(align:"=><=")+(box:"X=")[''Halloween at Salem'']
You are [[Zaida->Zaida]], a student. Your roommate is [[Mercury->Mercury]].
You're all very interested in witch culture, so you and Mercury plann to head to Salem on Halloween, the craziest day of the year in the city of witches.
You book the Salem Inn, a supposedly haunted house.
The story begins the night before Halloween...
[[Start|Inn, the night before Halloween]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src=https://ziwangorg.files.wordpress.com/2022/03/saleminn-2.png>
</div>
You and Mercury arrive at the Salem Inn the night before Halloween.
Mercury lists [[an agenda->Agenda]] for tomorrow and puts it on the table.
When you prepare for the next day plan, Mercury says she heard a third voice and a footstep that does not belong to the two of you. But you can't.
You are suspicious. In the end, you think she's joking with you, so you ignore her nonsense and go straight to sleep.
[[Wake Up|Halloween morning]]Mercury is already doing makeup when you wake up. Your plan in the morning is to take pictures at several famous spots when there are not many people, and you will go to the Witch House first. The Witch House is the only building in Salem that has a direct connection to the witch trials of 1692.
[[Off to the Witch House]]You notice she's been sweating, but she still wants to stick to your plan and get to the next destination. You are so worried about her, and you insist on letting her a break.
She rested on a roadside chair. Then, you go to the nearby convenience store and want to grape some water for Mercury.
So you decide to buy:
<img src=https://ziwangorg.files.wordpress.com/2022/04/pixilart-drawing.png>
[[Salt soda (replenishes bodily functions)|Soda]]
<img src=https://ziwangorg.files.wordpress.com/2022/04/pixil-frame-0.png>
[[Lemon Tea (her favorite)|Lemon tea]]Go to the Salem Wax Haunted Houses
[[Believe her|Believe]]
[[Don't believe her|Don't believe]]You think salt soda would be beneficial to her. So you bring her a bottle of salt soda.
Half-smiling, she asks, "Is this the ultimate secret drink to maintain HP, saline soda?"
You say, "Yeah. So drink up!"
She seems better after drinking something.
Then you set off to the Salem Wax Haunted Houses. Unfortunately, too many people visit the Salem Wax Haunted Houses on Halloween. You missed your scheduled time, so your tickets are void.
Then, you guys have to decide to visit somewhere else. After discussing, the 1692 Witch Museum is where you want to go.
[[Off to the Witch Museum.|Witch Museum1]]You think lemon tea is her favorite, so why not? You bring her lemon tea. She exclaimed excitedly: "Yooooo! My favorite!"
You say, "Yeah. So drink up!"
She seemed happy after drinking lemon tea.
Then you set off to the Salem Wax Haunted Houses. Unfortunately, too many people visit the Salem Wax Haunted Houses on Halloween. You missed your scheduled time, so your tickets are void.
Then, you guys have to decide to visit somewhere else. After discussing, the 1692 Witch Museum is where you want to go.
[[Off to the Witch Museum.|Witch Museum2]]You agree with her and set off to the restaurant.
After a while, Mercury also comes to the restaurant. She looks tired again. Her custom messes up by the sea breeze.
She doesn't talk while she eats, and you don't know if she's unhappy or doesn't care if you go to the lighthouse with her.
You plan to go to the parade after dinner. So after a short rest, you set off.
[[Go to the parade.|Parade1]]The path to the lighthouse is super windy, and the sea breeze messes up your costumes.
You take some pictures for Mercury, and Mercury tries to look decent on camera under the wind.
It's rare to come to a place with such a beautiful view of the lighthouse, so Mercury also takes some photos for you. The wind also tosses you.
Almost every photo of the two of you can be used as a meme.
You two stayed at the lighthouse for less than half an hour before heading to the restaurant.
Mercury says to you, pretending to be aggrieved and about to cry, as if to make you laugh, "(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[I'm sorry, I'm so silly, said about something going to the lighthouse and taking pictures.]"
You laugh and say, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[Hahahaha! It's okay! I'm willing to accompany you to do what you want, and I feel joyful!]"
Mercury laughs too.
You plan to go to the parade after dinner. So after a short rest, you set off.
[[Go to Parade|Parade2]]The parade is definitely something you should be involved in on Halloween at Salem. Hundreds of people marched down the street in amazing costumes. There are clowns in IT, the witches in Hocus Pocus, werewolves, and vampires. There are also many wizards in Hogwarts uniforms walking together.
You and Mercury take pictures with many people.
Soon, you heard the bell.
[[Next|8:00]]The parade is definitely something you should be involved in on Halloween at Salem. Hundreds of people marched down the street in amazing costumes. There are clowns in IT, the witches in Hocus Pocus, werewolves, and vampires. There are also many wizards in Hogwarts uniforms walking together.
You and Mercury take pictures with many people.
Soon, you heard the bell.
[[Next|8:00_2]]You're so curious about what happened to her. You tell Mercury that at least we have to ask her first.
Mercury is silent for a moment and says, "(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[Then ask her.]"
You tentatively greet the ghost.
The woman raises her head with a gloomy face: "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[What's the matter?]"
"(text-colour:#f1aea7)[Hey, what happened to you?]" you ask.
"(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[Me? Just a damn ghost.]"The woman says," (text-colour:#f2e3a6)[Fortunately, tonight is my last night.]"
You are confused. You look at Mercury and hope she understands. But she acts it is none of her business.
So you have to keep asking, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[What do you mean?]"
The woman says, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[If you buy me a drink, I'll tell you.]"
[[Next|Pub1]]Just like that, you continue to ignore the ghost lady behind you. While you're still a little concerned about the ghost following you, Mercury tells you that's perfectly fine.
You follow the parade team for a while, and finally, you two catch the 11:00 train home. And the ghost lady disappears after you get on the train.
[[Next|Ending2]]You're so curious about what happened to her. You tell Mercury that at least we have to ask her first.
Mercury is silent for a moment and says, "(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[Then ask her.]"
You tentatively greet the ghost.
The woman raises her head with a gloomy face: "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[What's the matter?]"
"(text-colour:#f1aea7)[Hey, what happened to you?]" you ask.
"(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[Me? Just a damn ghost.]"The woman says," (text-colour:#f2e3a6)[Fortunately, tonight is my last night.]"
You are confused. You look at Mercury and hope she understands. But she acts it is none of her business.
So you have to keep asking, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[What do you mean?]"
The woman says, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[If you buy me a drink, I'll tell you.]"
[[Next|Pub2]]Just like that, you continue to ignore the ghost lady behind you. While you're still a little concerned about the ghost following you, Mercury tells you that's perfectly fine.
You follow the parade team for a while, and finally, you two catch the 11:00 train home. And the ghost lady disappears after you get on the train.
[[Next|Ending4]]You agree with her and set off to the restaurant.
You waited a long time at the restaurant for Mercury. Can't reach her by texting or calling. You realize something is wrong. You set off for the lighthouse. You heard on the road that a girl passed out not long ago. You know that's Mercury. You hurried off, regretting why you didn't accompany her to the lighthouse just now.
When you found her on the side of the road, she was already awake. She was taken to a roadside seat by a few well-meaning people. A few kids even left her some Halloween candy, and she looked like she was having a good time.
You say: "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[I'm sorry.]"
Mercury asked: "(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[Sorry about what?]"
You said, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[I'm sorry I didn't come with you.]"
Mercury said: "(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[That wasn't necessary. See, I have Halloween candy and you don't, I made it.]"
You say, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[Yeah. You win.]"
She still insists on traveling, but you strongly stopped her. You rest with her for a while, then catch the nearest train home.
Mercury was back sick for a week, and you've been actively caring for her. When she was sick, she would talk nonsense about ghosts and such. You think she's teasing you. Because ghosts don't exist.
It doesn't exist, right?The path to the lighthouse is super windy, and the sea breeze messes up your costumes.
You take some pictures for Mercury, and Mercury tries to look decent on camera under the wind.
It's rare to come to a place with such a beautiful view of the lighthouse, so Mercury also takes some photos for you. The wind also tosses you.
Almost every photo of the two of you can be used as a meme.
You two stayed at the lighthouse for less than half an hour before heading to the restaurant.
Mercury says to you, pretending to be aggrieved and about to cry, as if to make you laugh, "(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[I'm sorry, I'm so silly, said about something going to the lighthouse and taking pictures.]"
You laugh and say, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[Hahahaha! It's okay! I'm willing to accompany you to do what you want, and I feel joyful!]"
Mercury laughs too.
You plan to go to the parade after dinner. So after a short rest, you set off.
[[Go to parade.|Parade3]]Double-click this passage to edit it.
[[Check|Check4]]
[[Don't check|Don't check4]]You're so curious about what happened to her. You tell Mercury that at least we have to ask her first.
Mercury is silent for a moment and says, "(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[Then ask her.]"
You tentatively greet the ghost.
The woman raises her head with a gloomy face: "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[What's the matter?]"
"(text-colour:#f1aea7)[Hey, what happened to you?]" you ask.
"(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[Me? Just a damn ghost.]"The woman says," (text-colour:#f2e3a6)[Fortunately, tonight is my last night.]"
You are confused. You look at Mercury and hope she understands. But she acts it is none of her business.
So you have to keep asking, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[What do you mean?]"
The woman says, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[If you buy me a drink, I'll tell you.]"
[[Go to Pub|Pub3]]Just like that, you continue to ignore the ghost lady behind you. While you're still a little concerned about the ghost following you, Mercury tells you that's perfectly fine.
You follow the parade team for a while, and finally, you two catch the 11:00 train home. And the ghost lady disappears after you get on the train.
[[Next|Ending6]][[Ending12]][[Ending13]]Double-click this passage to edit it.Double-click this passage to edit it.Double-click this passage to edit it.Double-click this passage to edit it.Light house&Dinner
[[Cemetery|Cemetery4]]Double-click this passage to edit it.
[[Lighthouse]][[Inn]]
[[Ending14]][[Ending15]]Double-click this passage to edit it.
[[save|save]]
[[don't save|]]Double-click this passage to edit it.Double-click this passage to edit it.[[Procession|Procession5]]You think Procession is definitely something you should be involved in on Halloween. Hundreds of people marched down the street in amazing costumes, and there were some local parades. You saw the clowns in IT, the witches in Hocus Pocus. You and Mercury took pictures with many people.
Soon the bell rang at 9 o'clock. Suddenly, there was a commotion in the procession. You see, a group of people in ancient costumes emerge from the ground like ghosts. They waved and greeted people enthusiastically. It's probably the kind of show you'd expect to see, but you didn't expect it to be so entertaining.
"It should be made with holographic projection technology?" You wish to talk to Mercury.
"No. They're definitely real ghosts," Mercury said.
really. If they're an illusion created by high-tech products, they're ghosts designed to please tourists. Why should I expose this and make things boring?
For a split second, you understand Mercury's humor again. You smiled and replied, "Yes. They are the real ghost."
But is it possible that they are real ghosts? You can't help but think.
You and Mercury follow the parade, and you notice a little girl with her head bowed and not saying a word behind Mercury. You try to hold Mercury to the other side of the line, and the little girl follows. You quicken your pace and she's still following you.
After you're sure she's actually following you, you whisper to Mercury, "There's a little girl who's been following us."
"That's right," Mercury said.
You ask her, "You found out long ago?"
She said yes."
You said in surprise, "Then why didn't you tell me earlier?"
She replied, "I told you yesterday."
"What?!" You really can't believe what she just said. It means it's true that she said she heard a third person's voice yesterday. Then this little girl might really be a ghost.
A complex mood of fear and excitement entangles in your psyche. You did long for something special on this magical day, but you never expected it to be a real ghost meeting.
You'd love to ask that little girl why she's following you. But 12 is fast approaching, and if you don't catch the last train home, you might be sleeping rough on the streets of Salem. But you wonder why she keeps following you. You were about to talk to the little girl when Mercury spoke first: "Don't talk to her."
You ask, "Why? She looks frustrated."
She said, "The ghost thing, you either don't touch it, or completely solve it. Don't forget we have to catch the train before 12 o'clock!"
you say:
[[Ask why she is following you.|Help5]]
[[Don't ask and set off to station soon.|Don't help5]]Double-click this passage to edit it.
[[Check|Check5]]
[[Don't check|Don't check5]][[Ending16]][[Ending17]][[Ending18]][[Ending19]]Double-click this passage to edit it.Double-click this passage to edit it.Double-click this passage to edit it.Double-click this passage to edit it.<style> img {
max-width:50%;
max-height:50%;
}
</style>
<center><img src=https://ziwangorg.files.wordpress.com/2022/04/character_elise.png.png>
</center>
</div>
You and Mercury follow the parade, and you notice a woman with her head bowed and not saying a word behind Mercury. You try to hold Mercury to the other side of the line, and the woman follows. You quicken your pace, and she's still following you.
After you're sure she's actually following you, you whisper to Mercury, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[There's a woman who's been following us.]"
"(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[I know,]" Mercury says.
You ask her, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[Wait, you found out long ago?]"
She says, "(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[Yes.]"
You ask in surprise, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[Then why didn't you tell me?]"
She replies, "(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[I told you yesterday.]"
"(text-colour:#f1aea7)[What?!]" You really can't believe what she just said. So it means it's true that she said she heard a third person's voice yesterday. Then this woman might be a real ghost.
A complex mood of fear and excitement entangles. You do long for something special on this magical day, but you never expected it to be a real ghost encounter.
[[Next|Ask]]In the Pub.
The ghost has a Gin & Tonic, while there are two Halloween-limited desserts in front of you and Mercury.
This meal is probably your treat. After all, it isn't Mercury who asks to hear a ghost tell a story, and the spirit won't pay the bills.
"(text-colour:#f1aea7)[Miss Ghost, what should I call you?]" you ask.
"(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[Elise,]" she takes a sip. "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[Is there anything you want to ask, little girl? It's not common to have a chance to communicate with ghosts. You better to seize the opportunity.]"
"(text-colour:#f1aea7)[Okay, why are you following us?]" you ask.
"(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[Follow you? Oh, don't get me wrong. I'm not interested in little girls like you,]" Elise says, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[I can only get out of that damn inn once a year, and I can only get out by haunting a living person. Without the living, I might be gone in less than one minute. And your friend, she's quite spiritual. I don't want to be possessed by a person who faints without taking two steps.]"
Elise adds: "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[But your friend is stronger-willed than I thought, to be possessed by me for so long and still be so energetic. Most people will pass out until the evening, and she is still tireless at night. But thanks to your bottle of saltwater. That made me uncomfortable for a while. So, I think you should buy something to compensate me.]"
[[Buy Her a Drink|Pub1_2]]You order her another drink: "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[Oh, sorry. I didn't know that salt can hurt you.]"
Elise laughs, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[Hurt? You should know I'm a ghost wandering the world for 300 years. These things can't hurt me long ago.]"
You asked in surprise, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[300 years?]"
You notice Mercury frowning suddenly, and you whisper to her what happened.
"(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[300 years is the longest a ghost can live on,]" Mercury says. "(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[If she does, she'll be gone at sunrise tomorrow.]"
Elise hears it too, and she says, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[That's right. But the accurate word is not to dissipate, but to go to hell.]"
This time, you and Mercury are silent at the same time. You understand that only those who commit serious crimes go to hell. Did she commit any severe crimes? You wonder if it was a good decision to listen to a ghost tell a story.
Elise smiles when she sees your nervous expressions: "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[Girls, don't be so scared. I won't hurt you. The sins I've committed are all sins in my lifetime.]"
You pretend to be calm and say, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[What's so serious enough to make you think you're going to hell?]"
Elise says, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[I only come out once a year, and this is the last time. Can't you buy me some more?]"
It seems that she really wants to get herself drunk.
[[Buy Her Another Drink|Pub1_3 The Past]]Elise had her third drink and told you a story that happened in 1692.
Elise was 13 years old that year, the age of youth and ignorance. Nevertheless, she has a prosperous family and some good friends. Among her friends was a silver-haired girl.
At the time, people didn't understand what albinism was and regarded natural silver hair as an ominous symbol. But Elise doesn't think so. At 13, she thought that girl was as cute as a white rabbit. Every time someone tried to bully the silver-haired girl, she would stand up to defend her. Over time, her friends gradually drifted away from her, leaving only the silver-haired girl close to her.
Later, the witch hunt begins. Her former friends have identified the silver-haired girl and Elise as witches. But Elise's family told her that as long as she accused the silver-haired girl of a witch, she would be fine, and so would her family. But Elise firmly refused to accuse the silver-haired girl and promised the silver-haired girl that she would always protect her.
[[Next|Past1_2]]"(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[Then 27 years passed, and I died at the age of 40. I knew that I was going to hell, so I figured out many ways to avoid going straight to hell. So I became a wandered ghost in Salem. Later, my power became weaker and weaker, and I had to live in a special enchantment. Salem Inn is a place with a protective spirit enchantment. So, I have been staying in Salem Inn for decades.]" Elise says, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[The Inn owner couples are both psychics. They set up a magic barrier in the hotel and took in several ghosts, including me. However, we are not free to stay. We ghost also work! ]"
She explains, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[The meaning of work is moderately haunted. We could scare the guests lightly but were not allowed to hurt them. It made the hotel legendary and helped them attract many tourists.]"
"(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[That's my story,]" Elise says, almost finishing her third glass. "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[It feels good to tell you about it before I go to hell.]"
You and Mercury finish listening to her story, and both have a sip.
You say, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[But, have you never tried to beg her forgiveness after that?]"
Elise said, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[Oh, although I know she's in that cemetery, I can't face her at all. I'd better go straight to hell.]"
After hearing her say that, you can't help but want to help her out of the predicament.
[[Next|Pub1_5]]"(text-colour:#f1aea7)[I'm serious. If you never tried to reconcile with her, you're still going to be guilty. And when you get to hell, you'll never have a chance to make amends,]" you continue.
"(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[I really don't care,]" Elise says.
You say, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[You do care, and I can't believe you even never tried it in 300 years. You need at least to try and ask her forgiveness. Anyway, this is your last day. Ever better than never.]"
Elise becomes silent.
"(text-colour:#f1aea7)[I remember we have the visiting to the cemetery on our agenda, right?]" you ask Mercury tentatively.
[[Next|Pub1_6]]<style> img {
max-width:50%;
max-height:50%;
}
</style>
<center><img src=https://ziwangorg.files.wordpress.com/2022/04/character_elise.png.png>
</center>
</div>
You and Mercury follow the parade, and you notice a woman with her head bowed and not saying a word behind Mercury. You try to hold Mercury to the other side of the line, and the woman follows. You quicken your pace, and she's still following you.
After you're sure she's actually following you, you whisper to Mercury, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[There's a woman who's been following us.]"
"(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[I know,]" Mercury says.
You ask her, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[Wait, you found out long ago?]"
She says, "(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[Yes.]"
You ask in surprise, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[Then why didn't you tell me?]"
She replies, "(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[I told you yesterday.]"
"(text-colour:#f1aea7)[What?!]" You really can't believe what she just said. So it means it's true that she said she heard a third person's voice yesterday. Then this woman might be a real ghost.
A complex mood of fear and excitement entangles. You do long for something special on this magical day, but you never expected it to be a real ghost encounter.
[[Next|Ask_2]]In the Pub.
The ghost has a Gin & Tonic, while there are two Halloween-limited desserts in front of you and Mercury.
This meal is probably your treat. After all, it isn't Mercury who asks to hear a ghost tell a story, and the spirit won't pay the bills.
"(text-colour:#f1aea7)[Miss Ghost, what should I call you?]" you ask.
"(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[Elise,]" she takes a sip. "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[Is there anything you want to ask, little girl? It's not common to have a chance to communicate with ghosts. You better to seize the opportunity.]"
"(text-colour:#f1aea7)[Okay, why are you following us?]" you ask.
"(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[Follow you? Oh, don't get me wrong. I'm not interested in little girls like you,]" Elise says, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[I can only get out of that damn inn once a year, and I can only get out by haunting a living person. Without the living, I might be gone in less than one minute. And your friend, she's quite spiritual. I don't want to be possessed by a person who faints without taking two steps.]"
Elise adds: "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[But your friend is stronger-willed than I thought, to be possessed by me for so long and still be so energetic. Most people will pass out until the evening, and she is still tireless at night. But thanks to your bottle of saltwater. That made me uncomfortable for a while. So, I think you should buy something to compensate me.]"
[[Buy Her A Drink|Pub2_2]]You order her another drink: "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[Oh, sorry. I didn't know that salt can hurt you.]"
Elise laughs, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[Hurt? You should know I'm a ghost wandering the world for 300 years. These things can't hurt me long ago.]"
You asked in surprise, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[300 years?]"
You notice Mercury frowning suddenly, and you whisper to her what happened.
"(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[300 years is the longest a ghost can live on,]" Mercury says. "(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[If she does, she'll be gone at sunrise tomorrow.]"
Elise hears it too, and she says, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[That's right. But the accurate word is not to dissipate, but to go to hell.]"
This time, you and Mercury are silent at the same time. You understand that only those who commit serious crimes go to hell. Did she commit any severe crimes? You wonder if it was a good decision to listen to a ghost tell a story.
Elise smiles when she sees your nervous expressions: "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[Girls, don't be so scared. I won't hurt you. The sins I've committed are all sins in my lifetime.]"
You pretend to be calm and say, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[What's so serious enough to make you think you're going to hell?]"
Elise says, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[I only come out once a year, and this is the last time. Can't you buy me some more?]"
It seems that she really wants to get herself drunk.
[[Buy Her Another Drink|Pub2_3]]Elise had her third drink and told you a story that happened in 1692.
Elise was 13 years old that year, the age of youth and ignorance. Nevertheless, she has a prosperous family and some good friends. Among her friends was a silver-haired girl.
At the time, people didn't understand what albinism was and regarded natural silver hair as an ominous symbol. But Elise doesn't think so. At 13, she thought that girl was as cute as a white rabbit. Every time someone tried to bully the silver-haired girl, she would stand up to defend her. Over time, her friends gradually drifted away from her, leaving only the silver-haired girl close to her.
Later, the witch hunt begins. Her former friends have identified the silver-haired girl and Elise as witches. But Elise's family told her that as long as she accused the silver-haired girl of a witch, she would be fine, and so would her family. But Elise firmly refused to accuse the silver-haired girl and promised the silver-haired girl that she would always protect her.
[[Next|Past2_2]]"(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[Then 27 years passed, and I died at the age of 40. I knew that I was going to hell, so I figured out many ways to avoid going straight to hell. So I became a wandered ghost in Salem. Later, my power became weaker and weaker, and I had to live in a special enchantment. Salem Inn is a place with a protective spirit enchantment. So, I have been staying in Salem Inn for decades.]" Elise says, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[The Inn owner couples are both psychics. They set up a magic barrier in the hotel and took in several ghosts, including me. However, we are not free to stay. We ghost also work! ]"
She explains, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[The meaning of work is moderately haunted. We could scare the guests lightly but were not allowed to hurt them. It made the hotel legendary and helped them attract many tourists.]"
"(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[That's my story,]" Elise says, almost finishing her third glass. "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[It feels good to tell you about it before I go to hell.]"
You and Mercury finish listening to her story, and both have a sip.
You say, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[But, have you never tried to beg her forgiveness after that?]"
Elise said, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[Oh, although I know she's in that cemetery, I can't face her at all. I'd better go straight to hell.]"
After hearing her say that, you can't help but want to help her out of the predicament.
[[Next|Pub2_5]]The parade is definitely something you should be involved in on Halloween at Salem. Hundreds of people marched down the street in amazing costumes. There are clowns in IT, the witches in Hocus Pocus, werewolves, and vampires. There are also many wizards in Hogwarts uniforms walking together.
You and Mercury take pictures with many people.
Soon, you heard the bell.
[[Next|8:00_3]]<style> img {
max-width:50%;
max-height:50%;
}
</style>
<center><img src=https://ziwangorg.files.wordpress.com/2022/04/character_elise.png.png>
</center>
</div>
You and Mercury follow the parade, and you notice a woman with her head bowed and not saying a word behind Mercury. You try to hold Mercury to the other side of the line, and the woman follows. You quicken your pace, and she's still following you.
After you're sure she's actually following you, you whisper to Mercury, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[There's a woman who's been following us.]"
"(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[I know,]" Mercury says.
You ask her, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[Wait, you found out long ago?]"
She says, "(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[Yes.]"
You ask in surprise, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[Then why didn't you tell me?]"
She replies, "(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[I told you yesterday.]"
"(text-colour:#f1aea7)[What?!]" You really can't believe what she just said. So it means it's true that she said she heard a third person's voice yesterday. Then this woman might be a real ghost.
A complex mood of fear and excitement entangles. You do long for something special on this magical day, but you never expected it to be a real ghost encounter.
[[Next|Ask_3]]In the Pub.
The ghost has a Gin & Tonic, while there are two Halloween-limited desserts in front of you and Mercury.
This meal is probably your treat. After all, it isn't Mercury who asks to hear a ghost tell a story, and the spirit won't pay the bills.
"(text-colour:#f1aea7)[Miss Ghost, what should I call you?]" you ask.
"(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[Elise,]" she takes a sip. "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[Is there anything you want to ask, little girl? It's not common to have a chance to communicate with ghosts. You better to seize the opportunity.]"
"(text-colour:#f1aea7)[Okay, why are you following us?]" you ask.
"(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[Follow you? Oh, don't get me wrong. I'm not interested in little girls like you,]" Elise says, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[I can only get out of that damn inn once a year, and I can only get out by haunting a living person. Without the living, I might be gone in less than one minute. And your friend, she's quite spiritual. I don't want to be possessed by a person who faints without taking two steps.]"
Elise adds: "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[But your friend is stronger-willed than I thought, to be possessed by me for so long and still be so energetic. Most people will pass out until the evening, and she is still tireless at night. Could you please buy me another drink? I need to be drunk."]"
[[Buy Her A Drink|Pub3_2]] You order her another glass of wine: "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[Alright.]"
Elise smiled, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[Thank you. You know I'm a ghost that has been wandering the world for 300 years, but still enjoying drinking.]"
You asked in surprise, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[300 years?]"
You notice Mercury frowning suddenly, and you whisper to her what happened.
"(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[300 years is the longest a ghost can live on,]" Mercury says. "(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[If she does, she'll be gone at sunrise tomorrow.]"
Elise hears it too, and she says, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[That's right. But the accurate word is not to dissipate, but to go to hell.]"
This time, you and Mercury are silent at the same time. You understand that only those who commit serious crimes go to hell. Did she commit any severe crimes? You wonder if it was a good decision to listen to a ghost tell a story.
Elise smiles when she sees your nervous expressions: "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[Girls, don't be so scared. I won't hurt you. The sins I've committed are all sins in my lifetime.]"
You pretend to be calm and say, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[What's so serious enough to make you think you're going to hell?]"
Elise says, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[I only come out once a year, and this is the last time. Can't you buy me some more?]"
It seems that she really wants to get herself drunk.
[[Buy Her Another Drink|Pub3_3]]Elise had her third drink and told you a story that happened in 1692.
Elise was 13 years old that year, the age of youth and ignorance. Nevertheless, she has a prosperous family and some good friends. Among her friends was a silver-haired girl.
At the time, people didn't understand what albinism was and regarded natural silver hair as an ominous symbol. But Elise doesn't think so. At 13, she thought that girl was as cute as a white rabbit. Every time someone tried to bully the silver-haired girl, she would stand up to defend her. Over time, her friends gradually drifted away from her, leaving only the silver-haired girl close to her.
Later, the witch hunt begins. Her former friends have identified the silver-haired girl and Elise as witches. But Elise's family told her that as long as she accused the silver-haired girl of a witch, she would be fine, and so would her family. But Elise firmly refused to accuse the silver-haired girl and promised the silver-haired girl that she would always protect her.
[[Next|Past3_2]]"(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[Then 27 years passed, and I died at the age of 40. I knew that I was going to hell, so I figured out many ways to avoid going straight to hell. So I became a wandered ghost in Salem. Later, my power became weaker and weaker, and I had to live in a special enchantment. Salem Inn is a place with a protective spirit enchantment. So, I have been staying in Salem Inn for decades.]" Elise says, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[The Inn owner couples are both psychics. They set up a magic barrier in the hotel and took in several ghosts, including me. However, we are not free to stay. We ghost also work! ]"
She explains, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[The meaning of work is moderately haunted. We could scare the guests lightly but were not allowed to hurt them. It made the hotel legendary and helped them attract many tourists.]"
"(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[That's my story,]" Elise says, almost finishing her third glass. "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[It feels good to tell you about it before I go to hell.]"
You and Mercury finish listening to her story, and both have a sip.
You say, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[But, have you never tried to beg her forgiveness after that?]"
Elise said, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[Oh, although I know she's in that cemetery, I can't face her at all. I'd better go straight to hell.]"
After hearing her say that, you can't help but want to help her out of the predicament.
[[Next|Pub3_5]]<style> img {
max-width:50%;
max-height:50%;
}
</style>
<center><img src=https://ziwangorg.files.wordpress.com/2022/04/character_zaida.png.png>
</center>
</div>
Name: Zaida
Sign: Sagittarius
Interest: Photography, Cooking
MBTI:ENFP
Costume: You plan to cos a cat-eared girl in a Japanese uniform for Halloween. It is because you love cats, and cats are one of the classic elements of Halloween!
But why the Japanese style? Probably it is easier to add clothes inside to keep warm. After all, it is still a bit cold in the Northeast region at the end of October.<style> img {
max-width:50%;
max-height:50%;
}
</style>
<center><img src=https://ziwangorg.files.wordpress.com/2022/04/character_mercury.png.png>
</center>
</div>
Name: Mercury
Sign: Aquarius
Interest: Drawing, Visiting Museums
MBTI:INTJ
Costume: Mercury plans to cos a demon with a cloak. The devil horns are the highlight! She also takes a red devilfork as a prop.
She even tried on the outfit a week in advance and asked you to take her photo. It looks like she's really excited about her upcoming Halloween trip to Salem.<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src=https://ziwangorg.files.wordpress.com/2022/04/witchhouse.png>
</div>
Arriving at The Witch House, you are attracted by this building full of mysterious history with dark external face. A passerby asks if you need to take a photo for both of you, and you agreed.
Textile looms, old tables, and portraits from centuries ago sit silently in their place in the dark light. A depressing vibe pervades the house.
Ending the visiting of the Witch House, Mercury seems to sweat. She usually walks all day without getting tired, but you don't know what happened to her today.
You guys are planning to go to your next destination after visiting the Witch House, but she seems to be suffering. You suggest to take a break.
[[Take a break.|Break]]<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src=https://ziwangorg.files.wordpress.com/2022/04/witchmuseum.png>
</div>
You two arrive at the Witch Museum. Even though it takes some time in line, you two finally enter for a visit.
You two come to a circular theater. The lights gradually dimmed. A deep voice sounds, accompanied by the movements of the mechanical puppets dressed in the ancient custom upon the walls around, slowly recounting the bloody history of a mutual accusation named the Witch Hunt in 1692.
...
Those who died can not rehabilitate until many years later. And those who were unknown were buried in the dust of history even centuries later. However, there is still a cemetery for memorizing those people in the town.
You are very depressed after hearing this story. The curiosity about the Witch Hunt turned into a gloomy mood.
[[Came out of the Witch Museum.|Came out_1]]Agenda
10-31
10:00-12:00 The Witch House
12:30-15:30 Salem Wax Haunted Houses
16:00-17:30 Light House by Sea(Optional)
18:00-19:30 Dinner
20:00-22:00 Parade
23:00 Boarding the Train HomeYou come out of the Witch Museum, the sky is starting to get dark. Mercury still wants to go to the lighthouse-by-sea. She says she wants to complete her plan, and takes some pictures near the lighthouse before dark.
But you are hungry and tired.
She proposes that you can go to the restaurant first, and she will go to the restaurant to find you after she goes to the lighthouse and takes pictures. You:
[[Agree with her, and set off for the restaurant alone.|Go alone]]
[[Endure hunger and exhaustion and go with her to the lighthouse.|Go with her]]The bell rings at 8 o'clock. Suddenly, there is a commotion in the parade.
You see a group of people in ancient costumes emerge from the ground like ghosts. They wave hands and greet people enthusiastically. It's probably the kind of show you'd expect to see, but you never expect it to be so entertaining.
"(text-colour:#f1aea7)[They should be made with some holographic projection technology, right?]" You talked to Mercury.
"(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[No. They're definitely real ghosts,]" Mercury answers.
Yeah, if they're an illusion created by high-tech, they're still ghosts designed to please tourists.
So, why should I expose it and make things boring? You think.
For a split second, you understand Mercury's humor.
You smile and reply, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[Yes. They are the real ghost.]"
But is it possible that they are real ghosts? You can't help thinking and continue to follow the parade.
[[Continue to follow the parade.|Continue1]]You are curious why she's following you. But 11 o'clock is fast approaching, and if you don't catch the last train home, you might be sleeping rough on the streets of Salem. But you still wondering why she keeps following you.
Mercury speaks first when you are about to talk to the woman: "(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[Don't talk to her.]"
You ask, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[Why?]"
She says, "(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[The ghost thing, you either do not touch it or completely solve it. Don't forget we have to catch the train before 12 o'clock.]"
You respond:
[["Come on! I am super curious! We can at least ask her first."|Help]]
[["Is it so serious? Then I guess we'd better go home."|Don't help]]"(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[Huh? What cemetery? We obviously don't have that plan.]" Mercury says. "(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[I remember we have to catch the train at 11:00, and it's 10:30 now.]"
You are embarrassed. It seems that Mercury is not interested in this plan at all. It's probably her best tolerance to sit here with you and chat with this ghost named Elise.
You think maybe you could go help Elise alone, but it was late at night. You definitely don't want to leave Mercury and go alone to help Elise solve her knot. Experience tells you that no matter what horror novel, movie, or video game, it's totally not wise to leave your friends and act alone!
[[Next|Pub1_7]]You catch the train and return home safely.
After returning home, Mercury gets ill for two weeks. You don't know if she just had a common cold or the after-effects of being haunted by ghosts. Every time you ask how Mercury feels, Mercury answers she's ok. You try to cook some delicious food for her to help her recover. Although she appreciates your sharing every time, you find that it doesn't seem to her appetite every time.
You have two very different lives under the same roof.
And you, you have been having nightmares for almost a month. It nearly crushes you. You often dream of a blonde woman. Sometimes she struggles to crawl to the cemetery; sometimes, she screams in the fire; sometimes, she sobs in the dark. You know that's Elise. She probably didn't find that silver-haired girl she told you about that night. You still remember depression and pain in your dreams every time you wake up. It affects your everyday life very much. Sure enough, as Mercury said, the ghost stuff either doesn't touch it or solve it to the end. If you ask and don't solve it, it will turn into a nightmare that haunts you all the time.
Sometimes, you wonder, what if you and Mercury accompanied Elise to the cemetery that day? But how would Mercury be willing to go to the cemetery with you? If you accompany her to the lighthouse, will she also accompany you to where you want to go?<style> img {
max-width:100%;
max-height:100%;
}
</style>
<img src=https://ziwangorg.files.wordpress.com/2022/04/witchmuseum.png>
</div>
You two arrive at the Witch Museum. Even though it takes some time in line, you two finally enter for a visit.
You two come to a circular theater. The lights gradually dimmed. A deep voice sounds, accompanied by the movements of the mechanical puppets dressed in the ancient custom upon the walls around, slowly recounting the bloody history of a mutual accusation named the Witch Hunt in 1692.
...
Those who died can not rehabilitate until many years later. And those who were unknown were buried in the dust of history even centuries later. However, there is still a cemetery for memorizing those people in the town.
You are very depressed after hearing this story. The curiosity about the Witch Hunt turned into a gloomy mood.
[[Came out of the Witch Museum.|Came out_2]]The bell rings at 8 o'clock. Suddenly, there is a commotion in the parade.
You see a group of people in ancient costumes emerge from the ground like ghosts. They wave hands and greet people enthusiastically. It's probably the kind of show you'd expect to see, but you never expect it to be so entertaining.
"(text-colour:#f1aea7)[They should be made with some holographic projection technology, right?]" You talked to Mercury.
"(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[No. They're definitely real ghosts,]" Mercury answers.
Yeah, if they're an illusion created by high-tech, they're still ghosts designed to please tourists.
So, why should I expose it and make things boring? You think.
For a split second, you understand Mercury's humor.
You smile and reply, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[Yes. They are the real ghost.]"
But is it possible that they are real ghosts? You can't help thinking and continue to follow the parade.
[[Continue to follow the parade.|Continue2]]You are curious why she's following you. But 11 o'clock is fast approaching, and if you don't catch the last train home, you might be sleeping rough on the streets of Salem. But you still wondering why she keeps following you.
Mercury speaks first when you are about to talk to the woman: "(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[Don't talk to her.]"
You ask, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[Why?]"
She says, "(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[The ghost thing, you either do not touch it or completely solve it. Don't forget we have to catch the train before 12 o'clock.]"
You respond:
[["Come on! I am super curious! We can at least ask her first."|Help2]]
[["Is it so serious? Then I guess we'd better go home."|Don't help2]]You come out of the Witch Museum, the sky is starting to get dark. Mercury still wants to go to the lighthouse-by-sea. She says she wants to complete her plan, and takes some pictures near the lighthouse before dark.
But you are hungry and tired.
She proposes that you can go to the restaurant first, and she will go to the restaurant to find you after she goes to the lighthouse and takes pictures. You:
[[Agreed with her, and set off for the restaurant alone.|Go alone2/Ending5]]
[[Endure hunger and exhaustion and go with her to the lighthouse.|Go with her2]]One day Elise found the silver-haired girl walking with a man, and the silver-haired girl had a look of admiration on her face. Elise recognized the man as the town priest. Elise starts to wonder. At first, she thought the priest was exorcising the silver-haired girl. But, once Elise followed them to the place of the exorcism, Elise peeped at the naked body of the silver-haired girl and the priest.
She remembered the submissive gesture of that girl, the deep breath, and the smell of sweat mixed with grass—all of those stung Elise deeply. Jealousy and betrayal filled her.
Elise went to confront the silver-haired girl the next day. Her little white rabbit vehemently denied it. Elise finally broke down. On the same day, she accused the silver-haired girl of being a witch.
When the day of the trial came, the silver-haired girl was convicted of being a witch. She ended up being burned to death.
At the moment of execution, Elise heard the silver-haired girl scream in the fire: "You said you would protect me!"
The shrill screams echoed in the execution ground for a long time before they subsided, but the riots in Elise's heart could not go away.
[[Next|Pub1_4]]While you are hesitating, Mercury says to you, "(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[It's time to go to the station.]"
You want to persuade Mercury again. At this time, Elise says, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[Girl, I advise you to go home with your friends.]"
You ask, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[Wait, what? What about you?]"
Elise takes her last sip and says, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[You have your denouement, and I have mine.]"
When you understand that Elise has made up her mind to leave, and you can't go with her, you say to her, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[Then you must find her.]"
Elise stands up and walks with you to the door of the pub.
Elise says: "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[This is where we parted. It was a pleasure chatting with you. Goodbye.]"
Before you say goodbye to Elise, Elise leaves like a puff of smoke. The direction seems to be the cemetery.
You come to your senses, and Mercury says to you, "(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[It's a 20-minute walk to the station, we'd better go now.]"
You answer,"(text-colour:#f1aea7)[Let's go.]"
[[Go to the station|Ending1]]Mercury is sick for two weeks after returning home. You don't know if she has a common cold or the after-effects of being haunted by ghosts for a day. Every time you ask how Mercury is, Mercury says she's okay. You try to cook some delicious food for her to help her recover. Although she appreciates your sharing every time, you find that it doesn't seem to her appetite every time.
You have two very different lives under the same roof.
And you, in your spare time, are spending time on photography and cooking. You've experienced the splendor of Halloween in Salem but still wondering what happened to the ghost lady. But maybe ignorance is a blessing. After all, your daily life is still calm, peaceful and full of joy. One day Elise found the silver-haired girl walking with a man, and the silver-haired girl had a look of admiration on her face. Elise recognized the man as the town priest. Elise starts to wonder. At first, she thought the priest was exorcising the silver-haired girl. But, once Elise followed them to the place of the exorcism, Elise peeped at the naked body of the silver-haired girl and the priest.
She remembered the submissive gesture of that girl, the deep breath, and the smell of sweat mixed with grass—all of those stung Elise deeply. Jealousy and betrayal filled her.
Elise went to confront the silver-haired girl the next day. Her little white rabbit vehemently denied it. Elise finally broke down. On the same day, she accused the silver-haired girl of being a witch.
When the day of the trial came, the silver-haired girl was convicted of being a witch. She ended up being burned to death.
At the moment of execution, Elise heard the silver-haired girl scream in the fire: "You said you would protect me!"
The shrill screams echoed in the execution ground for a long time before they subsided, but the riots in Elise's heart could not go away.
[[Next|Pub2_4]]"(text-colour:#f1aea7)[I'm serious. If you never tried to reconcile with her, you're still going to be guilty. And when you get to hell, you'll never have a chance to make amends,]" you continue.
"(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[I really don't care,]" Elise says.
You say, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[You do care, and I can't believe you even never tried it in 300 years. You need at least to try and ask her forgiveness. Anyway, this is your last day. Ever better than never.]"
Elise becomes silent.
"(text-colour:#f1aea7)[I remember we have the visiting to the cemetery on our agenda, right?]" you ask Mercury tentatively.
[[Next|Pub2_6]]"Yeah, that's what we had planed. There aren't many opportunities to witness the ghosts of the dead on Halloween," Mercury says.
You are overjoyed that Mercury understand you. You thought you were at least going to persuade her again, but Mercury agreed to your new plan without other words.
So you say to Elise, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[We're going to visit the cemetery, come with us!]"
[[Go to the Cemetery|Cemetery1]]Elise stops talking and follows you silently to the cemetery commemorating those who died in the witch hunt.
The cemetery is near the town center. There are still people visiting the graveyard even so late, probably because it is Halloween.
Elise is still hesitant, and wanders outside the cemetery.
You remind Elise, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[Some things will never change if you don't try.]"
Elise looks up at you and walks towards the cemetery as if she had made up her mind.
You and Mercury are at the cemetery entrance when Elise walks over to a tombstone, leans over, and touches the gravestone.
Suddenly, the ghost of the silver-haired girl appeared, and she really had silver hair, white eyelashes, and pale skin.
Elise is a little stunned, staring at the dead soul in front of her.
The silver-haired girl also stares at Elise silently for a long time,to identify who the person in front of her is. Then she finally recognizes who was in front of her, and she says, "(text-colour:#aed2be)[Elise, for over 300 years, I've been back here every Halloween. But I've never seen you again. I thought you'd gone to hell long ago.]"
Elise stares at her and says, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[I've become a vagabond ghost, wandering in the world.]"
The silver-haired girl pretends to be angry and says, "(text-colour:#aed2be)[Then you have never come to me?]"
Elise quickly says, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[Charlotte, I'm sorry, I'm very, very sorry.]"
The silver-haired girl was called Charlotte.
Charlotte suddenly hugs her: "(text-colour:#aed2be)[Sometimes I think, I want you to go to hell and taste the fire. But then I figured out that it's not your fault, and I would love to see you're all right rather than be punished.]"
Elise hugs Charlotte, who is rushing up, and says, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[I know I can't ask your forgiveness...]"
Charlotte says, "(text-colour:#aed2be)[I forgive you.]"
Elise said, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[What?]"
Charlotte continued: "(text-colour:#aed2be)[After all these years, I don't hate you anymore. I've been regarded as an ominous symbol since I was born, and you are few ones really willing to protect me. But later, I was deceived by the pastor. He said to exorcise me. Actually, he did something bad to me. The day you came to question me, the pastor warned me that no one should know that. I was afraid and had to deny it to you. But the pastor knew that you went to confront me. He was afraid that he would be exposed, so he accused me of being a witch first before you. So, the pastor should be the one to blame.]"
Charlotte continued: "(text-colour:#aed2be)[It's not your fault. I've been meaning to tell you these. But I haven't seen you since that, so I'm definitely going to tell you today.]"
Elise, who looked 40 years old, was already in tears in front of Charlotte, who looked like a girl.
[[Next|Ending3]]In the fog, you see Elise and Charlotte walking into a warm, bright paradise hand in hand...
You wake up. You hear Mercury making breakfast in the kitchen.
It's been a week since you and Mercury returned from Salem for Halloween.
When you got home that day, you reviewed the photos taken together. Those pictures are so funny, and your stomach hurts from laughing. Then probably because the wind was too strong by the lighthouse, you both had a cold for a week after you came back from Salem.
You go out to greet her and also start preparing breakfast.
You say to Mercury, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[It's great that they're reconciling.]"
Mercury says, "(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[Reconciling? What if it's just Charlotte's trap.]"
You are puzzled.
Mercury says: "(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[Charlotte is weak, but she really knows how to take advantage of people.]"
You continue to ponder the possibility that Charlotte is just using Elise or the priest to protect her. But, even if she is dead, when Charlotte sees Elise again, Charlotte still wants to use Elise's preference for her again to continue living in another place.
But maybe Mercury was kidding you, and they have reconciled.
Continuing to speculate can't resolve the doubts regarding ghosts in your heart, so you gradually let go and don't talk about it anymore.
But no matter what, you settled a miraculous incident together. It's probably a rare experience between friends. Your relationship is one step closer. Later, you often go to other places together, enjoy food, and take photos. You'll miss the time you shared with Mercury until much later.The bell rings at 8 o'clock. Suddenly, there is a commotion in the parade.
You see a group of people in ancient costumes emerge from the ground like ghosts. They wave hands and greet people enthusiastically. It's probably the kind of show you'd expect to see, but you never expect it to be so entertaining.
"(text-colour:#f1aea7)[They should be made with some holographic projection technology, right?]" You talked to Mercury.
"(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[No. They're definitely real ghosts,]" Mercury answers.
Yeah, if they're an illusion created by high-tech, they're still ghosts designed to please tourists.
So, why should I expose it and make things boring? You think.
For a split second, you understand Mercury's humor.
You smile and reply, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[Yes. They are the real ghost.]"
But is it possible that they are real ghosts? You can't help thinking and continue to follow the parade.
[[Continue to follow the parade.|Continue3]]When you got home that day, you reviewed the photos taken together. Those pictures are so funny, and your stomach hurts from laughing. Then probably because the wind was too strong by the lighthouse, you both had a cold for a week after you came back from Salem.
Your relationship is one step closer. Later, you often go to other places together, enjoy food, and take photos. You'll miss the time you shared with Mercury until much later.
You've experienced the splendor of Halloween in Salem but still wondering what happened to the ghost lady. But maybe ignorance is a blessing. After all, your daily life is still calm, peaceful and full of joy. You are curious why she's following you. But 11 o'clock is fast approaching, and if you don't catch the last train home, you might be sleeping rough on the streets of Salem. But you still wondering why she keeps following you.
Mercury speaks first when you are about to talk to the woman: "(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[Don't talk to her.]"
You ask, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[Why?]"
She says, "(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[The ghost thing, you either do not touch it or completely solve it. Don't forget we have to catch the train before 12 o'clock.]"
You respond:
[["Come on! I am super curious! We can at least ask her first."|Help3]]
[["Is it so serious? Then I guess we'd better go home."|Don't help3]]When you got home that day, you reviewed the photos taken together. Those pictures are so funny, and your stomach hurts from laughing. Then probably because the wind was too strong by the lighthouse, you both had a cold for a week after you came back from Salem.
Your relationship is one step closer. Later, you often go to other places together, enjoy food, and take photos. You'll miss the time you shared with Mercury until much later.
You've experienced the splendor of Halloween in Salem but still wondering what happened to the ghost lady. But maybe ignorance is a blessing. After all, your daily life is still calm, peaceful and full of joy. One day Elise found the silver-haired girl walking with a man, and the silver-haired girl had a look of admiration on her face. Elise recognized the man as the town priest. Elise starts to wonder. At first, she thought the priest was exorcising the silver-haired girl. But, once Elise followed them to the place of the exorcism, Elise peeped at the naked body of the silver-haired girl and the priest.
She remembered the submissive gesture of that girl, the deep breath, and the smell of sweat mixed with grass—all of those stung Elise deeply. Jealousy and betrayal filled her.
Elise went to confront the silver-haired girl the next day. Her little white rabbit vehemently denied it. Elise finally broke down. On the same day, she accused the silver-haired girl of being a witch.
When the day of the trial came, the silver-haired girl was convicted of being a witch. She ended up being burned to death.
At the moment of execution, Elise heard the silver-haired girl scream in the fire: "You said you would protect me!"
The shrill screams echoed in the execution ground for a long time before they subsided, but the riots in Elise's heart could not go away.
[[Next|Pub3_4]]"(text-colour:#f1aea7)[I'm serious. If you never tried to reconcile with her, you're still going to be guilty. And when you get to hell, you'll never have a chance to make amends,]" you continue.
"(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[I really don't care,]" Elise says.
You say, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[You do care, and I can't believe you even never tried it in 300 years. You need at least to try and ask her forgiveness. Anyway, this is your last day. Ever better than never.]"
Elise becomes silent.
"(text-colour:#f1aea7)[I remember we have the visiting to the cemetery on our agenda, right?]" you ask Mercury tentatively.
[[Next|Pub3_6]]"Yeah, that's what we had planed. There aren't many opportunities to witness the ghosts of the dead on Halloween," Mercury says.
You are overjoyed that Mercury understand you. You thought you were at least going to persuade her again, but Mercury agreed to your new plan without other words.
So you say to Elise, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[We're going to visit the cemetery, come with us!]"
[[Go to the Cemetery|Cemetery2]]Elise stops talking and follows you silently to the cemetery commemorating those who died in the witch hunt.
The cemetery is near the town center. There are still people visiting the graveyard even so late, probably because it is Halloween.
Elise is still hesitant, and wanders outside the cemetery.
You remind Elise, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[Some things will never change if you don't try.]"
Elise looks up at you and walks towards the cemetery as if she had made up her mind.
You and Mercury are at the cemetery entrance when Elise walks over to a tombstone, leans over, and touches the gravestone.
Suddenly, the ghost of the silver-haired girl appeared, and she really had silver hair, white eyelashes, and pale skin.
Elise is a little stunned, staring at the dead soul in front of her.
The silver-haired girl also stares at Elise silently for a long time,to identify who the person in front of her is. Then she finally recognizes who was in front of her, and she says, "(text-colour:#aed2be)[Elise, for over 300 years, I've been back here every Halloween. But I've never seen you again. I thought you'd gone to hell long ago.]"
Elise stares at her and says, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[I've become a vagabond ghost, wandering in the world.]"
The silver-haired girl pretends to be angry and says, "(text-colour:#aed2be)[Then you have never come to me?]"
Elise quickly says, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[Charlotte, I'm sorry, I'm very, very sorry.]"
The silver-haired girl was called Charlotte.
Charlotte suddenly hugs her: "(text-colour:#aed2be)[Sometimes I think, I want you to go to hell and taste the fire. But then I figured out that it's not your fault, and I would love to see you're all right rather than be punished.]"
Elise hugs Charlotte, who is rushing up, and says, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[I know I can't ask your forgiveness...]"
Charlotte says, "(text-colour:#aed2be)[I forgive you.]"
Elise said, "(text-colour:#f2e3a6)[What?]"
Charlotte continued: "(text-colour:#aed2be)[After all these years, I don't hate you anymore. I've been regarded as an ominous symbol since I was born, and you are few ones really willing to protect me. But later, I was deceived by the pastor. He said to exorcise me. Actually, he did something bad to me. The day you came to question me, the pastor warned me that no one should know that. I was afraid and had to deny it to you. But the pastor knew that you went to confront me. He was afraid that he would be exposed, so he accused me of being a witch first before you. So, the pastor should be the one to blame.]"
Charlotte continued: "(text-colour:#aed2be)[It's not your fault. I've been meaning to tell you these. But I haven't seen you since that, so I'm definitely going to tell you today.]"
Elise, who looked 40 years old, was already in tears in front of Charlotte, who looked like a girl.
[[Next|Ending5]]In the fog, you see Elise and Charlotte walking into a warm, bright paradise hand in hand...
You wake up. You hear Mercury making breakfast in the kitchen.
It's been a week since you and Mercury returned from Salem for Halloween.
When you got home that day, you reviewed the photos taken together. Those pictures are so funny, and your stomach hurts from laughing. Then probably because the wind was too strong by the lighthouse, you both had a cold for a week after you came back from Salem.
You go out to greet her and also start preparing breakfast.
You say to Mercury, "(text-colour:#f1aea7)[It's great that they're reconciling.]"
Mercury says, "(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[Reconciling? What if it's just Charlotte's trap.]"
You are puzzled.
Mercury says: "(text-colour:#a7d8f1)[Charlotte is weak, but she really knows how to take advantage of people.]"
You continue to ponder the possibility that Charlotte is just using Elise or the priest to protect her. But, even if she is dead, when Charlotte sees Elise again, Charlotte still wants to use Elise's preference for her again to continue living in another place.
But maybe Mercury was kidding you, and they have reconciled.
Continuing to speculate can't resolve the doubts regarding ghosts in your heart, so you gradually let go and don't talk about it anymore.
But no matter what, you settled a miraculous incident together. It's probably a rare experience between friends. Your relationship is one step closer. Later, you often go to other places together, enjoy food, and take photos. You'll miss the time you shared with Mercury until much later.