Cheese Thiefe

I struggle to control the anxious tapping my paw against the fluffy white bedding covering the makeshift house. Hearing nothing but the tiny [coughs]<nametag3| of your sister [[Wendy]] and an [[old friendly voice]] softly comforting her. (click: ?nametag3)[ (text-colour:(hsl:90,0.8039,0.5,0.4))[ *Ahe-em* *ahe-em*!] <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_43bf1aa1d75041f2b5efccdb463a2a31.wav"autoplay>] [[Keep Waiting]]

My baby sister lays bed ridden, stricken with a terrible case of The Sick. Her cough worsens and its been days since her fur has been dry from the thick sweat.

Our family’s oldest friend Gurdy stands over her bedding, silently inspecting her. Gurdy was Father’s mentor, a wise old rat with a story for each passing day. His fur has passed the grey stage and is becoming as white as his one snaggle tooth that protrudes from his scared nose. He has seen a fair share of The Sick in his day. I sure hope he can help.

The anticipation is too much; My tapping paw tires but yearns to roam. I snap into a march as if ordered, attempting to distract my worrisome thoughts. I inspect the house we grew up in as if it were new. The shelves created from disarmed [[Rat Clampers]] were full of [[Knick-Knacks]] and lined the walls of the family home. Pacing into the [[Storage Room]], I stubbed my paw on the last bin of grains. I had been avoiding the room for days, only entering to grab supplies and never taking inventory. Light grunting approached from behind as Gurdy emerged from the chewed-out hole of Wendy’s room. [[Listen to Gurdy]]

Rat Clampers are tools the Giants use to exterminate us. Father taught me how to disarm them as part of our schooling, but I never thought in a million cycles that I would run into one. The key to disarming them is getting the right angle, once you’re on one side of it, it’s pretty simple. The Steps are in this order:(text-colour:green)[ 1.Press Down on the Metal Bar 2.Release the Spring 3.Yank the Metal Bar] (text-colour:cyan)[Or you can use an item to disarm it, keep an eye out for something lightweight that I can carry] <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_f81169e1f29f4f229826be8f3419e3d1.wav" autoplay>

Little trinkets and tools brought back from his father’s forages in The Structure. I spot the colorful sphere my father brought back and once again are mesmerized by its layers of Intricate colors and swirls. Then I remember this was the last present he brought home before not returning and tears swell up in my eyes.

The Storage room was running very low and had lost its combination of delicious aromas. All that was left now was a small container of grains and a few chunks of bread that had begun to turn strange colors. This pursuit of distraction had only worsened my state.

Gurdy places his wrinkly bald paw upon my shoulder, avoiding eye contact. “it’s bad”, he whispers, “ she needs medicine now, and food for strength.” I took a deep breath, [[and began to weep]] [[and got angry]] [[remained silent]]

Gurdy wrapped his arms around me in condolences, “ poor child, first your father now this. I’m sorry for the situation and trials to come, but I as your father did have faith in you”. “ Then why did he never let me go with him?” I yelled, forgetting about Wendy and her needed rest. “ Your father kept you safe and smart, possibly knowing this could one day happen. He would not have left you two if he did not think you were ready. Now the responsibility is yours to provide, or I’m afraid not only Wendy, but you will perish as well. The tasks will not be easy and you must pay attention to what I say, Sebastian, for both your lives depend on it. [[Listen to Gurdy’s Quest]]

“ Your father kept you safe and smart, possibly knowing this could one day happen. He would not have left you two if he did not think you were ready. Now the responsibility is yours to provide, or I’m afraid not only Wendy, but you will perish as well. The tasks will not be easy and you must pay attention to what I say, Sebastian, for both your lives depend on it. [[Listen to Gurdy’s Quest]]

I look deep into Gurdy’s slightly grayed eyes with false confidence. You know what must be done but have never been outside the safety of the floorboards. Gurdy cracks a small smile and says, “ Your father knew you were ready too.” “ Then why did he never let me go with him?” I yelled, forgetting about Wendy and her needed rest. “ Your father kept you safe and smart, possibly knowing this could one day happen. He would not have left you two if he did not think you were ready. Now the responsibility is yours to provide, or I’m afraid not only Wendy, but you will perish as well. The tasks will not be easy and you must (text-colour:green)[(text-colour:green)[pay attention]] to what I say, Sebastian, for both your lives depend on it. [[Listen to Gurdy’s Quest]]

You must do as your father so bravely did for many years! You must take your [[Father’s Pack]] and retrieve the [[Tablet of Well Being]]. It is located in the Porcelain Palace, but first, you must travel through the land of Hanging Furs. You will find it at the end of the first Hall of Safe Passage. I know this all sounds new and scary to you, Sebastian, but you have to pay attention! You must avoid the Land of Thunder if possible. The Giants haven’t washed their furs in a while, it could be very dangerous. [[Ask about The Land of Furs]] [[Ask about The Porcelain Palace]] [[Keep Listening]] <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_8d43c346167e43909f681546b641f4b0.mp3" autoplay>

A Nifty little Backpack made from [[Knick-Knacks]]. Father was well recognized by critters throughout the structure by his little pack and adopted the knickname The Cheese Thief!

It’s a storage space for the giants to rip off and put on new fur. Don’t worry They hardly go in there, but if they do, try and find (text-colour:green)[a good hiding spot]. If, not you should be able to make the run to the Procelain palace. The Giants always leave their giant door open to it.

This is the home of [[The Bowl Of No Return]]. If you want to say a few words for your father while you are there, it might be a good idea. Be careful here, it’s very slippery, and the giants use it often. You’ll have to make your way up to the reflective door to get the medicine. (text-colour:green)[This is VERY IMPORTANT:] You must retrieve the pill from the (text-colour:navy)[BLUE] container. The others are either (text-colour:red)[Dangerous] or useless for your sister’s condition.

Your Sister also Needs food. You can bring the medicine back first or go straight for it. It is important you don’t get distracted Sebastian! The food is located in The Land of Smells and is littered with giants. First you’ll have to cross the Raised Softlands, where the Giants sleep. It will be daytime so you should be clear. You will have to find the entrance to another safe passage that leads to the Land of Smells. There is food in several locations here, and you’ll have to be stealthy to retrieve what is accessible. Your going to smell it, Sebastian, but stay away! They keep the door to Food Haven closed and many rats have died trying to follow their nose. There’s a rumor your father knew of a secret passage to it, but he wouldn’t even tell me, his closest friend. [[Ask about the Land of Smells]] [[Ask about the Raised Softlands]] [[Ask For Help]] [[Ask about the Land of Thunder]] [[Grab Your Pack and Prepare for Adventure]]

Medicine for the giants also works for Rats in small doses, its almost like they made it for us first then made it bigger. Better make sure to grab the right kind though. This is VERY IMPORTANT: You must retrieve the pill from the (text-colour:navy)[BLUE] container. The others are either (text-colour:red)[Dangerous] or useless for your sister’s condition.

Final resting place of many critters, captured or killed by the giants. Only one can assume that your father ended up here since his body was never found. <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_dc2a4d31249b44cba053f6857d3aba97.wav" autoplay>

Prepare your sniffer! This is where the giants prepare and eat all their food. They gather around the Great Mesa of Dinning nightly although their usual banter has faded. There is plenty of counter space to spot out your route ahead of time. Once again, stay away from the entrance to the Food Haven. Reports of [[Rat Clampers]] have been heard by fellow critters.

This is the area the giants use to rest every night. Their comfy mesa makes for a warm gathering place when the giants are away. I remember one time your father and me I threw a massive party there one year… anyways. (text-colour:green)[The entrance to the land of smells is along the longest wall; you should be able to see it from atop the cozy mesa.]

I'm sorry young Sebastian. I'm afraid my adventuring days are over. You'll have to do this on your own.

As you swing the makeshift pack around your shoulder, you notice that it fits you a lot better than the last time you put it on. A memory of playing [[Forage Adventures]] with Wendy in the courtyard brings a smile to your face for the first time in a while. [[Repeat Directions|Listen to Gurdy’s Quest]] [[Exit Your house]]

A game You and Wendy use to play. She would always outmatch you with her agility and acrobatic ability, but your cleverness led to more victories. If only Wendy could come with me. She's at least seen The Structure, always sneaking off and getting in trouble with her father. I was always too scared to follow her, a regret I must face.

Stepping out into the cool damp air of the Safe Zone I begin my internal search for bravery. Just a few more steps and it will be the furthest you've ever been from home. Wendy, however, loved to break our father’s rules and take her imaginative adventures into the dark corridor. The sound of your heartbeat fills my ears as I approach the long dark corridor, the entrance to Safe Passage One. [[ Run Back to Gurdy!|Listen to Gurdy’s Quest]] [[Step Bravely Forward|Safe Passage 1]] <center><img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/fff79f_061250b87603478ca98aa9039303f4f6~mv2.png" width="1024" height="1024"></center> <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_e4d6f3854680409abcca26659d7b09bf.wav" autoplay>

[[Repeat Directions|Listen to Gurdy’s Quest]]

I enter the dusty dark corridor. lined with brightly colored cables of Yellow, Blue and red that almost glow with their saturation and stretch out as far as the eye can see into the darkness. Jagged metal spikes protrude through the wood in areas and I feel their cold metal rub against my soft belly as it slides past them. Beams of white light pour through cracks in the massive walls,illuminating the gathering dust particles. Light emerges from two holes in the near distance... [[Entrance 1|Land of Thunder]] [[Entrance 2|Land Of Furs]]

(if:(history:) contains "jump into the pile of dirt furs")[ The giant had placed you one the counter right next to the entrance to Safe Passage 1!] A strange combination of smells hits my nose as I enter. Both dirty giant and fake fragrances of cleaning liquids create an interesting aroma. Across the room, I see two giant [[black boxes]], one with its mouth wide open. Other giant Knick-Knacks scattered the ground and shelves, much too big to bring back as a present. I also see an entrance to another safe passage across the way but it seems to be blocked by something. [[Investigate Shelf]] [[Attempt to Unblock the Entrance]] [[Re-enter Safe Passage 1|Safe Passage 1]] [[ <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_fa42abea2dfb4c4493fedc911afa3cf1.wav" autoplay>

(if:(history:) contains "Jump into the pile of dirt furs")[The massive narrow room was lit by the sun from the tiny window in the corner, yellow sun rays danced along rows of [[colored furs]] hanging in an organized fashion. The giant’s empty Paw Protectors lined the floor, glimmering in the sunlight. A pile of dirty furs lays on the ground creating an obstacle between me and the door of the Porcelain Palace. I wait in the safety of the entrance before making your decision. [[Make a run for it]] ] (else:)[The massive narrow room was lit by the sun from the tiny window in the corner, yellow sun rays danced along rows of colored furs hanging in an organized fashion. The giant’s empty [[Paw Protectors]] lined the floor, glimmering in the sunlight. A pile of dirty furs lays on the ground creating an obstacle between me and the door of the Porcelain Palace. I wait in the safety of the entrance before making your decision. [[Inspect the Pile of Furs]] [[Make a run for it]] [[turn back]]] <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_fa42abea2dfb4c4493fedc911afa3cf1.wav" autoplay>

A stinky mess! There’s definitely no food to be found here. The ground begins to shake with a natural rhythm that grows stronger and louder. In the corner of your eye, for the first time, you see one of the infamous Giants and it’s coming your way! [[Jump into the pile of dirt furs]] [[Make a run for it]] [[Run Back to the Entrance]]

My little Paws skitter along the crunchy grey carpet at a speed I had never believed possible. The adrenaline courses through my veins like hot steam. I remember how much faster Wendy was then me and imagined her skittering several lengths ahead of me, like a spirit guiding my path. I leap over a paw protector that had been left out of place and quickly came to a sliding halt on a new slippery surface. I had entered the [[Porcelain Palace]]

I manage to dive into the stinky pile just in the nick of time. Peering through the lacing of a tiny piece of black fur that formed two cups I spot the incoming monster. The shaking becomes violent, and the sound of the giant’s voice starts clamoring into a glowing device attached to its hand. It bends over with one paw and scoops up the pile of clothes, tucking it into her arm. I feel the pressure of all the furs being compacted around me as I feel the giant carry me into the next area. A moment of weightlessness and you come crashing to the ground. Cushioned by the furs beneath while being gently crushed by the ones above. I manage to wiggle out of the clothing as the giant exits the new territory. [[Investigate|Land of Thunder]]

The Giant sees you and shrieks! Another comes to its aid with a big long stick with bristles at the end. In an attempt to dive into the opening you feel the unbearable weight of the giants foot upon your back. You’ve Been Squished! [[Retry Checkpoint|Safe Passage 1]] <center><img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/fff79f_0505ce9c5b774f66a26ee327f014f39e~mv2.png" width="1024" height="1024"></center> <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_dc2a4d31249b44cba053f6857d3aba97.wav" autoplay>

The floor was made of a hard cold material that my tiny paws struggled to grip. The entire room glowed with its powerful white surface. The only word to describe the overwhelming smell was “Clean”. Every surface shinned and sent back a blurry reflection of myself. In a distorted mistake, I saw my father staring back at me in the reflection of the towering [[Bowl of No Return]]. Soft white rectangles of fur draped down the enormous walls. Amongst the towering structures was the gigantic reflective door, so far from my reach. You see another entrance to what Gurdy referred to as Safe Passage 2. In the corner of the shiny room was a large stick with long stiff fur protruding off from it. It stood awkwardly balanced close to the porcelain monolith that held the reflective door. [[ Check Behind the Bowl of no return|Behind]] [[Inspect broom]] [[Climb Rectangle Piece of Fur]] [[Enter Safe Passage 2|Safe Passage 2 Entry]] <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_fa42abea2dfb4c4493fedc911afa3cf1.wav" autoplay>

The Land of Thunder Gets its name from the terrible noise that comes from that area. The Giants wash their dirty furs in big black boxes that shake the very foundation. There are lots of places to hide in here but don’t get stuck behind one of the machines if they get turned on, you’ll get (text-colour:red)[squished] over and over for hours! <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_dcdf9ca5b1ab44a1a429825ef22d623a.wav" autoplay>

I skitter across the rough stone floor, the entrance growing larger with my advance. Just a few lengths away and the ground begins to tremble. A human had spotted you from a distance and had already lept into action. I try to turn back but am met with a missed swing of a metallic club slamming into the ground. The sound deafens deafens me as the metal echo pours into my skull.I look up only to see the incoming doom. (text-colour:red)[You've been squished!] [[Try again from Checkpoint|Safe Passage 1]] <center><img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/fff79f_0505ce9c5b774f66a26ee327f014f39e~mv2.png" width="1024" height="1024"></center> <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_bf486615794c428d9d8bf6698ac676d8.wav" autoplay>

The Final resting place of many rodents. The slippery surface gleams in the light, the clear water, lifeless at the bottom of the escapeless trap. Since my father’s remains were never located, I have to assume he met the giant bowls’ fate. <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_dc2a4d31249b44cba053f6857d3aba97.wav" autoplay>

The giant wooden pole looked stressed out trying to balance on the flimsy yellow whiskers. I bet I can give it a quick [push]<nametag1| and create a way up. (click: ?nametag1)[ The towering wooden pull swayed slowly for a moment and then came crashing into the porcelain monolith creating a [[way up|Sink]] <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_a060df2777364f7381412929819bd0df.wav" autoplay>]

The long threads of the fabric made for a good grip. Wendy was always the better climber, but for a chubby rat I could keep up, but this was much higher than either of us had ever dared climb. Nor could we with the limits of our Safe Zone. I reach the top and am startled by the massive gap that lies between myself and Wendy’s cure. [[Make the jump]] [[Climb Back Down|Porcelain Palace]]

(if:(history:) contains "Blue Bottle")[Before stepping forward, I remember what Gurdy had said about returning the medicine first or going for the food. I pear back to the Land of Furs but the massive door swung shut with a loud crash, blocking my view and escape! Forward it is! \I take my tablet/trophy and proudly march into the darkness of [[Safe Passage 2]]. ] (if:(history:) contains "Yellow Bottle")[Before stepping forward, I remember what Gurdy had said about returning the medicine first or going for the food. I pear back to the Land of Furs but the massive door swung shut with a loud crash, blocking my view and escape! Forward it is! I take my tablet/trophy and proudly march into the darkness of [[Safe Passage 2]] ] (Else:)[I havent got what I need yet!]

I was startled by my reflection gazing back at me in amazement. I made it! The gigantic white bowl stared at me with its black endless eye as I looked for a way to open the door. A shiny metal structure embedded in the bowl offered a better reach. A quick hop allowed me to perch myself upon it while reaching the edge of the door, yanking it open. Before me was the motherload of Knick-Knacks, a trove of curious items glimmered in the massive cabinet. The top shelf’s contents were out of reach and sight, but the lower platform had all sorts of distracting objects. One thing caught my eye, a [double-sided fuzzy stick]<nametag4| was within reach. (click: ?nametag4)[ [[Grab it]] ] On the bottom section, the rat-sized bottles sit eagerly waiting thier selection. [[Choose Red Bottle|Red Bottle]] [[Choose Blue Bottle|Blue Bottle]] [[Choose Yellow Bottle|Yellow Bottle]] [[Choose Green Bottle]]

I gather my senses and take a few whoofing breaths, casting myself into a full sprint. I press hard on my hindquarters as I reach the edge—waves of fat and extra skin ripple throughout my body that was now floating weightlessly toward the porcelain monolith. My eyes automatically shut as I reach the threshold, and I am met with a victorious crash. [[Gaze Up|Sink]]

The Poison Takes hold Fast! I am able to whisper "I'm Sorry Wendy" before I plummet into the Bowl of No Return. [[Retry from Checkpoint|Porcelain Palace]] <center><img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/fff79f_0505ce9c5b774f66a26ee327f014f39e~mv2.png" width="1024" height="1024"></center> <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_dc2a4d31249b44cba053f6857d3aba97.wav" autoplay>

Wrapping my arms around the textured lid, I torque my upper body while wrapping my hind legs around the bottle. Father had taught us how to open several of the giant containers in our lessons. "You just need to [Twist]<nametag2|! (click: ?nametag2)[After a few spins, the white cap spun right off, now I can reach the powdery white tablets. [[Climb Down]] <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_e2fdcf619aaf41f19748cc3c89a2e499.wav" autoplay>]

(if: (history:) contains "Push it over")[I Climb down the big wooden stick that I so conveniently knocked over back to the [[Porcelain Palace]] ] (else:)[I get ready to make the giant leap again. This time seems easier and a sense of victory soars over me as I feel the tablet bustling about in my pack. I slide own the white hanging fur with confident speed, not paying attention to the length. The end of the cloth slips through my paws and the floor colides with my bottom! [[Porcelain Palace]] ] <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_4ad0e179842a43458bb5c32ececa3dde.wav" autoplay>

The dark corridor was very similar to the first, except for piles of collected dust. This area has significantly less traffic, and I ponder if any of the footprints left scattered in the dark belong to my father. Loud banging noises erupt through the towering walls, a series of metal clangs followed by a wooden collision. As the glow of the entrance grows, I am belted with a thousand aromas! All blending in and out of each other making identification of any single object impossible for more than a second. [[Investigate the Land of Smells|Entrance]]

My confidence gets the best of me as I turn the corner into the light without inspecting. My big toe stubs a wooden obstacle that stops me in my path. Looking down I see one of the notorious Rat Clammpers blocking my path. I take a sharpe exhale and try and remmember the steps father had taught me. (if:(history:) contains "Grab it")[ Use the Double Sided Fluffy Stick [[Disarm|The Trap Is Disarmed]] ] [[Remove Spring]] [[Press down on clamp]] [[Yank metal Bar]]

(if:(history:) contains "Press down on clamp")[With the full reach of my hind paw, I slowly tug on the metal spring until it clicks out of place. [[Yank metal Bar]] ] (Else:)[Oops wrong move, your DEAD]

I sucssefully press down on both sides of the metal bar, removing the tension. Your next move is crucial! [[Remove Spring]] [[Yank metal Bar|You're Dead]]

(if:(history:) contains "Remove Spring")[With a thrust of my hind legs, I yank the metal bar back. The tension that was begining to fatigue my arms vanished and the Ratclammber went limp. [[The Trap Is Disarmed]]] (Else:)[Oops wrong move, your DEAD]

I step over the defeated mechanism into [[Land Of Smells]] <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_4ad0e179842a43458bb5c32ececa3dde.wav" autoplay>

Your dead! [[Try again|Entrance]] <center><img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/fff79f_0505ce9c5b774f66a26ee327f014f39e~mv2.png"></center> <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_f81169e1f29f4f229826be8f3419e3d1.wav" autoplay>

This might come in handy later! [[Back|Sink]] <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_4ad0e179842a43458bb5c32ececa3dde.wav" autoplay>

Gurdy was right! The smells are almost overpowering. I catch my paws inching toward them and snap myself back into focus. The floor made of shiny dead wood stretched as far as my little eyes could see. Several [[large structures]] covered in glimmering stone towered overhead. The ground shook gently without any particular rhythm, and then it caught my eye. One of the Giants, a female I think, stood over one of the structures. From here it was unclear what the giant was doing, but it looked aggressive. The smells were coming from every direction, but Gurdy warned me to be smart. In the distance, I could see the giant wooden rectangle known as the Great Mesa of Dinning. I’d have to hurry before they all gather for their nightly feast. The most powerful smells were coming from the Giant [[Island-like structure]] and the [[crack]] of one of the Giant’s massive doors. [[Climb up the Structure next to you]] [[Make a run and dive through the crack]] [[Move toward the Mesa]] [[Attack the Giants Foot]] <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_889fde6dd6584badb30804186f59dfdc.wav" autoplay>

These massive towers of wood, stone, and metal line the walls of the land. They offer cover in the form of an overhead shelf that critters can travel along. Their corner edges have patterned stone squares that offer the perfect grip for climbing.

All sorts of luxurious smells keep pouring down the walls of the wooden box that had the attention of the giant. Unfortunately, There doesn’t seem to be any climbable surfaces on it.

The smell of every delicous thing I've ever tasted has a steady stream sourcing from the darkness of this crack. It would be a tight squeeze but enough food for everyone! Even Gurdy.

The tiny stone squares that line the corner of the formation allow for a nice grip. I climb slowly and quietly so as to not alert the occupied giant. Once atop, the distraction of the smells got worse. I ducked behind a stone figure of a frog just in time. The Giant did a swift one-eighty, grabbing an object just a few inches from me. She then swung back around and began working franticly. The view from here offered insight but also disappointment. Not a piece of cheese was reachable to me. There, in the distance, On the Great Mesa, I spot a smorgasbord of indescribable delicious and unguarded items. I would just have to use the cover of the structures to reach the giant [[red cloth]]. I could climb up there and score a whole pack full.

The temptation is too much, I take flight towards the darkness of the crack, applying unnecessary evasive maneuvers. Approaching the tremendous door, I kick off with my hind legs and propel myself through the air, hoping it would provide enough momentum to send me through. As soon as my face feels the darkness of the doorway, I am stopped by my father’s backpack. A shriek of an approaching giant lets me prepare for the pain to come. (text-colour:red)[You’ve been Squished!] [[Try Again From Checkpoint|The Trap Is Disarmed]] <center><img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/fff79f_0505ce9c5b774f66a26ee327f014f39e~mv2.png" width="1024" height="1024"></center> <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_bf486615794c428d9d8bf6698ac676d8.wav" autoplay>

My body fit nicley into the overhead space that lined the kitchen. I crept quietly past the busy giant and moved to the corner. From there I was able to sneak along the wall and get close to The Great Mesa of Dinning. A bright red material was drapped over the masswive rectangle and was just in reach. [[Climb Red Sheet]] [[Keep Following Wall]]

The combination of smells begins to drive you mad... In a furios rage you attack the humans foot. She shrieks dropping the boiling pot of red sauce on top of you. (text-colour:red)[You've been Squished!!] [[Try Again From Checkpoint|The Trap Is Disarmed]] <center><img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/fff79f_0505ce9c5b774f66a26ee327f014f39e~mv2.png" width="1024" height="1024"></center> <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_bf486615794c428d9d8bf6698ac676d8.wav" autoplay>

It takes every bit of strength to pull the weight of me and the pack up the silky material. Just as I reach the top the giant standing at the island let out a horrifying scream! Startled, I'm forced to cowar onto a

It takes every bit of strength to pull the weight off me and pack up the silky material. My grip weakens as the sight over the mesa’s horizon hits me like a blinding light. The smell of roasted meat, baked bread, and buttered vegetables forced its way into my skull. Before becoming completely hypnotized, the giant standing by the island structure let out a horrifying set of Yelps! Startled, I'm forced to cower into an assortment of the Giant’s porcelain containers. The sound of approaching thunder and other giants squawking stands the fur on my back straight up. I jump out to make a run for it but see three approaching giants that force me back into the polished fortress. [[Wait]] [[Leap off the table]]

There isn't much cover, so I jump from one to the other. The smells of the food start to fade as strange noises replace them. I approach a new area with several smaller soft structures in it. One of the structures is a glowing rectangle that seems to be the source of the noises. The box flashes strange images accompanied by even stranger sounds. I can see another entrance to what another safe passage across the vast open floor could be. (if:(history:) contains "Food")[Covering the glossy wood was another rectangle of [woven]<nametag6| fur that contained a combination of bright and dull colors. (click: ?nametag6)[ [[Sneak under the material]] ] [[Make the Dash!]] [[Watch the flashing box]] ] (Else:)[ I realize that I haven’t got what I need yet and must turn back.]

The Giants gather around the table and start scooping food from the colossal containers. Suddenly they stop talking, and the sound of chewing, chomping, and slurping fills the silence. Peeking through a gap, I could see the humans were all staring deeply into small rectangular devices and blindly eating. [[ Keep Waiting]] [[Leap off the table]]

That was't very smart... The fall kills you instantly. (text-colour:red)[Your Squished] [[Try Again From Checkpoint|Land Of Smells]] <center><img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/fff79f_0505ce9c5b774f66a26ee327f014f39e~mv2.png" width="1024" height="1024"></center> <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_bf486615794c428d9d8bf6698ac676d8.wav" autoplay>

Other than the occasional chuckle and constant chewing, there was an awkward silence. No longer using the gap for cover, I get a better look at the enormous beasts. One of the smaller ones almost knocks her container of brown liquid over as she blindly reaches for it, I jump back into cover. [[Continue waiting]] [[Sneak out and grab some food|Food]]

They almost look innocent in their glowing trance… One of them giggles at the little rectangle and attempts to show the giant next to them. the other one giggles and then continues shoving bread into his mouth. [Keep Waiting]<nametag5 (click: ?nametag5)[Time is Running Out!!] [[Sneak Out and grab Some Food|Food]]

I crawl as slowly as possible past a dish of butter that was covered in some sort of translucent armor. Just past that was a large white platform with house-sized mushroom-shaped loaves of bread that were topped with cheese. I ram my paws into the side of the biggest one I see and rip out a big chunk, tossing it into my pack. I swiftly check around at the unnoticing giants that continued their hypnotic glare into the rectangles. [[Steal a giant shiny thing]] [[Do a little dance|Dance]] [[Climb down the cloth]] <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_4ad0e179842a43458bb5c32ececa3dde.wav" autoplay>

Just imagining Wendy's face when I arrive home with Chessy Bread sends my body into aseries of thrusts and girations in the center of the Mesa. The midles giants took no notice to me and my akward victory. [[Climb down the cloth]] <audio src= "https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_7c2f1c2bdb484ce28aa3b44cb2af4ca4.mp3" autoplay>

The silk material makes it easy to perform the heroic slide down. The smell of the cheesy bread strapped to my back fuels my sense of victory. It soon deminishes as the realization hits me. The return path was blocked and Gurdy had not given me instructions on how to get home from here. This new fear was double that what I had experienced on the great mesa. [[I push Forward in the only Direction Logical|Keep Following Wall]]

I gaze into the flashing images, the faint glow has an attractive appeal. Seconds role by and I find myself more and more intrigued by the things being taken place inside the little box. I found my feet moving closer into the open, drawing me in like a tractor beam. I don’t even feel the ground shaking as the Giant approaches. Your Squished! [[Retry From Checkpoint|The Trap Is Disarmed]] <center><img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/fff79f_0505ce9c5b774f66a26ee327f014f39e~mv2.png " width="1024" height="1024"></center> <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_bf486615794c428d9d8bf6698ac676d8.wav" autoplay>

Still distracted by food and magic rectangles, the giants continued their silent meal as I skittered across the floor. A few lengths away from the dark hole I could hear one of the little giants shriek! I am able to dive in a slow motion fashion into the opening. [[Entrance to Safe Passage 3]]

The wire strands tickle my back fur as I force a gap between it and the wood with my nose. After a few paces the stress is relieved, and I can glide easily across the floor unnoticed. I peek my head out the other end to check for giants, the coast is clear! [[Entrance to Safe Passage 3]]

Darkness filled the corridor and the mad sprint had me directional confused. Reaching out into the darknes, my paw mumbs a squere like surface. The contact with the orb causes it to light up in severall different colors. I notice the corridor is now illuminated by the object and give it another [Push]<nametag6| (click: ?nametag6)[ The sphere, no larger than my round belly began to roll down the dark corridor. [[Follow the orb| Safe Passage 3]] ]

The Orb comes to a stop at the end of the passage, illuminating the three massive walls. natural shelving from the giants framework was littered with all sorts of [[Knick-Knacks|Trinkets]]. Tears begin to swell in my eyes as I realize that this must have been my fathers Home Base on his foraging missions. Your nose tingles with the similar sensation that the Black crack provided in The Land of Smells. A strange light seemed to be coming from the[[Wall in the Middle]] Another Light seemed to be coming from the [[Adjacent Wall]] <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_fa42abea2dfb4c4493fedc911afa3cf1.wav" autoplay>

On the large dusty shelf lay several trinkets that Wendy had fashioned for fathers’ adventures. None of them of any practical use beyond the imagination but he always accepted them with a smile. We thought that he just threw all of them away or used them in battle. It looks like he saved every last one of them!

The smell got stonger as I approached. In the wood lay littl chewed out notches at my shoulders hight. Grab the [Holes]<nametag11| (click:?nametag11) [ As I grip the rough texture I feel the weight of the wood begin to shift. The shift causes me to lose my balance and fall backward. Thewooden square that used to be part of the wall crashes down next to me revealing a [[Secret Entrance]] ]

A small crack with faint light bleeding through it ran along the side of the third wall. My fingers wedge inbetween and [Slide]<nametag8| the false door open. (click: ?nametag8)[ [[Mysterious Passage]] <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_d75a41b66ca54b379057621bd883b56a.wav" autoplay>]

The secret to your father’s success as a forager is now revealed. His life’s work all led up to the easy access to what we rats like to call "Food Heaven". Layers of wooden shelves stacked high as the ceiling stored various kinds of accessible food. The smells were overwhelming as I ran and jumped into an open bag of grains. As long as I can make it to this entrance, I will have no problem providing for me and Wendy, maybe even that old bat Gurdy! [[take some more food]] [[ Safe Passage 3]] <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_057b70597e714374ab3ee66819964d47.wav" autoplay>

My pack is Full! Now I know where to find unlimited resources!!

This dark corridor had more dust than I’d ever seen! A small trail was carved into it that caused it to pile up shoulder high on each side of me. With each step of the narrow path, the smells began to become more familiar. The darkness ended abruptly with light fighting its way behind some large object. [Push Object]<nametag9| (click: ?nametag9)[The object easily rolled over on its side exposing the doorway. There’s no way anyone could have moved it from the other side. An overwhelming relief overcomes me as I once again enter [[Land of Thunder|Thunder 2]] <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_be25e145649d4052bf171478807c311c.wav" autoplay>]

I've been so caught up in my adventure I hadn't even noticed the violent shaking of the two large black boxes that were currently washing giant furs. I skitteredacross the floor into Safe Passage 1. In a heartbeat I could see my family home emerging from the dusty darkness. Gurdy was in the Safe Zone and noticed my valiant return. [[Talk to Gurdy]] <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_dcdf9ca5b1ab44a1a429825ef22d623a.wav" autoplay>

(if:(history:) contains "Yellow Bottle")[Alas! Your safe return is welcomed young Sebastian. I see you found some delicious food for your sister, lets get her that medicine as soon as possible…. Oh no! Sebastian, which bottle did you grab this from? This is the wrong medicine! I’m afraid Wendy doesn’t have time for another adventure! [[Go all the way back!|Sink]] <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_4ad0e179842a43458bb5c32ececa3dde.wav" autoplay>] (if:(history:) contains "Blue Bottle")[Alas! Your safe return is welcomed young Sebastian. I see you found some delicious food for your sister, lets get her that medicine as soon as possible…. Ahhh, Good! You grabbed the right tablet! This will have her feeling better in no time! So, How was your Adventure? [[Tell him about the Porcelain Palace ]] [[Tell Him about The Great Mesa Of Dinning]] [[Tell Him about Your Fathers HomeBase and the Secret Entrance]] [[Remain Silent]] [[End Adventure]] ]

"C'mon Sebastian! Your first adventure and you don't want to tell me anything!" I look into his desperate eyes realizing the old rat just wants to live vacariously through me, as he did my father. I decide to share a little of my adventure with him

Great job of using your surroundings to reach your goals Sebastian! I'm So glad you grabbed the right bottle!

(if:(history:) contains "Dance")[I can’t believe you did a victory dance right in front of them! Back in my day you wouldn’t be able to get away with that kind of stuff. They didn’t have those glowing devices. However, one giant used to stare at a big piece of paper every morning, allowing me and your father to steal grains right from his bowl! Your so brave Sebastian!] (if:(history:) contains "Food")[ That's one way to get supper! Your stealth skills are superior Sebastian, it must be from all those roleplaying games you and Wendy are always causing a commotion about.]

(if:(history:) contains "Secret Entrance")[ “Sounds like your father put much work into getting you access to the food heaven. He trusted you to make the journey there and back. Trust me, he wanted nothing more than to bring you along, but he had to keep you safe. Now you have the ability to provide for yourself and your sister forever….. (deep sigh)”] (else:)[ You didn't explore very much, you probably missed something.]

Sebastian, I am so proud of you, and your father would be too. You have the means of supporting yourself and your sister for ages. In one afternoon you evolved from a scared little rat to the provider your father always knew you’d become. However…. There are Lands of The Structure Far beyond what you experienced today and many great adventures to be had. That is…. If you are up for the tasks. <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_4ad0e179842a43458bb5c32ececa3dde.wav" autoplay>

I just can’t resist. I start to gyrate my hips and shake my arms about. I end the sequence with an acrobatic backflip that I nearly midland. I take a bow to the inattentive audience and quickly scurry out of sight. [[Climb down the cloth]] <audio src= "https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_7c2f1c2bdb484ce28aa3b44cb2af4ca4.mp3" autoplay> [[Climb down the cloth]]

<center><img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/fff79f_5da276e4d9c14c05b5d3a88c310b8bbd~mv2.png" width="1024" height="1024"></center> (align:"=><=")+(box:"X=")[''[[Start Game (Sound On!)|Waiting]]''] <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_8d43c346167e43909f681546b641f4b0.mp3" autoplay>

The Giant jumps through the air swinging an empty container at me! Your Squished [[Retry From Checkpoint|Listen to Gurdy’s Quest]] <center><img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/fff79f_0505ce9c5b774f66a26ee327f014f39e~mv2.png" width="1024" height="1024"></center> <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_bf486615794c428d9d8bf6698ac676d8.wav" autoplay>

There is a musky smell and strange stains on the ground. A series of thick cables leads up the back but it doesnt reach the top. [[ Try and climb it]]

A better look proves that this is just a dead end.

This lid is too tight! I don't remember gurdy saying anything about a green bottle now that I think about it...

Not sure why I felt the impulse to steal this oversized metal-eating device but for some reason I did. The weight of it throws me off balance and sends me crashing into the teapot next to me. The Crash alerts the largest Giant and with a quick jab of his multi-pronged shiny object, I was skewered. (text-colour:red)[Your Squished!] [[Try Again From Checkpoint|Land Of Smells]] <center><img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/fff79f_0505ce9c5b774f66a26ee327f014f39e~mv2.png" width="1024" height="1024"></center> <audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/fff79f_bf486615794c428d9d8bf6698ac676d8.wav" autoplay>

These must be the Thunder Boxes Father and Gurdy had told me about. The source of the terrible random noise that shakes the foundation of the structure. One of them is open displaying its giant mouth with a shiny silver interior.

I climb a strange box full of soft sheets that radiates a powerful fragerance. The next level up is just out of reach. Suddenly, a light slicks on in the next room and the ground begins to shake. I'd better turn back!

Strange protectors for the giants soft feet I guess. I've heard they are awfully cozy but a good way to get squished. My father told us a story of a fellow forager who decided to take a little nap in one of them and ended up in the Bowl of No Return.

I've gone to Far now, Wendy needs me!

Too high to climb into.. I wonder if it hurts when they shed them??