Space Lizards — Telltale mock script

SCENE 1 SHIP

MAIN PATH

DIR: SOMI is sitting in a cargo bay in a spaceship watching a movie in the air on a hologram. VODOR walks into the room.

MAIN PATH

SOMI: Hi Dad.

CHOICES

1. Ah, Somi, you've found another one of those old movies?

2. Hey Honey what are you watching?

3. Don’t you have homework to be doing?

4. Silence

1. Ah, Somi, you've found another one of those old movies?VODOR: Ah, Somi, you've found another one of those old movies?

SOMI: Is it okay to watch it?

[TO MAIN PATH]

2. Hey Honey what are you watching?

VODOR: Hey Honey what are you watching?

SOMI: Aliens are attacking the earth, and they really hate bridges.

VODOR: I mean you are not wrong.

[TO MAIN PATH]

3. Don’t you have homework to be doing?

VODOR: Don’t you have homework to be doing?

SOMI: um...

VODOR: After the movie, okay?

SOMI: OKAY

[TO MAIN PATH]

4. Silence

VODOR: ...

SOMI: Dad

VODOR:...

SOMI: Don’t just stand there come sit down.

[TO MAIN PATH]

MAIN PATH

DIR: VODOR walks over to join her and lifts SOMI onto his shoulders.

VODOR: You know, when I was your age, we watched these on a screen.

SOMI: Really?

VODOR: When I was your age, we would all gather in a big room with cozy chairs, eat snacks and watch movies together.

SOMI: Wouldn’t that make it too loud to enjoy the movie

VODOR: Sometimes... What would you say to once we finish this trip what would you say to seeing one on a big screen?

DIR: SOMI Nods and smiles and the movie continues for a beat.

SOMI: Is the Golden Gate Bridge a real place?

CHOICES

1. Yes

2. Not anymore

3. It was destroyed

4. Silence

1. YES

VODOR: Yes. There is a museum somewhere that has a beam from it on display.

SOMI: Can we see it?

VODOR: Eventually.

SOMI: Oh.

[TO MAIN PATH]

2. Not anymore

VODOR: Not anymore.

SOMI: Why?

VODOR: There wasn’t much reason to rebuild it.

SOMI: Oh.

[TO MAIN PATH]

3. It was destroyed

VODOR: It was destroyed

SOMI: What happened was it aliens?

VODOR: It was people.

SOMI: Oh.

[TO MAIN PATH]

4. Silence

SOMI: Tell me. Tell me. Tell me.

VODOR:(sighs)

[TO MAIN PATH]

MAIN PATH

VODOR: There are many reasons a lot of the places from the movies are not around anymore my dear. Some say it's because of the dangers of science and technology. Others argue that it was simply a matter of time before humanity's insatiable appetite for progress caught up with them.

SOMI: But you don't believe that people are bad, do you?

CHOICES:

1. I do

2. I don’t

3. Perhaps not entirely

4. Silence

1. I do

VODOR: I do

SOMI: Am I bad?

VODOR: You can be, I can be, we all have the ability to be bad, that’s why we need to learn things kiddo.

[TO MAIN PATH]

2. I don’t

VODOR: I don’t

SOMI: Really?

VODOR: Your gaze is fixed on the flickering images of long-lost worlds. But the beauty of people is that they remember to film it.

SOMI: What?

VODOR: it will make sense someday. We help record things with our trips.

[TO MAIN PATH]

3. Perhaps not entirely

VODOR: Perhaps not entirely. We do need to be careful, we lost a bridge but gained spaceships, and it's quite complex.

SOMI: Oki

[TO MAIN PATH]

4. Silence

SOMI: Dad? Daaaad?

VODOR: Let me think sweetie.

[TO MAIN PATH]

MAIN PATH

VODOR: But I do believe that the pursuit of power often leads to betrayal and loss. We have laws in place to never mess with worlds less developed tech than us for a reason. Things are both dangerous and important to grow.

SOMI: Is that why we're on this mission? To protect people from those dangers?

VODOR: Partly. The treasure in the cargo hold is an out-of-place artifact or oopart, something the world we found it on shouldn’t have had.

SOMI: Like in the old movies

VODOR: Indeed

DIR: There is an artifact in the center of the cargo hold, bathed in an ethereal glow that seemed to defy the dim light of the room. Its surface was inscribed with symbols and runes that bore no resemblance to any known language or script. A treasure from another time and place. SUZY enters the room. VODOR walks over to talk to her.

SUZY: But seriously what is this thing?

VODOR: No idea. Regardless of its true nature, one thing was certain: we had been entrusted with its safekeeping.

SUZY: Are you not curious?

VODOR: Running cargo to museums was a definite step up from live combat, it's less exciting but I would gladly deal with SOMI asking me ‘why’ a million times compared to atomic year-long tours of duty.

SUZY: She seems lost in thought; did you break her brain again?

CHOICES:

1. Yup.

2. Not really.

3. Maybe?

4. Silence

1. Yup

VODOR: Yup.

SUZY: Babe she’s twelve.

[TO MAIN PATH]

2. Not really.

VODOR: Not really.

SUZY: Well, too bad, as parents we get to mess with her a bit.

VODOR: Ha

[TO MAIN PATH]

3. Maybe?

VODOR: Maybe?

SUZY: What am I going to do with you two?

VODOR: Love us?

[TO MAIN PATH]

4. Silence

VODOR says nothing.

SUZY: You in their captain?

VODOR: Something seems off.

[TO MAIN PATH]

MAIN PATH

DIR: A sudden jolt shakes the ship, followed by the screech of tearing metal and the unmistakable stench of burning circuits. The walls groan under the strain, the lights flickering ominously as the air fills with the cacophony of alarms and warning sirens.

Choice

1. WHO!

2. WHAT!

3. WHEN!

4. Silence

1. WHO!

VODOR opens his mouth to speak but is distracted by the ringing in his ears.

[TO MAIN PATH]

2. WHAT!

VODOR opens his mouth to speak but is distracted by the ringing in his ears.

[TO MAIN PATH]

3. WHEN!

VODOR opens his mouth to speak but is distracted by the ringing in his ears.

[TO MAIN PATH]

4. Silence

VODOR opens his mouth to speak but is distracted by the ringing in his ears.

[TO MAIN PATH]

MAIN PATH

SUZY: Vodor! We're under attack! Pirates, they're boarding the ship!

VODOR: get out of here with SOMI.

DIR: SUZY grabs SOMI and leaves the room.

DIR: SUZY's voice crackles over the comm system.

SUZY: Be careful, Vodor. I love you.

VODOR: Stay safe, Suzy.

DIR: Sparks fly off the side of the wall as another ship cuts into the storage room.

Major Choice:

1. Equip Armor

2. Draw Firearm

3. Unsheath Sword

4. Stand still like an idiot

1. Equip armor

DIR: VODOR stands, drawing an octagonal device from his belt. He presses the device to his chest, feeling the cold metal bite into his skin. Layer upon layer of nanofibers wrap themselves about his body, moulding to his shape with an almost sentient awareness, as though alive and eager to protect their master. Within moments, Vodor is encased in a suit of gleaming black, a living shell.

[TO MAIN PATH]

2. Draw Firearm

DIR: VODOR stands, his hand hovering over his belt where a sleek, futuristic firearm is holstered. With a quick, practiced motion, he draws the firearm, its metallic surface gleaming in the dim light. The weapon hums softly, its energy core powering up as Vodor aims.

[TO MAIN PATH]

3. Unsheath Sword

DIR: VODOR stands, his hand hovering over his belt. With a swift motion, he draws a sleek, futuristic sword from its sheath. The blade gleams with a blue energy, crackling with power. Vodor grips the hilt, feeling the hum of energy coursing through the weapon. With a determined look, he prepares for battle, the sword a deadly extension of his will.

[TO MAIN PATH]

4. Stand still like an idiot

VODOR's ship is under attack by PIRATES, their vessel closing in fast. Vodor fights valiantly, but he is outnumbered and outgunned. A pirate's blaster shot hits him, sending him staggering back, wounded but still standing. He clutches his side, blood seeping through his fingers.

Ignoring the pain, Vodor draws his sci-fi sword, its blade glowing brightly in the darkness. He faces the pirates, determination in his eyes. But the pirates overwhelm him, their numbers too great. One by one, they strike him down, the final blow sending him crashing to the deck.

As Vodor lies dying, he looks up at the stars, his vision fading. The pirates loom over him, victorious. Vodor's hand loosens its grip on the sword, and it clatters to the deck, its energy fading along with his life.

[TO CORPSE]

Main Path

DIR: The cargo hold doors shuddered open, revealing a horde of pirates pouring into the room like a swarm of locusts. Their faces were hidden behind masks and helmets, but their intentions were clear: they had come for the artifact, and would not hesitate to kill anyone who stood in their way.

SUZY: (on coms) I got her to a panic room I am on my way back!

CHOICES:

1. Come help me secure the artifact

2. Get her ready to eject

3. Get into a panic room yourself

4. Silence

1. Come help me secure the artifact

VODOR: Come help me secure the artifact

DIR: The first pirate lunges at VODOR, a wicked blade gleaming in his hand. With practiced precision, he sidesteps the attack,

[If Draw Firearm]

Firing a single shot that sent him crumpling to the ground. But there was no time for respite, as more adversaries surged forward.

[if Equip Armor]

The pirate's shot deflects off the armor as VODOR punches the pirate in the face.

[If Unsheath Sword]

VODOR deflects a bullet and cuts a gun in half.

[All three]

SUZY: Watch out!

DIR: VODOR instinctively dives to the side just as a pirate lunges, his [armor, firearm, sword] glinting maliciously in the dim light.

VODOR: I Love you

[TO MAIN PATH]

2. Get her ready to eject

VODOR: Get SOMI ready to eject.

DIR: The first pirate lunges at VODOR, a wicked blade gleaming in his hand. With practiced precision, he sidesteps the attack,

[If Draw Firearm]

Firing a single shot that sent him crumpling to the ground. But there was no time for respite, as more adversaries surged forward.

[if Equip Armor]

The pirate's shot deflects off the armor as VODOR punches the pirate in the face.

[If Unsheath Sword]

VODOR deflects a bullet and cuts a gun in half.

[All three]

SUZY: Watch out!

DIR: VODOR instinctively dives to the side just as a pirate lunges, his [armor, firearm, sword] glinting maliciously in the dim light.

VODOR: You are not supposed to be here

SUZY: I wasn’t going to leave you!

VODOR: I Love you

[TO MAIN PATH]

3. Get into a panic room yourself

VODOR: Get yourself into the panic room.

DIR: The first pirate lunges at VODOR, a wicked blade gleaming in his hand. With practiced precision, he sidesteps the attack,

[If Draw Firearm]

Firing a single shot that sent him crumpling to the ground. But there was no time for respite, as more adversaries surged forward.

[if Equip Armor]

The pirate's shot deflects off the armor as VODOR punches the pirate in the face.

[If Unsheath Sword]

VODOR deflects a bullet and cuts a gun in half.

[All three]

SUZY: Watch out!

DIR: VODOR instinctively dives to the side just as a pirate lunges, his [armor, firearm, sword] glinting maliciously in the dim light.

VODOR: You are not supposed to be here

SUZY: I wasn’t going to leave you!

VODOR: I Love you but go!

[TO MAIN PATH]

4. Silence

DIR: The first pirate lunges at VODOR, a wicked blade gleaming in his hand. With practiced precision, he sidesteps the attack,

[If Draw Firearm]

Firing a single shot that sent him crumpling to the ground. But there was no time for respite, as more adversaries surged forward.

[if Equip Armor]

The pirate's shot deflects off the armor as VODOR punches the pirate in the face.

[If Unsheath Sword]

VODOR deflects a bullet and cuts a gun in half.

[All three]

SUZY: Watch out!

DIR: VODOR instinctively dives to the side just as a pirate lunges, his [armor, firearm, sword] glinting maliciously in the dim light.

SUZY: Why didn’t you answer your coms?

VODOR: I was kinda busy?

SUZY: You think?

VODOR: I love you?

[TO MAIN PATH]

DIR: SUZY is hard at work securing the artifact as VODOR is guarding the door waiting for more pirates.

VODOR: I would never tell you to hurry

SUZY: Maybe if we knew what this was I could just throw it in a bag

DIR: A voice from beyond the breach yells.

OSSAR: Give us the artifact, and we might let you live!

CHOICES

1. Get better badguy lines!

2. Fuck. You.

3. Sure, just walk on over.

4. Silence.

1. Get better badguy lines!

VODOR: Get better badguy lines. I have heard this one like twenty times already.

OSSAR: Help me help you

VODOR: A good person has literally never said that line.

OSSAR: Dude.

[TO MAIN PATH]

2. Fuck. You.

VODOR: Fuck. You.

OSSAR: Fucking IPC sellout

VODOR: Fucking pirate scum, what did grad school not work out?

OSSAR: I am gonna enjoy killing you

[TO MAIN PATH]

3. Sure, just walk on over.

VODOR: Sure, just walk on over.

OSSAR: Nice try, I walk over and you [Punch, shot, stab] me in the face? How about you just slide it over?

VODOR: You’re not as dumb as you look.

4. Silence

OSSAR: I know you’re in there lieutenant VODOR. Just come on out and let us settle this like adults.

[TO MAIN PATH]

MAIN PATH

OSSAR: Have it your way!

DIR: They fight.

VODOR:  Dying is one thing, but if I lose the cargo my retirement is over, my future is over, and we need the money.

OSSAR: Ya, I became a pirate for the fun of it.

SUZY: Vodor, I've secured the artifact!

VODOR: Good! Now we need to get Somi out of here.

SUZY: We should split up, one of us takes the artifact and goes to SOMI The other holds them off

CHOICES:

1. Go I'll cover you!

2. Cover me I'll go!

1. Go I’ll Cover you!

VODOR: Go I’ll cover you!

[TO MAIN PATH]

2. Cover me I’ll go!

VODOR: Cover me I’ll go!

[TO MAIN PATH]

MAIN PATH

VODOR: (to themselves) It's necessary. I'll ensure their safety, whatever the cost.

DIR: Suddenly, the battlefield falls silent, as if time itself has stopped. The sounds of battle are replaced by a profound silence. VODOR stands, breathing heavily, sweat glistening on their body. They watch as both the pirates and their crew freeze in place.

A black-light, something impossible, pours out from the artifact as the space itself cracks open above SUZY. SUZY quickly removes her armor and wraps it around the artifact, creating a web around it.

A mechanical dragon-like alien emerges from the hole in space, its sinister form striking terror into the hearts of all who beheld it. Its body was wrought of twisted metal, its spine a field of spikes, its head a gaping maw with a crown of horns, its eyes like dying stars. They pause, the gravity of the situation sinking in.

VODOR: This creature was unlike any foe I had ever faced before. Its armoured scales reflected the harsh light of the battle as it moved with a deadly grace that belied its fearsome appearance. Its eyes glowed with unnatural malice, and as it advanced, the air seemed to crackle with the palpable dread it instilled in both pirates and crew alike. The only marker of life was a slash across its right eye.

CHOICES:

1. The Fuck is that thing?

2. The Fuck is that thing?

3. The Fuck is that thing?

4. The Fuck is that thing?

1. The Fuck is that thing

VODOR: The Fuck is that thing?

[TO MAIN PATH]

2. The Fuck is that thing

VODOR: The Fuck is that thing?

[TO MAIN PATH]

3. The Fuck is that thing

VODOR: The Fuck is that thing?

[TO MAIN PATH]

4. The Fuck is that thing

VODOR: The Fuck is that thing?

[TO MAIN PATH]

MAIN PATH

SUZY: VODOR! Get SOMI out of here!

DIR: The creature steps on SUZY and OSSAR starts shooting it as VODOR picks the armor-wrapped artifact off the ground.

SUZY: Now!

DIR: VODOR runs down the hall towards the panic room on the ship with dead crew members and pirates along the way. The mechanical dragon stomped behind him.

SOMI: Dad!

DIR: The stage is set with wreckage and chaos. VODOR runs towards SOMI. He lifts her off the ground and cradles her protectively within his arms. She is trembling and tear-streaked.

SOMI: What's happening?"

VODOR: Stay close to me. I'll keep you safe, I promise.

DIR: He sprints towards a small escape pod, its hatch open like the mouth of salvation. He sets Somi gently inside, securing her with restraints and placing the artifact in her hands/

SOMI: Father, don't leave me!"

MAJOR CHOICE 1:

1. You're going to be okay.

2. This pod will take you to safety.

3. Your mother and I... we'll find you soon, I swear.

4. Never forget us.

1. You’re going to be okay

VODOR: You are going to be okay. I will always love you.

[TO MAIN PATH]

2. This pod will take you to safety

VODOR: This pod will take you to safety. Everything you need to know to survive will be on the ship computer, it will find you a nearby planet and you... You are a smart girl, survive and be safe.

[TO MAIN PATH]

3. Your mother and I... we'll find you soon, I swear.

VODOR: Your mother and I... we'll find you soon, I swear. Stay close to the pod, we can track its signal and we will come for you, so be a brave girl, okay?

[TO MAIN PATH]

3. Never forget us

VODOR: Never forget us. Your mother and I, there is no guarantee we will be able to come for you, everything you need is in the pod, do whatever you have to do.

SOMI: Dad no! Promise you will come back!

[TO MAIN PATH]

MAIN PATH

DIR: [He hands her the sword, gun or armour, which he presses into her hands.]

SOMI: (sobbing) Promise me.

VODOR: I Promise.

DIR: With a final embrace, VODOR closes the hatch, sealing SOMI away from him, perhaps forever.

SUZY: (Coms) We are heading towards you.

VODOR: (Coms) I have sent her off the ship.

SUZY: (Coms) Good.

DIR: The stage is set with smoke and acrid fumes VODOR runs back towards the battle and meets an injured SUZY and OSSAR in the hallway next to the second tow of escape pods. SUZY is locked in combat with the beast. Their sinuous forms coiled and twisted like some macabre dance of death. Beside her, OSSAR fought valiantly, The pirate falls, his body crumpling to the ground, as the mechanical lizard raises its bladed appendage for a killing blow. His helmet tumbles off, revealing silver hair.

VODOR: Suzy!

DIR: SUZY'S eyes meet VODOR'S in a single, agonizing moment of shared understanding before the claws come down, SUZY pushes the pirate out of the way. She is bloodied but still standing. With what little life the pirate has left, he shoots the mechanical terror in the back, and it falls.

SUZY: Vodor... Go... save yourself.

VODOR: (Sobbing) SUZY, no...

SUZY: Go! Find her!

DIR: She shoves Vodor forcefully toward one of the two remaining escape pods. As he falls inside, he catches one last glimpse of SUZY, her face etched with pain and determination, before the hatch slams shut, plunging him into darkness. The impact of the escape pod jolting against the ground rouses VODOR from his stupor.

VODOR: Where am I? How long was I out?

DIR: VODOR pushes open the hatch, and the acrid scent of smouldering metal fills his nostrils. The sight that greets him could not be more foreign to his senses. Towering trees with thick, twisted trunks reach for a sky painted in hues of lavender and indigo. Yellow stone structures loom in the distance, their primitive architecture reminiscent of a time long before the birth of advanced technology. It is as if he has awoken within the pages of an ancient, forgotten tome. But the buildings seem to breathe.

VODOR: (Murmuring) Suzy... Somi.

He whispers into the wind as if the mere utterance of their names might conjure them before him. But the wind carries only silence in response, leaving him alone with the echoes of his despair.

SCENE 2 ALIEN PLANET

MAIN PATH

DIR: VODOR stands atop a hill, overlooking the vast medieval landscape. Primitive architecture is off in the distance. Stone and timber houses with thatched roofs, smoke rising lazily from chimneys. In the distance, an animal trills, and the rumble of carts echoes along cobbled streets. This world is untouched by the advanced technology VODOR is accustomed to.

VODOR: If it weren't for the purple sky and two suns, I'd feel like I was walking into a movie.

DIR: VODOR watches as strange, mosquito-like creatures flit about. They're half-wasp, half-bee, and half-hummingbird. Close to VODOR is a large pink FROG.

FROG: Ribbit

CHOICES:

1. What the hell are those things?

2. Sounds about right

3. How does every planet have these

4. Silence

1. What the hell are those things?

VODOR: What the hell are those things?

FROG: Ribbit

VODOR: Do you guys eat them

FROG: Croak

VODOR: and I am talking to a frog

[TO MAIN PATH]

2. Sounds about right

VODOR: Sounds about right

FROG: Ribbit

VODOR: and the day gets worse.

[TO MAIN PATH]

3. How does every planet have these

VODOR: how does every planet have these things?

FROG: Ribbit?

VODOR: Not you, I got no problem with frogs, it’s the wasp things

FROG: Ribbit?

VODOR: See convergent evolution is when...

FROg: Ribbit?

[TO MAIN PATH]

4. Silence

FROG: Ribbit?

VODOR(groans)

FROG: Ribbit?

[TO MAIN PATH]

MAIN PATH

VODOR: If there's a god across the universe, why would she spawn creatures like this on all worlds with life? A cruel joke?

DIR: emotional support FROG unfurls its pterodactyl wings and flies away and starts eating the bees.

VODOR: (Sign)

OPTIONAL CHOICES:

1. Check comunicatior

2. Check landing pod

3. Look at the sky

4. Check backpack

5. Inspect plants

6. Head to village

1. Check communicator

VODOR: Let's see if this thing still works. checks communicator

COMMUNICATOR: [Static]

VODOR: Great, just great.

[TO OPTIONAL CHOICES]

2. Check landing pod

VODOR: Better check the landing pod for any damage. inspects landing pod

LANDING POD: Error 404

VODOR: Looks like it didn’t survive the landing intact, I doubt it will cause to much trouble.

Choices:

A. Set it to self-destruct

B. Cover it in moss

C. Move it

D. Do nothing

A. Set it to self-destruct

VODOR: Time to take drastic measures. sets it to self-destruct

DEVICE: Self-destruct sequence initiated. Countdown initiated.

VODOR: I hope this works.

[TO OPTIONAL CHOICES]

B. Cover it in moss

VODOR: Maybe I can camouflage it. covers it in moss

DEVICE: [Camouflaged]

VODOR: That should hide it from prying eyes.

[TO OPTIONAL CHOICES]

C. Move it

VODOR: I should relocate it to a safer location.DIR: VODOR struggles to move the machine and gives upVODOR: Thing is not going to budge

[TO OPTIONAL CHOICES]

D. Do nothing

VODOR: I'll leave it be for now. does nothing. Hopefully, it won't cause any trouble.

[TO OPTIONAL CHOICES]

3. Look at the sky

VODOR: looks up at the sky

SKY: [Unfamiliar constellations]

VODOR: Well, at least the stars are pretty.

[TO OPTIONAL CHOICES]

4. Check backpack

VODOR: Let's see what supplies I have left. I have limited supplies: water, rations, basic tools. Not much, but it'll have to do.

[TO OPTIONAL CHOICES]

5. Inspect plants

VODOR: I wonder if these plants are edible.

DIR: VODOR attempts to use a wrist-mounted COMPUTER.COMPUTER: Unknown species, possibly tox— low battery

VODOR: Maybe not.

[TO OPTIONAL CHOICES]

6. Head to village

VODOR: I should head to that village for help. heads towards village

DIR: VODOR is talking into a wrist-mounted COMPUTER.

COMPUTER: Entering power saving mode. Updating now!

VODOR: No don't update

COMPUTER: (turns off)

DIR: Visible in the distance, appears to be an inhabited village

VODOR: Hopefully they're friendly.

[TO MAIN PATH]

MAIN PATH

DIR: VODOR descends a hill into a bustling village below. The villagers, humanoid creatures with creamy yellow scales, dark teal stripes, and large two-lobed eyes, scatter as he approaches. They have an almost puppy-like look if puppies were small reptiles. Each being also sports an array of featherlike plumage. VODOR watches as the villagers skitter away into the woods, likely towards the village.

VODOR: If SOMI made it out she would likely head towards people.

DIR: A sudden cry pierces the air.

CHOICES:

1. Run toward the cry

2. Hide and observe.

1. Run toward the cry

DIR: VODOR, jolts into action, sprinting towards the source of the disturbance. VODOR arrives at a clearing to find a small lizard-like child entangled in the grasp of a fearsome purple hippopotamus creature. The child's wide eyes are filled with terror, their scaled body trembling in fear.

[TO MAIN PATH]

2. Hide and observe.

DIR: Instinctively, VODOR moves quietly towards the source of the disturbance, careful not to be seen. As they approach a clearing, they spot a small lizard-like CHILD entangled in the grasp of the tentacles of a fearsome purple hippopotamus creature PURPLE BEHEMOTH. The child's wide eyes are filled with terror, their scaled body trembling in fear.

[TO MAIN PATH]

CHOICES:

1. Release the child!

2. Run away!

3. Help!

4. Silence

1. Release the child!

VODOR: Release the child!

DIR: The creature seems unfazed.

CHILD: (It says its language version of help)

VODOR: Not sure why I thought that would work.

[TO MAIN PATH]

2. Run Away!

VODOR: Run Away!

DIR: The CHILD tries to struggle free to no avail.

CHILD: (It says its language version of help)

VODOR: SHIT!

[TO MAIN PATH]

3. Help!

VODOR: Help!

OSSAR: (Off screen) I am coming, just buy some time.

DIR: The CHILD tries to struggle free to no avail.

VODOR: HOW!

[TO MAIN PATH]

4. Silence

OSSAR: What are you standing around for? Do something!

DIR: The CHILD tries to struggle free to no avail.

VODOR: Fuck.

[TO MAIN PATH]

MAIN PATH

DIR: PURPLE BEHEMOTH, a monstrous creature, holds a child captive in its massive grip.

VODOR spots a rusty pitchfork nearby and seizes it. With all his strength, he plunges the prongs into the creature's thick hide. It bellows in pain, releasing its captive.

VODOR: Run!

DIR: The CHILD hesitates for a moment, then scampers away, eyes wide with fear and gratitude.

VODOR watches the child disappear into the safety of the village, feeling a small measure of triumph.

The wounded behemoth turns its gaze on VODOR, enraged. He braces himself, the pitchfork trembling in his hands.

VODOR: Not the worst way to die.

DIR: A voice booms from behind him.

OSSAR: Vodor, get down!

Choices:

1. Duck

2. Don’t duck

1. Duck

DIR: VODOR instinctively drops to the ground as a GUNSHOT rings out. The projectile tears into the creature's skull, silencing its roar as it crashes lifelessly to the pearlescent mud.

VODOR: Geeze

[TO MAIN PATH]

2. Don’t Duck

DIR: VODOR does not to the ground as a GUNSHOT rings out. The projectile tears into his skull, silencing him as he crashes lifelessly to the ground.

OSSAR: Why didn’t he dodge?!

[IS DEAD]

MAIN PATH

DIR: VODOR rolls onto his back, his heart pounding. He looks up to see his saviour approaching OSSAR – a figure with silver hair that gleams in the faint light. The figure's piercing blue eyes are deep and purposeful. He extends a hand to help VODOR to his feet. VODOR studies him warily.

OSSAR: Glad you know how to dodge.

DIR: The CHILD runs off towards the village.

CHOICES:

1. Who are you?

2. You are one of those damn pirates?

3. Have you seen anyone else?

4. Silence.

1. Who are you?

VODOR: Who are you?

The figure remains silent, his gaze steady trying to figure something out. VODOR takes the outstretched hand, and as he stands, the figure speaks.

OSSAR: You are safe now. Come, we must leave this place.

VODOR: Stop. Who are you?

OSSAR: OSSAR Flint, And you are Vodor Tempest?

CHOICES:

a. Yes

b. No

c. Maybe

d. Silence

A.Yes

VODOR: Yes.

OSSAR: Good, some trust is nice.

[TO MAIN PATH]

B. No

VODOR: No.

OSSAR: That's disappointing, but I understand.

[TO MAIN PATH]

C. Maybe

VODOR: Maybe.

OSSAR: Hmm, uncertainty can be challenging, but it leaves room for possibilities.

[TO MAIN PATH]

D. Silence

VODOR: ...

OSSAR: Your silence speaks volumes. Let's proceed.

[TO MAIN PATH]

2. You are one of those damn pirates?

VODOR: You are one of those damn pirates?

OSSAR (chuckles, shaking their head.) No, no, I'm not a pirate anymore. Just a wanderer, like you, it seems. Lost in these strange lands.

VODOR: Strange lands?

OSSAR: But enough talk, come, let's find a way out of here before the real dangers find us.

[TO MAIN PATH]

3. Have you seen anyone else?

VODOR: Have you seen anyone else?

OSSAR pauses, glancing around cautiously before answering.

OSSAR: No, I haven't. It's been quiet, too quiet. But we shouldn't linger. Come, we must keep moving.

VODOR: Wait, why should I trust you?

FIGURE: You don't have to trust me.

[TO MAIN PATH]

4. Silence.

OSSAR: You have no questions? Come, we must leave this place. You are safe now.

VODOR: I know who you are and safe is likely.

OSSAR: OSSAR Flint. And you are Vodor Tempest?

VODOR:...

FIGURE: We don’t need trust but it would be nice.

[TO MAIN PATH]

MAIN PATH

DIR: VODOR nods, still cautious, but trusting the mysterious figure. They begin to walk together, disappearing into the darkness of the forest.

OSSAR: You're searching for survivors, aren't you?

VODOR: Yes. But you need to get rid of the boom stick.

OSSAR: Hell no, this just saved your life.

VODOR: And make the locals think you are some kind of god? We have the accords for a reason. Outsider tech can quickly bring ruin to this world.

OSSAR: It's just one gun.

CHOICES:

1. It’s the gun or me.

2. Then let me carry it.

3. Fine.

4. Silence

1. It’s the gun or me.

VODOR: It’s the gun or me, and I bet you would like a second human around. If you were gonna shoot me I would already be dead.

OSSAR: Would it help if I let you hold it?

VODOR: How do you know I won’t shoot you with it?

OSSAR: cause I would have been impaled by a pitchfork already.

[TO MAIN PATH]

2. Then let me carry it.

VODOR: Then let me carry it. I won't use it unless necessary.

OSSAR: You sure about that? Once you have it, you might find reasons to use it. A lawful type like you is no fan of shooting things.

VODOR: I understand the risk. I'll only use it to protect us. Besides I have shot more people then you have.

OSSAR: Fine. But if things go south, I'm holding you responsible.

[TO MAIN PATH]

3. Fine.

VODOR: Fine. But if I have to I will snap it right out of your skinny wrists.

OSSAR: Fine. Just stay close and keep your eyes open.

[TO MAIN PATH]

4. Silence

VODOR: ...

OSSAR: Well, I’ll take that as a yes. Let’s move out.

[TO MAIN PATH]

MAIN PATH

VODOR: Anything else on you?

OSSAR: Just this.

DIR: VODOR and OSSAR stand in a forest clearing, the last rays of sunlight filtering through the trees. They turn to see a tall, lizard-like humanoid KARL approaching them, his green scales shimmering in the fading light. He gestures to a small lizard creature beside him, then to himself, making incomprehensible sounds.

OSSAR & KARL: You saved my daughter's life.

VODOR: You speak lizard?

OSSAR: I’ve been here a few years; I get the gist of it.

DIR: OSSAR gestures towards the lizardling.

OSSAR: Your daughter?

KARL: (nods, confirming.)

OSSAR:(pointing to the larger lizard) Who are you?

DIR: After a series of noises, OSSAR finally understands.

OSSAR: His name is KARL.

DIR: KARL extends a clawed hand in greeting. VODOR shakes his hand, feeling a strange sense of kinship.

VODOR:(pointing towards a distant mountain) I think it's seen more of us maybe?

OSSAR: He says a mighty sorcerer took his lands in the north. Came in on a shooting star.

VODOR: Likely some of your friends?

OSSAR: Maybe it's your wife?

DIR: The air hangs heavy with anticipation as they prepare for their perilous journey northward. KARL, a native of this strange world, assists in gathering supplies and advising them on the best course to take.

SCENE 3 THE JOURNEY

DIR: VODOR leads a small group consisting of OSSAR, KARL, and KASSI through harsh and unforgiving terrain. They navigate narrow paths, treacherous rivers, and towering tree-like animals. As they walk, they pass by a few of KARL'S people who lie dead in the snow, a grim reminder of the dangers they face.

VODOR: Stay close. We cannot afford to lose anyone else.

DIR: Vodor lifts KASSI, KARL'S daughter, onto his shoulders, reminiscent of another child named SOMI. OSSAR, focused and cautious, nods in agreement, his eyes fixed on the path ahead. KARL, stoic and determined, adds his consent in his language.

KARL: ZurpZurp.

DIR: The sky changes colors as one of the suns sets, casting long shadows over the landscape. The wind howls around them, adding to the desolate atmosphere.

OSSAR: You can relax a little bit, I mean we are on an alien planet.

VODOR: Great idea, relax on a planet where I saw a bridge cry.

KARL: Zurp

VODOR: Sorry a bridge sweat from its eyes.

DIR: The wind howls like a banshee, whipping through the narrow mountain path. The companions struggle to maintain their footing, the ground treacherous beneath their boots.

OSSAR: We need to find shelter soon. This wind won't let up.

DIR: They press on, their faces grim. Suddenly, the ground gives way beneath KARL, and he tumbles down the steep incline.

VODOR: KARL!

DIR: KASSIE rushes to the edge, peering down into the abyss. She can barely make out his form, splashing at the bottom.

CHOICES:

1. Hold on, KARL! We're coming!

2. KARL Keep moving we will meet you on the other side

3. Leave Him. We Can’t afford to lose anyone else

4. Silence

1. Hold on, KARL! We're coming!

VODOR: Hold on, KARL! We're coming! Does anyone have any rope?

OSSAR: Here VODOR: Secure it to something!

[TO MAIN PATH]

2. KARL, keep moving! We will meet you on the other side.

VODOR: KARL, keep moving! We will meet you on the other side. Just stay ahead of the water!

OSSAR: Hurry, we need to catch up to him!

[TO MAIN PATH]

3. Leave him. We can't afford to lose anyone else.

OSSAR will remember this

VODOR: Leave him. We can't afford to lose anyone else. We need to focus on getting out ourselves.

OSSAR: I can't just leave him behind!

VODOR: We don't have a choice. Come on, let's go.

[TO MAIN PATH]

4. Silence.

VODOR: ...

OSSAR: Snap out of it! What do we do now?

VODOR: I am thinking! We keep moving. We can't stay here.

[TO MAIN PATH]

MAIN PATH

DIR: KASSIE and the others scramble down the treacherous slope, adrenaline coursing through their veins. VODOR cannot let the little girl go alone They reach KARL and find him unconscious, but alive.

KASSIE: Dard!

DIR: KASSIE checks KARL's pulse, relief flooding through her when she feels the steady beat beneath her claws. Together, they manage to rouse him from his unconscious state, and he groggily blinks up at them.

KARL: Zootsuit?

VODOR: You took a tumble down the slope. But you're going to be alright.

OSSAR: We need to find shelter quickly before night falls. KARL, can you walk?

DIR KARL nods weakly, accepting their help to stand on his feet. With KASSIE leading the way, they continue their journey through the unforgiving mountain terrain, the wind still howling around them.

OSSAR: Thank the stars, he's alive! Let's set up camp here near the river. The sound of rushing water will cover our tracks and provide fresh drinking water.

VODOR: Good idea. We can't risk moving him further in his condition. (looks at Kassie) wanna Help me gather some branches for a fire.

KASSIE: Okray

OSSAR: Take the gun and scout the area to make sure we're not in any immediate danger. We don't want any surprises in the night.

DIR: As night falls, the companions huddle around the crackling fire, its flickering flames casting long shadows on the rocky walls around them. Kassie tends to KARL, applying salves and bandages to his wounds with a steady hand.

KARL: (groaning)

OSSAR: You took quite a fall, KARL. But you're safe now. Rest and regain your strength.

VODOR: We'll take turns keeping watch tonight. The wind may have died down,

DIR: The two return with firewood. After seeing KARL sit up KASSIE drops the firewood and runs over and hugs KARL as the two sit curled up and sleep OSSAR and VODOR sit up around the fire.

OSSAR: (voice trembling) It's a miracle he's okay. We can't afford to lose anyone else. No one should have to lose a kid. And no kid should have to lose a parent. ? I might have failed as a father but I can do this much at least.

CHOICES:

1. Sounds like you are talking from experience

2. Trust me I know.

3. Do you think my girl is still out there?

4. Silence

1. Sounds like you are talking from experience

VODOR: Sounds like you are talking from experience care to share?

OSSAR: I had two girls back home, but after the IPA seized my planet for lost income each citizen had to pay their part of the debt, and if they failed to—

VODOR: If they failed to?

OSSAR: Asset restructuring is what they called stealing our children away to work in some far-off reaches in space.

VODOR: And this makes attacking my family right.

OSSAR: Honestly at this point, I have given up leaving this rock, so I am just gonna keep you and the geckos alive, then I will have achieved something, ya know?

VODOR: I see.

[TO MAIN PATH]

2. Trust me, I know.

VODOR: Trust me, I know. I lost my daughter remember?

OSSAR: You don’t know that.

VODOR: Why do you care?

OSSAR: The IPA took her for some supposed debt we owed. I've been trying to find her ever since, but it's like she disappeared into thin air. I can't give up hope, though. Not yet.

VODOR: Why do you think I was running cargo? Keep the debt sharks at bay.

OSSAR: I'm so sorry, Vodor. About it all.

VODOR: It's alright. Just know that I understand what you're going through. We'll find a way to get through this together. We don’t have any better options you fuck.

OSSAR: Cheers to that.

[TO MAIN PATH]

3. Do you think my girl is still out there?

VODOR: Do you think my girl is still out there?

OSSAR: I want to believe she is, Vodor. The universe has a strange way of working. Maybe she's out there, fighting her own battles, just like we are. If I gave up hope of ever seeing my girl again, I would have just let the hippo eat me.

VODOR: I hope so. I can't bear the thought of never seeing her again.

OSSAR: We'll find her, Vodor. We have to.

[TO MAIN PATH]

4. Silence

DIR: The night falls silent as the companions sit around the fire, lost in their thoughts and memories. The crackling of the flames is the only sound, echoing off the rocky walls of the canyon. Each of them is burdened with their past, their regrets, and their hopes for the future. As the fire burns low, they each find solace in the warmth it provides, a small comfort amid their trials.

[TO MAIN PATH]

MAIN PATH

VODOR: (looking solemnly at KASSIE sleeping next to her dad) Speaking of loss... OSSAR, you never told me about your daughter before.

OSSAR: What makes you say it was a daughter?(gazing at Kassie, haunted look in his eyes) Her name was ELARA. She had the brightest smile, just like KASSIE'S.

OSSAR: (voice breaking) I was only supposed to retrieve the artifact for them. No one was supposed to die that day, Vodor. But they

VODOR: Didn’t tell me shit about the thing either.

SCENE 4 METAL JUNGLE

DIR: Vodor and his companions, OSSAR and Kassi, hack their way through dense jungle, insects buzzing around them. They are wary of unseen dangers.

Vodor: Stay close. We cannot afford to be separated.

OSSAR: Do you truly believe we can defeat this sorcerer?

CHOICES:

1. Yes, we have a gun

2. No, we are going to have to be smart

3. Depends what they have salvaged. We have one gun and a pitchfork

4. Silence

1. Yes, we have a gun. 

VODOR: Yes, we have a gun. But one gun might not be enough against whatever's out there. We need to be cautious. If we have KARL approach we can catch any humans off guard.

KARL: MUR!

VODOR: Exactly, KARL. We need to use it wisely.

[TO MAIN PATH]

2. No, we are going to have to be smart. 

VODOR: No, we're going to have to be smart. We can't rely on brute force alone. We need a plan.

KARL: MUR!

VODOR: Yes, KARL, a plan. Do you have any ideas?

OSSAR: You speak KARL now?

VODOR: Someone needs to be the smart one, and its not us

[TO MAIN PATH]

3. Depends what they have salvaged.

VODOR: Depends on what they have salvaged. We have one gun and a pitchfork...

KARL: MUR!

VODOR: Correction. We have one gun, a pitchfork, and a KARL.

[TO MAIN PATH]

4. Silence. 

VODOR: silence

KARL: MUR?

OSSAR: MUR?

VODOR: (continues silence, deep in thought)

[TO MAIN PATH]

MAIN PATH

DIR: They walked through the metallic woods, the twisted remnants of VORON's ship looming ahead like a giant sentinel. The once sleek and formidable vessel now lay in ruins, its metal frame twisted and rusted, serving as the central tower to the fortified city that sprawled around it. VORON and OSSAR walk through a desolate landscape littered with metallic debris. They are accompanied by KARL, who speaks broken English.

VORON: This is my ship. Well was

DIR: VORON’s voice is tinged with sadness. OSSAR nods sympathetically.

OSSAR: But look how it has been repurposed. It's quite ingenious

DIR: KARL smiles excitedly.

KARL: Yes yes, very smart people here. Use scraps to make strong city

VORON: They have turned our wreckage into a fortress

OSSAR: And with such resourcefulness and determination

DIR: They continue walking, marvelling at the resilience of those who built this stronghold from the remains of VORON's ship.

VORON: Think they did this on their own?

OSSAR: What do you think?

CHOICES:

1. Still no signs of humans

2. I Think they figured this out on their own

3. I hope it's one of my people and not yours

4. Silence.

1. Still no signs of humans

VORON: Still no sign’s of humans

OSSAR: Ya know one has tried to sell us a single thing

VORON: Really?

OSSAR: What? Capitalists be cappn’

[TO MAIN PATH]

2. I Think they figured this out on their own

VORON: I think they figured this out on their own.

OSSAR: Figured what out?

VORON: How to build from our blueprints, maybe they accessed the logs by fluke.

OSSAR: Maybe they're just really good at this.

VORON: Or maybe they had help.

OSSAR: You think?

VORON: I hope not. We don't need another faction complicating things.

[TO MAIN PATH]

3. I hope it's one of my people and not yours

VORON: I hope it's one of my people and not yours.

OSSAR: What difference does it make?

VORON: If it's one of mine, I can reason with them. If it's one of yours, they might not listen.

OSSAR: You're underestimating my people.

VORON: Am I?

OSSAR: What it's not like we have parrots and eye patches in truth we were just freelance asset acquisitions.

VORON...

[TO MAIN PATH]

4. Silence.

VORON: ...

OSSAR: ...

VORON: ...

OSSAR: This is getting us nowhere.

VORON: ...

OSSAR: We need to keep searching.

VORON: ...

[TO MAIN PATH]

MAIN PATH

DIR: They venture deeper into the metallic forest surrounding the sorcerer's stronghold. The oppressive silence weighs heavily on them as they tread carefully through the dense, twisted trees. The towering metallic trees loom overhead, their roots snaking through the damp, fluid soil.

OSSAR: Watch your footing. One false step and these cliffs will show no mercy.

DIR: VODOR nods, their eyes fixed on the steep drop beside the narrow path. The sheer cliffs plunge into a churning abyss, offering no respite for the unwary traveler. VODOR's breath catches as they contemplate the unforgiving terrain ahead. The stronghold looms before them, its ancient walls shrouded in shadow and mystery. VODOR and their companions exchange a glance, wordlessly acknowledging the gravity of the moment.

OSSAR: So are we just going to walk up to the front door?

CHOICES:

1. Yes

2. Of course not

3. KARL what do you want to do

4. Silence

1. Yes

VODOR: Yes

OSSAR: Really do you have a better plan?

VODOR: Do you? If we walk up and explain ourselves maybe the will see reason like KARL

KARL: Like me?

VODOR: Yes like him, but if we sneak in all good faith is gone.

OSSAR: Fine.

[TO MAIN PATH]

2. Of course not

VODOR: Of course not. We should find a way to approach without being detected. Sneaking in might be our best bet.

OSSAR: Agreed. We need to be cautious. Any ideas?

KARL: Perhaps we could a weak spot?

VODOR: Good idea, Karl. Let's move carefully and see what we can find. See KARL is helpful

OSSAR:...

[TO MAIN PATH]

3. KARL what do you want to do

VODOR: Karl, what do you think? Should we just walk up to the front door?

KARL: I... I'm not sure. Another way in, like hidden cave?

OSSAR: That's a good idea. We should scout around and see if there's a less conspicuous way inside.

VODOR: Agreed. Let's look around and see what we can find.

[TO MAIN PATH]

4. Silence

The group stands in silence for a moment, contemplating their next move.

OSSAR: Well, what do you think?

VODOR: I'm not sure. Maybe we should just walk up to the front door and see what happens.

KARL: That's risky

VODOR: We should do something?

[TO MAIN PATH]

MAIN PATH

KARL: Northers run me and wife out, us killi yes?

DIR: Lizardmen, shaped like humans but with long tails and metallic-looking scales, aim muskets at OSSAR and VODOR. Their leader DRAXUS, a decorated war veteran, orders his men to stand firm.

DRAXUS: Stay!

DIR: Outside, Karl's kin are impaled on pikes.

VODOR: (whispers)What could one gun do?

OSSAR: (whispers) it wasn’t me.

VODOR: (whispers) time to die as I lived?

OSSAR: (whispers) Smug?

DIR: OSSAR charges his gun and prepares to fire

CHOICE

1. Where did you get that?

2. You said you only had one gun

3. Sneaky bastard

4. Silence

1. Where did you get that?

VODOR: (whispers) Where did you get that?

OSSAR: (whispers) I didn’t know if I could trust you so I kept a spare

VODOR: (whispers) You dick

OSSAR: (whispers) I am going to show you what one gun can do.

[TO MAIN PATH]

2. You said you only had one gun

VODOR: (whispers) I thought you said you only had one gun.

OSSAR: (whispers) I lied. I couldn’t risk it

VODOR: (whispers) Some trust exercise.

OSSAR: (whispers) it worked didn’t it?

[TO MAIN PATH]

3. Sneaky bastard

VODOR: (whispers) You always were a sneaky bastard.

OSSAR: (whispers) I prefer resourceful.

[TO MAIN PATH]

4. Silence

VODOR:(Rolls eyes)

OSSAR:(Nods)

[TO MAIN PATH]

MAIN PATH

OSSAR: (whispers) I am going to show you what one gun can do.

OSSAR: (firing into the sky)This.

DIR: The shot startles the guards, who begin to talk among themselves. OSSAR removes his cloak, revealing his human face. KASSI, trembling, clings to VODOR's leg. Several guards exit the stronghold and surround them before escorting them in

SCENE 5 FORTRESS

DIR: The group is escorted into the grand hall of the icy fort. The hall is illuminated by a soft light, and the walls emit a comforting warmth. Lizardmen go about their tasks, tending to gardens and working on machinery. DRAXUS, a towering lizardman with metallic scales, gestures for the group to sit at a large table. His soldiers bring food and drink.

DRAXUS: I am Draxus. Welcome to our fort. I apologize. cannot allow outsiders to walk our parks surprise.

OSSAR: We mean no harm. We seek shelter from the cold. And...

DIR: KARL gives a thumbs-up gesture as OSSAR finds the right words

OSSAR: We seek creatures like us.

DRAXUS: You are not like the others. Your kind is rare.

CHOICES:

1. You have seen creatures like us?

2. I am looking for a little girl

3. Dressed like me or dressed like him?

4. Silence.

1. You have seen creatures like us?

VODOR: You have seen others of our kind?

DRAXUS: One, smaller, long time ago.

OSSAR: (Nods)

[TO MAIN PATH]

2. I am looking for a little girl

VODOR: We are searching for a lost child. Have you seen a little girl, perhaps?

DRAXUS: No children here. Not safe.

DIR: KASSIE tugs on VODOR’s sleave.

OSSAR: (Disappointed) I see...

[TO MAIN PATH]

3. Dressed like me or dressed like him?

VODOR: Creatures like us. Are they dressed as I am, or as my friend here?

DRAXUS: (Raises an eyebrow) Both. Different.

OSSAR: (Intrigued) Different how?

DRAXUS: Wears armor, black, metal.

[TO MAIN PATH]

4. Silence.

DRAXUS: Relax we no eat you. Time for rest, and then we talk.

[TO MAIN PATH]

MAIN PATH

DRAXUS: I will grant you freedom until the boss returns. You can wander, we will find you when more words.

DIR: Inside, it's like entering a different world. The streets are lined with buildings, bustling with activity. Some of the people are in chains, while others enjoy cafes armed with weapons of a hypnotic nature.

OSSAR and VODOR lead the small troupe through the labyrinthine streets.

OSSAR: Stay close.

VODOR: What do you make of all this?

OSSAR: My pirates couldn't have been responsible for such a place. No, this has the mark of one of your people. I doubt Marauders are big on cafes.

VODOR: Suzy... Could she still be alive? What did she do?

OSSAR: Only time will tell, my friend.

DIR: As they venture deeper, the faint glow of streetlights illuminates their path, casting eerie shadows on the walls. The ancient stone seems to transform into grotesque faces that leer at them from the depths of some forgotten nightmare.

KARL: My kin, in chains.

VODOR: Stay strong

KARL: KASSIE is never in chains

Choices

1. I promise she will never be like this

2. How long have they been in chains?

3. Can you tell us more about how you and Kassie got out?

4. Silence

1. I promise she will never be like this

VODOR: I promise she will never be like this

KARL: If it was your girl would you kill them?

VODOR: I might be about to find out.

KARL: Will you keep her safe if...

VODOR: I will

[TO MAIN PATH]

2. How long have they been in chains?

VODOR: How long have they been in chains?

KARL: Since the great betrayal, when the false queen came from the sky.

VODOR: And KASSIE?

KARL: She has never known chains, not like this.

[TO MAIN PATH]

3. Can you tell us more about how you and Kassie got out?

VODOR: Can you tell us more about how you and KASSIE got out?

KARL: It was a desperate escape. Tooth, claw, blood.

VODOR: How did you survive?

KARL: We had allies, and we were willing to risk it all for freedom. Only 3 made it out.

[TO MAIN PATH]

4. Silence

DIR: VODOR and KARL exchange glances, then continue on in silence, deep in thought.

VODOR: I will protect Kassie like my own.

[TO MAIN PATH]

MAIN PATH

VODOR: I promise.

OSSAR: I hate to interrupt your bromance, but Vodor, are you worried they don't seem to care about us?

VODOR:  What do you mean?

OSSAR: The people here... they seem indifferent.

VODOR: This sorcerer's presence... It's like a malignant force, seeping through the very foundations of this ancient structure.

OSSAR: Any significantly advanced magic is indistinguishable from science

DIR: They continue, their voices barely audible in the gloom, their senses alert to the dangers that surround them.

OSSAR: We got time to kill where too?

OPTIONAL CHOICES:

1. The Market Square

2. The Gardens of Tranquility

3. The Engine Room Tavern:

4. The Observatory Tower

5. The Library of Wonders

6. The Council Hall

1. The Market Square

DIR: A bustling hub of activity, the market square features stalls selling goods salvaged from the crashed spaceship and items traded with nearby settlements. Here, residents and travelers can find a variety of alien artifacts, exotic fruits, and unique technological gadgets. A LIZARDMAN in white robes tries to sell something.

VODOR: To bad we don’t have any money.

KARL: Zip zoot zurkle

LIZARDMAN: Deal

DIR: Karl is handed a fruit and gives it to KASSIE

VODOR: Great, just great. Ask about if they have seen a human,

OSSAR: Best I can gather is its an older woman.

VODOR: Maybe they got out of sleep early?

OSSAR: Maybe they just can’t tell our ages?

[TO OPTIONAL CHOICES]

2. The Gardens of Tranquility

DIR: In an area once designated for the ship's botanical gardens, the residents have created a peaceful oasis filled with exotic plants and tranquil ponds. It's a place for meditation and reflection, offering a stark contrast to the technological marvels of the crashed spaceship. KASSIE dips her hand into a pond and feels a gentle breeze.

KASSIE: Warm.

VODOR: It's all right, I guess.

KARL: (punches VODOR gently in the arm)

VODOR: It is quite something,

[TO OPTIONAL CHOICES]

3. The Engine Room Tavern

DIR: This tavern is built around the ship's engine room, which still emits a gentle, warm glow. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to relax, enjoy a drink, and swap stories. The walls are adorned with remnants of the ship's control panels, giving the tavern a futuristic yet cozy atmosphere. VODOR drinks a strange blue liquid and coughs.

VODOR: Whoa, that's strong.

OSSAR & KARL: Zara!(They cheers)

KASSIE: I'll stick to water, thanks.

DIR: On the wall is a painting that looks like SUZI

[TO OPTIONAL CHOICES]

4. The Observatory Tower

DIR: Perched atop the highest point in town, the observatory tower offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Built from the ship's communication array, it now serves as a research facility for studying the planet's flora, fauna, and geological features. KARL looks through a telescope and sees a shooting star.

KARL: This view was taken from us.

OSSAR: What was the view like before.

VODOR: Looking across the sea of stairs was something to behold.

DIR: in the corner, VODOR sees the old tablet SOMI used to have,

KASSIE: I wonder what else we could see from up here.

[TO OPTIONAL CHOICES]

5. The Library of Wonders

DIR: Housed in what was once the ship's data storage center, the library is a treasure trove of knowledge about the universe beyond. It contains digital archives, holographic displays, and ancient texts from the ship's library, offering insights into the galaxy's mysteries. KASSIE picks up an old book and flips through its pages.

KASSIE: I wonder what stories these books hold.

VODOR: Someone has been taking the time to write it all down.

OSSAR: This collection would have taken a lifetime.

KARL: I see

[TO OPTIONAL CHOICES]

6. The Council Hall

DIR: Constructed from the ship's command center, the council hall serves as the town's governing body's meeting place. The hall's walls are lined with holographic displays showing the town's layout and resource allocation plans. It's here that important decisions about the town's future are made. VODOR listens intently to a discussion about trade agreements.

[TO MAIN PATH]

MAIN PATH

DIR: VODOR's heart pounds as they approach an opulent chamber, its gilded arches and intricate mosaics hinting at unimaginable power.

VODOR: By the stars...

DIR: At the center of the room stands SOMI, wearing Vodor's nano-weave armor. (Holding gun, sword, or armor)

VODOR: Somi?

SOMI: Father.

VODOR: How is this possible? You look just like your mother

SOMI: Seems I woke up first. I was shocked when some of my scouts had news of two humans approaching.

DIR: VODOR stands before SOMI, now a woman with power beyond imagining, feeling a mix of awe and turmoil.

CHOICES

1. I am so happy you are alive!

2. What have you done here?

3. I am so sorry it took me this long!

4. Silence

1. I am so happy you are alive!

VODOR I am so happy you are alive!

SOMI: Shut up! You do not get to say that!

VODOR: Somi.

SOMI: And you took the time to adopt a lizard on your way?

VODOR: I came as fast as I could!

SOMI: You are about 50 years too late!

[TO MAIN PATH]

2. What have you done here?

VODOR: What have you done here?

SOMI: I have taken what is rightfully mine. This world, its technology, its power—all of it belongs to me now. I did what I needed to do to live!

VODOR: This is not what your mother would have wanted.

SOMI: She is not here 60 years and she is not here, but I am. And I will do whatever it takes to live in this hell hole!

[TO MAIN PATH]

3. I am so sorry it took me this long!

VODOR: I am so sorry it took me this long!

SOMI: Sorry? You think an apology will suffice after abandoning me for half a century?

VODOR: I never abandoned you. I searched for you everywhere.

SOMI: YOU did though, you did! You could have come down here with me!

[TO MAIN PATH]

4. Silence

SOMI: SAY SOMETHING!!!!

[TO MAIN PATH]

MAIN PATH

VODOR: Somi, what have you done? We have rules and—

SOMI:  You said to [Major Choice 1], so I did. I will not apologize.

DIR: VODOR's emotions swirl—love, sorrow, and anger—as they gaze at SOMI, the daughter they once knew, now a formidable woman.

VODOR: (fighting back tears)  Somi, I am sorry. I was too late.

SOMI: Too late? You went back for the fucking trinket. I was there, clear as day, 'secure the artifact, and then get Somi.' You could have got in the pod next to mine, so I wouldn’t have grown up here, alone.

DIR: SOMI turns away, shoulders shaking with suppressed emotion, then suddenly spins back, landing a punch on VODOR.

OSSAR: Enough, Somi. You've made your point.

SOMI: And you! Think I wouldn’t watch the footage and see your piece of shit face?

KARL: (Glares)

SOMI: You don’t get it. If you show weakness here, you die. These creatures will stab you in the back as soon as you show weakness!

VODOR: Perhaps we can heal...

DIR: OSSAR steps forward, raising his hands in a gesture of peace.

OSSAR: Enough.

DIR: SOMI gestures to her guards, who lower their rifles.

SOMI: Go on.

OSSAR: We share a common goal of getting home. An artifact that possesses the power to warp time itself. That is what we were after. And we now have it.

DIR: The air in the room shifts, charged with a newfound intensity.

SOMI: You know how to work it?

OSSAR: Yes. I was going to get my girls back.

DIR: SOMI eyes OSSAR warily.

OSSAR: Trust is hard-won, I know. But consider the possibilities.

SOMI: Leave us.

DIR: The room falls silent as they contemplate their choices.

CHOICES

1. We should use it to go back

2. We can’t use it because the risks are too big

3. We should just get rid of it

4. Silence

1. We should use it to go back

VODOR: We should use it to go back

OSSAR: We must consider the full implications of what we are proposing. The power to erase everything—to rewrite history itself—comes at a great cost.

SOMI: But what of my destiny?

OSSAR: If we were to change our past, we would undoubtedly affect the lives of countless others. What right do we have to meddle with their destinies?

[TO MAIN PATH]

2. We can’t use it because the risks are too big

VODOR: The risks are too great. We could alter the course of history in unforeseen and catastrophic ways.

OSSAR: Precisely. We cannot predict the consequences of such a drastic action. It is better to leave things as they are.

SOMI: But my life—

OSSAR: We must trust that we are where they are meant to be. Using this artifact could do more harm than good.

[TO MAIN PATH]

3. We should just get rid of it

VODOR: Perhaps we should just get rid of it. It's too dangerous to keep.

OSSAR: Agreed. The temptation to use it could prove too great, and the consequences too dire. It's best to eliminate the temptation altogether.

SOMI: But what if—

OSSAR: No "buts." This artifact is too powerful to be left to chance. We must destroy it.

[TO MAIN PATH]

4. Silence

DIR: The silence in the room is palpable, each person lost in their own thoughts.

SOMI: (after a moment) Very well. We will keep it for now, but under strict guard. The risks are too great to act rashly.

OSSAR: Agreed. Caution must be our guide in this matter.

[TO MAIN PATH]

MAIN PATH

OSSAR: If you didn’t wake up when you did, who would have saved KASSIE?

SOMI: Let's do it. Let's make it that we never arrived and just hope it all plays out better without us.

OSSAR: All we need to do is take off the armour on the artifact with a simple command, cut our hand, hold it tight and pry and time will fold around the user.

VODOR: Armor release. With my words, Suzi’s armour now returns to a simple octagon, her memory lost.

DIR: With lightning speed, KARL drew a hidden blade and plunged it into OSSAR'S side, his betrayal swift and brutal. A cry of pain tore through the chamber as OSSAR staggered back, clutching at the crimson stain blooming across his clothes. KARL takes his gun and shoots VODOR in the leg. Before striking SOMI in the sternum. Grabbing the octagon, the armour encases KARL, VODOR manages to swiftly slash across his right eye, but VODOR is too late as the armour completes his new dragon-like form, when he stands tall, he is over six feet with menacing black scales. A ray of black light exits the oopart and KARL walks into the past, into the day the three of them meet on the ship to make sure we crash, to make sure VODOR can be here to save KASSI.

KASSIE: Don’t go

CHOICES

1. let the gate close and the oopart fade into the past.

2. Run after KARL

VODOR: At that moment, I understood that life is but a delicate dance between fate and free will, a tapestry woven from the threads of choice and consequence. We may never escape the cyclical nature of time, but we can choose how we navigate its winding path - and in doing so, perhaps we can find solace in the knowledge that our actions, however small, have the power to leave an indelible mark on the fabric of existence. I don’t repeat my mistake, this time I stay, to watch over the little lizard girl and let time be set in stone.