Update #2

Do you have tips on writing a character who hasn't eaten in a while?

Hunger is more than a mere rumble in the belly; it is a powerful human experience that intertwines emotion with the physical, influencing a character’s actions and shaping their decisions. Whether it is the gnawing emptiness of a missed meal or the desperate ache of long-term deprivation, hunger can be a compelling force in storytelling.

Behaviour

Persistent thoughts of food

Increased irritability or lack of focus

Hoarding behaviours

Overprotective around food

Frequently visit places where food can be obtained

Partake in activities that distract from hunger

Eager to accept food-related invitations or tasks

Unusually willing to consume foods they normally wouldn’t

A gradual decline in energy or enthusiasm

Show obsessive behaviours

Interactions

Easily agitated in social situations

Conversations frequently divert back to topics of food

Bartering or trading items of value for food

Impatient when waiting for food in group settings

Feel shame or embarrassment when their hunger is noticed

Increased generosity when they have food, knowing what it’s like to be without

Reluctance to share food or an obsession with equal portions

Withdraw from social interactions to avoid exposing their hunger

Probe others for information about potential food sources

Relationships could be strained or strengthened through the sharing or withholding of food

Body language

Slumped or listless posture due to low energy

Stomach clutching or other physical manifestations of hunger

Fidgety, restless movements or a loss of coordination

Fixation with watching others eat or staring at food

Slow, lethargic response to stimuli unrelated to food

Exhibit rapid eating behaviours when food is available

Frequently licking lips in anticipation of eating

Increased response to food-related stimuli, like smelling food from afar

Distracted gaze, as if looking for food opportunities

Display physical signs of malnutrition, such as physical weakness, hair loss or sallow skin

Attitude

Pessimistic or short-tempered

Single-mindedness focus that prioritises food

Impolite or a lack of social graces

Increased risk-taking behaviour through desperation

Manipulative

Fluctuating moods

Sense of hopelessness

Heightened sense of gratitude for any food received

A less discerning perspective on what is considered ‘edible’

Reevaluating personal values and priorities

Positive story outcomes

Lead to resourcefulness and problem-solving skills

Strengthening of relationships through shared experiences of scarcity

Hunger may catalyse a character’s personal growth or shift in perspective

Lead to communities coming together to support each other

Characters might discover new talents or skills in their quest to find food

Act as a motivator for a character to overcome obstacles

May lead to intense moments of satisfaction or relief when resolved

Build an appreciation for the simple things in life, including basic sustenance

Show how hunger can become a catalyst for social or political change.

Can be the driving force behind a character’s ultimate success story.

Negative story outcomes

Chronic hunger can lead to physical and mental health decline

May push characters to commit acts they would normally consider immoral

Show the breakdown of social order or relationships

Result in a character’s loss of dignity or self-respect

Can have a debilitating effect on a character’s ability to achieve their goals

Character development might take a dark turn, showing a descent into obsession or madness

Tragic endings, such as starvation or conflict over resources

Expose societal inequities and drive wedges between groups

Illustrate the loss of innocence, as characters are forced to confront harsh realities

An insurmountable barrier, leading to unfulfilled potential or unfinished journeys

Helpful adjectives

Ravenous

Starving

Famished

Hollow-stomached

Craving

Unfulfilled

Pining

Empty

Desperate

Gut-wrenching

Aching

Parched

Gaunt

Gnawing

Consuming emptiness

Insatiable

Malnourished

Gnomeo and Juliet AU where they’re humans living in 14th century Italy

IN THE EAST, a garden planted.

A nature-centric commune reveals itself to be more cultish than cordial when your gap year trip takes a turn and you stumble onto their soil one ill-fated night.

demo tba.

SYNOPSIS;

'In The East' is an upcoming interactive story that follows you and your two best friends, Ryan and Dahlia, as you embark on a road trip across the mesmerising west coast to celebrate your recent graduation. Your journey takes an unexpected turn an accident leaves you stranded in a seemingly idyllic commune called Eden, inhabited by nature-centric people devoted to harmonising with the earth.

In Eden, you find solace and temporary refuge, but as you settle into the peaceful commune, you begin to sense an eerie undercurrent beneath its serene facade. Not all is as it seems to be, and you start to uncover unsettling truths about the communes practices.

As the days pass and the once-clear boundaries between reality and illusion blur, you're faced with a hard decision. You must choose whether to embrace the allure of the unknown; adopting the communes strange rituals and beliefs, or to resist, and seek out a way to your old life. Your relationships with Dahlia and Ryan, alongside others you meet, are put to the test as you grapple with opposing viewpoints, navigating the complex dynamics of cult-living, and the consequences that will arise from the choices you make.

FEATURES;

Full customisation options for your MC. Choose your pronouns, sexuality, appearance, personality, and more. Take control of your interactions with the world: experience Eden through a personalised new scope.

Form deep connections with the supporting cast and romance options. Witness their growth, explore their personalities and experience the highs and lows of their true selves as the cult takes grip.

Your choices matter. With branching paths and multiple endings, both good and bad, play through a story where what you do makes a real impact.

Engage in the complex moral dilemmas put on display. You will be made to confront difficult choices that explore themes of loyalty, freedom, and the blurred lines between devotion and manipulation.

ROMANCE;

Karma [F] Karma is an enigma within the commune, a devoted member and the daughter of its leader, Amanda. Radiating with an aura of kindness and a truly gentle touch, Karma embodies the very essence of the commune's philosophy. Her actions are always driven by a genuine desire to nurture and support those around her, offering a comforting presence and a listening ear to anyone in need. Karma is 18, 5'5 and white.

Rowan [M]

If you ask about Rowan in Eden, you will get a similar answer from everyone: free spirited, extroverted, the kind of person to help old women cross the street or play soccer with children on a whim. He’s charismatic, warm-hearted and kind, but underneath his show of nonchalance you can see something unforgiving, something broken, waiting to be brought to the surface. Rowan is 20, 5’11, and mixed: brazilian and white.

Lilith [F]

Lilith lurks in the shadows of Eden. You can often find her in her bedroom, painting fervidly in dark shades of blue and green, usually scenes from her nightmares that so many believe are prophetic. She is reclusive and secretive, but in gaining her confidence you will gain insight into the beliefs and secrets of Eden, which have dictated her whole life. Lilith is 19, 5’8 and black.

Echo [M]

Echo is a mysterious and dark presence in the commune of Eden, contrasting its warmth with the essence of rain and dark days. With one pure black glass eye, he exudes suspicion and solitude. Yet beneath his tough exterior lies a perceptive and intuitive soul. Echo's resolve is clear – he believes you don't belong in Eden. Gaining his trust will be a delicate dance, if you're dedicated enough. Echo is 20, 6'0 and mixed: white and korean.

Fern [NB]

Fern is the embodiment of sunrises in Eden. With their connection to the earth and unappeasable craving for the knowledge pouring from Eden’s teachings, they are an example of the happiness that has been brought about by the commune. However, they are prone to shyness, and their studiousness can be overbearing at times… if not dangerous. Fern is 18, 5’3, and white.

Primrose [F]

Primrose is a whirlwind of madness, with a mind that dances to its own chaotic tune. Her unpredictable and manic nature makes her both exhilarating and alarming to be around. Like a lit fuse, she carries an air of impending explosion, and her reckless tendencies can lead to confrontations, leaving others in awe (and fear) of her aggressive prowess. As you interact with her, you'll experience the thrill of navigating her volatile moods and uncover the reasons behind her devotion to the cult. Prim is 19, 5'11 and white.

Ryan [M]

Your best friend's boyfriend. Ryan is the quintessential golden boy, your friend from an affluent family whose future appears paved with success. With his impeccable academic record and connections, prestigious colleges eagerly await his arrival. However, beneath the polished exterior, Ryan is an adventurous and carefree party boy, forever seeking the glimmer of joy in every moment. Despite his dying romance with Dahlia, Ryan aims to keep the peace and plans on letting her down easily... when the time is right. Ryan is 18, 6'2 and black.

polyamorous routes will be available with lilith + karma, rowan + primrose and ryan + echo.

WARNING: In The East is a cult horror IF with elements to its storyline that may be disturbing or triggering for some readers. Potential topics of controversy are suicidal ideation, graphic scenes of violence, drug use, strong language, allusions to brainwashing, use of propaganda, amputation of limbs, auto-cannibalism, religious imagery, infanticide and engagement in spiritual rituals. Read at your own discretion.

How to __ and Other Writing Tips

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How to Write __:

How to Write Nightmares and Sleep Paralysis

How to Write a Monster

How to Write a Good Villain

How to Write a Panic Attack

How to Write Dialogue for a Stuttering Character

How to Write a Character with an Eating Disorder

How to Write a Character with a Prosthetic

How to Write a Character that has been Poisoned

How to Write an Unreliable Narrator

How to Describe __:

Different Ways to Describe Fear

How to Describe Facial Expressions

How to Describe a Character's Speech

How to Describe Emotionally Distant Parents

Other:

What to Do With Too Much Dialogue

Ways for Characters to Get to Know Each Other

DEMO

Last updated: 21 June 2022. Wordcount: 24k words (average playthrough of 17k word)

Rating: 16+ (mentions of mental illness, violence, blood, sexual themes, strong language, transphobia, chronic pain)

The Chosen One is a text-based fantasy epic story where, as it often happens, you are the one chosen by the Prophecy, destined to fight in the Last War under the King. Unlike your average tale, though, you most certainly know to be the Chosen One and you have spent all your life waiting for your King’s call.

You will NOT be the victim of events out of your control, nor you’ll be an unwilling participant. You are not an orphan, and your family will not be slaughtered in order for you to unravel your true purpose in this world.

Oh, no. Absolutely not.

Instead, you are prepared and in control. You are powerful, more powerful than any other being that ever walked through this land, and you are ready to fulfil your destiny.

When the story begins, you are in the North, waiting. And when the call finally, finally, happens, you have to set off for the South with your Mentor, as specified in the prophecy. The Last Journey has begun.

Every interaction counts, remember that. But remember also that you are the Chosen One: you can do what you want, you have the power to forge whatever future you want for the Regions and for yourself.

LOVE INTEREST

RASCIA | The Forgotten One Healer (gender selectable M/NB/F): the colour of their skin, as well as the arcane language that litters it, marks them as kaehan, a native of the very kingdom you are prophesised to fight against. But destiny works in strange ways and maybe, after all, they were the one you needed all along. You will have to travel far before you meet them, though, and you will have to fight and to lose more that you ever thought you could shed. Because before you rise, you have to fall.

Rascia is a tall (1.79 m/5'11") person, with wavy waist length sapphire hair, a coral complexion and bright sea blue eyes. Their lean body is almost totally covered by religious silver tattoos, now rendered useless by their condition. As a result of their loss of faith, Rascia is completely colorblind.

OTHER CHARACTERS

The Mentor: they, as you, are part of the Prophecy, chosen to accompany you in the Last Journey. Your bond is… strained. You only want to be looked at with some sort of pride but all you seem to find in their eyes lately is doubt.

ASHEN | The Hero: you’ll soon meet them. Remember this, though: keep your jealousy at bay before it starts consuming you.

The King: not much to say to that. They are the king of the land, you never obviously met them and their true intentions remain unknown.

FEATURES

customize your MC’s name, physical appearance, gender (M, F or NB, cisgender or transgender) and preferred magic (elemental magic, enchantments, illusion magic).

play as a semi set character, with a sharp tongue and a very strong personality, but with a soft spot for plants and kind healers

choose the rune that’s engraved in your skin, and choose carefully because every Region will react accordingly.

build or destroy relationships with the cast, and find, in the midst of the Last War, the only one you can truly be yourself with.

The story will be released on Itch.io chapter by chapter (with a not so accurately estimated total of 9 total chapters) and will be completely free form start to finish.

*high school gossip voice* well i heard that the sun is never going to rise again

The Lupine Knight of Kysia

Knowing what my characters look like (and being able to draw them) really helps me get a feel of who they are. I figured I should show you guys as well, so you can get a lil bit of a sense of who they are while things progress in the background. Design is subject to change of course, but probably not too much.

But yeah, cool purple wolf knight! I kinda considered giving them a fake tail, like one of those clip on ones. I thought it'd be cute.

Bwuh, maybe I should make my projects into visual novels instead, I am a very visual person after all. I read way more interactive novels than VNs, so I'll need to dive into the medium more to better compare. But man I love and miss drawing, haven't done much of it trying to focus mostly on my IFs, and having lil images to go with my words is just fun.

Will I have to code more? Unfortunately yes. Do I know anything about music? Not really. Is it more work than just writing words? Probably, but words are hard for me anyways so lemme crutch my writing on my equally medicore art skills.

Anyways, my physical health is getting worse by the month. So many doctor visits n more pills, those might be getting to me. The chronic fatigue is still there n I'm prepping to get back to school n work towards a master's degree, so stress n stuff might be whats makin my writing pace slow as all hell.

Still something to consider, pictures :<

Worldbuilding Snippet: How to Get Magic

In the world of Talea there are two main ways for humans to attain magic.

The most common way is to get bind your soul to an familiar. A familiar is an incomplete being of pure magic, their forms are unstable and will eventually fizzle out of existence like a spark of ember in the wind. You act as their host, anchoring them to you. In turn they become apart of you, and you are able to harness their magic. It is a great honor to be deemed worthy by an familiar, at least most people hope you and bound to one because it deemed you worthy. Regardless of the reason why you are bound to one, an familiar is a life long companion; aside from practice a large part of using this joint power is getting along with your familiar. The better the bond, the more stably you can use the magic. This is especially important if you are bound with a particularly powerful familiar.

The much rarer way is to be imbued with magic by a more powerful being. May it be dragons, nyms, the Aasha or perhaps even the Imowu themselves, magic acquired in this manner tends to be more wild and unpredictable and come with less than desirable side effects. It is also debated whether any human who acquires power in this way is still fully human after the fact.

There is a 'secret' third way though. A human carefully handcrafted by the gods themselves, birthed or torn apart and remade some time after; a human made in such a manner is something to be feared. As far as humanity knows this has happened only once, and the scars it had left on existence itself have still jot healed.

You are the first child of the Florinius family, your birth had predestined you to become the next ruler of H'afeara. But it has been ten long years since the war between the Empire of Aea had declared war upon your home. Ten years fighting to keep your kingdom’s independence- for your chance to rule- only for it to ripped away from you. And it’s your own fault.

You had one more charge to lead against Aean forces, and you had lost that battle. Losing was no stranger to you, but none had been thorough and devastating. This loss had ended with you being taken as a prisoner of war, and the end of the war soon followed.

Now you are “free”, a welcomed “guest” in the Aean court.  Being executed would have been a fairer fate.

[court intrigue, romance, mystery, slice of life elments ]

…

This side project is still in the planning stage, and things will be slow to come.

[Demo: TBA]

in progress…

- Semi Customizable MC (personality will be semi set)

- Make friends, enemies, maybe lovers? Still deciding who gets to be an RO

- Decide how you navigate life in a foreign court

- under construction

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