Mi-Carême

(set: $phone to false) (set: $name to "") (set: $ExtrovertName to "") (set: $IntrovertName to "") (set: $SawMessage to false) (set: $AaronKill to false) (set: $AaronSpare to false) (set: $TedKill to false) (set: $TedSpare to false) (set: $EchoKill to false) (set: $EchoSpare to false) (set: $LolaKill to false) (set: $Hoarder to false) (set: $IntrovertLove to false) (set: $AlexLove to false) (set: $free to false) (go-to: "Start")

Genuine artisan masks aren’t very common on big commercial shopping sites, so the pipeline takes you through a lot of smaller independent sites, and you eventually find yourself scrolling through a website under the domain “thevenetian.” (set: $phone to false) There are two masks that pique your interest, but as a broke college student you figure you probably shouldn’t splurge on both. One of them is rather gray-scaled with weary eyes and an even mouth: labeled as the “Introvert Mask.” The other is a red mask with yellow highlights, with the mouth curving into a smile and semicircle eyes facing upwards. This one is called the “Extrovert Mask.” They seem rather cliché in your opinion, but they look cool, so that makes up for it. Both masks seem to come with another mask, called the “Mirror Mask,” as some sort of bundle. There isn’t much information about it, the website is oddly vague regarding this extra mask. Well, time to spend your hard earned money on a short-term purchase for your budding hobby. Which mask are you feeling? [[Introvert Mask|1.1]] [[Extrovert Mask|2.1]]

“Remember, I don’t want you going into the city today!” your mother shouts from the entryway. “I know you wanted to get to the emporium sometime this week, but I just want you to stay safe. I have to get moving, love you!” “Love you too, Mom!” Your voice echoes through the halls of your house as the front door creaks and shuts downstairs. Spring break from college gives you a lot of free time, but it means you’re home alone every weekday. As you roll over in bed, the wall quickly meets you with a brutal awakening. Slamming into the drywall knocks a paper mache mask gently onto your face. Taking it off, you recognize it as the mask you made last semester in a fine arts class, and your mind is flooded with all the lengthy articles you would read into the night discussing the history of masks. You hang your project alongside a couple others you have gathered since then, burgeoning into a collection. Your parents told you about a new store exhibiting Venetian-style carnival masks that sounded interesting. You had been hoping to drive there sometime, but it’s in the city, which Mom and Dad have been a bit paranoid about because of some incidents. You’re a bit of an early riser, and most of your friends from home probably haven’t woken up yet. Since you can’t go out into the city, you might as well browse online for your ever-growing mask collection. [[Use Phone]] [[Use Laptop]]

Genuine artisan masks aren’t very common on big commercial shopping sites, so the pipeline takes you through a lot of smaller independent sites, and you eventually find yourself scrolling through a website under the domain “thevenetian.” (set: $phone to true) There are two masks that pique your interest, but as a broke college student you figure you probably shouldn’t splurge on both. One of them is rather gray-scaled with weary eyes and an even mouth: labeled as the “Introvert Mask.” The other is a red mask with yellow highlights, with the mouth curving into a smile and semicircle eyes facing upwards. This one is called the “Extrovert Mask.” They seem rather cliché in your opinion, but they look cool, so that makes up for it. Both masks seem to come with another mask, called the “Mirror Mask,” as some sort of bundle. There isn’t much information about it, the website is oddly vague regarding this extra mask. Well, time to spend your hard earned money on a short-term purchase for your budding hobby. Which mask are you feeling? [[Introvert Mask|1.1]] [[Extrovert Mask|2.1]]

Well, you’ve always been more of an introvert anyway. This website seems to belong to a store that’s relatively local. After entering your debit card information, the delivery tracker estimates that your masks will arrive today. Seems too good to be true, but if it’s a local craftsman then it isn’t very surprising. You waste the next couple of hours on your (if:$phone is true)[phone](else:)[laptop] catching up on your favorite shows and chowing down on whatever Mom and Dad have left over in the kitchen. The day flies by, with your Mom arriving home first and checking up on you tucked away in your room. As the sun starts to set, there is another knock on your door. “Hey kiddo, how’s your day been?” Your father, a lanky and pale man, is still wearing his typical business casual attire after a long day of work. “Pretty uneventful, didn’t get out today.” “Nothing wrong with that, it’s what a break is for, right?” Your dad chuckles a bit at his own joke, and you grin along with him. “Anyway, this got left for you on the porch.” He holds out a sizable cardboard box. [[Take the box|1.2]]

You’ve always been more of an extrovert. This website seems to belong to a store that’s relatively local. After entering your debit card information, the delivery tracker estimates that your masks will arrive today. Seems too good to be true, but if it’s a local craftsman then it isn’t very surprising. You spend the next couple of hours catching up on trending shows with your (if: $phone is true)[phone](else:)[laptop] and cooking meals based on recipes you’ve seen online with whatever ingredients are in the pantry. The day flies by, with your Mom arriving home first and checking up on you finishing a bike ride. As the sun starts to set, there is a knock on your bedroom door. “Hey kiddo, how’s your day been?” Your father, a wide-framed and tan man, is still wearing his typical business casual attire after a long day of work. “It was fun, I got out on my bike.” “Seems like you’re making the most of spring break, not exactly following the definition, huh?” Your dad chuckles at his own joke, and you grin along with him. “Anyway, this got left for you on the porch.” He holds out a sizable cardboard box. [[Take the box|2.2]]

(set:$Introvert = false) So you see if I just write this here will it write this:(if:$Introvert is true)[The feeling of going to this damn party makes you want to peel your face off and scratch at the bugs crawling underneath.] or will it write this:(else:)[You can't wait to go to this party. It's been a hot minute since you've been in such a lively environment, and you've been itching to have some fun. The though of staying in on a day like this makes you want to peel your face off.] This works, good to know

Getting up from your chair, you recognize the logo on the box as the same vendor you purchased the masks from. Hurrying over to your desk, you take out a pair of scissors and run it along the packing tape, revealing the innermost contents. The Introvert Mask is waiting for you under a layer of bubble wrap. “What’d you get?” Your dad ponders from your doorway. “A couple masks from this place nearby since you and Mom told me not to head into the city today.” “Oh neat. And sorry about that kiddo, your mom and I were just on edge. You know it’s been a bit strange with so many disappearances in one week, and we just want you to stay safe. It’s all blowing over now, so I’m sure you can drive there in a couple days if you still want.” This is rather reasonable coming from your ever-paranoid father, you wonder if maybe he’s starting to understand that you can take care of yourself. [[Raise your mask|1.3]]

You remove the Introvert Mask from the bubble wrap and hold it in front of your face. “Looking good, kiddo. I’ll leave you to it then, love you (input-box:2bind $name,"XX===",1,"Player Name").” “Love you too, Dad.” As your dad leaves, you find the Mirror Mask deeper in the box. There seem to be no holes in it for eyes, a nose, or a mouth. The surface is smooth and very shiny, with your own face being distorted in the arches and curves of its silvery reflection. As you remove it, a note that was folded inside of it falls out. //Wear this mask in front of those lamentful faces you can’t help but add to your collection. Happy Masquerading! -The Venetian// It seems like an eerie way of putting it, but it’s no surprise that there would be a few elegists in such a bizarre industry. [[Time for some shut eye - The Long Way|1.4]] [[Embrace your new face - Into the Fire|1.5]]

Seems like enough excitement for one day. You’d better head to sleep now before ruminating about that note gives you nightmares. After brushing your teeth and wishing goodnight to your parents, you throw on some clothes you’ve been using as pajamas and dive back into bed. You start scrolling through your phone to pass some time. It’s a text from (input-box:2bind $ExtrovertName,"XX===",1,"Extrovert Friend"), an outgoing friend of yours since the early days. As you got older, they hung out with a lot of different people and you started to grow apart. [[Open the message|1.4.1]]

//Hey $name, it’s been a minute! Listen, if you’re back from Uni yet, a group of us from high school are meeting up and inviting a bunch of friends from college for this Mardi Gras masquerade thing. If you’re up for it, lmk, it’s been too long.// (set: $SawMessage to true) [[//Hell yeah, where and when?//|1.4.2]] [[Ignore it for now|1.4.3]]

You’re tired, too tired to think about responding to $ExtrovertName right now. You don’t want to ignore them, but you’ll be able to have a more coherent conversation once you’ve gotten some rest. You put your phone on silent to avoid any more distractions, but sleep still seems to evade you as you can’t seem to stop thinking about the invitation. [[Put on some white noise|1.4.4]]

$ExtrovertName responds really quick, as if they didn’t want to put their phone down until they got an answer. //Awesome! It’s tomorrow night in a friend’s flat on the West End of the city. I’ll send you the address later.// You wonder to yourself if your parents will let you go to this. It’s pretty far from where the disappearances were reported, so you should be in the clear, but you can never know with your parents. Sounds good *thumbs up* Thumbs up? You feel like a loser just for adding an emoji at the end of that message. Whatever, this can all wait until tomorrow morning. [[Agreed|1.4.4]]

You put some white noise on your phone, and it lulls you to sleep. Waking up after a sleep like that is such a pain. You want to curl up in some warm blankets and tuck yourself right back in, but you drag yourself out of bed anyway. As you pull the blankets off the bed with you, bubble wrap pops underneath your feet as you stumble around, and you realize the Introvert Mask is still where you left it. [[Wear the Introvert Mask|1.5]] [[Wear the Mirror Mask|1.4.5]]

You never actually saw yourself in the mask, so it’s high time you check how it looks on you. Fetching the Introvert Mask, you open your closet and present yourself in front of a mirror. You once again raise the mask to your face, the weary eyes of the veil paralleling your own tired face. Holding it there, you can see and breathe very well through the slots, so you reach to fasten the mask around your head to check if it presses your face too tightly. As you finish lacing the strap around your ears, your skin starts to crawl as you look upon the mirror again. Maybe you’re allergic to something the mask is made of? That would be unfortunate. You itch your face, but the pins and needles only seem to get worse and worse. It begins to hurt, like someone is holding a hot iron close to your face. [[Get this off my face!|1.6]]

You place the Introvert Mask on your bed for the moment and raise up the Mirror Mask from beneath it. The surface is as reflective as you remember, and still contorts your face into some sort of funhouse amalgamation. You raise the mask to your face and fasten it there. It is then you realize that you can’t see out of it. Having no slots for eyes was a pretty dense idea from whoever designed this. No wonder it was free. [[Try the Introvert Mask instead|1.5]]

You start to writhe as the discomfort turns to pain, and you grab at the mask to tear it off, but you can’t seem to find the strap around your head. As you collapse to the floor, you try grabbing the mask itself and tearing it off, but it does not budge. It feels as if the mask is fastened onto your face, but any adhesive should’ve gotten old since the package got delivered. You don’t know what to do as your face feels like it burns and melds with the mask. You try to scream, but the mask has no mouth, and you collapse from the pain as everything goes dark. [[Wake Up|1.7]]

Your head is pounding. The echoes of pain still cause your skin to crawl and ache. As you pull yourself off the ground, you notice that the weight from having the Introvert Mask on your face has vanished. You search around on the floor, but the face is nowhere to be found as your fingers scramble across the carpet of your closet. A sigh leaves your lungs as you decide you’ve lost the new mask, and probably all the cash spent on it too. As you pity yourself, the floor starts vibrating, and your phone lights up from the closet floor. You pick it up and are greeted by two new notifications. They're from two friends of yours. [[Respond to the first message|1.8]] [[Check new message|1.9]]

(if: $SawMessage is true) [//Hey $name! Just wanted to check in and make sure we’re still on for tonight?//] (else:) [It’s from (input-box:2bind $ExtrovertName,"XX===",1,"Extrovert Friend"), an outgoing friend of yours since the early days. As you got older, they hung out with a lot of different people and you started to grow apart. //Hey $name, I don’t think you caught my message last night. Listen, if you’re back from Uni yet, a group of us from high school are meeting up and inviting a bunch of friends from college for this Mardi Gras masquerade thing. If you’re up for it, lmk, it’s been too long.//] Oh God. Do we really have to go to this? It sounds like such a drag, sitting in that room filled with people for hours on end. Really, who’s idea of a good time is cramming yourself with a ton of other people in a stuffy space? We would rather hang out with a smaller crowd. A nice, tight knit group of friends playing games, having snacks, and just chatting sounds way better than trying to fit into a whole new group of rowdy college kids on break. The thought of it really makes our skin crawl. You scratch your face as you ponder how to respond. You should let them know you won’t be going. (text-colour:navy)[''~~//For sure I’ll be there! When and where?//~~''] [[//Sorry, I don’t really think I’m up for it.//|1.8.1]] [[//Who do you think I am? I’d rather tear my face off than meet those people.//|1.8.2]]

It’s a message from (input-box:2bind $IntrovertName,"XX===",1,"Introvert Friend"), someone you met in high school. Honestly, you also started to develop a bit of a crush on them. After you stopped really hanging out with older friends, you really got to know one another and hung out at their house a lot. It’s been fun playing Smash Bros and Dungeons & Dragons with them and a couple other friends, so you’re glad they’re reaching out. //Hey $name, I know it’s been a while but I was wondering if you wanted to hang out today? I wanted to get a bit of the old gang back together, maybe we could throw a Mardi Gras masquerade at my place!// This sounds like a good time, doesn’t it? Nothing is better to us than hanging out with a couple of our closest friends. There’s no one to judge you and no pressure to be someone you’re not. (text-colour:navy)[''~~//I got invited to this party that I want to go to, maybe next time!//~~''] [[//Sounds great! I’ll be there//|1.10]]

//Alright, well, let me know if you change your mind.// This is for the best, $ExtrovertName is great and all, but this just doesn’t sound like your idea of fun. Maybe the two of you can hang out some other time further down the road. Either way, you should check that other notification [[On it|1.9]]

//Jesus, $name. You didn’t have to be so graphic. Damn. Alright, I’ll drop it, sorry I asked.// Well that was harsh. You didn’t really have to go that far, did you? Well, whatever, it’ll sort itself out later. You should check that other notification. [[On it|1.9]]

As you finish confirming your attendance, something in the closet mirror catches your eye. Your face looks… off. Your eyes are sagging a bit more than usual, even though you were certain you got enough sleep. Furthermore, your face seems a bit more expressionless. You try smiling, but you can’t tell if it looks like you’re genuinely happy or just pretending to be. And something more… A thin indent that you hadn’t noticed before seems to be running along the far corners of your face, like you're still wearing a mask. Thinking about this kinda freaks you out, and you’d rather not start crashing out when you’ve got a fun hangout to get to. The mirror mask lays on the floor, unbothered, yet you can’t fight the feeling that you might need it, so you take it with you. [[Let’s get going|1.11]]

After digging some clothes out of your closet - and then throwing some back to prevent a groutfit - You head downstairs to see if the keys to your old car are available. Your parents are nowhere to be found, so they must’ve left for work already. Hopefully they didn’t see you passed out on the floor, or at least didn’t read into it too much. [[Drive to $IntrovertName ‘s House|1.12]]

You get out of the car at a familiar suburban house, catching one more glance at your slightly distorted face in the side mirror, and wonder if $IntrovertName will notice. You walk up the stone steps to the front door. $IntrovertName's door is always open. You enter the familiar home and make your way to the basement, where you’ve spent countless hours gathered around a table playing games and chugging soda. “$name!” $IntrovertName shouts as they run to the basement stairs to greet you. They throw their arms around you and almost knock you down from the impact. “Nice to see you again too,” you gasp after managing to get them off of you. You notice that $IntrovertName is wearing a bright green mardi gras mask with a plume jutting out the side. It’s tacky, but fits the occasion. Scanning the basement, you see another familiar face, your old friend Aaron; however, there is one more that you don’t recognize. A young man with somewhat long, black hair draping over his forehead and some of his eyes is sitting one side of a couch, furthest from a television propped up across from the table. [[That’s where I usually sit|1.13]]

This is what we think to ourselves silently as we walk over and sit in an armchair on one end of the table across from Aaron. It’s best not to make a big deal out of it, as you don’t want to cause any trouble for $IntrovertName. $IntrovertName takes a seat next to the stranger on the cramped couch. “This is Ted, he’s in a couple of my criminal justice classes this semester and it turned out he lived around here, too. I thought I’d invite him over and we could all hangout! I hope that’s alright.” “Of course, nice to meet you. I’m $name.” You’re not sure what to think about this guy.. It’s hard to make eye contact as Ted keeps breaking away to watch each fidget and motion you make, almost like he’s studying you. You’re uncomfortable, more so when he eventually does make eye contact and you remember your skewed face. Ted isn’t wearing a mask. Aaron is. His mask only covers his eyes, like $IntrovertName's, but his mask has a longer nose and is patterned with several different card suits. [[“Let's play some games”|1.13.1]]

You and your friends end up playing for the next few hours. All of you are evenly matched, but it shouldn’t be much of a surprise. Between rounds, you get up, stretch, and chat about college while drinking sodas from the basement minifridge. Your suspicions of Ted increase with each passing minute, as he never once joins for a match. You catch his eyes darting across the screen, analyzing your play styles and what buttons you press to cause which actions in the game. More than that, he’s been paying attention to which sodas you’ve been drinking. After the next game, he gets everyone refills from the minifridge, even taking into account that $IntrovertName has been switching between Sprite and Dr Pepper all day. [["Thanks, Ted"|1.14]]

Aaron gives you a proud smile and relaxes, taking a sip from his soda. $IntrovertName smiles, which makes you happy. Ted frowns, which makes us even happier. “That’s good that you’ve been making friends, though,” $IntrovertName encourages, leaning over the couch’s shoulder towards you. “And it’s alright, I’m sure you’ll meet somebody right for you.” Our face gets hotter as we begin to blush. Hopefully the Introvert Mask is concealing how red your real face is getting. [[Moving on|1.15]]

Aaron rolls his eyes and flops back, giving you a disapproving stare as he sips his soda. $IntrovertName frowns, and you realize you might’ve whiffed this. Ted smirks, which makes our blood boil. Hopefully the Introvert Mask is concealing how red your real face is getting from the rage. Then again, is it anger? Or could it be that thinking about that one classmate from //History of Masks 101// is making you blush? [[Moving on|1.15]]

“Have you heard about those disappearances in the city?” Ted diverts the subject, but you’re thankful as the blood runs down from your cheeks. “Not much, but it’s real creepy, isn’t it? Hasn’t there been no evidence at each scene?” Aaron comments. “Seems like you know more than you let on,” You comment. “I wish you would go missing,” Aaron retorts. Hopefully he’s joking, it’s always been a bit hard to tell. “Actually there has been evidence, just now.” Ted slices the tension. “Investigators found a mask at this party where someone went missing. It probably isn’t a calling card, but it’s eerie.” “Well, it is mardi gras, everyone wears masks, right?” $IntrovertName tries to make sense of the situation. “Not like this one, it was all weird and distorted. The police think it might even be a different perpetrator.” [[“Oh God”|1.16]]

You’re not sure if that was meant for everyone to hear or just yourself. You’ve had your fair share of creepy masks for one lifetime. Honestly, with all this madness going down, it might be best if we never leave home again. “On that note, I think it’s time to wrap up for today,” $IntrovertName comments. Stuff like this has always creeped them out, and it is getting late. Aaron pulls himself out of his chair and tosses his soda can into the trash. “It’s been fun, hope we all make it long enough to hang out again.” $IntrovertName shudders a bit, which Ted - of course - notices. “He’s kidding, the chances of one of us going missing are very low.” This doesn’t seem to reassure $IntrovertName much, but they get up anyway. “Aaron and Ted both need rides home, who do you want as a passenger prince?” $IntrovertName grins as you chuckle at their joke, then grabs their keys from a peg on the basement wall. [[“Your chariot awaits, Lord Aaron”|1.17]] [[“Where do you live, Ted?|1.18]]

“Alright, Romeo, let’s get out of here before you make any more dumbass quips.” Aaron dismisses your joke and heads for the door. The two of you head outside after thanking $IntrovertName for having you over, and you start to drive Aaron home. The two of you chat some more about the disappearances, and you can’t get the thought out of your head that the Introvert Mask might be related somehow. [[“We’re here, good seeing you again”|1.17.1]] [[“There’s something I think I should tell you"|1.17.2]]

“You too, man, I hope we see each other again soon.” Aaron closes your car door and runs up his driveway. (set: $AaronSpare to true) You wait in the driveway as Aaron goes around the back of his house. There must be a key hidden behind a rock or something. After a short time of waiting, you make the assumption that Aaron is probably home safe, and go to put your car in gear. Something in your headlights gleams. Looking up, you see a man fleeing from the house. They’re wearing a long navy blue cloak and bowler hat, like something out of an old detective movie. As they start to run, you catch a glimpse of an orange tie flitting across a black button-down vest. They’re holding something strangely reflective at their side. It looks like a mask. [[Check on Aaron|1.17.1.1]]

You throw your bag down in your room and reflect on everything that just happened. You decide that tomorrow, you’re going to pay a visit to that mask emporium that opened in the city, whether or not your parents say you can go. A quick google search confirms that the store is in fact The Venetian, the same place you bought the masks online. You want to figure out if it’s connected to the disappearances. But it’s late, and you’ve processed way too much for one day. [[Drift into dreamland|1.20]]

“I’ll put my address into your phone,” Ted offers. The two of you head outside after thanking $IntrovertName for having you over, and you start to drive Ted home. The car is almost silent on the way, and you can feel the tension hanging in the air. It’s obvious that the two of you both like $IntrovertName, and that has torn a rift between you. You pull into Ted’s driveway. [[“Nice meeting you, Ted”|1.18.1]] [[“I’m gonna be honest…”|1.18.2]]

“What’s up?” Aaron asks, matching your sincerity. “I think I have something to do with the disappearances.” “Bullshit, how would you be involved?” “I don’t know, but I bought this mask like the creepy one Ted mentioned, and I think it… became my face.” “You’re really off your gaslighting game today, $name.” “I’m serious! I…” [[“Yeah you got me”|1.17.3]] [[Show Aaron the Mirror Mask|1.17.4]]

“Leave the gaslighting to me,” Aaron instructs. He’s always had a quick wit, but obviously doesn’t understand that you’re telling the truth. Why would he? You decide to just drop it and play it off as a bad joke. [[“We’re here, good seeing you again”|1.17.1]]

There’s no way Aaron will ever believe you without evidence. You take the Mirror Mask out of your bag and show it to him. “The creepy mask came with this, it came with this sinister note that said: //Wear this mask in front of those lamentful faces you can’t help but add to your collection.//” Aaron ponders for a minute, seemingly infatuated with the mask’s reflective and wavy surface. “Where did you buy this again?” “This online business is called The Venetian.” “Isn’t that the new emporium that opened in the city?” It never occurred to you to actually find out the name of the store your parents mentioned, so it’s entirely possible that Aaron is right. “Can you even see out of that?” Aaron asks. “Not really,” you raise the mask to our face again, and try to see Aaron. Of course, you can’t see him because the mask has no eyes. As you begin lowering the mask, there’s a strange sound from the passenger seat, like water being splashed. “Did you spill something?” (set: $Killer to true) Aaron is no longer in the car. (set: $AaronKill to true) In the passenger seat, there is a face mask with a wide grin, pointy nose, and upturned eyes. The base color is a soft white with several black cracks running along it. Several card suits decorate the mask on top of the white base, and the top of the mask has several pieces of firm cloth with jingle bells attached to the ends. It reminds you of a jester. It reminds you of Aaron. (text-colour:navy)[~~''Throw Up''~~] (text-colour:navy)[~~''Call the police''~~] [[Embrace your new face|1.17.5]]

You killed him, didn't you? Are you sure he’s really dead? The Venetian’s words echo in your mind: //Wear this mask in front of those lamentful faces you can’t help but add to your collection.// Oh God, Aaron is a mask. A face in your collection. Does this mean the Venetian knew about this? Could the disappearances be his doing? The only thing filling your mind right now is the notion to wear this mask - this Jester Mask - in front of you. Maybe wearing it will do something, anything to get you out of this situation. Against your better judgment, you grab the mask and cover your face, lacing the strap over your ears. The feeling is all too familiar. Your skin crawls at first, causing immense discomfort. Then the itching turns to burning, and you want nothing more than to peel your face off. But then, something new, the sensation that your skin is being rended from your head. It hurts far more than before. All you can do is try to scream from the pain, but the mask has no mouth. [[Drive|1.17.6]]

You didn’t black out this time, which scares you. It means you might be gaining a tolerance to these transformations. When the pain subsides, the Introvert Mask is laying at your feet, next to the pedals of your car. You stuff it in your bag and drive home fast. How are you going to explain what just happened? You just killed someone. Maybe it’s best not to tell anyone yet, maybe it will blow over and become something you can laugh about later? After all, comedy is just tragedy plus time. Yeah, we can laugh about this sometime. You’re home. [[Go to sleep|1.19]]

“Don’t go into the city today, $name, there’s been another disappearance.” This is how your mom greets you the next morning as you finish eating breakfast. “It’s terrifying, is what it is. Something this scary that close to our own home.” Your father has stopped at the door to provide his own paranoid lecture. “Stay safe, kiddo. If you ever see any sort of kidnapping, or - God forbid - an assault or murder, you stay out of it and get as far as you can. You never know who might have a gun or knife or whatever. People are just crazy, and it’s-” “That’s enough, hun, please,” Mom cut off Dad mid-rant. [[“I’ve got to go into the city today”|1.20.1]] [[“I’ll be keeping my distance, believe me”|1.21]]

“Absolutely not, did you hear a word I just said?” Your father is agitated that you don’t share his paranoid nature. “Please, $name, we just don’t want you to get hurt,” your mother delineates. [[“Okay, I won’t, I’m sorry”|1.21]]

It doesn’t feel great to lie to your parents, but you have to visit The Venetian. (if: $AaronSpare is true)[ [[Confront The Venetian|3.1]] ] (else-if: $AaronKill is true)[ [[Investigate The Venetian|3.1]] ] (else-if: $TedKill is true)[ [[Investigate The Venetian|4.1]] ] (else-if: $TedSpare is true)[ [[Confront The Venetian|4.1]] ] (else-if: $EchoSpare is true)[ [[Confront The Venetian|5.1]] ] (else-if: $EchoKill is true)[ [[Investigate The Venetian|5.1]] ] (else-if: $LolaKill is true)[ [[Investigate The Venetian|6.1]] ]

You lie in wait until both your parents have left, and then make for the car keys in the dining room. If Mom or Dad ask where you went today, you’ll tell them you went into the suburbs to visit a friend. The roads seem tense and the streets are almost empty; people must be afraid of leaving their houses. Every turn seems treacherous, and you worry at every alley that a gaze might be met with a Mirror Mask, and you’ll be rendered a face in someone else’s collection. Your maps app navigates you to a hole-in-the-wall type store with painted letters - reading //The Venetian// - in the windows and several mannequins within. There is one mannequin out front, wearing a victorian-era outfit that all serves as complementary details to a mask the mannequin wears. Could it have been a person too? We laugh to ourselves, knowing that many must’ve walked past this mannequin without realizing its sinister nature. [[Enter|3.2]]

You lie in wait until both your parents have left, and then make for the car keys in the dining room. If Mom or Dad ask where you went today, you’ll tell them you went into the suburbs to visit a friend. The roads seem tense and the streets are almost empty; people must be afraid of leaving their houses. Every turn seems treacherous, and you worry at every alley that a gaze might be met with a Mirror Mask, and you’ll be rendered a face in someone else’s collection. Your maps app navigates you to a hole-in-the-wall type store with painted letters - reading //The Venetian// - in the windows and several mannequins within. There is one mannequin out front, wearing a victorian-era outfit that all serves as complementary details to a mask the mannequin wears. Could it have been a person too? We look up and down the street, surveying how much foot traffic this block likely gets. Soda cans and crushed cigarettes dot the pavement, so people must come through here. We wonder how many people must’ve walked past this mannequin without the knowledge of its sinister nature. [[Enter|4.2]]

“We both know that isn’t true.” Ted isn’t stupid, and he didn’t believe your lie. It wasn’t nice to meet him. You both intimidate one another. “I guess you’re right. Listen, is something going on between you and-” “No. Not yet, at least. But I can tell you like them too, and I couldn’t live with myself if that happened. I want to be with them, and that means either you can’t be with $IntrovertName so I can, or you’ll flirt with $IntrovertName while I watch the two of you get together.” You can’t believe this guy, but you do your fair share of reading too, so you can match his deluded philosophies. “Agreed, but I’ll have you consider that I’ve known $IntrovertName for years.” “Your trump card isn’t as powerful as you think. I met $IntrovertName at a Valentine’s Day mixer. We went on a hike together. Awfully good chemistry, wouldn’t you agree $name?” Damn. That is romantic. Time for you to resort to barbaric rhetoric. [[“Go to hell, Ted”|1.18.3]]

“I don’t like you very much, Ted.” He doesn’t seem very surprised. “I don’t like you very much either, $name. We both like $IntrovertName, and for once, I’m not sure what will happen next. Either you won’t be with $IntrovertName and I will, or you’ll flirt with $IntrovertName while I watch the two of you get together. I have to say, things would be much easier if you would get out of my hair.” “Same to you.” [[“Go to hell, Ted”|1.18.3]] [[Add Ted to your collection|1.18.4]]

“You too, goodnight.” Ted exits your car and closes the door behind him. “Goodnight.” No one hears you. (set: $TedSpare to true) You wait in the driveway as Ted goes around the back of his house. There must be a key hidden behind a rock or something. After a short time of waiting, you make the assumption that Ted is probably home safe, and reach to put your car in gear. Something in your headlights gleams. Looking up, you see a man fleeing from the house. They’re wearing a long navy blue cloak and bowler hat, like something out of an old detective movie. As they start to run, you catch a glimpse of an orange tie flitting across a black button-down vest. They’re holding something strangely reflective at their side. It looks like a mask. [[Check on Ted|1.18.3.1]]

The words of The Venetian echo throughout your mind: //Wear this mask in front of those lamentful faces you can’t help but add to your collection.// (set: $TedKill to true) Looking at Ted’s face certainly makes you feel lamentful. If you’re right about the disappearances, some terrible fate could befall Ted by your hand. Then again, after revealing his outright disdain for you, it certainly doesn’t seem unjustified. (set: $Killer to true) You fetch the Mirror Mask from your bag and present it to Ted. His studious gaze gets on your nerves as he inspects the mask’s reflective and wavy surface. “I’m not sure what this can do,” you confide to Ted. “What? It’s a mask, don’t you just… wear it?” “Good idea.” You raise the mask to your face. Of course, you can’t see him because the mask has no eyes. As you begin lowering the mask, there’s a strange sound from the passenger seat, like water being splashed. Where Ted once sat now rests a rather unimpressive face mask. Its base color is an unremarkable gray, clouding the entire surface of the mask. The only salient decoration is a pair of detailed eyes painted over the place where the whites of someone’s eyes would be on a face. The slots to see from are cleverly disguised within the painted irises. It reminds you of a spectator. It reminds you of Ted. [[Embrace your new face|1.18.5]]

You killed him, didn’t you? Was this the right thing to do? The Venetian was right, Ted has become a mask. A face in your collection. How many others had The Venetian killed? Could he be connected to the disappearances? The only thing filling your mind right now is the notion to wear this mask - this Spectator Mask - in front of you. Against your better judgment, you grab the mask and cover your face, lacing the strap over your ears. The feeling is all too familiar. Your skin crawls at first, causing immense discomfort. Then the itching turns to burning, and you want nothing more than to peel your face off. But then, something new, the sensation that your skin is being rended from your head. It hurts far more than before. All you can do is try to scream from the pain, but the mask has no mouth. [[Drive|1.18.6]]

You didn’t black out this time, which scares you. It means you might be gaining a tolerance to these transformations. When the pain subsides, the Introvert Mask is laying at your feet, next to the pedals of your car. You stuff it in your bag and drive home fast. It would be very problematic if someone were to see your car in Ted’s driveway just before he gets reported missing. We begin taking in our surroundings. The lights in his house are off, and the streetlights don’t shine down on any stragglers out late. It seems like no one knows you were here. With that knowledge, you subtly shift into gear, slide out of Ted’s driveway, and return home. [[Go to sleep|1.19]]

Getting up from your chair, you recognize the logo on the box as the same vendor you purchased the masks from. Hurrying over to your desk, you take out a pair of scissors and run it along the packing tape, revealing the innermost contents. The Extrovert Mask is waiting for you under a layer of bubble wrap. “What’d you get?” Your dad ponders from your doorway. “A couple masks from this place nearby since you and Mom told me not to head into the city today.” “Oh neat. And sorry about that kiddo, your mom and I were just on edge. You know it’s been strange with so many disappearances in one week, and we just want you to stay safe. It’s all blowing over now, so I’m sure you can drive there in a couple days if you still want.” You know your father has always been rather overprotective, but now you wonder if he’s starting to understand that you can take care of yourself. [[Raise your mask|2.3]]

You remove the Extrovert Mask from the bubble wrap and hold it in front of your face. “Looking good, kiddo. I’ll leave you to it then, love you (input-box:2bind $name,"XX===",1,"Player Name").” “Love you too, Dad.” As your dad leaves, you find the Mirror Mask deeper in the box. There seem to be no holes in it for eyes, a nose, or a mouth. The surface is smooth and very shiny, with your own face being distorted in the arches and curves of its silvery reflection. As you remove it, a note that was folded inside of it falls out. //Wear this mask in front of those lamentful faces you can’t help but add to your collection. Happy Masquerading! -The Venetian// It seems like an eerie way of putting it, but it’s no surprise that there would be a few elegists in such a bizarre industry. [[Time for some shut eye - The Long Way|2.4]] [[Embrace your new face - Into the Fire|2.5]]

Seems like enough excitement for one day. You’d better head to sleep now before ruminating about that note keeps you up. After brushing your teeth and wishing goodnight to your parents, you throw on some clothes you’ve been using as pajamas and dive back into bed. You turn on a reading lamp and crack open a book when suddenly, a notification from your phone makes you jump. It’s a text from (input-box:2bind $IntrovertName,"XX===",1,"Introvert Friend"), someone you met in high school. You and them really got to know one another and hung out at their house a lot after you drifted apart from some childhood friends. It’s been fun playing Smash Bros with them and a couple other friends, so you’re glad they’re reaching out. [[Open the message|2.4.1]]

You never actually saw yourself in the mask, so it’s high time you check how it looks on you. Fetching the Extrovert Mask, you open your closet and present yourself in front of a mirror. You once again raise the mask to your face, the cheery eyes of the veil paralleling your own eager face. Holding it there, you can see and breathe very well through the slots, so you reach to fasten the mask around your head to check if it presses your face too tightly. As you finish lacing the strap around your ears, your skin starts to crawl as you look upon the mirror again. Maybe you’re allergic to something the mask is made of? That would be unfortunate. You itch your face, but the pins and needles only seem to get worse and worse. It begins to hurt, like someone is holding a hot iron close to your face. [[Get this off my face!|2.6]]

//Hey $name, I know it’s been a while but I was wondering if you wanted to hang out today if you’re back from Uni? I wanted to get some of the old gang back together, maybe we could throw a Mardi Gras masquerade at my place and play some games!// (set: $SawMessage to true) [[//Sounds like a plan, what time?//|2.4.2]] [[Ignore it for now|2.4.3]]

$IntrovertName responds really quick, as if they didn’t want to put their phone down until they got an answer. //Awesome! I’ll fill you in on the rest tomorrow :)// Does anyone really use emoticons anymore? Everyone you’ve texted in college usually just uses some goofy emoji or sticker. //Sounds good// Your parents will let you go to the suburbs, it’s pretty far out from the city. Then again, you can’t deny that the thrill of heading into the city without permission would be a good thrill. [[Agreed|2.4.4]]

You’re tired, too tired to think about responding to $IntrovertName right now. You don’t want to ignore them, but you’ll be able to have a more coherent conversation once you’ve gotten some rest. You put your phone on silent to avoid any more distractions, but sleep still seems to evade you as you can’t seem to stop thinking about the invitation. [[Put on some white noise|2.4.4]]

You put some white noise on your phone, and it lulls you to sleep. It was an incredibly refreshing rest, and you fight off the urge to curl up in some warm blankets, instead choosing to brave the new day hastily. As you toss the covers off your body and spring out of bed, bubble wrap pops underneath your feet as you stumble around, and you realize the Extrovert Mask is still where you left it. [[Wear the Extrovert Mask|2.5]] [[Wear the Mirror Mask|2.4.5]]

You place the Extrovert Mask on your bed for the moment and raise up the Mirror Mask from beneath it. The surface is as reflective as you remember, and still contorts your face into some sort of funhouse amalgamation. You raise the mask to your face and fasten it there. It is then you realize that you can’t see out of it. No slots for eyes was a pretty dense idea from whoever designed this. No wonder it was free. [[Try the Extrovert Mask instead|2.5]]

Your head is pounding. The echoes of pain still cause your skin to crawl and ache. As you pull yourself off the ground, you notice that the weight from having the Extrovert Mask on your face has vanished. You search around on the floor, but the face is nowhere to be found as your fingers scramble across the carpet of your closet. A sigh leaves your lungs as you decide you’ve lost the new mask, and probably all the cash spent on it too. As you pity yourself, the floor starts vibrating, and your phone lights up from the closet floor. You pick it up and are greeted by two new notifications. One is from $IntrovertName and the other is from another friend of yours. [[Respond to the first message|2.8]] [[Check new message|2.9]]

(If: $SawMessage is true) [//Hey $name! Just wanted to see if you still want to come over today?//](Else:) [It’s a text from (input-box:2bind $IntrovertName,"XX===",1,"Introvert Friend"), someone you met in high school. You played video games at their house a lot after you drifted apart from your childhood friends. //Hey $name, I don’t think you caught my message last night. I know it’s been a while but I was wondering if you wanted to hang out today if you’re back from Uni? I wanted to get some of the old gang back together, maybe we could throw a Mardi Gras masquerade at my place and play some games!//] Oh God. Do we really have to go to this? It sounds like such a drag, cooped up in some basement staring at a screen for hours on end talking to the same couple of people as if your peak was in high school. We would rather hang out with a larger crowd. A big, open area full of music that makes your body shake and a bunch of new people to meet. It sounds a lot better than hanging out in some damp gamer den. The thought of that really makes our skin crawl. You scratch your face as you ponder how to respond. We should let $IntrovertName know we won’t be going. ''(text-colour:navy)[ ~~//For sure I’ll be there! Wouldn’t miss it.//~~]'' [[//Sorry, I forgot I had other plans.//|2.8.1]] [[//I’m gonna pass on the loser shit, I’d tear my face off tucked away in the dark that long.//|2.8.2]]

It’s a text from (input-box:2bind $ExtrovertName,"XX===",1,"Extrovert Friend"), an outgoing friend of yours since the early days. As you got older, they hung out with a lot of different people and you started to grow apart. //Hey $name, it’s been a minute! Listen, if you’re back from Uni yet, a group of us from high school are meeting up and inviting a bunch of friends from college for this Mardi Gras masquerade thing tonight. If you’re up for it, lmk, it’s been too long.// This sounds like a good time, doesn’t it? Nothing sounds better to us than being partying the night away with people we barely know. After all, music and a good time brings everyone together. [[//Hell yeah! Where and when?//|2.10]]

//Alright, well, let me know if you change your mind.// This is for the best, $IntrovertName is great and all, but this just doesn’t sound like your idea of fun. Maybe you can hang out some other time further down the road. Either way, you should check that other notification [[On it|2.9]]

//Jesus, $name. You didn’t have to be so graphic. I just thought it'd be fun, you didn't have to flip out. I'll stop bothering you, since you clearly have better things to do// Well that was harsh. You didn’t really have to go that far, did you? Well, whatever, it’ll sort itself out later. You should check that other notification. [[On it|Introvert Invite|2.9]]

As you smooth out the details, something in the closet mirror catches your eye. Your face looks… off. Your face looks so healthy, even though blacking out earlier couldn’t have done you any favors. Furthermore, your face is filled with miniscule expressions. Your mouth is slightly curved in a grin and the corners of your eyes wrinkle because of it, even though you don’t feel very happy right now. And something more… A thin indent that you hadn’t noticed before seems to be running along the far corners of your face, like you're still wearing a mask. Thinking about this kinda freaks you out, but you’d rather not start tweaking when you’ve got a fun hangout to get to. The mirror mask lays on the floor, unbothered. It’s a masquerade, right? You might need it, so you throw it in a bag to take with you. [[Let’s get going|2.11]]

We peruse our closet for the best blend of modern fad and 80’s-90’s classic fashion, meticulously crafting an enticing color palette. You head downstairs and can’t hear any clamor. Your parents must’ve already left for work. Hopefully they didn’t see you passed out on the floor earlier, or at least didn’t think too much of it if they did. The keys to an extra car are laying on the counter, so you take them and head outside. Hopefully you’ll be home before your parents, but you shoot your mom a quick text saying you’ll be at a friend’s house just in case they get suspicious. [[Drive to $ExtrovertName’s Party|2.12]]

Against the previous wishes of your parents, you wind the car throughout the streets of the outer city until you reach a dilapidated brick apartment building. Out front, several cars are parked along the street and a side lot is filled. One of the cars lining the front is one you recognize, and so is the person beside it. $ExtrovertName sees you pull up and waves you into a spot nearby. You park and exit the car with the Mirror Mask tucked away in your bag. “Long time no see, I’m glad you could make it!” $ExtrovertName calls as they walk over to you. They reach up their hand to greet you. [[Dap $ExtrovertName up|2.13]] [[Solid Handshake|2.14]]

You dap up $ExtrovertName. Even though you haven’t hung out in a long time, this feels natural. Like we’re back where we belong. The dap up is crisp and echoes through an alley where a metal fire escape reverberates the noise. “That was sick! I don’t think I’ve ever had one that solid before,” $ExtrovertName declares, hopping up and down as they get pumped. “Alright, let’s head inside, but I want to give you some pointers before we join the party.” $ExtrovertName leads you inside the building and up a flight of stairs, stopping in front of a door from behind which colorful lights escape and music pumps. [[“So what’s up?”|2.15]]

You go to shake $ExtrovertName’s hand with a firm shake, horribly misreading the attempt to dap you up. This is definitely not one of the top ten encounters we’ve ever had with someone. “Ah hell nah, dude,” $ExtrovertName laments. “There’s no way you actually just did that. Alright, let’s head inside. But we’ve definitely gotta talk about that.” $ExtrovertName leads you inside the building and up a flight of stairs, stopping in front of a door from behind which colorful lights escape and music pumps. [[“So what’s up?”|2.15]]

“I just want to make sure you know how to get along with these guys,” $ExtrovertName expresses. “I’ve been to parties in college, I know how to talk to people.” “Yeah, yeah, just let me seem like I know some words of wisdom.” You chuckle. “Alright, impart this wisdom.” “I’ve always found that one of the best ways to fit in with people is to… how do I say this… mimic them, almost. Like, you see what they’re doing, and copy it, you know? Whatever they’re saying, doing with their body, the whole thing.” $ExtrovertName seems pretty proud of this observation they’ve made. “Alright, I’ll give it a shot.” “Cool. Oh yeah! Did you bring a mask?” [[“Not exactly the Mardi-Gras kind”|2.16]] [[Show $ExtrovertName the Mirror Mask|2.17]]

“Don’t worry, I brought an extra,” $ExtrovertName says as they reach into a bag and pull out two gaudy green plastic masks, both with feathered plumes sticking up off of opposite sides. (set: $EchoSpare to true) You take one and lace it around your head. The band feels really tight, probably because this might not be the only mask you’re wearing. $ExtrovertName’s mask looks goofy, which means we most likely look rather silly as well. “Let’s head in!” $ExtrovertName declares as they swing the door open. [[Enter|2.16.1]]

“Yeah, actually, I brought one along with me.” You remove the Mirror Mask from your bag and hold it up in front of your face. “Ah hell nah, can you even see out of that?” “Well, not really, but I mean I can just wear it for like, the first minute, and then take it off to actually meet people.” You prattle on about this as you raise your hand to lower the mask. As you do so, there’s a strange sound in front of you, like water being splashed. “Did you spill something already?” $ExtrovertName is no longer next to you in the hallway. Where they stood, there now lays another mask. Its entire surface is a peach color, with several different parts of seemingly different faces combined together into an amalgamation of a person. The only salient design on it are two eyes looking onward, like it’s always reading other people. So many different faces all mixing into one… like it can’t decide who it wants to be, and only lives by those it sees. If you had to describe it, you’d call this an echo. It reminds you of $ExtrovertName. [[“Oh Fu-!”|2.17.1]]

“$ExtrovertName! How are you!” Someone instantly walks up and slugs $ExtrovertName’s shoulder lightly. This person is about your height, wearing loose weathered cargo pants and a casual overshirt on top of a Duran Duran tee. They have short, wavy hair and a silver earring on their left earlobe. When they turn to look at us through their elegant silver mask, we can feel our face get hot. “Who’s this?” They ask. “This is $name, a friend of mine who I thought I’d invite.” “Cool, welcome to the party. Everyone here is super friendly - or drunk - so don’t be nervous. The girl running this party is totally full of herself, not very demure, but it’s chill. I’m Alex by the way, nice to meet you.” [[“Same here, show me around?”|2.16.2]]

“Yeah, for sure! Let’s get you out there $name.” You and $ExtrovertName are led through a crowd of people doing some interpretative dances in the living room, and into a tight kitchenette where some people are packed around a table with some snacks and drinks. There are a lot of red solo cups being passed around, and there’s a faint stench of alcohol. We never drank much at any college hangouts, but one or two cups shouldn’t kill us. Besides, it’d help us fit in. “That’s Lola, this is her party. You’re not allowed to rag on it, though, or she’ll make a scene.” Alex leads you to a blonde girl with a white tube top, jeans, and fluffy boots. “Hey Lola, this is $name.” “Welcome to my party! I don’t think we’ve, like, met, I go to-” Lola is immediately cut off by someone you vaguely recognize from high school, who drags you aside and starts up a conversation. “$name? I’ve never seen you at one of these, what’s up?” This person… Josh, maybe? The plastic blue mask makes it hard to tell. Whoever it is, they offer you a drink. $ExtrovertName gives a slight wink and then proceeds to match the energy of someone they seem to know. [[Take the drink|2.16.4]] [[“No thanks, I can’t keep my alcohol”|2.16.3]]

Josh hands you a plastic cup and holds up his own. Both of you tap your cups and take a swig. It’s pretty strong, but hey, if it makes us fit in, then it’s totally worth it. Is his name Josh? The worry fades as you take another sip. We join in on their conversation. A lot of talk is going around about what kind of hobbies everyone has, and the general consensus is that intramural and club sports seem to be eating at everyone’s schedules. We haven’t joined any sports teams at university, but maybe we should. “Hey $name, are you doing any sports?” Josh asks out of the blue. $ExtrovertName’s advice pecks at the back of your mind as you answer. [[“Yeah, I joined this beach volleyball club”|2.16.5]] [[“Actually, I’ve been playing the hell out of FIFA recently”|2.16.5]]

“Hey, no problem with that. More for us!” A couple people cheer around who we can only assume is Josh. His name doesn’t matter, it’s a party! We’re gonna have some fun! We join in on their conversation. A lot of talk is going around about what kind of hobbies everyone has, and the general consensus is that intramural and club sports seem to be eating at everyone’s schedules. We haven’t joined any sports teams at university, but maybe we should. “Hey $name, are you doing any sports?” Josh asks out of the blue. $ExtrovertName’s advice pecks at the back of your mind as you answer. [[“Yeah, I joined this beach volleyball club”|2.16.5]] [[“Actually, I’ve been playing the hell out of FIFA recently”|2.16.5]]

“Hey, cool! How's Uni, are you fitting in?” “Pretty well, it took a few weeks to get acclimated, you know?” “Real.” You start to get pushed from behind as Alex forces their way next to you in the tight circle, rescuing you from the dying conversation. “Have you seen $ExtrovertName around? I don’t know where they went.” “No I haven’t, excuse us,” we mutter to the group as Alex drags us off. “I’ll check the living room, maybe $ExtrovertName went overboard trying to match people’s drinking game records again. Go to Lola’s room, people hang out there sometimes.” [[“Alright”|2.16.6]]

You find your way to Lola’s room, and it looks like something right out of a Pinterest board. Fluffy bed sheets, way too many pillows, hexagon shelves on the walls, and a lot of light wood furniture and fake plants. Unfortunately, there’s no $ExtrovertName. Surprisingly, there’s no one inside the room, but there is a slight breeze coming from the cracked open window. You go to close it, and as it shuts, you notice a moving figure fleeing down the fire escape. They’re wearing a long navy blue cloak and bowler hat, like something out of an old detective movie. As they turn to descend the next flight of metal stairs, you catch a glimpse of an orange tie flitting across a black button-down vest. They’re holding something strangely reflective. You think it’s a bizarre getup, but hey, people celebrate Mardi Gras in strange ways. You turn from the window and recoil as a face stares at you from a chair at Lola’s desk. Nevermind, not a face, it’s just someone’s mask that they must’ve dropped while drunkenly stumbling around. [[Check it out|2.16.7]]

The mask seems familiar. Its entire surface is a peach color, with several different parts of seemingly different faces combined together into an amalgamation of a person. The only salient design on it are two eyes looking onward, like it’s always reading other people. So many different faces all mixing into one… like it can’t decide who it wants to be, and only lives by those it sees. If you had to describe it, you’d call this an echo. It reminds you of $ExtrovertName. [[Oh God|2.16.8]]

Could this mask actually be..? No, that’s impossible. The Venetian’s words pang throughout your mind: //Wear this mask in front of those lamentful faces you can’t help but add to your collection.// That man fleeing down the fire escape, could he have been holding a Mirror Mask? If this distorted face really is $ExtrovertName, could those instructions have been real? So why do you feel the need to wear this? While you ponder this, Lola enters proudly with a few other people. They all start to disperse and laugh as Lola walks to you. She doesn’t seem stunned at all that you’re in her room. “Oh hey, you’re, like, that $name friend of Alex, right? I didn’t get to finish our talk earlier. So basically, I go to, like, Sprout University right here in… hey, are you listening?” [[Leave|2.16.9]] [[“Shut up, Lola”|2.16.10]]

You push past Lola and hear a faint //SO not the vibe!// from her room. You stumble your way past the partiers and into the apartment building hallway. There’s no one else around. [[Embrace your new face|2.16.11]]

Lola looks stunned that you’re not interested in what she has to say. “Um, okay, that’s like, totally not the kind of vibe I want at my party. But I’ll let it slide, you’re probably just pressed about your friend being missing. They’ll turn up. So anyway, I’m like, the first in my family to go to college in a long-” How can someone be so inconsiderate and self-absorbed? Your friend is gone, someone is missing at her party, and all she wants to do is brag about the ivy league college she’s enrolled in - and she’s probably failing too. [[Leave|2.16.9]] [[Add Lola to your collection|2.18]]

We’re fed up with this chick who won’t stop yapping about herself. Doesn’t she have any semblance of an idea of what you’re going through right now? No, of course not, it barely even makes sense to you. As your mind is clouded in malice, a sinister phrase keeps creeping into your psyche: //Wear this mask in front of those lamentful faces you can’t help but add to your collection.// You check to make sure Lola is the only one focused on you. Everyone else in the room is busy talking to each other and downing drinks. They probably know how self-centered Lola can be, and are trying to avoid her. You remove the Mirror Mask from your bag and bring it to your face. “And the financial aid they offered was like, absolutely so slay and I had to take it, you know? Hey, what’s with that mas-” Lola is cut off once again. You hear a strange sound like that of water being poured. As you lower the mask, you notice that a new mask lays still in place of Lola. The mask is elegant, it has a polished white surface and details resembling golden leaves. The entire surface is symmetrical, almost too perfect of an appearance, but looking deeper, you can see faint black cracks in the mirage. Its eyes are completely glossed over, like it doesn’t care to receive information, only reflecting upon itself. It reminds you of a classic narcissistic personality. [[Let’s move|2.18.1]]

You pull the Echo Mask up. Could it work like the Extrovert Mask? Both of them gave you a sinister vibe when you held them for the first time. Your mind begins to build on your fears. If this is $ExtrovertName, does that mean the Extrovert Mask used to be someone too? Could it be related to the disappearances somehow? The voices go silent when you look upon the mask. There’s one way to know. You press the mask to your face and lace the strap around your head. The feeling is all too familiar. Your skin crawls at first, causing immense discomfort. Then the itching turns to burning, and you want nothing more than to peel your face off. But then, something new, the sensation that your skin is being rended from your head. It hurts far more than before. All you can do is try to scream from the pain, but the mask has no mouth. Someone comes out the door behind you. [[Turn and see|2.16.12]]

As your vision begins to clear from the pain, you see that it’s Alex standing beside you in the hallway. “Any luck?” “No, I think $ExtrovertName just went home.” better to keep Alex out of all of this. “Hey, are you alright? You look pale. Too much to drink?” You feign a laugh. “Something like that.” “Hey, what’s that?” Alex points to something that has fallen on the ground in front of you. The Extrovert Mask lays still, peering up at you. You snatch the mask from the floor and toss it in your bag beside the Mirror Mask. “Something I brought with me, didn’t know how casual the Mardi Gras side of the party would be.” You need to change the subject somehow. Without thinking, you instantly read into everything Alex has shown interest in, like the Duran Duran tee, and feel a compulsion to reflect similar interests. (text-colour:navy)[ ''~~“You listen to anything modern?”~~''] [[“You like Duran Duran?”|2.16.13]]

Alex perks up when you mention the band. “Yeah, I love Duran Duran. Do you listen to them too?” We need to match Alex’s interest so that they’ll be interested in us, and hopefully drop the whole $ExtrovertName situation. You don’t know if you could even begin to explain it, and hopefully you’ll never have to. “Yeah, I listen to a ton of their stuff.” You’ve listened to maybe one Duran Duran song in your life. “Cool! Maybe we can talk about it sometime.” A few dimples form at the corners of Alex’s mouth as they smile. “Would you want to hang out sometime? I know a few places in the city that have Duran Duran vinyls.” (text-colour:navy)[~~''“Actually I’m not that big a fan, but I’d still like to hang out”''~~] [[“Sounds great! I love vinyls, here’s my number,”|2.16.14]]

You trade contact information with Alex and agree that you’ll get together in a couple days. You walk down with them, as none of you are either very eager to stay after $ExtrovertName vanished. You watch as Alex’s car peels away from the apartment building and turn your attention to $ExtrovertName’s empty car. You don’t know how long it will be until $ExtrovertName gets reported missing. The right thing to do would be to call the police, but we really don’t need to be wrapped up in the legal aspect of something like this when the real culprit is still out there using something the police wouldn’t even consider. God, this all way too much to wrap your head around in one night. You need to go home and get some rest [[Go Home|2.19]]

You throw your bag down in your room and reflect on everything that just happened. You decide that tomorrow, you’re going to pay a visit to that mask emporium that opened in the city, whether or not your parents say you can go. A quick google search confirms that the store is in fact The Venetian, the same place you bought the masks online. You want to figure out how it’s connected to the disappearances. But it’s late, and you’ve processed way too much for one day. [[Drift into dreamland|2.20]]

“Don’t go into the city today, $name, there’s been another disappearance.” This is how your mom greets you the next morning as you finish eating breakfast. “It’s terrifying, is what it is. Something this scary that close to our own home.” Your father has stopped at the door to provide his own paranoid lecture. “Stay safe, kiddo. If you ever see any sort of kidnapping, or - God forbid - an assault or murder, you stay out of it and get as far as you can. You never know who might have a gun or knife or whatever. People are just crazy, and it’s-” “That’s enough, hun, please,” Mom cut off Dad mid-rant. [[“I’ve got to go into the city today”|2.20.1]] [[“I’ll be keeping my distance, believe me”|1.21]]

“Absolutely not, did you hear a word I just said?” Your father is agitated, but he’s never been violent before. You know he’s just overprotective, but you can’t fight the feeling that this whole situation is your responsibility. “Please, $name, we just don’t want you to get hurt,” your mother delineates. [[“Okay, I won’t, I’m sorry”|1.21]]

You lie in wait until both your parents have left, and then make for the car keys in the dining room. If Mom or Dad ask where you went today, you’ll tell them you went into the suburbs to visit a friend. The roads seem tense and the streets are almost empty; people must be afraid of leaving their houses. Every turn seems treacherous, and you worry at every alley that a gaze might be met with a Mirror Mask, and you’ll be rendered a face in someone else’s collection. Your maps app navigates you to a hole-in-the-wall type store with painted letters - reading //The Venetian// - in the windows and several mannequins within. There is one mannequin out front, wearing a victorian-era outfit that all serves as complementary details to a mask the mannequin wears. Could it have been a person too? We wonder how many people must’ve walked past this mannequin without the knowledge of its sinister nature. Whoever awaits us inside The Venetian, we’d better watch them close and mimic their mannerisms. It will trick them into thinking we aren’t up to anything, and they’ll be at ease. [[Enter|5.2]]

You lie in wait until both your parents have left, and then make for the car keys in the dining room. If Mom or Dad ask where you went today, you’ll tell them you went into the suburbs to visit a friend. The roads seem tense and the streets are almost empty; people must be afraid of leaving their houses. Every turn seems treacherous, and you worry at every alley that a gaze might be met with a Mirror Mask, and you’ll be rendered a face in someone else’s collection. Your maps app navigates you to a hole-in-the-wall type store with painted letters - reading //The Venetian// - in the windows and several mannequins within. There is one mannequin out front, wearing a victorian-era outfit that all serves as complementary details to a mask the mannequin wears. Could it have been a person too? We wonder how many people must’ve walked past this mannequin without the knowledge of its sinister nature. Of course, not everyone is as important as we are. We’re like the main character in an interactive narrative, burdened with unique knowledge and responsibility. [[Enter|6.2]]

Your outburst is heard by nothing except the empty hallway. (set: $EchoKill to true) $ExtrovertName is dead, holy shit. You killed him, didn’t you? Are you sure he’s really dead? The Mirror Mask’s note bounces around your confused mind: //Wear this mask in front of those lamentful faces you can’t help but add to your collection.// Oh God, $ExtrovertName is a mask. A face in your collection. You need to get rid of this, now. The most logical thing to do would be to throw it in your bag with the mirror mask, but you can’t fight this urge that the best option is to wear this mask you’ve created. (text-colour:navy)[~~''Call the police Keel over and hurl''~~] [[Embrace your new face|2.17.2]]

Against your better judgment, you grab the mask and cover your face, lacing the strap over your ears. The feeling is all too familiar. Your skin crawls at first, causing immense discomfort. Then the itching turns to burning, and you want nothing more than to peel your face off. But then, something new, the sensation that your skin is being rended from your head. It hurts far more than before. All you can do is try to scream from the pain, but the mask has no mouth. You didn’t black out this time, which scares you. The last thing you want is to develop a tolerance to something so… putrid. This Echo Mask seems secure on your face now, and the Extrovert Mask seems to have clattered onto the floor in front of you. As you bend over to grab it, the music gets louder and you notice that the door has opened. This person in the doorway is about your height, wearing loose weathered cargo pants and a casual overshirt on top of a Duran Duran tee. They have short, wavy hair and a silver earring on their left earlobe. When they turn to look at us through their elegant silver mask, we can feel our face get hot. “Are you here for the party?” (text-colour:navy)[~~''“No, just leaving actually”''~~] [[“That’s right, I’m $ExtrovertName’s friend”|2.17.3]]

They seem to perk up at this, you read from their facial expression that they probably know $ExtrovertName well. “Are they here with you?” “Not right now, they said they might show up later.” You don’t like lying, but it’s best not to involve anyone in… whatever is happening right now. “Cool, welcome to the party. Everyone here is super friendly - or drunk - so don’t be nervous. The girl running this party is totally full of herself, not very demure, but it’s chill. I’m Alex by the way, nice to meet you.” “I’m $name… [[...Show me around?”|2.17.4]]

“Yeah, for sure! Let’s get you out there $name.” You are led through a crowd of people doing some interpretative dances in the living room, and into a tight kitchenette where some people are packed around a table with some snacks and drinks. There are a lot of red solo cups being passed around, and there’s a faint stench of alcohol. We never drank much at any college hangouts, but one or two cups shouldn’t kill us. Besides, it’d help us fit in. “That’s Lola, this is her party. You’re not allowed to rag on it, though, or she’ll make a scene.” Alex leads you to a blonde girl with a white tube top, jeans, and fluffy boots. “Hey Lola, this is $name.” “Welcome to my party! I don’t think we’ve, like, met, I go to-” Lola is immediately cut off by someone you vaguely recognize from high school, who drags you aside and starts up a conversation. “$name? I’ve never seen you at one of these, what’s up?” This person… Josh, maybe? The plastic blue mask makes it hard to tell. Whoever it is, they offer you a drink. $ExtrovertName’s advice pounds in your mind. [[Take the drink|2.17.5]] (text-colour:navy)[~~''“No thanks, I can’t keep my alcohol”''~~]

Josh hands you a plastic cup and holds up his own to you. Both of you tap your cups and take a swig. It’s pretty strong, but hey, if it makes us fit in, then it’s totally worth it. Is his name Josh? The worry fades as you take another sip. We join in on their conversation. A lot of talk is going around about what kind of hobbies everyone has, and the general consensus is that intramural and club sports seem to be eating at everyone’s schedules. We haven’t joined any sports teams at university, but maybe we should. “Hey $name, are you doing any sports?” Josh asks out of the blue. [[“Yeah, I joined this beach volleyball club”|2.17.6]] (text-colour:navy)[~~''“Actually, I’ve been playing the hell out of FIFA recently”''~~]

“Hey, cool! Do you guys, like, play against other club teams or-” Josh is cut short when Lola forces her way back into the conversation. She seems determined to be the center of attention. “I absolutely, like, love beach volleyball. I used to play every weekend with my sisters when we would drive down to the cape and visit the beach house…” While Lola trails on, we tune out and scan the room for Alex. If we want to get on their good side, it might be a good idea to mention something about Duran Duran. You wander from the group and hear Lola break for a second as she realizes you don’t care, but keeps talking anyway. Alex is loitering in the living room with a drink. [[“You like Duran Duran?”|2.17.7]]

“Yeah, I listen to them all the time.”A few dimples form in the corner of Alex’s mouth as they grin. The two of you chat about the band, of which you’ve probably listened to about one song that got popular online, but we need to make it seem like we have the same interests so that Alex will like us. Alex mentions a record store that sells vinyls, and you agree to go to it sometime. After a while of talking, some people start frantically running from Lola’s room, some screaming and many spilling drinks. Josh is in the crowd, and you manage to catch him before he runs past you. “What’s going on?” “It’s Lola, she went to her room all in a fuss and now she’s… missing. Oh my God, I thought all that shit about disappearances was a hoax! Bastard left some mask in there like a damn calling card. I’m getting out of here, man.” Josh finishes his statement and blows past you and Alex. “We should go too,” Alex suggests, seemingly getting pale. [[“Definitely”|2.17.8]]

You and Alex trade contact information outside the apartment building. Both of you were understandably shaken by Lola’s sudden disappearance, but only you know what that mask being found could really mean. As you head to your car, you feel a shiver on your neck, and turn to see an ominous silhouette in the alley across from you. They’re wearing a long navy blue cloak and bowler hat, like something out of an old detective movie. As they turn to leave, you catch a glimpse of an orange tie flitting across a black button-down vest. They’re holding something strangely reflective at their side. You know what that is. After all, you have one too. [[Drive home|2.19]]

It’s a bad idea to stay in this room any longer, especially since Lola is no longer here. You killed her, didn’t you? Is she really dead? (set: $LolaKill to true) If this Narcissist Mask really is her, then $ExtrovertName too… and how many others? Was the Extrovert Mask someone too? It doesn’t matter right now, you scoop up the Narcissist and Echo Masks and flee the room, pushing past Lola’s friends and scurrying into the empty hallway of the apartment building. You fetch the Narcissist Mask from your bag and gaze upon your putrid handiwork. “What have I done?” Looking upon this veil, your questions are overrun by one singular notion. [[Embrace your new face|2.18.2]]

You raise the Narcissist Mask to your face and lace the strap around your head. The feeling is all too familiar. Your skin crawls at first, causing immense discomfort. Then the itching turns to burning, and you want nothing more than to peel your face off. But then, something new: the sensation that your skin is being rended from your head. It hurts far more than before. All you can do is try to scream from the pain, but the mask has no mouth. Someone comes out the door behind you. [[Turn and see|2.18.3]]

As your vision begins to clear from the pain, you see that it’s Alex standing beside you in the hallway. “Any luck?” “No, I think $ExtrovertName just went home.” Better to keep Alex out of all of this. “Hey, are you alright? You look pale. Too much to drink?” We feign a laugh. “I can handle it.” “Hey, what’s that?” Alex points to something that has fallen on the ground in front of you. The Extrovert Mask lays still, peering up at you. You snatch the mask from the floor and toss it in your bag beside the Mirror Mask. “Something I brought with me, I’m pretty good at making masks and thought I’d show off.” You need to change the subject somehow. Without thinking, we instantly read into everything Alex has shown interest in, like the Duran Duran tee, and feel a compulsion to make those interests ours. (text-colour:navy)[~~'' “You like Duran Duran?”''~~] [[“Hey, I love Duran Duran!”|2.18.4]]

This is an absolute bluff. We’ve listened to maybe one Duran Duran song, but this makes us the center of attention instead of the Extrovert Mask. Alex takes the bait perfectly, it seems like they really want to get to know you. We’d enjoy being the center of their attention. “Cool! Maybe we can talk about it sometime.” A few dimples form at the corners of Alex’s mouth as they smile. “Would you want to hang out sometime? I know a few places in the city that have Duran Duran vinyls.” (text-colour:navy)[~~''“Actually I’m not that big a fan, but I’d still like to hang out”''~~] [[“Sounds great! I love vinyls, here’s my number,”|2.16.14]]

“Aaron? Aaron!” You cry out to the house, hoping your friend will answer. As you round the corner of the house, a mask lays gently against a fake rock next to the back door. The mask bears a wide grin, pointy nose, and upturned eyes. The base color is a soft white with various black cracks running along it. Several card suits decorate the mask on top of the white base, and the top of the mask has pieces of firm cloth with jingle bells attached to the ends. It reminds you of a jester. It reminds you of Aaron. You’re disgusted, but you can’t seem to fight the urge to wear this mask. It’s a compulsion that you must indulge. (text-colour:navy)[~~''Throw Up Call the police''~~] [[Embrace your new face|1.17.1.2]]

Aaron is dead, holy shit. //Wear this mask in front of those lamentful faces you can’t help but add to your collection.// What did that bastard do to Aaron? If this Jester Mask is similar to the Introvert Mask, could The Venetian be the root of this? The questions go silent as you raise the mask to your face. The feeling is all too familiar. Your skin crawls at first, causing immense discomfort. Then the itching turns to burning, and you want nothing more than to peel your face off. But then, something new, the sensation that your skin is being rended from your head. It hurts far more than before. All you can do is try to scream from the pain, but the mask has no mouth. When the pain subsides, the Introvert Mask clatters to the ground in front of you. Unwilling to leave it here, you scoop it up and store it in your bag. [[Drive|1.17.1.3]]

You didn’t black out this time, which scares you. It means you might be gaining a tolerance to these transformations. How are you going to explain any of this? Maybe it’s best not to tell anyone yet, maybe it will blow over and become something you can laugh about later? After all, comedy is just tragedy plus time. Yeah, we can laugh about this sometime. You’re home. [[Go to sleep|1.19]]

“Ted? You alright?” There is no answer as you walk around the side of the house. Laying against a fake rock is a rather unimpressive mask. Its base color is an unremarkable gray, clouding the entire surface of the mask. The only salient decoration is a pair of detailed eyes painted over the place where the whites of someone’s eyes would be on a face. The slots to see from are cleverly disguised within the painted irises. It reminds you of a spectator. It reminds you of Ted. What the hell happened? Is this mask really Ted? The mask seems similar to the Introvert Mask. Does that mean that ominous figure was The Venetian? Pestering your mind is the order written with the Mirror Mask: //Wear this mask in front of those lamentful faces you can’t help but add to your collection.// Could The Venetian be the root of all this? The disappearances? The questions all go silent as the compulsion to wear this mask invades your psyche. (text-colour:navy)[~~''Call the police''~~] [[Embrace your new face|1.18.3.2]]

The feeling is all too familiar. Your skin crawls at first, causing immense discomfort. Then the itching turns to burning, and you want nothing more than to peel your face off. But then, something new, the sensation that your skin is being rended from your head. It hurts far more than before. All you can do is try to scream from the pain, but the mask has no mouth. You didn’t black out this time, which scares you. It means you might be gaining a tolerance to these transformations. When the pain subsides, the Introvert Mask clatters to the ground in front of you. Unwilling to leave it here, you scoop it up and store it in your bag. [[Flee the scene|1.18.3.3]]

It would be very problematic if someone were to see your car in Ted’s driveway just before he gets reported missing. We begin taking in our surroundings. The lights in his house are off, and the streetlights don’t shine down on any stragglers out late. It seems like no one knows you were here. With that knowledge, you subtly shift into gear, slide out of Ted’s driveway, and return home. [[Go to sleep|1.19]]

You open the thin, wooden door and step up into the shop as a bell rings. The interior reeks of east coast cliche, with creaking wood floors and a coastal scent. In addition to the party of mannequins, there is a vast wall behind a long counter upon which many masks are hung from pegs. Not all of them seem sinister, there are many that simply seem like classic venetian carnival masks, even some paper mache veils that could have been made at an arts & crafts workshop. “Bonjour, hello, my friend!” A door behind the counter opens as a man walks out. He’s far taller than you, wearing a white button-down and a blue vest. He tugs at a black bow tie around his neck and curtsies to you. “May I assist you?” [[“How do you make your masks?”|3.2.1]] [[“Are you The Venetian?” - Into the Fire|3.3]]

“Many of our faces are painted in the Venetian style, reminiscent of the glamorous carnivals of Venice. Though recently, we’re also learning from the Mi-Carême style originating in Nova Scotia.” We laugh to ourselves and make our thoughts audible: “An Italian learning from the French? Willingly?” The man laughs to himself as well, “Good one, my friend! That smiling face suits you!” We stop laughing. [[“Tell me more about Mi-Carême”|3.2.2]] [[“Are you The Venetian?”|3.3]]

“Why, yes I am. Sole owner and craftsmen of this boutique, I am The Venetian.” “Where do you get the masks?” “I make all the faces you see in this collection myself.” “How.” You’re tired of his fancy rhetoric and dancing around the truth. “Why, I make the masks with paint and plaster, as well as-” The Venetian notices you glaring at him. “Ah, but the faces. Yes, I must go and find them. However, I’ve been quite overworked, and in times such as these, Venetians must have help. I suppose you could call them interns.” He takes a good look at your face. “And the face you’re wearing, (if: $AaronSpare is true) [it’s one of mine, isn’t it?”] (else-if: $AaronKill is true) [I don’t believe it’s one of mine. You’ve already become quite the craftsman.”] You didn’t realize it before, but there is an incredibly thin line running along the outside of The Venetian’s face. He’s wearing a mask right now. Everything he’s said and done confirms your suspicions: The Venetian is responsible for the disappearances. [[“Give me your Mirror Mask”|3.4]] [[“How did you get the Mirror Masks?”|3.3.1]]

“Ah, where to begin. Well, on Cape Breton Island in East Nova Scotia, French Acadian immigrants would celebrate the season of mid-lent, or Mi-Carême: a respite from the harsh restrictions of lent. They would dress up in gaudy costumes and paint masks to trick their neighbors, and if their neighbors couldn’t guess who they were, they had to give them a meal. All in good fun, yes?” We smirk. “So, Halloween?” The man rolls his eyes. “No, because The Venetian offers no sale for Halloween.” [[“Are you The Venetian?”|3.3]]

The Venetian frowns, he seems genuinely saddened that you don’t intend to join his careless killings. “I’m afraid I won’t be doing that. Take the day, appreciate your faces, maybe even craft more of your own if you wish. Please, just consider your collection. This is power, $name, and the masquerade is ever-growing. I’d be glad to hold onto your extra faces until you return.” He holds out his hand. There isn’t any winning in this scenario, you either keep your collection and prove you care for it, or give it to him and acquiesce to his demands. [[Cling to your collection|3.4.1]] [[Forfeit your faces|3.5]] [[“Go to hell” - The Fast Way|3.6]]

“That’s quite a story, isn’t it? Well, long ago, during the genuine Venetian Carnivals - oh what a spectacle to behold - the entire festivities revolved around the absence of judgement. With the beginning of lent and all the connected strife, the carnivals were meant to be merry. As a means of ensuring this, the religious leaders carelessly and rashly turned to witchcraft, finding a sorceress who created a mask that could settle any lamenting or judgement one could face at a carnival. But, of course, there was a catch. The witch made a malicious mask that turned those who felt judged into masks themselves, problem solved. But, but, but! The religious leaders were not happy in the slightest. They felt cheated! And so, they asked for another mask from the witch, and used it against her to add her face to their collection.” Just two days ago you wouldn’t have believed a word of this. But it seems all too simple now. “The rest is boring, no fun at all. Mirror Masks were used and stolen and inherited and so on. Now I am The Venetian, and I am the only one. And now the masquerade has arrived in the western world. Tell me, will you join this masquerade?” [[“Give me your Mirror Mask”|3.4]]

You instinctively grab onto your bag, within which reside the Introvert and Mirror Masks. There’s no chance you’re surrendering any more souls to The Venetian’s whims. The Venetian lowers his arm and smiles. “You’ve procured quite the collection of masks. A bit of a pack rat, aren’t you? Can’t seem to part with your trash that may be another’s treasure? Looking at you now, I’m reminded of someone I used to know. Maybe I’ll give him to you someday so you can mount him on your wall with the other faces.” [[Flee The Venetian|3.6]]

You open your bag and fetch the Introvert Mask from within. You decide it’s best to not surrender the Mirror Mask just yet, but you fork over the Introvert Mask. It repulses you, and you want nothing to do with it anymore. (set: $Hoarder to false) The Venetian smiles, as if this is exactly what he wanted. “I’ll tell you what, keep it. You might need it later. Being a man of many faces has always worked for me. Embrace the masquerade.” We start laughing. We really just fell for his trick. It’s all been a game since we walked in, and he just won it. Still laughing, you realize that it’s definitely time to leave. [[Flee The Venetian|3.6]]

We catch ourselves laughing at the fact that Ted hasn’t responded to $IntrovertName. Could The Venetian have gotten to him too? You peel out of the city and rush to the suburbs, somewhat relieved to be back where your parents have designated as the safezone. That feeling quickly ceases, you know that nowhere is safe right now. [[Drive to $IntrovertName's house|3.8]]

The suburban house looks about the same as yesterday, though there are significantly less cars in the driveway. You exit your car and enter the house, where $IntrovertName is waiting. They lead you up to their room and sit down on their bed. You take a seat on a desk chair. We start fiddling with the height of the chair, as it’s pretty entertaining. “Thanks… for coming over today. I just - I really need someone to talk to right now.” “For sure, what’s wrong?” $IntrovertName starts rubbing at their eyes. “My parents are… they’re splitting.” Oh damn. “I don’t think they ever really got along well, but,” $IntrovertName gasps back a sob. “But I guess me still living here was really… the only thing… keeping them together. Now that I’m in college, I guess…” Tears start leaking down $IntrovertName’s face. Shit, how can we make light of the situation? (text-colour:navy)[~~'' “I’m so sorry, $IntrovertName” Hold $IntrovertName''~~] [[“Look on the bright side…”|3.9]]

“...now you get two Christmases!” We say with a grin on our face. This will definitely cheer up $IntrovertName. Humor is always the best coping mechanism. It always worked for Aaron. $IntrovertName wipes their face. “What?” “Think about it, double the presents and -” “No, seriously, what the hell $name? Why would you say that?” Why did you say that? There is no possible way that was the right thing to say. We couldn’t have thought of anything better to say. Why are there so many voices in your head? (text-colour:navy)[~~'' “I’m so sorry, it wasn’t the right time” “Please forgive me, how do you feel about all this?”''~~] [[“Just trying to lighten the mood, it’s damn right depressing in here”|3.10]]

$IntrovertName is now yelling through tears. Their face is red, but you don’t know if it’s from sadness or anger. “Well don’t! My life is fucking falling apart here, $name! Now isn’t the time for jokes!” $IntrovertName continues to cry. “I thought I could count on you, but you’re acting like… like how Aaron would right now, and I don’t need that!” “What do you need?” “I thought I needed you.” $IntrovertName goes back to crying. “You’re supposed to be kind, that's why I liked you, but you’re not acting like you right now!” We… you need to do something. Damn it, there’s too many voices. You know this face isn’t yours. We need to say something funny, it’s not over yet. Or is there another mask we could use? Which voice is yours? [[Peruse your collection for a helpful mask|3.10.1]] [[Crack another joke|3.10.1]] [[Tear your face off|3.11]]

We spend the next few minutes trying to lower the tension with humor, but that doesn’t seem to work, as $IntrovertName always seems to not understand that we’re only kidding. They scream at us and call us unsympathetic. We don’t understand, we’re only trying to help them the way we know how, can’t $IntrovertName see that? (set: $IntrovertLove to false) You guess not, and come to the conclusion that maybe another mask could help. As $IntrovertName cups their head in their hands, you rifle through your bag and switch masks. Will the Introvert Mask help? You trade faces. (set: $free to false) We’ve never really been great at being sensitive or comforting. People are hard to read when they’re emotional, and being an introvert doesn’t exactly mean you have the greatest people skills. But you have to say something. “Listen, I just don’t understand how-” “No, I don’t understand! What’s up with you? Why can’t you just be here for me?” Must’ve chosen the wrong mask. Maybe there’s another somewhere that will help. You reach to change faces one more time, but $IntrovertName suddenly gets up. “I’ve had enough, I guess I just need to be alone right now.” You get dragged downstairs by an angry $IntrovertName, who proceeds to lead you to the door. When we try to reason with them, the words don’t come out how you want them to sound, and you end up getting shoved out the door. This is all his fault. It’s always been his fault. The disappearances, this masquerade, and now your own life isn’t even yours. Is your face really yours anymore? [[Confront The Venetian|7.1]]

“I’m… this isn’t my face.” You manage to gasp between the voices. $IntrovertName looks at you through the tears. “What?” We shouldn’t be doing this, it’s way too serious! We need to come up with something else to say to lower the tension. What would a good one be? Maybe something about their dad finally breaking off the ball and chain. What do people usually joke about during divorces… paperwork? It’s not your face. It’s not your thoughts. You would rather tear your own face off than live another minute in someone else’s place. Your fingers curl around the thin line running along your face. And now it’s time. You begin to pull, and the pain is instant. Tearing this mask from you feels almost identical to peeling the skin from your body. The burning sensation returns, far more harsh than the first time you wore a mask. It feels like something is crawling under your skin. No, not crawling, burrowing - surfacing. But you can’t stop now. Somewhere through the flashes of pain, you hear $IntrovertName’s voice crying out to you, asking what’s happening. But there’s no way to answer yet. After all, the mask has no mouth. [[Get this off me!|3.12]]

You race through the city once more. Something needs to be done about The Venetian, and it seems like you’re the only one who can see it through. (if: $free is true)[You find solace in the knowledge that your face is your own once more. From the start, you never should have tried hiding your true self behind a mask. No mask could possibly sum up everything a person is, but The Venetian doesn’t understand this. Still, you can’t fight the theory that the masquerade may not be something that can be resisted, perhaps the phenomenon is unchangeable. But that doesn’t matter right now. Whether or not this is the case, The Venetian’s era of the masquerade must end, it isn’t right. He can’t keep condensing people into faces as an outlet for his greed and desire for control.](else:)[We’re the only ones who can see it through. You feel disturbed, unsure which voices are your own and which are foreign to your mind. We won’t have any fun if we stop The Venetian now, there aren’t enough tragedies to become comedy for us. Are we totally sure the masquerade is something that can even be resisted? In our understanding, it may be a phenomenon, perhaps it is a force of nature we cannot hope to combat. A person is only meant to have one self, but you have many, as does The Venetian. He collects faces as an outlet for his greed and desire for control, not understanding that no one person should be more than just themself. If we stop the masquerade, we won’t be able to wear faces anymore, and we won’t have the opportunity to fit in with every crowd, we’ll be stuck as ourselves rather than everything we could be. The masquerade makes us better than everyone else, we are far more important and we have the means necessary to ensure this sovereignty. Which voice is yours anymore? You can’t seem to tell. They all fade as you approach The Venetian.] [[Confront the Masquerade|7.1.1]]

Something tears, and a piercing, screaming sound fills the room. Did it come from you? It doesn’t matter now. (set: $free to true) The Jester Mask clunks against the floor of $IntrovertName’s room. Your face is yours again. You look to $IntrovertName, who’s tears have stopped, probably because they’re traumatized. Hopefully they’ll get over it. There’s so much to say now that you have a mouth. “What the hell-” “There’s no time, the disappearances are all connected to a mask shop: The Venetian. I have to stop him.” “Stop… who? $name, what’s happening?” “The Venetian wrapped me up in his masquerade. Those masks changed me, but they’re not me, I promise. And I’m sorry… (if: $AaronKill is true) [ Aaron is gone because of me.] (else-if: $AaronSpare is true) [ he killed Aaron.] (else-if: $TedKill is true) [ Ted is gone because of me.] (else-if: $TedSpare is true) [ he killed Ted.]” $IntrovertName is stunned. This is way too much information to dump on them, especially right now. They need you. “One more thing…” [[“I’m so sorry about your parents, you don’t deserve this”|3.13]] [[“It’ll all be okay, $IntrovertName, I promise”|3.13]] [[“The divorce isn’t your fault”|3.13]]

There’s one more thing you need to tell them. It’s now or never. [[“...and I really like you”|3.14]] [[“...and I promise I’m the friend you know”|3.15]]

$IntrovertName looks shocked. Their face was already red from the crying, but now that the tears have stopped, you can’t tell if they’re blushing or not. “I… I like you, too. $name, whatever is happening, go sort it out. We can be there for each other when you come back.” (set: $IntrovertLove to true) It’s time to go. You need to put an end to this. [[Stop the masquerade|7.1]]

$IntrovertName grins. They look pitiable, with tear marks staining their face, and yet still trying to put on a brave face. “I don’t really understand what you’re going through, but… thank you, $name. We’ll talk later, take care of whatever you need to take care of.” (set: $IntrovertLove to false) It’s time to go. You need to put an end to this. [[Stop the masquerade|7.1]]

Despite all the pain the masquerade has caused - all the friends it’s caused you to lose - there’s still something strangely appealing about it. The concept that people capable of being shamed can be cast into masks, veils of their former selves, it’s poetic. You want to see how many masks you can create. You want to wear the faces many others experience every day. As time goes on, The Venetian passes on his teachings to you, shaping you into the next Venetian. You end up dropping out of college, instead choosing to take up the mask making trade. Your parents wouldn’t be happy about this, but that doesn’t really matter anymore. After all, the Protector Mask and Paranoia Mask look quite nice among your collection at the boutique. You never ended up pursuing (if: $IntrovertLove is true)[$IntrovertName, but that's okay with you. In the end, you managed to capture their essence in the Melancholic Mask. It adds a nice aesthetic to your collection, hanging alongside the Jester Mask and Spectator Mask.](else-if: $IntrovertLove is false)[$IntrovertName, but that's okay with you. In the end, you managed to capture their essence in the Melancholic Mask. It adds a nice aesthetic to your collection, hanging alongside the Jester Mask and Spectator Mask.](else-if: $AlexLove is true)[Alex, but that's okay with you. In the end, you managed to capture their essence in the Gregarious Mask. It adds a nice aesthetic to your collection, hanging alongside the Echo Mask and Narcissist Mask.](else-if: $AlexLove is false)[Alex, but that's okay with you. In the end, you managed to capture their essence in the Gregarious Mask. It adds a nice aesthetic to your collection, hanging alongside the Echo Mask and Narcissist Mask.]. Eventually, The Venetian grows old, and chooses to cast his face rather than succumb to his mortality. Time goes on, and you grow bored of making masks by yourself. They’re not all faces, most are just regular masks, but the masquerade isn’t fun anymore. The Venetian’s website tends to get more traffic than the genuine store, and you often find yourself checking for orders. One day, you receive an order for both an Introvert Mask and Extrovert Mask. You have several after all these years, as many people don’t have much going for them other than their behaviors towards other people. You can’t help but get caught up in the nostalgia of that first day when you were the one ordering masks online. Then you get an idea. After boxing up the order, you pitch in an extra mask, free of charge, and begin scribbling on a post-it note from your office in the emporium. //Wear this mask in front of those lamentful faces you can’t help but add to your collection. Happy Masquerading! -The Venetian// //''Mauvaise Fin - Thanks for Playing!''//

“No, I’ll never join your masquerade.” The Venetian smiles. “I’ll be honest, $name, I was kind of hoping you’d say that. You’ve made this game of mine fun again. In the end, I found my craftsman’s intuition nagging at me. It wanted to find out what mask your face would make.” The Venetian begins reaching for something from within the folds of his coat. (if: $free is false) [We have to have a mask that will stop him, one of our faces will save us, it’ll have the answer. If not, we can always make a dash for the boutique. There’s tons of faces in there, right?] (else:) [No face in your collection is going to help you now. It’s up to you to outwit The Venetian. His only weapon is something he’s already gifted you as well.] [[Drop Kick|8.2.1]] [[Flaunt Your Collection|8.2.2]] [[Raise the Mirror Mask|7.3]]

You close the distance between yourself and The Venetian with haste. You leap into the air with a slight backspin, rotating your torso. While this happens, you curl your legs close to your chest, and look to plant the blow right on your target’s face. As you aim, you catch a glimpse of what The Venetian retrieved from his coat: A Mirror Mask. You pump out your legs as hard as you can, but The Venetian has already donned the mask. Your blow connects with his face, which is about the only satisfying thing about the situation, as you begin to feel a great pressure on yourself. You saw yourself in the Mirror Mask. Your last actions will have been those of defiance, and you’re proud of that. Though, despite that, you still feel scared. What will it be like? Maybe you’ll end up on someone’s wall, and bring them joy just by being enticing. You feel yourself slipping away. In your last moments, you know what your face will be: The Rebel Mask //'' Mauvaise Fin - Thanks for Playing!''//

You ruffle through your bag for any face that will help you now. You can’t tell which mask you’ve grabbed, but anything could help right now. No, that’s a stupid plan, none of these masks could possibly help against a killer. But maybe in his own collection… You dash for the shop and burst through the door, breaking the tiny bell as you enter. Your eyes dart for any mask that seems menacing, and your eyes land on a hockey mask that reminds you of old slasher films. It’ll work. You snatch the mask and press it to your face, whirling around to face The Venetian, who kicks the fallen bell as he enters. The Slasher Mask still has eyes, and you catch a glimpse of what The Venetian retrieved from his coat: A Mirror Mask. Your own self is reflected, though incredibly distorted, in the folds and concavities of the Mirror Mask. The Slasher Mask falls from your face as you begin to feel a great pressure on yourself. You saw yourself in the Mirror Mask. Your last actions will have been those of strategic resistance, and you’re proud of that. Though, despite that, you still feel scared. What will it be like? Maybe you’ll end up on someone’s wall, and bring them joy just by being enticing. You feel yourself slipping away. In your last moments, you know what your face will be: The Opportunist Mask //'' Mauvaise Fin - Thanks for Playing!''//

You know that The Venetian is going to don his own Mirror Mask, and hopefully, there’s one way you can prevent yourself from falling victim to it while also stopping The Venetian. You slam your eyes shut and feel around in your bag. Your touch falls upon something smooth, with no holes for eyes or a mouth. You thrust this mask onto your face and pray, knowing The Venetian will not be able to see from his mask either. You wait for something to happen. If The Venetian lowers his Mirror Mask too early, he’ll see yours, and fall victim to it himself. You wait. Finally, you hear a shift from in front of you. “You bastard! Well played, craftsman. I’ll make a fine addition to your-” The Venetian is silenced as the sound of pouring water echoes in the street. You lower your mask, and a mask rests in the street, with a hideous grin stretching ear to ear. A Killer’s Mask. [[Embrace your new face|8.3]] (if: $free is false) [ (text-colour:navy)[~~''Burn the masks''~~] ] (else:)[[Burn the masks|7.4]]

Some voice must’ve lingered inside your mind, a poison from the masquerade. Because of it, you feel a compulsion to wear this face The Venetian left for you. The sensation is familiar, yet new. There is no pain anymore. You’ve gained a complete tolerance to the trading of faces. The only urge you feel now is an itch. A desire to have more faces. Our first true kill is a rich man from the city, which we conduct just outside his flat as he returns home drunk from Reiji’s, a Japanese bar that he frequents after his shift at the bank on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays. We craft him into the Investor Mask, as he manages a mutual fund at his job, and we need those talents to raise enough money to legally purchase The Venetian and take over operations in the boutique. We end up dropping out of college, instead choosing to take up the mask making trade. Our parents wouldn’t be happy about this, but that doesn’t really matter anymore. After all, the Protector Mask and Paranoid Mask look quite nice among our collection at the boutique. We never ended up pursuing (if: $IntrovertLove is true)[$IntrovertName, but that's okay. In the end, we managed to capture their essence in the Melancholic Mask. It adds a nice aesthetic to our collection, hanging alongside the Jester Mask and Spectator Mask.](else-if: $IntrovertLove is false)[$IntrovertName, but that's okay. In the end, we managed to capture their essence in the Melancholic Mask. It adds a nice aesthetic to our collection, hanging alongside the Jester Mask and Spectator Mask.](else-if: $AlexLove is true)[Alex, but that's okay. In the end, we managed to capture their essence in the Gregarious Mask. It adds a nice aesthetic to our collection, hanging alongside the Echo Mask and Narcissist Mask.](else-if: $AlexLove is false)[Alex, but that's okay. In the end, we managed to capture their essence in the Gregarious Mask. It adds a nice aesthetic to our collection, hanging alongside the Echo Mask and Narcissist Mask.]. Time goes on, and you grow bored of making masks by yourself. They’re not all faces, most are just regular masks, as the thrill from the killings just isn’t as exciting anymore. The Venetian’s website tends to get more traffic than the genuine store, and you often find yourself checking for orders. One day, you receive an order for both an Introvert Mask and Extrovert Mask. You have several after all these years, as many people don’t have much going for them other than their behaviors towards other people. You can’t help but get caught up in the nostalgia of that first day when you were the one ordering masks online. Then you get an idea. After boxing up the order, you pitch in an extra mask, free of charge, and begin scribbling on a post-it note from your office in the emporium. //Wear this mask in front of those lamentful faces you can’t help but add to your collection. Happy Masquerading! -The Venetian// //''Mauvaise Fin - Thanks for Playing!''//

The only way to ensure that the masquerade ends here is to dispose of every face The Venetian - or any other Venetian before him - has ever made. You find a furnace heating a kiln inside the boutique, and begin shoveling every face you can find on your person and in the building into the fire. The Killer Mask, both Mirror Masks, the Introvert Mask, the Extrovert Mask, and many others of various patterns and designs are all consumed by the flames. A strange mist separate from the smoke seems to escape the furnace, and it radiates goodwill and thankfulness. You feel as if you’ve done well, like generations of trapped souls have been freed from their terrible fate. After dealing with all the damage The Venetian and his masquerade caused, you… [[Return to college|8.4]] [[Take up the mask making trade|8.5]]

You return to college at the end of break, spending the next few years learning more and more about the traditions of mask making and their cultural meaning, as well as their use in numerous religious practices around the world. You change your focus to Mask History, a relatively new course offered at your university, and graduate with a Master’s in Mask History and Education as a double-major. Fate happens to send you right back to your university after a few years of independent research abroad in order to become the next professor in the Mask History department. (if: $IntrovertLove is true) [You and $IntrovertName got married a few years later, with them working as a victim advocate. It seems appropriate, as they themself suffered much because of The Venetian’s crimes. The two of you lead a happy life together, and purchase a house just outside the city, where there’s just enough green and open sky to think about a future together. Maybe even a family together.] (else-if: $AlexLove is true) [You and Alex got married a few years later, with them working in the marketing department for a large corporation within the city. It seems appropriate, as they have always been rather convincing. The two of you lead a happy life together, and share a flat just inside the city, where there’s access to the roof with a small garden and an incredible view. It also has great acoustics to play Duran Duran from your portable record player.] (else-if: $AlexLove is false) [You never really pursued a romantic relationship with Alex after everything that happened, but that’s okay. You spend most of your time in your flat just inside the city, inviting friends over from time to time to play games and have some drinks. Alex sometimes comes to visit, and while it is rather somber ruminating about all the trauma from the masquerade, you and Alex seem to be doing alright for yourselves. They started working in the marketing department for a large corporation, and live deep in the heart of the city, where they claim “all the action is.”] (else-if: $IntrovertLove is false) [You never really pursued a romantic relationship with $IntrovertName after everything that happened, but that’s okay. You spend most of your time in your flat just inside the city, inviting friends over from time to time to play games and have some drinks. $IntrovertName sometimes comes to visit and waste time gaming, which can get somber from time to time whenever you ruminate about all the trauma from the masquerade, but you’ve both gotten therapy about the “disappearances” and are doing alright for yourselves. $IntrovertName is now working as a detective, as they’ve always liked criminal justice visual novels like Ace Attorney, and now ensure crimes like The Venetian’s never happen again. They live away from their job, just outside the city, where they claim “all the action isn’t.”] As you are technically still a professor, your job isn’t always teaching lazy college students. Occasionally, you’ll get something interesting across your desk, and you’ll take a quick break to travel and do more independent research all funded by the university, which is your favorite part of the job. This time, the research is on cursed masks, which you’re all too familiar with. As it turns out, cursed masks have been present worldwide, for generations, across almost all civilizations. From the aztecs to the egyptians to the vikings of the nordic world, cursed masks have been used in manners of pagan worship and witchcraft ever since people could speak. You’ve taken a liking to pursuing these dangerous artifacts, and ensuring they can no longer do any harm. //'' Bonne Fin - Thanks for Playing!''//

You don’t end up returning to college next semester, as your passion for mask making has really taken over your life. Your main goal is to finally separate the mental connection you’ve drawn between genuine mask making and the murders and disappearances the masquerade offered by creating faces. It’s taken a while, but the distinction has finally been drawn between the two, and you have returned your hobby to its rightful place rather than a source of distress. It took a while to convince your parents that the mask industry has become a lucrative trade, and that dropping out of college wouldn’t result in you couch surfing in the living rooms of various hippies - or worse - their own living room at home. Once they accepted this, you moved all your belongings out and soon had enough saved up to purchase The Venetian, and revamp it, even changing the name to: (input-box:"=XX=",1,"Your Mask Emporium") You hope this boutique will prove less sinister than its predecessor. (if: $IntrovertLove is true) [You and $IntrovertName got married a few years down the road, with them working as a victim advocate. It seems appropriate, as they themself suffered much because of The Venetian’s crimes. Surprisingly, participating in a painting workshop at your new emporium is very beneficial for the mental health of victims. The two of you lead a happy life together, and purchase a house just outside the city, where there’s just enough green and open sky to think about a future together. Maybe even a family together.] (else-if: $AlexLove is true) [You and Alex got married a few years later, with them working as the head of marketing for your new emporium. It seems appropriate, as they have always been rather convincing, and it’s definitely helped with business. The two of you lead a happy life together, and share a flat not far from the boutique, where there’s access to the roof with a small garden and an incredible view. It also has great acoustics to play Duran Duran from your portable record player.] (else-if: $AlexLove is false) [You never really pursued a romantic relationship with Alex after everything that happened, but that’s okay. You spend most of your time in your flat near the emporium, inviting friends over from time to time to play games and have some drinks. Alex sometimes comes to visit, and while it is rather somber while ruminating all the trauma from the masquerade, you and Alex seem to be doing alright for yourselves. They started working in the marketing department for a large corporation, and live deep in the heart of the city, where they claim “all the action is.”] (else-if: $IntrovertLove is false) [You never really pursued a romantic relationship with $IntrovertName after everything that happened, but that’s okay. You spend most of your time in your flat near the emporium, inviting friends over from time to time to play games and have some drinks. $IntrovertName sometimes comes to visit and waste time gaming, which can get somber from time to time whenever you ruminate about all the trauma from the masquerade, but you’ve both gotten therapy about the “disappearances” and are doing alright for yourselves. $IntrovertName is now working as a detective, as they’ve always liked criminal justice visual novels like Ace Attorney, and make sure crimes like The Venetian’s never happen again. They live away from their job, just outside the city, where they claim “all the action isn’t.”] It took a long time to learn all the specifications of each style of mask-making, but you’ve been willing to put the effort in. The Mi-Carême style is confusing and hard to grasp at first, but it seems to gain popularity because of its simplicity. In addition to this, you start branching out and making artisan masks for masquerade balls, mardi gras banquets, and an endless stream of renaissance-faire goers. It’s not much, but it’s a nice life. Fostering your hobby has turned out quite well, and you’re glad to have shared it with other people who genuinely enjoy it as well. Your store has gained some semblance of a cult following, and you might start participating as a vendor at renaissance fairies and other carnivals that the city has begun to host. It’s a pleasant masquerade, one free of shame and judgement. Like it was always meant to be. //''Bonne Fin - Thanks for Playing!''//

You open the thin, wooden door and step up into the shop as a bell rings. The interior reeks of east coast cliche, with creaking wood floors and a coastal scent. In addition to the party of mannequins, there is a vast wall behind a long counter upon which many masks are hung from pegs. Not all of them seem sinister, there are many that simply seem like classic venetian carnival masks, even some paper mache veils that could have been made at an arts & crafts workshop. “Bonjour, hello, my friend!” A door behind the counter opens as a man walks out. He’s far taller than you, wearing a white button-down and a blue vest. He tugs at a black bow tie around his neck and curtsies to you. He’s quite the character, appearances are obviously important to him, but he also wants us to be thrown off by his demeanor. “May I assist you?” [[“How do you make your masks?”|4.2.1]] [[“Are you The Venetian?” - Into the Fire|4.3]]

“Many of our faces are painted in the Venetian style, reminiscent of the glamorous carnivals of Venice. Though recently, we’re also learning from the Mi-Carême style originating in Nova Scotia.” We make an observation and make our thoughts audible: “That’s odd, isn’t it? I wouldn’t think an Italian would so willingly learn from the French.” The man laughs to himself as well, “Good one, my friend! That inquisitive face suits you!” We stop analyzing him. Can he see our mask? [[“Tell me more about Mi-Carême”|4.2.2]] [[“Are you The Venetian?”|4.3]]

“Why, yes I am. Sole owner and craftsmen of this boutique, I am The Venetian.” “Where do you get the masks?” “I make all the faces you see in this collection myself.” “How.” You’re tired of his fancy rhetoric and dancing around the truth. “Why, I make the masks with paint and plaster, as well as-” The Venetian notices you glaring at him. “Ah, but the faces. Yes, I must go and find them. However, I’ve been quite overworked, and in times such as these, Venetians must have help. I suppose you could call them interns.” He takes a good look at your face. “And the face you’re wearing, (if: $TedSpare is true) [it’s one of mine, isn’t it?”] (else:) [I don’t believe it’s one of mine. You’ve already become quite the craftsman.”] Strange, you didn’t realize it before, but there is an incredibly thin line running along the outside of The Venetian’s face. He’s wearing a mask right now. Everything he’s said and done confirms your suspicions: The Venetian is responsible for the disappearances. [[“Give me your Mirror Mask”|4.4]] [[“How did you get the Mirror Masks?”|4.3.1]]

“Ah, where to begin. Well, on Cape Breton Island in East Nova Scotia, French Acadian immigrants would celebrate the season of mid-lent, or Mi-Carême. They would dress up in gaudy costumes and paint masks to trick their neighbors, and if their neighbors couldn’t guess who they were, they had to give them a meal. All in good fun, yes?” We make a mental connection. “So, Halloween?” The man rolls his eyes. “No, because The Venetian offers no sale for Halloween.” [[“Are you The Venetian?”|4.3]]

The Venetian frowns, he seems genuinely saddened that you don’t intend to join his careless killings. “I’m afraid I won’t be doing that. Take the day, appreciate your faces, maybe even craft more of your own if you wish. Please, just consider your collection. This is power, $name, and the masquerade is ever-growing. I’d be glad to hold onto your extra faces until you return.” He holds out his hand. We consider every outcome of this offer. There isn’t any winning in this scenario, you either keep your collection and prove you care for it, or give it to him and acquiesce to his demands. [[Cling to your collection|4.4.1]] [[Forfeit your faces|4.5]] [[“Go to hell” - The Fast Way|4.6]]

You open your bag and fetch the Introvert Mask from within. You decide it’s best to not surrender the Mirror Mask just yet, but you fork over the Introvert Mask. It repulses you, and you want nothing to do with it anymore. (set: $Hoarder to false) The Venetian smiles, as if this is exactly what he wanted. “I’ll tell you what, keep it. You might need it later. Being a man of many faces has always worked for me. Embrace the masquerade.” We can see the satisfaction on his face, and it makes us seethe with anger. We just fell for his trick. It’s all been a game since we walked in, and he just won it. He’s manipulated you enough for now, and you realize it’s definitely time to leave. [[Flee The Venetian|4.6]]

You burst from the boutique and fly to the far side of your car, not bothering to check if it’s safe to run into the street. The engine roars to life and you peel away from the little store. The masquerade? Like hell you’d ever be a part of something so sinister. Then again, there’d be so many people to analyze. We might have fun trying to determine what masks people would turn out to be. Your phone buzzes, and you pull over to check the message. It’s from $IntrovertName. //Hey, $name. Listen, could you come over right now? I haven’t heard from Ted or Aaron today and I really need someone to talk to right now.// [[//Yeah, of course//|4.7]]

That’s unfortunate. We’re not surprised that Ted wouldn’t respond, he’s a mask after all, but why not Aaron? He may be less than serious often, but that wouldn’t explain the ghosting. Could The Venetian have gotten to him too? You peel out of the city and rush to the suburbs, somewhat relieved to be back where your parents have designated as the safezone. That feeling quickly ceases, you know that nowhere is safe right now. [[Drive to $IntrovertName’s house|4.8]]

The suburban house looks about the same as yesterday, though there are significantly less cars in the driveway. However, we notice that there are several garbage bins rolled out to the curb. They’re both packed to the brim, but with many household, everyday items. None of them are very aesthetically pleasing, and many seem like old mementos, so you imagine it all belongs to $IntrovertName’s dad. There are also several boxes packed and waiting on the front porch, like someone is moving out. You exit your car and enter the house, where $IntrovertName is waiting. They lead you up to their room and sit down on their bed. You take a seat on a desk chair. Our eyes wander to the inside of the desk, surveying several worksheets regarding various criminal justice topics. “Thanks… for coming over today. I just - I really need someone to talk to right now.” “For sure, what’s wrong?” $IntrovertName starts rubbing at their eyes. “My parents are… they’re splitting.” We figured as much, it was evident from all the clutter outside. “I don’t think they ever really got along well, but,” $IntrovertName gasps back a sob. “But I guess me still living here was really… the only thing… keeping them together. Now that I’m in college, I guess…” Tears start leaking down $IntrovertName’s face. Shit, how can we convince them this is for the best? (text-colour:navy)[~~'' “I’m so sorry, $IntrovertName” Hold $IntrovertName''~~] [[“Look on the bright side…”|4.9]]

“...now your parents will be happier.” We say with as much empathy as we can muster. This will likely cheer up $IntrovertName. The comfort gained by knowing that their parents will statistically enjoy their lives more so than before should be enough to console them. $IntrovertName wipes their face. “What?” “Think about it, if they’re not happy now then -” “No, seriously, what the hell $name? Why would you say that?” Why did you say that? There is no possible way that was the right thing to say. We couldn’t have thought of anything better to say. Why are there so many voices in your head? (text-colour:navy)[~~'' “I’m so sorry, it wasn’t the right time” “Please forgive me, how do you feel about all this?”''~~] [[“I’m just thinking logically, there’s no reason to be sad about this”|4.10]]

$IntrovertName is now yelling through tears. Their face is red, but you don’t know if it’s from sadness or anger. “Well don’t! My life is fucking falling apart here, $name! There’s no logic about it, it’s bullshit!” $IntrovertName continues to cry. “I thought I could count on you, but you’re acting like… like how Ted would right now, and I don’t need that!” “What do you need?” “I thought I needed you.” $IntrovertName goes back to crying. “You’re supposed to be kind, that's why I liked you, but you’re not acting like you right now!” We… you need to do something. Damn it, there’s too many voices. You know this face isn’t yours. We need to bring up some other fact or statistic, it’s not over yet. Or is there another mask we could use? Which voice is yours? [[Peruse your collection for a helpful mask|4.10.1]] [[Bring up another statistic|4.10.1]] [[Tear your face off|4.11]]

We spend the next few minutes trying to lower the tension by discussing reasons for divorce, but that doesn’t seem to work, as $IntrovertName always seems to not understand that we’re only trying to explain why this is happening. They scream at us and call us unsympathetic. We don’t understand, we’re only trying to help them the way we know how, can’t $IntrovertName see that? (set: $IntrovertLove to false) You guess not, and come to the conclusion that maybe another mask could help. As $IntrovertName cups their head in their hands, you rifle through your bag and switch masks. Will the Introvert Mask help? You trade faces. (set: $free to false) We’ve never really been great at being sensitive or comforting. People are hard to read when they’re emotional, and being an introvert doesn’t exactly mean you have the greatest people skills. But you have to say something. “Listen, I just don’t understand how-” “No, I don’t understand! What’s up with you? Why can’t you just be here for me?” Must’ve chosen the wrong mask. Maybe there’s another somewhere deep in your bag that will help. You reach to change faces one more time, but $IntrovertName suddenly gets up. “I’ve had enough, I guess I just need to be alone right now.” You get dragged downstairs by an angry $IntrovertName, who proceeds to lead you to the door. When we try to reason with them, the words don’t come out how you want them to sound, and you end up getting shoved out the door. This is all his fault. It’s always been his fault. The disappearances, this masquerade, and now your own life isn’t even yours. Is your face really yours anymore? [[Confront The Venetian|7.1]]

“I’m… this isn’t my face.” You manage to gasp between the voices. $IntrovertName looks at you through the tears. “What?” We shouldn’t be doing this, it’s not logical! We need to come up with something else to say to lower the tension. What would be a comforting statistic right now? Maybe the fact that 37% of marriages end in divorce. Could there be another reason other than $IntrovertName as to why the divorce is happening… cheating, maybe? It’s not your face. It’s not your thoughts. You would rather tear your own face off than live another minute in someone else’s place. Your fingers curl around the thin line running along your face. And now it’s time. You begin to pull, and the pain is instant. Tearing this mask from you feels almost identical to peeling the skin from your body. The burning sensation returns, far more harsh than the first time you wore a mask. It feels like something is crawling under your skin. No, not crawling, burrowing - surfacing. But you can’t stop now. Somewhere through the flashes of pain, you hear $IntrovertName’s voice crying out to you, asking what’s happening. But there’s no way to answer yet. After all, the mask has no mouth. [[Get this off me!|4.12]]

Something tears, and a piercing, screaming sound fills the room. Did it come from you? It doesn’t matter now. (set: $free to true) The Spectator Mask clunks against the floor of $IntrovertName’s room. Your face is yours again. You look to $IntrovertName, who’s tears have stopped, probably because they’re traumatized. Hopefully they’ll get over it. There’s so much to say now that you have a mouth. “What the hell-” “There’s no time, the disappearances are all connected to a mask shop: The Venetian. I have to stop him.” “Stop… who? $name, what’s happening?” “The Venetian wrapped me up in his masquerade. Those masks changed me, but they’re not me, I promise. And I’m sorry… (if: $AaronKill is true) [ Aaron is gone because of me.] (else-if: $AaronSpare is true) [ he killed Aaron.] (else-if: $TedKill is true) [ Ted is gone because of me.] (else-if: $TedSpare is true) [ he killed Ted.]” $IntrovertName is stunned. This is way too much information to dump on them, especially right now. They need you. “One more thing…” [[“I’m so sorry about your parents, you don’t deserve this”|4.13]] [[“It’ll all be okay, $IntrovertName, I promise”|4.13]] [[“The divorce isn’t your fault”|4.13]]

There’s one more thing you need to tell them. It’s now or never. [[“...and I really like you”|4.14]] [[“...and I promise I’m the friend you know”|4.15]]

You open the thin, wooden door and step up into the shop as a bell rings. The interior reeks of east coast cliche, with creaking wood floors and a coastal scent. In addition to the party of mannequins, there is a vast wall behind a long counter upon which many masks are hung from pegs. Not all of them seem sinister, there are many that simply seem like classic venetian carnival masks, even some paper mache veils that could have been made at an arts & crafts workshop. “Bonjour, hello, my friend!” A door behind the counter opens as a man walks out. He’s far taller than you, wearing a white button-down and a blue vest. He tugs at a black bow tie around his neck and curtsies to you. It seems like he wants us to be strayed by his demeanor. “May I assist you?” [[“How do you make your masks?”|5.2.1]] [[“Are you The Venetian?” - Into the Fire|5.3]]

“Many of our faces are painted in the Venetian style, reminiscent of the glamorous carnivals of Venice. Though recently, we’re also learning from the Mi-Carême style originating in Nova Scotia.” We nod along with his words, and decide to reciprocate the conversation to pique his interest in us: “That’s odd, isn’t it? I wouldn’t think an Italian would so willingly learn from the French.” The man laughs to himself as well, “Good one, my friend! That mimicking face suits you!” We tense up, shattering our nonchalant facade. Can he see our mask? [[“Tell me more about Mi-Carême”|5.2.2]] [[“Are you The Venetian?”|5.3]]

“Why, yes I am. Sole owner and craftsmen of this boutique, I am The Venetian.” “Where do you get the masks?” “I make all the faces you see in this collection myself.” “How.” You’re tired of dancing back and forth around the truth. “Why, I make the masks with paint and plaster, as well as-” The Venetian notices you glaring at him. “Ah, but the faces. Yes, I must go and find them. However, I’ve been quite overworked, and in times such as these, Venetians must have help. I suppose you could call them interns.” He takes a good look at your face. “And the face you’re wearing, (if: $EchoSpare is true) [it’s one of mine, isn’t it?”] (else:) [I don’t believe it’s one of mine. You’ve already become quite the craftsman.”] Strange, you didn’t realize it before, but there is an incredibly thin line running along the outside of The Venetian’s face. He’s wearing a mask right now. Everything he’s said and done confirms your suspicions: The Venetian is responsible for the disappearances. [[“Give me your Mirror Mask”|5.4]] [[“How did you get the Mirror Masks?”|5.3.1]]

“Ah, where to begin. Well, on Cape Breton Island in East Nova Scotia, French Acadian immigrants would celebrate the season of mid-lent, or Mi-Carême. They would dress up in gaudy costumes and paint masks to trick their neighbors, and if their neighbors couldn’t guess who they were, they had to give them a meal. All in good fun, yes?” We need to echo his enthusiasm. “That’s really interesting, is it like Halloween?” The man rolls his eyes. “No, because The Venetian offers no sale for Halloween.” [[“Are you The Venetian?”|5.3]]

The Venetian frowns, he seems genuinely saddened that you don’t intend to join his careless killings. “I’m afraid I won’t be doing that. Take the day, appreciate your faces, maybe even craft more of your own if you wish. Please, just consider your collection. This is power, $name, and the masquerade is ever-growing. He holds out his hand. “I’d be glad to hold onto your extra faces until you return.” We’ve become quite adept at reading people, so we know one thing for certain: there isn’t any winning in this scenario. You either keep your collection and prove you care for it, or give it to him and acquiesce to his demands. [[Cling to your collection|5.4.1]] [[Forfeit your faces|5.5]] [[“Go to hell” - The Fast Way|5.6]]

You instinctively grab onto your bag, within which resides the Extrovert Mask(if: $LolaKill is true)[ and Echo Mask]. There’s no chance you’re surrendering any more souls to The Venetian’s whims. The Venetian lowers his arm and smiles. “You’ve procured quite the collection of masks. A bit of a pack rat, aren’t you? Can’t seem to part with your trash that may be another’s treasure? Looking at you now, I’m reminded of someone I used to know. Maybe I’ll give him to you someday so you can mount him on your wall with the other faces.” [[Flee The Venetian|5.6]]

You open your bag and fetch the Extrovert Mask(if: $LolaKill is true)[ and Echo Mask] from within. You decide it’s best to not surrender the Mirror Mask just yet, but you fork over the (if:$LolaKill is false)[Extrovert Mask. The face repulses you, and you want as little to do with it as possible.](else:)[rest. The faces repulse you, and you want as little to do with them as possible.] (set: $Hoarder to false) The Venetian smiles, as if this is exactly what he wanted. “I’ll tell you what, keep it. You might need it later. Being a man of many faces has always worked for me. Embrace the masquerade.” We can read the joy he expresses through his movements. The little grin that creeps onto his wicked face. We just fell for his trick. He’s been counting on you acquiescing to his every whim. It’s all been a game since we walked in, and he just won it. You realize it’s definitely time to leave. [[Flee The Venetian|5.6]]

You burst from the boutique and fly to the far side of your car, not bothering to check if it’s safe to run into the street. The engine roars to life and you peel away from the little store. The masquerade? Like hell you’d ever be a part of something so sinister. Then again, having that many faces would let us fit in with almost any crowd. We could rub shoulders with whoever we please, and everyone would enjoy our company, welcoming us with open arms. Your phone starts ringing, and you pull over to answer the call. It’s Alex. “Hey there, $name, if your head is all clear from last night, want to head over to that record store now? I wouldn’t blame you if you didn’t want to go, what with all that shit that went down… But if you want to hang out, I’ll send you the address.” [[“Yeah, let’s meet up. Where is it?”|5.7]]

We weren’t really anticipating Alex to reach out so soon. After one of their friends went missing at the same party last night, we’d think they’d need at least a week to process that trauma. Alex must have a strong will. Either that, or maybe they just like our company that much. $ExtrovertName’s advice from so long ago must be working. You get the address from Alex and agree to meet there in about half an hour. You find yourself cheering up as you peel away from The Venetian, but deny yourself the false sense of security. Nowhere is safe right now. [[Drive to the record store|5.8]]

The record store doesn’t seem to be getting much foot traffic, but it’s definitely more in style than The Venetian. The windows stretch from ceiling to floor, and are bordered by a modern black finishing. Many posters hang in the window praising bands we don’t know the names of, but if we want Alex to like us, we’d better pretend like we’re damn experts on all of them. You find Alex inside, already perusing a bin of vinyls. They’re wearing a Guns N’ Roses shirt today, another band we know little about other than one or two songs our dad listens to in the car. “$name, how are you?” Alex says awkwardly. We mimic their nervousness, aware that this might be a first-date type of scenario. “I’m good, a little rattled, but I’m making it. Are you looking for anything specific?” “Not really, but I found a couple of my favorites from Guns N’ Roses.” Alex pops out their shirt, expressing their interest in the band. We’d better reciprocate the notion. “Yeah, I love Guns N’ Roses too!” Alex smiles. “Oh yeah? What are some of your favorite songs?” We didn’t think this far ahead. (text-colour:navy)[~~'' “I’m sorry, I don’t actually know any, I just want us to have something in common” “To be honest, I'm really just getting into it. Got any song suggestions?”''~~] [[“Well, uh…”|5.9]]

We can really only come up with one way to rectify the confrontation. “What are yours? We can compare.” Alex raises an eyebrow, but goes along with our ruse anyway. “Well, Sweet Child of Mine is a classic, and so is Welcome to the Jungle, but I’m partial to Livin’ On a Prayer.” “I love Livin’ On a Prayer! I actually listened to it on the way here.” Alex glares at us. What did we do wrong? “Livin’ On a Prayer is Bon Jovi, $name. Why are you lying? You’re allowed to like other things, you know…” Alex trails off and thinks to themselves for a moment. “We didn’t talk much last night, what do you like to do for fun?” (text-colour:navy)[~~'' "I like playing videogames with my friends from high school" "I really like to visit new places and try new things"''~~] [[“You know… partying… meeting people”|5.10]]

Alex sighs. “Why are you acting like this? I really thought you seemed cool last night at the party.” Their face flushes red for a moment, which is something we can’t mimic at the moment, as we’re too stressed about getting caught. “I thought… you seemed, you know. Funny, and quirky, and… cute. But you’re acting super difficult right now, and I don’t understand why. Why can’t we both have different interests? I want to learn about you, dumbass, but you’re acting a lot like $ExtrovertName right now, and not in a good way. If you can’t tell me something you’re genuinely passionate about, I’m leaving.” Why aren’t you able to tell Alex about any of your real passions? Why are you just trying to find commonalities that just aren’t there? We really do like everything that Alex likes. There’s a reason people say opposites attract, it’s because you’ll benefit from having different outlooks on life. We need to be similar to Alex in every way, copying their passions and hobbies so that they’ll have more reasons to hang out with us. Maybe there’s another mask we can use to get Alex to desire our companionship. Why are there so many voices in your head? [[Peruse your collection for a helpful mask|5.10.1]] [[Try to find something else you have in common|5.10.1]] [[Tear your face off|5.11]]

We try explaining to Alex that our interests simply align, and that the two of you just have a lot in common. Alex doesn’t seem to be buying this, and gets progressively more antagonistic and suspicious as we refuse to elaborate on any topics we’ve shown interest in. Although we do have many other hobbies - the most recent of which notably being mask making - we’re worried that Alex won’t like us if we’re honest about our interests. (set: $AlexLove to false) Maybe there’s another mask in your collection that could help right now. As Alex scoffs and grabs a vinyl to bring to the counter, you shuffle through your bag. Could the Extrovert Mask help right now? You trade faces. All of our hobbies seem too introverted, or like they won’t have enough substance to capture Alex’s attention. It’s better to not even mention our passions. Maybe a change of scenery would help, like going to get an ice cream or snack somewhere? You catch up to Alex as they begin to leave the store with their purchase. “Want to get something to eat?” (set: $free to false) Alex looks at you and sighs. “Fine, I don’t know why I’m giving you another chance, but fine. Where do you want to go?” Damn, we weren’t ready for that question. “I don’t know, do you have any ideas?” Alex bursts out of the record store, and you chase them outside. “Damn it, $name! You don’t have any interests! Hell, you don’t even seem to have any substance as a person at all! And I’m guessing you won’t tell me why. I don’t know why you’re hiding things from me, but I really hope you figure out… whatever is going on with you. Goodbye.” Alex storms off in the other direction, not looking back. This is all his fault. The Venetian. It’s always been his fault. The disappearances, this masquerade, and now your own life isn’t even yours. Is your face really yours anymore? [[Confront The Venetian|7.1]]

“I’m… this isn’t my face.” You manage to gasp between the voices. Alex seems confused “What are you yapping about? Please don’t get all emo on me right now.” We shouldn’t be doing this, there’s no chance Alex will like the real you! We need to come up with something that will prove we have similar interests. Or maybe we can both agree on something we dislike? Alex seems to like rock and roll, so they’re probably more liberal… what can we mutually despise… government tariffs? It’s not your face. It’s not your thoughts. You would rather tear your own face off than live another minute in someone else’s place. Your fingers curl around the thin line running along your face. And now it’s time. You begin to pull, and the pain is instant. Tearing this mask from you feels almost identical to peeling the skin from your body. The burning sensation returns, far more harsh than the first time you wore a mask. It feels like something is crawling under your skin. No, not crawling, burrowing - surfacing. But you can’t stop now. Somewhere through the flashes of pain, you hear Alex crying out to you, asking what’s happening. But there’s no way to answer yet. After all, the mask has no mouth. [[Get this off me!|5.12]]

Something tears, and a piercing, screaming sound fills the room. Did it come from you? It doesn’t matter now. (set: $free to true) The (if: $LolaKill is true)[Narcissist](else:)[Echo] Mask clunks against the floor of the record store. Your face is yours again. You look at Alex, who has dropped the vinyl they were holding, probably because they’re traumatized. Hopefully they’ll get over it. There’s so much to say now that you have a mouth. “What the hell-” “There’s no time, please, I want to tell you about myself…” [[“I really like making and collecting different masks”|5.12.1]] [[“I really like listening to music, but I’m not really an 80’s person”|5.12.1]] [[“I’ve strangely been getting into knitting recently”|5.12.1]]

Alex looks at you, puzzled and awed by this new revelation and dramatic shift in character. “Stop… I… $name, what’s happening?” You need to explain fast, because you need to take care of things. “The disappearances are all connected to a mask shop: The Venetian. I have to stop him. Those masks changed me, but they’re not me, I promise. And I’m sorry… (if: $EchoKill is true) [ $ExtrovertName is gone because of me.] (else-if: $EchoSpare is true) [ he killed $ExtrovertName.] (if: $LolaKill is true) [ And Lola is also gone. Because of me.]” Alex is stunned. This is way too much information to dump on them, especially right now. “There’s one more thing you need to know about me…” [[“... I really like you”|5.13]] [[“... I promise I’ll be a great friend”|5.14]]

Alex doesn’t seem surprised by this, but their face darkens to a shade of red regardless. “Yeah… I like you too, weirdo. $name, whatever is happening, go sort it out. We can be there for each other when you come back. And thank you… for sharing your true passions with me.” (set: $AlexLove to true) It’s time to go. You need to put an end to this. [[Stop the masquerade|7.1]]

Alex smiles somberly to themself, understanding that you don’t want to pursue a romantic relationship. They nod to you and seem sure in your words. “I don’t really understand what you’re going through, but… thank you, $name, for sharing your passions with me. We’ll talk later, take care of whatever you need to take care of.” (set: $AlexLove to false) It’s time to go. You need to put an end to this. [[Stop the masquerade|7.1]]

You open the thin, wooden door and step up into the shop as a bell rings. The interior reeks of east coast cliche, with creaking wood floors and a coastal scent. In addition to the party of mannequins, there is a vast wall behind a long counter upon which many masks are hung from pegs. Not all of them seem sinister, there are many that simply seem like classic venetian carnival masks, even some paper mache veils that could have been made at an arts & crafts workshop. “Bonjour, hello, my friend!” A door behind the counter opens as a man walks out. He’s far taller than you, wearing a white button-down and a blue vest. He tugs at a black bow tie around his neck and curtsies to you. He’s definitely a character, but we aren’t to be overshadowed, so we bow. He grins and then speaks. “May I assist you?” [[“How do you make your masks?”|6.2.1]] [[“Are you The Venetian?” - Into the Fire|6.3]]

“Many of our faces are painted in the Venetian style, reminiscent of the glamorous carnivals of Venice. Though recently, we’re also learning from the Mi-Carême style originating in Nova Scotia.” We decide to make a jab at him with the intention of establishing his inferiority: “That’s odd, isn’t it? I wouldn’t think an Italian would so willingly learn from the French.” The man laughs to himself as well, “Good one, my friend! That self-righteous face suits you!” We tense up, shattering our nonchalant facade. Can he see our mask? [[“Tell me more about Mi-Carême”|6.2.2]] [[“Are you The Venetian?”|6.3]]

“Why, yes I am. Sole owner and craftsmen of this boutique, I am The Venetian.” “Where do you get the masks?” “I make all the faces you see in this collection myself.” “How.” You’ve grown tired of dancing around the truth. “Why, I make the masks with paint and plaster, as well as-” The Venetian notices you glaring at him. “Ah, but the faces. Yes, I must go and find them. However, I’ve been quite overworked, and in times such as these, Venetians must have help. I suppose you could call them interns.” He takes a good look at your face. “And the face you’re wearing, I don’t believe it’s one of mine. You’ve already become quite the craftsman.” Strange, you didn’t realize it before, but there is an incredibly thin line running along the outside of The Venetian’s face. He’s wearing a mask right now. Everything he’s said and done confirms your suspicions: The Venetian is responsible for the disappearances. [[“Give me your Mirror Mask”|6.4]] [[“How did you get the Mirror Masks?”|6.3.1]]

“Ah, where to begin. Well, on Cape Breton Island in East Nova Scotia, French Acadian immigrants would celebrate the season of mid-lent, or Mi-Carême. They would dress up in gaudy costumes and paint masks to trick their neighbors, and if their neighbors couldn’t guess who they were, they had to give them a meal. All in good fun, yes?” We need to assert ourselves. “That’s really interesting, is it like Halloween?” The man rolls his eyes. “No, because The Venetian offers no sale for Halloween.” [[“Are you The Venetian?”|6.3]]

The Venetian frowns, he seems genuinely saddened that you don’t intend to join his careless killings. “I’m afraid I won’t be doing that. Take the day, appreciate your faces, maybe even craft more of your own if you wish. Please, just consider your collection. This is power, $name, and the masquerade is ever-growing. He holds out his hand. “I’d be glad to hold onto your extra faces until you return.” We know when our pride is hurt, and we’re filled with jealous anger as we come to a revelation: there isn’t any winning in this scenario. You either keep your collection and prove you care for it, or give it to him and acquiesce to his demands. [[Cling to your collection|6.4.1]] [[Forfeit your faces|6.5]] [[“Go to hell” - The Fast Way|6.6]]

Are we really sure about this? Our collection makes us more interesting, it’s something bizarre to brag about. Do we really want to give it up? [[Give it up - Forfeit your faces|6.5.1]] [[Cling to your collection|6.4.1]] [[“Go to hell”|6.6]]

You burst from the boutique and fly to the far side of your car, not bothering to check if it’s safe to run into the street. The engine roars to life and you peel away from the little store. The masquerade? Like hell you’d ever be a part of something so sinister. Then again, having that many faces would make us the most interesting person to have ever lived. It doesn’t matter whose feelings you have to crush to attain this status, you would be the apple of all eyes. Your phone starts ringing, and you pull over to answer the call. It’s Alex. “Hey there, $name, if your head is all clear from last night, want to head over to that record store now? I wouldn’t blame you if you didn’t want to go, what with all that shit that went down… But if you want to hang out, I’ll send you the address.” [[“Yeah, let’s meet up. Where is it?”|6.7]]

You open your bag and fetch the Extrovert Mask(if: $LolaKill is true)[ and Echo Mask] from within. You decide it’s best to not surrender the Mirror Mask just yet, but you fork over the (if:$LolaKill is false)[Extrovert Mask. The face repulses you, and you want as little to do with it as possible.](else:)[rest. The faces repulse you, and you want as little to do with them as possible.] (set: $Hoarder to false) The Venetian smiles, as if this is exactly what he wanted. “I’ll tell you what, keep it. You might need it later. Being a man of many faces has always worked for me. Embrace the masquerade.” We feel that we’ve just done something to undermine ourselves. We just fell for his trick. He’s been counting on you acquiescing to his every whim, the bastard. It’s all been a game since we walked in, and he just won it. You realize it’s definitely time to leave. [[Flee The Venetian|6.6]]

We weren’t really anticipating Alex to reach out so soon. After one of their friends went missing at the same party last night, we’d think they’d need at least a week to process that trauma. Alex must have a strong will. Either that, or maybe they just like our company that much. We are awesome, after all. Maybe Lola was onto something - before we replaced her, that is. You get the address from Alex and agree to meet there in about half an hour. You find yourself cheering up as you peel away from The Venetian, but deny yourself the false sense of security. Nowhere is safe right now. [[Drive to the record store|6.8]]

The record store doesn’t seem to be getting much foot traffic, but it’s definitely more in style than The Venetian. The windows stretch from ceiling to floor, and are bordered by a modern black finishing. Many posters hang in the window praising bands we don’t know the names of, but it doesn’t matter. We can just go on about bands we do know, and Alex will like is anyway, because we’re just that interesting. You find Alex inside, already perusing a bin of vinyls. They’re wearing a Guns N’ Roses shirt today, another band we know little about other than one or two songs our dad listens to in the car. It’s not exactly our favorite, so if it comes up, we’ll change the subject. “$name, how are you?” Alex says awkwardly. We ignore their nervousness, aware that this is a sort of first-date scenario, and flaunt how nonchalant we are. “I’m good, a little rattled, but I’m making it. Are you looking for anything specific?” “Not really, but I found a couple of my favorites from Guns N’ Roses.” Alex pops out their shirt, expressing their interest in the band. We’d better change the subject. “Yeah, I’m not the biggest fan, I usually listen to more modern stuff.” Alex smiles. “Oh… well, would you want to listen to Guns N’s Roses later?” We don’t feel any need to do this. (text-colour:navy)[~~'' “Of course! I really enjoy spending time with you.” “I’ve been wanting to get into 80’s music, got any suggestions?”''~~] [[Shut Alex down|6.9]]

People who bore us really deserve nothing but the blunt truth. “Probably not, if there’s anything my grandfather would listen to, I’m not interested.” Alex raises an eyebrow, but seems to tolerate us anyway. “Well, Sweet Child of Mine is a classic, and so is Welcome to the Jungle. You really don’t like any of that?” “I probably hate everything you like to listen to.” Alex glares at us. What did we do wrong? “You don’t have to hate on other people’s opinions so much. I’m allowed to like other things, you know…” Alex trails off and thinks to themselves for a moment. “We didn’t talk much last night, what do you like to do for fun?” (text-colour:navy)[~~'' "I like playing videogames with my friends from high school" "I really like to visit new places and try new things"''~~] [[“Wouldn’t you like to know?”|6.10]]

Alex sighs. “Why are you acting like this? I really thought you seemed cool last night at the party.” Their face flushes red for a moment, which shouldn’t be a surprise, we’re amazing. “I thought… you seemed, you know. Funny, and quirky, and… cute. But you’re really acting like a real asshole right now, and I don’t understand why. Why can’t we both have different interests? I want to learn about you, dumbass, and I want you to learn about me too. But you’re acting a lot like Lola right now, and there’s no good way to act like Lola. If you can't express any damn interest in my passions, I’m leaving.” Why aren’t you able to appreciate Alex’s interests? Why are you just trying to force all of your opinions on them? We really don’t care about anything that Alex likes, they should appreciate us even if we treat them like trash. There’s a reason people say opposites attract, it’s because you’ll benefit from having different outlooks on life. We need Alex to understand that our time is valuable, and they should be grateful we’re even hanging out with them in the first place. Maybe there’s another mask we can use to get Alex to desire our companionship. Why are there so many voices in your head? [[Peruse your collection for a helpful mask|6.10.1]] [[Try to find something else you have in common|6.10.1]] [[Tear your face off|6.11]]

We try explaining to Alex that we simply have better opinions, and that Alex should just admit that they’re wrong. Alex doesn’t seem to be enjoying this in the slightest, and gets progressively more antagonistic as we elaborate on the futility of any topics they’ve shown interest in. Although we do seem to share many commonalities with Alex, we’ll never admit that to them. (set: $AlexLove to false) Maybe there’s another mask in your collection that could help right now. As Alex scoffs and grabs a vinyl to bring to the counter, you shuffle through your bag. Could the Extrovert Mask help right now? You trade faces. All of our hobbies seem too introverted, or like they won’t have enough substance to capture Alex’s attention. It’s better to not even mention our passions. Maybe a change of scenery would help, like going to get an ice cream or snack somewhere? You catch up to Alex as they begin to leave the store with their purchase. “Want to get something to eat?” (set: $free to false) Alex looks at you and sighs. “Fine, I don’t know why I’m giving you another chance, but fine. Can we go to this one place I saw online? It’s called-” We interject. “Actually, I already know where we should go. There’s this super bougie-” Alex bursts out of the record store, and you chase them outside. “Damn it, $name! You don’t even care about anything I have to say! Hell, you don’t even seem to realize that I’m a person too! And I’m guessing you won’t tell me why. I don’t know why you’re being so damn narcissistic, but I really hope you figure out… whatever is going on with you. Goodbye.” Alex storms off in the other direction, not looking back. This is all his fault. The Venetian. It’s always been his fault. The disappearances, this masquerade, and now your own life isn’t even yours. Is your face really yours anymore? [[Confront The Venetian|7.1]]

“I’m… this isn’t my face.” You manage to gasp between the voices. Alex seems confused “What are you yapping about? Please don’t get all emo on me right now.” We shouldn’t be doing this, there’s no chance Alex will like the real you! We need to prove that we’re the greatest person Alex has ever met. Maybe Alex will be more interested in something that we despise. Government tariffs have caused a lot of prices to go up and that pisses you off, so… we despise economic inflation? It’s not your face. It’s not your thoughts. You would rather tear your own face off than live another minute in someone else’s place. Your fingers curl around the thin line running along your face. And now it’s time. You begin to pull, and the pain is instant. Tearing this mask from you feels almost identical to peeling the skin from your body. The burning sensation returns, far more harsh than the first time you wore a mask. It feels like something is crawling under your skin. No, not crawling, burrowing - surfacing. But you can’t stop now. Somewhere through the flashes of pain, you hear Alex crying out to you, asking what’s happening. But there’s no way to answer yet. After all, the mask has no mouth. [[Get this off me!|6.12]]

Something tears, and a piercing, screaming sound fills the room. Did it come from you? It doesn’t matter now. (set: $free to true) The (if: $LolaKill is true)[Narcissist](else:)[Echo] Mask clunks against the floor of the record store. Your face is yours again. You look at Alex, who has dropped the vinyl they were holding, probably because they’re traumatized. Hopefully they’ll get over it. There’s so much to say now that you have a mouth. “What the hell-” “There’s no time, please, I have to tell you…” [[“I think you have this super cool and mysterious vibe”|6.12.1]] [[“I think it’s awesome you like 80’s music, and I want to know more”|6.12.1]] [[“I think you have a really funny vocabulary, and I enjoy spending time with you”|6.12.1]]

Alex looks at you, puzzled and awed by this new revelation and dramatic shift in character. “Stop… I… $name, what’s happening?” You need to explain fast, because you need to take care of things. “The disappearances are all connected to a mask shop: The Venetian. I have to stop him. Those masks changed me, but they’re not me, I promise. And I’m sorry… (if: $EchoKill is true) [ $ExtrovertName is gone because of me.] (else-if: $EchoSpare is true) [ he killed $ExtrovertName.] (if: $LolaKill is true) [ And Lola is also gone. Because of me.]” Alex is stunned. This is way too much information to dump on them, especially right now. “There’s one more thing you need to know about me…” [[“... I really like you”|6.13]] [[“... I promise I’ll be a great friend”|6.14]]

Alex doesn’t seem surprised by this, but their face darkens to a shade of red regardless. “Yeah… I like you too, weirdo. $name, whatever is happening, go sort it out. We can be there for each other when you come back. And thank you… for taking an interest in all my passions.” (set: $AlexLove to true) It’s time to go. You need to put an end to this. [[Stop the masquerade|7.1]]

Alex smiles somberly to themself, understanding that you don’t want to pursue a romantic relationship. They nod to you and seem sure in your words. “I don’t really understand what you’re going through, but… thank you, $name, for caring about my interests. We’ll talk later, take care of whatever you need to take care of.” (set: $AlexLove to false) It’s time to go. You need to put an end to this. [[Stop the masquerade|7.1]]

We credit him. “You even got me a Sprite, someone’s been paying attention.” $IntrovertName smiles as Ted takes his seat next to them. “It’s nothing, I just like to keep aware,” Ted responds. “Well I call it being nice, thank you.” Our chair begins to engulf us whole, slinking back as if we just lost a fight. Maybe we should just knuckle under, if Ted and $IntrovertName have a thing going, then good for them. “Meet anybody special at college, $name?” Aaron suddenly inquires. We shoot up straight in our chair, face getting warm as blood starts to flow into it. Aaron is giving you a very serious look, and he nods his head towards $IntrovertName, who is also giving you their full attention. Even Ted’s interest has been piqued, as he missed Aaron’s silent communication with you. [[“No, just starting to make friends”|1.14.1]] [[“I’ve got my eye on someone in Uni”|1.14.2]] (text-colour:navy)[''~~"Yeah, I’ve actually gotten involved with someone"~~'']

The street is empty, and you park about a block away. As you exit your car, you see him waiting for you in the center of the road. Mannequins fit with masks have been lined along the sidewalk; onlookers for your confrontation. The sun has begun to set, casting ominous shadows that stretch towards you. The Venetian wears a long blue overcoat. It flutters slightly in the wind channeled through the old brick buildings. From under the coat’s folds, he wears a sleek black vest, juxtaposed by a bright orange tie tucked beneath it. A blue bowler hat rests on his head. As you approach him in the street, he looks up at you. The face he is wearing is far more visible as dusk settles in, it must have been someone terribly sinister. (if: $free is false) [Your face begins to crawl, as if the mask is reacting to his. ] (else-if: $free is true) [The skin on your face begins to crawl, remembering the pain the masquerade has brought you. ] He tips his hat to you once your paces come to a halt about a yard from him. “Welcome back, (if: $AaronKill is true) [craftsman.] (else-if: $TedKill is true) [craftsman.] (else-if: $EchoKill is true) [craftsman.] (else-if: $LolaKill is true) [craftsman.] (else:) [collector.] Finally ready to join the masquerade?” [[Join the Masquerade|8.1]] [[Resist The Venetian|7.2]]