him."

    Your father's gaze hardens. "Then you're more naive than I thought."

    Still, you refuse to give up.

    "If only we could get through to him, or if we could rally the pantheon, we could put a stop to this."

    "There's no stopping this. [i]This[/i] is exactly what he wanted."
    *goto hadessaysno2
*if giantfailure = 3
    disturb the dead too?"
    *goto hadessaysno2
*else
    start another war before this one is even finished?"
    *goto hadessaysno2

*label hadessaysno2

As he speaks, the night grows darker, swallowing the maelstrom of lightning and fire that has become of the beach, and blotting out the stars.

The power of the Underworld, used against one of its daughters. 
    
*fake_choice
    #Fear seizes me.
    #Regret plagues me.
    #Shame slams into me.
    #Tears sting my eyes.

*if (withlover = 1) or (withlover = 3)
    @{(withlover) Ares takes a step towards your father|na|Morpheus takes a step towards your fahter, venom in his eyes}. But, before he can @{(withlover) intervene|na|do, or say, anything the pair of you might regret}, vines shoot up his ankle, pinning him to the sand, and wrap around his face, gagging his mouth.
    *goto hadessaysno3
*else
    *goto hadessaysno3

*label hadessaysno3

"Father, I-"

But Hades won't hear it.

"I forbid it, ${name}," he snaps. "Do you hear me? [i]I forbid it[/i]."

You doubt all the flaming spears on this beach would hurt as much as bearing such open rage from him. 

"Yes, father," you whisper, but he's already stalked off.

The oppresive darknes remains.

*page_break

*if giantfailure = 3
    The vine's grip on your ankle softens. "Come, daughter. Let us rejoin the fight."

    Eyes lowered, pride lost, you let her lead you back into the fray.
    *goto slogfight
*else
    As soon as @{(withlover) Ares|na|Morpheus} is released from his restraints, his hands are on your shoulders. "Are you alright?"

    You nod, even though you both know it's a @{(giantfailure > 1) lie|lie. You glance at Zeus. A shield of lightning crackles around him as he parries another of Periboia's fierce blows. Even from here, you can tell he's savoring every drop of ichor he wrenches from her near-impervious veins}.

    "That was very foolish of you two," you mother snaps, far more gently than usual. "Now, come. We have a battle to win."
    *goto slogfight

*label prayercircle
*page_break

*if giantfailure = 4
    But many Leukans have @{(failedgiants) either perished or fled|fled} this side of the island, and most of those who are left are far too injured or scared to focus when they're making offerings and pouring libations.

    @{(patron) As their newly-claimed patron, you|You} do your best to inspire and reassure them, but it doedn't usher in the giants' defeat.

    Far from it.
    *goto slogfight
*else
    The pair of you launch into action, calling upon the people.

    And they answer.

    Soon, a large crowd forms around Medea. They make offerings of fruit, bread and barley. They pour wine on lit braziers. They burn the priestess's incence.

    And, for every offering that is made, every libation that is spilled, every flame that is lit, they set a little aside for @{(patron) their patron|the goddess guiding their way}.

    ${Name}, goddess of @{(patron) nightmares|nightmares. And, in their own words, Leukas's fearless patron}.
    
    *if patron = false
        *set patron true
        *achieve patron
        *goto goodfight
    *else
        *goto goodfight 

*label miracle
*page_break

@{(giantsapproach > 3) The Halfrealm still swirls across the beach|You wave the Halfrealm out of the shadows. It winds through the beach like a serpent||}.

And though every giant on the battlefield is wide awake, you can see their fears flickering in its dark depths.

You can coax them to the surface, and onto the beach.

You can weave them into nightmares.

*page_break Unleash Your Power

Many fear weakness, their own, and their kin's. A few fear Zeus. Most fear their Queen. 

To be the goddess of nightmares is to embody them. To be a Messenger goddess is to give them meaning.

So that's what you and your daemons do.

*label goodfight
*page_break

@{(performedmiracle) Their renewed strength gives the gods the push they|It's the push both gods and mortals} needed.

@{(giantsuccess) na|na|With Cerberus aiding them, they strip the giants of their weapons and cut them down|One by one, the giants are stripped of their weapons and cut down|Confronted with their nightmares, the giants loose focus. They collapse on the sand, drop their weapons, claw at the shadows taunting them so}.

When Queen Periboia falls, none of her kin are left standing.

*goto main84

*label slogfight
*page_break

The carnage rages on for what feels like an eternity.

Divine flesh is marred. Mortals bleed. Leukas's eastern coast is slowly blugdeoned to death, taking the little old temple that had watched over its cliffs with it.

The sun comes and goes. You prefer it when it goes. It's easier to ignore the sea has turned gold-streaked red and the dread slowly infecting anyone left standing.

When Queen Periboia finally falls, you barely have enough strength to collapse @{(chose) into Ares's arms|into the sand|Morpheus's arms|into the sand}.

*goto main84

*label negotiations

*set giantsworeoath true

@{(giantsuccess) The thunder|The darkness clears and the thunder} quiets down as Zeus addresses the Queen of the giants.

"Periboia! Upon further consideration, @{(giantsuccess > 1) Olympus has|we have} graciously decided to grant your request."

The Queen, who had been busy @{(distraction) avoiding the tip of Ares's spear|whacking the sand far too slowly to so much as graze Averna|whacking the air far too slowly to so much as graze Zagreus|trying–and thankfully failing–to de-wing Morpheus}, pauses.

"You will release my wife?"

Zeus nods. "On one condition. You and every giant who took up arms against @{(giantsuccess > 1) Olympus|a deity or a mortal} swear a Stygian oath never to march on our realms again."

@{(giantsuccess > 1) He conveniently leaves out the Underworld. Perhaps retribution will come sooner than you think|He even sounds like his jovial self anew}.

Periboia's eyes narrow with suspicion before she turns them to the battlefield. Gods and mortals are holding their own well against her giants. Many have lost their weapons. Some have been stripped of their amor, tossed into the bottom of the ocean, and kept there by Poseidon. 

Perhaps she realizes it won't be so easy to force the gods' hand, after all, for she tosses her own spear on the sand.

"Deal."

*label main84
*page_break

A new day is on its way out by the time @{(finalbattle > 1) she's bound and dragged to Tartarus|the details are all ironed out, and Periboia reunites with her wife}.

You and @{(chose) Ares|Theron|Morpheus|Iris} watch @{(finalbattle > 1) her go|them} @{(badfight) from the only suitable perch you could find; a chunk of the temple atop a mountain of debris.|from the cliff where the temple still perches, untouched by the destruction} @{(gotcerberus) below, Cerberus curled at your feet|below}.

*if (finalbattle != 1) and (criesofdead = 2)
    You try not to think about what the giants' cries will sound like, echoing through the Underworld and startling the souls.
    *goto periboiafate
*elseif finalbattle != 1
    *goto periboiafate
*else
    *goto periboiawife

*label periboiafate

"She doesn't look defeated," @{(chose) Ares|Theron|Morpheus|Iris} observes.

@{(chose < 4) He's|They're} talking about the Queen. The rest of the Giants are sullen. Grumbling under their breaths, casting sharp looks at the gods preparing to escort them away from the beach. 

But Periboia appears to have accepted her fate with great aplomb, and even some anticipation.

Why, do you wager?

*fake_choice
    #"Perhaps she's looking forward to seeing her wife again."
    #"Perhaps she's putting on a show for her people's sake."
    #"Perhaps she's concussed. Those lightning bolts are no joke."
    #"Perhaps she's always wanted to take a tour of Tartarus."

"Perhaps," @{(chose) Ares|Theron|Morpheus|Iris} allows.

*if chose = 2
    *goto mortaldecision
*else
    *goto finalscene

*label periboiawife

The giantess is escorted to the beach by your parents.

An eternity rotting in Tartarus has somewhat blunted her might-her skin has an ashen hue, her eyes are sunken and hollow-but you can easily imagine how fierce she would be on the battlefield.

Periboia hurtles towards the shore at the first sign of her wife's arrival–a stirring of the waves.

The cliffs shake and the sea swells in her wake, but she doesn't stop. And neither does her wife.

When the giantesses finally embrace, the water reaches their waists, which means they're quite far from the shore. 

They remain like that, bodies entwined in the middle of the ocean, for a long time.

*fake_choice
    #It almost makes the carnage worth it.
    *if stoppedzeus
        #It almost makes Zeus's wrath worth it.
    #It almost makes all the party planning worth it.
    #You can't decide if it's worth all the carnage.
    *if chose = 4
        #It isn't worth all this carnage.

*if chose = 4
    you cast your gaze over the smoldering beach.
    *goto finalscene
*else
    @{(chose) Ares|Despite all that he has lost, Theron|Morpheus|na} seems to think so, for he regards them nothing but ease.
    *if chose = 2
        *goto mortaldecision
    *else
        *goto finalscene

*label mortaldecision

He's beaten, bloodied and bruised. A nasty cut on his forehead has streaked the left side of his face and neck bright red. You're pretty sure you caught him limping when you'd found one another in the aftermath.

@{(badfight) Even after most of the Leukans who hadn't perished had been evacuated, he had remained|And yet, he'd been tending to the wounded as though he himself weren't hurt}.

@{(badfight) Despite the sorrow lurking behind his eyes|And yet, he'd been tending to the wounded as though he himself weren't hurt. Even here}, you can already see his mind working, figuring out how to fix everything the gods and giants have broken.

You will be by his side, helping him every step of the @{(patron) way. You are the island's patron, after all|way}.

@{(patron) Though perhaps you don't wish to be. Perhaps you dream of a different kind of life. One where you don't protect the Leukans, but live among them. Live like them. Once, well, and to|Though perhaps you wish to do so not as a goddess, but as a Leukan. To turn your back on all the pantheon's politicking and live once, well, and} to the full.

It has been on your mind a lot, lately. 
    
Pasithea's end had been a cruel one, but yours doesn't have to be. 

*fake_choice
    #I'm ready to find out; I wish to give up my immortality.
        *set therondecision 1
        *set becomemortal true
        You'll have to pick the right time to break it to your family. Fates, you don't even know how you're going to break it to Theron.
    #Alas, I'm not ready to find out just yet.
        *set therondecision 2
    #Alas, I don't know if I'll ever be ready to find out.
        *set therondecision 3

*label finalscene

Efforts to rebuild will begin in earnest. The dead will be buried. The Messengers' Council will convene @{(hermesok) anew|anew, perhaps under new leadership}.

The land will heal.

For now,
*if chose = 4
    you lay on your back and allow yourself to enjoy the sunset.
    *goto ending
*else
    you rest your head on @{(chose) Ares's|Theron's|Morpheus's} shoulder, and enjoy the sunset.
    *goto ending

*label nopartner
*page_break

@{(alone) "Stand|As soon as you land by their side, your mother is on you. "Stand} next to your brother, let me take a good look at the pair of you one last time before we leave."

You do as the Queen bids

*fake_choice    
    #Without complaint. "As you wish, mother."
        "Suck-up," Zagreus coughs under his breath.
    #With a taunt. "Why? So I can put Zagreus to shame?"
        He rolls his eyes. "You wish."
    #With a sigh. "Why? So Zagreus can put me to shame?"
        He waves you off. "Don't worry. It's barely noticeable."
    #With a smirk. "I suppose I could receive some compliments."
        "As could I," Zagreus chimes in.
    
"Hush, the pair of you," Persephone snaps. Then she gestures at your father. "Well, what do you think?"

But, once again, he only has eyes for her. "Beautiful."

Your mother shakes her head, but it's the first time she's smiled all day.

"If you didn't look presentable, I suppose it would be too late to change it now," she mutters. 

"On that note," your father offers, making for his chariot. "Shall we?"

*gosub feastintro
*goto olympianshere

*label feastintro
*page_break Let The Feasting Begin

The sun is setting on the beach when it comes into view, but the dimness doesn't affect Aphrodite's handiwork.

If anything, it makes it more resplandent.

The goddess had expected the feasting to last well into the night, and had lit the place accordingly. 

There are torches everywhere. Planted in the sand in patterns that are both pleasing and strategic, carefully carved into rocks, held up by the striking sculptures she had commissioned for the occasion. Gods and heroes performing great feats, or pointing at the newly refurbished temple perching at the edge of the cliff.

@{(feastdecor < 5) You must admit it makes for quite an imposing sight|So much for not providing the Giants with unnecessary smashing targets}.

*page_break

The torches are not the only sources of light. There are plenty of braziers too, and already the smell of meat and herbs and smoke hangs heavy in the air. 

The Leukans may have been forced to bear witness to the potential birth of another war, but they have been heavily compensated for it.

Gifts from the gods have been pouring in since Zeus announced the feast would be held here. Enough oxen, grain, and wine to restock their diminished supplies–and feed tonight's guests many times over.

Deities, nymphs, satyrs, tritons and mortals all mingle under the canopy of flower garlands strung from makeshift columns.

There's no sign of the Giants yet, but their imminent arrival taints the festivities. 

Music plays, though not too loudly. Food is being passed around, though not too merrily. Wine flows, though not too freely.

*page_break How Eerie

@{(feastdecor) Zeus's great throne presides over the festivities|Zeus's ridiculous throne presides over the festivities|The platform Aphrodite set up for key deities presides over the festivities|The four equally impressive thrones for Zeus, Hera and your parents to sit at preside over the festivities|Long tables dressed in white linen and piled high with food have been set up far from the shore}.
*return

*label familyappearance

Your mother has never looked more like a spring goddess. Her long, flowing gown is etched with flowers in bloom, her brown skin shimmers as though limned by dew, and her auburn hair is braided into a crown. 

Zagreus has opted for a black peplos that matches the kohl under his eyes, and, it seems, every piece of jewelry he could get his hands on.

Your father, on the other hand, is in his usual blacks, and in an even more morose mood than usual. He always gets like this, when your mother is about to leave the Underworld to bring spring to Hellas.

The longer she's gone, the worse he becomes.

You're certain her imminent absence is the only reason he agreed to wearing matching laurel crowns. 

@{(alone) You're all wearing them. Bright gold woven with adamant. Heavy, but necessary, your mother has reminded you many times over|They're all wearing them, in fact}. @{(chose > 1) A family that wears crowns together, stays together, apparently|But, unlike Ares's, yours are beaded with pomegranate seeds}.
*return

*label ending

*choice
    #Continue to the epilogue.
        *finish
    *if (not(choice_randomtest)) #Restore to the previous checkpoint.
        *restore_checkpoint