This article is a script for Chapter 2: Lanterns of Life is Strange: True Colors.
The Wake[]
The scene opens on a table on which candles and photos of Gabe with other citizens of Haven Springs are placed. It eventually cuts to the other people in the room as they speak. It's a memorial service for Gabe at the Black Lantern. This portion is a montage of portions of speeches from the people listed.
Jed: …I'm not big on speeches. I've always believed that the role of the bartender is to shut up and listen. And by that measure, Gabe was the worst bartender I've ever known.
Pike: I'd never issued a speeding ticket to someone on a bicycle before. Until he came along.
Riley: He cared so much about my admissions essay. Even though he probably couldn't spell "admissions." Or "essay."
Steph: He booked my band to play the Lantern. All the way from Seattle to pretty much right where I'm standing.
Duckie: I can recall fourteen specific instances where Gabe said something that made me laugh. (he pulls out a stack of index cards) The first was two years ago…
A shot of Charlotte as we return to Pike speaking.
Pike: So long story short, instead of a ticket, I ended up buying him a beer.
Steph: Gabe stood like… three feet away, grinning like a doofus at us. I'm sure there were more people, but I only remember him.
Duckie: …and then he said, I know, that's why the "k" is silent! (laughs) Then the fifth time…
Riley: He cared about everyone.
Pike: He was the kind of guy you wanted to be around.
Duckie: He was a world-class bullshitter.
Steph: He was my best friend.
Jed: All I want to say about Gabe is, he came into this bar as a stranger, but he left it as family.
We exit the montage as Jed speaks again.
Jed: Guess that's that then. What happened to Gabe was a… senseless, tragic accident, and I just wish--
Ryan: It wasn't an accident.
Jed: Son, now is not the time.
Ryan: Gabe called the mine.
From Alex's view, a purple aura briefly forms around Mac.
Ryan: I gave him my sat-phone to be sure he could get through. They fucked up, and now… now Gabe's dead.
Mac: That was my shift.
Ryan turns to face Mac.
Mac: If anyone had called, it would have gone through me. Nobody called.
Ryan: You're lying.
A fiery red aura forms forms around Ryan.
Ryan: In front of Gabe's own fucking sister. Alex heard the whole thing.
He's right.
Alex: He's right. I was there when Gabe made the call.
Jed: I'd like to hear what you have to say about that, Mac.
Not quite.
Alex: Well… I didn't… I didn't hear Gabe make the call. But he told us he got through.
Jed: Well, if Gabe said something, then I'm inclined to believe him, Mac. What are you saying?
Mac: I'm not saying anything, just I didn't get a call! Draw your own conclusions.
Pike stands up, in an attempt to calm things down.
Pike: Alright, folks, this is an ongoing investigation, and--
Ryan: How about we review the sequence of events? Hm?
Jed: Son…
Ryan: When I saw you at the record store, you seemed pretty eager to find Gabe. Remember why? Hm? Another fight with Riley maybe?
Mac: Look, I don't have to take this.
A red aura now forms around Mac.
Ryan: Just saying, pretty wild that you come stumbling out of Gabe's apartment with your face all fucked up…
Jed: Ryan…
Ryan: And just a couple hours later, you just so happened to miss the call that would have saved his life.
Mac: Look, I told you, there was no call to miss! Maybe the call got dropped! Shit, I mean, it's not like-- it's not like Gabe was Mr. Reliable all the time!
Ryan: Watch your mouth, Mac.
Jed: Ryan, that's enough. Now, I'm just as eager as you to understand all this, son, but there's a time and a--
A red aura now forms around Charlotte.
Ryan: Bullshit, Dad! This little weasel's calling Gabe a liar at his own fucking wake--
Mac: No, I am just telling you--
Ryan: Mac, I swear, if you say there was no call one more fucking time!
Charlotte: Stop it! Stop it now!
She stands up. The auras from everyone but Charlotte disappear. As Charlotte speaks, her aura fades away as well.
Charlotte: This is not the time or place. We're all here for Gabe. Okay, Ryan?
Ryan: Char, I'm-- I'm sorry… It's not-- I'm just trying…
Ryan looks around at everyone; they're all looking at him.
Ryan: I'm not the one who killed him.
Mac: Aren't you though?
The red auras form again around Ryan and Mac.
Ryan: What the fuck did you just say?
Jed: Ryan, back off!
Duckie: Aw hell…
Mac: I'm just saying, I thought I heard that you were the one--
Jed: Mac, you shut the hell up.
Ryan: No, no, go ahead, you got something to say, Mac? Let's fucking hear it.
Alex shakes her head and starts to go upstairs.
Pike: Come on guys, don't make me intervene.
Steph notices Alex's departure.
Mac: Alright, fine! As long as we're tossing around accusations, way I hear it, you're the guy who cut the rope.
Foosball Champion[]
The scene starts with a continuation of the argument which ended the previous scene.
Mac: Why not you?
Jed: That's it! Wake's over. Everyone out.
Alex enters her apartment and shuts the door behind her, breathing rapidly as she leans against the door. As Alex calms down, the sound of footsteps coming up the stairs is heard, and then there's a knock at the door.
Steph: Alex?
Alex takes a breath before opening the door to see Steph on the other side.
Alex: Hey.
Steph: Fuck those guys.
Alex: Yeah.
Steph: Are you okay?
Hell no.
Alex: God, no. I'm a fucking wreck.
For now.
Alex: For now. We'll see how long that lasts.
I will be.
Alex: Not really. But I… I will be.
Steph: It's not your job to keep it together.
Alex: Thanks. Do you… um, it's messy, but… do you want to come in?
Steph: Sure.
Steph enters. Alex closes the door behind her. Steph notices the guitar resting against Alex's bed.
Steph: You play guitar?
Used to.
Alex: Yeah. Well sorta. I used to.
It was a gift.
Alex: Sort of… It was a gift. From Gabe.
Steph: Cool.
Steph notices a bicycle resting on the wall near the stairs.
Steph: Gabe would try to pop wheelies outside the record store to make me laugh. Never worked. 'Til he wiped out. That was hilarious.
She then walks over to the foosball table, and centers one of the rods. Next, she notices a foam sword resting against the foosball table.
Steph: Gabe really wanted to do the LARP for Ethan.
She picks up the sword and twirls it around.
Steph: But by the end of it, he was more jazzed about it than anybody.
Alex: Wish I could have seen it.
Steph: Yeah.
She leans the sword against a shelf where the record player rests. Steph then walks toward the fireplace.
Steph: We took this a year ago. We--
She then notices something else on the fireplace mantle. It surprises her. We then see what she's so focused on. It's a bottle labeled "Foosball Champion."
Steph: No way.
Alex steps closer.
Steph: I can't…
Alex: What?
Steph takes the bottle and holds it.
Steph: He actually kept it. (sobbing) What a dick.
From Alex's view, a blue aura forms around Steph. She puts the bottle back in its place and walks over to a nearby window.
Steph: Sorry, I just need a minute.
Alex: Yeah, no problem.
Alex: (thinking) Calm down, Alex. You're fine. You're fine. Whatever that bottle made her think of, it really messed her up. I wonder if I could help her the same way I helped Ethan… I need to feel her sadness to figure out how to help her.
Alex uses her power on Steph, and a wave of blue aura fills the room., focusing on the bottle, a video game, the record player, the foosball table, and some shot glasses. Also, the sound of rain is heard.
Alex: (thinking) Now I can find out what's really going on with Steph.
Alex can now reveal memories connected to the highlighted objects.
Record player
Gabe: What are they called again?
Steph: Don't Shit On My Yard! They're amazing! Their guitarist has one arm.
Gabe: Bad ass…
Video game
Gabe: Damn it! Fucking overpowered Blue Meteor!
Steph: Aw, is your controller broken, too?
Gabe: We're playing until I win!
Steph: Then I'll be crashing here tonight.
Glasses
Gabe: Here's to your new job at the station!
Steph: Oh, didn't I tell you? I'm not taking it. I move to Denver next week.
Gabe: You what?!
Foosball table
Steph: Dude, give it up! I already booked a bus ticket!
Gabe: Wait, wait. Hear me out. One more game. If I win, you have to stay. If you win, I'll cover the ticket.
Steph: You just lost fifty bucks.
Bottle
Gabe: Ladies and gentlemen, presenting your new Foosball Champion: Gabe Chen!
Steph: Ugh, you're the worst! I can't believe I have to stay in this stupid town.
Gabe: I think we both know you could have beat me if you really wanted to. So you're welcome.
Steph: Bullshit.
After looking at all five objects:
Alex: (thinking) I think I know enough to help her now.
Alex can talk to Steph.
Alex: Steph?
Steph: Sorry, this is so embarrassing. I just need some time.
Alex: Okay.
Alex can help Steph.
Alex: Still can't believe he's gone.
Steph: Yup. He's the whole reason I'm still… I'm sorry, Alex. Don't mind me.
Video game.
Alex: Wanna get a few matches of Dinoracer in? Could be a nice distraction.
Steph: No thanks. I just need a minute.
Alex: (thinking) That didn't help…
Foosball.
Alex walks over to the foosball table.
Alex: How about a quick match?
Steph turns to find Alex standing by the table.
Steph: Did Gabe tell you we played?
Yeah.
Alex: Yeah. And he said he kicked your butt.
Steph: Asshole.
Had a hunch.
Alex: I just had a hunch.
Steph: Yeah? Well, you're right.
Steph: I don't really think it's a great time…
Alex spins one of the rods.
Steph: Fine.
Continues to First foosball game, below.
Music.
Alex: I could put on a record, if you like.
Steph: Nah. Not really in the mood.
Alex: (thinking) Maybe something else…
Drink.
Alex: Can I get you a drink or anything?
Steph: No thanks. I appreciate the offer, though.
Alex: Sure.
Alex: (thinking) That wasn't right…
First foosball game
Steph joins Alex at the foosball table.
Alex: First to five points?
Steph: If you say so.
The game begins.
Alex: So how often did you and Gabe play?
Steph: It was one of our favorite games.
Alex: You must be pretty good, then.
Steph: Mhm.
Alex: You were… in a band, right?
Steph: Yeah.
Alex: What'd you play?
Steph: Drums.
Alex: How, uh… how long did you play with them?
Steph: Too long.
Alex: Gotcha.
Alex wins the first game.
Alex: Five points, that's game.
Steph: Yup. Big shocker.
Alex: Oh hey, at least you played your best.
Steph: I mean, that obviously wasn't my best.
Alex: No, I get it. I mean this is a tough game. Requires skill. Timing. And the will to be a champion.
Steph: Oh, is that how it is?
Yeah, the crowd loves me.
Alex: Wait, hold on, the crowd is really picking up on my energy. (imitating a cheering crowd) Aaaahhhhh we love you, Alex! Aaaahhhhh Steph sucks! Aaaahhhhh!
Steph: Okay, fuck you, I want a rematch.
Alex: You're on.
It's great to play with you.
Alex: Okay, okay. Joking aside, playing this stupid game with you is exactly what I need right now.
Steph: You're on.
Second game
Steph: I'm actually trying this time, so you better focus.
Alex: I am focusing.
Steph: Good. Wouldn't want you to get distracted or anything.
Alex: Certainly not.
Steph: Greatest Northwest band of all time, go.
Alex: Are you trying to distract me?
Steph: Of course not! Sleater-Kinney. If you were wondering.
(Alex wins)
Alex: Woo!
Steph: Shit.
Alex: Oh, that's a win!
Steph: I was actually trying that time.
Alex hops up and down, still happy about that win.
Steph: Okay. Wait, wait, wait. Let's get serious. One more game. Winner takes title of Ultimate Foosball Champion.
Alex: Mmm… I don't know…
Steph: Come on. You know Gabe would be all about us playing like this.
Alex: Well, then it's settled.
(Steph wins)
Steph: Yes!
Alex slow claps.
Steph: Let's do one more game.
Alex: I don't know…
Steph: Ah, come on! You know Gabe would never let a tie stand.
Alex: Well, then it's settled.
Third game
Steph: This is it. For all the marbles.
Alex: So many marbles.
Steph: Definitely the kind of game you wanna focus on, no matter what happens.
Alex: Totally.
Steph: Hey, so are you into girls or what?
Both.
Alex: I'll date anybody, assuming they're my type.
Steph: What's your type?
Alex: I'll let you know when I meet them.
Yep.
Alex: Yeah, girls are pretty rad.
Steph: Right? Especially girls that play foosball and host radio stations and wear beanies like it's a religion.
Alex: Sounds like a winning combo.
Nope.
Alex: I've mostly dated guys before, actually.
Steph: Oh yeah? Do they listen to CDs of bird calls? Because I could hook you up.
Alex: Can't say I've ever dated a bird call enthusiast before.
(No response)
Steph: Don't sweat it, I was just trying to get in your head.
Alex: The only thing in my head right now is crushing you at foosball.
Steph: Oh shit.
Steph: (quickly) Loser says what?
What?
Alex: What? Fuck!
Steph: Ha! I knew it.
Alex: How old are you, exactly?
Steph: Old enough to know better.
Nope.
Alex: How convinced were you that that was gonna work? From one to ten.
Steph: Like a three.
Alex: It's more than zero.
(No response)
Steph: Damn it, you're on to me.
(Alex wins)
Alex: Woo! Foosball Champion! Foosball Champion!
Steph: Goddamn Chen family!
Alex: Good game.
Alex walks over to Steph's side of the table and extends her hand. They shake hands.
Steph: Thanks, Alex. I'm really glad you talked me into it. It was a lot of fun.
Alex: Of course.
(Steph wins)
Steph: Oh, fucking finally! The House of Chen crumbles at last!
Alex walks over to Steph's side of the table and extends her hand.
Alex: Good game.
They shake hands.
Steph: Thank you. You're a much better loser than Gabe. That's no fun.
Alex: Sorry to spoil the victory.
Steph smiles and the aura in the room disappears.
(selected "Foosball" first)
Steph: It's kinda crazy that you knew exactly what would cheer me up.
Alex: Don't give me too much credit. I'm the one who really needed it.
They both look at the Foosball Champion bottle on the mantle.
Steph: So what are you going to do now?
Alex: What do you mean?
Steph: That shit with Mac. He's clearly lying, right?
Definitely a liar.
Alex: No question.
Steph: I knew he was a jerk, but this is another level.
Alex: I think I need to prove that he's lying. For myself and for Gabe.
Need to learn more.
Alex: I'm not sure what Mac's deal is. His story doesn't add up.
Steph: Yeah.
Alex: I do know that I need to find out exactly what happened that night. For myself and for Gabe.
Steph: I've got your back, no matter what.
Alex: Thank you. That means a lot.
Steph: I should head back to work.
Alex: Cool.
Steph walks to the door. Alex follows her. As she crosses the threshold, Steph turns back to look at Alex.
Steph: Bye.
Alex: Bye.
Steph heads downstairs and Alex closes the door.
Spring Cleaning[]
We find Alex by the apartment door.
Alex: (thinking) I know Gabe made that call. But did Mac really let the blast go off just to get back at him?
Optional Interactions
Cleaning the Apartment
Dirty Clothes
Alex can take some dirty clothes resting on the banister leading upstairs and put them in the wash room.
Alex: (thinking) See? I can be a person.
Dirty Dishes
Alex washes the dishes in the sink and leaves them to dry.
Alex: (thinking) It's a start.
Old TV Dinner
Alex can throw away an old TV dinner.
Alex: (thinking) So long, depression food.
After cleaning all three items:
Alex: (thinking) Clean home, clean mind. Right, Dr. Lynn?
Rooftop
Alex can trigger a memory (sadness) with a Drugstore Makeup button in one of the flower beds.
Steph: You could stay here too. I wouldn't try to stop you.
Izzie: Yeah, good, I'll be the only trans person in a town with a population of like four. That sounds like a blast for me. Thanks for not "trying to stop" me.
Steph: I'm sorry, Izzie. It's not you. And it's not the band. I fucking love that shit. But I need to try this. It's just… time for something new.
Izzie: I knew it. I knew this would happen eventually. Fucking… See you around, Steph.
Black Lantern
Umbrella
Alex can trigger a memory (sadness) with an umbrella resting against a coat rack.
Ryan: I had an incredible mom. When I decided I wanted to be a ranger, she was the first person I told. She said… She said, "You're exactly what these mountains need." Bye mom…
Rent Check
Alex can trigger a memory (sadness) with an check attached to the underside of the bar.
Jed: Gabe.
Gabe: Look, I appreciate what you're trying to do for me, Mr. Lucan, but I'm not staying long, and I don't take handouts. Just… maybe don't cash that check like… right now.
Memory Table.
Alex can look at the objects on the memory table and, optionally, place one of her own.
Alex: (thinking) I should put something here. It's the least I can do.
After leaving the table:
Alex: (thinking) Maybe I can find something upstairs to put on the memory table.
Returning to the apartment
Alex: (thinking) Wonder what I can find up here to add to Gabe's memory table?
Album
Alex can take the Kings of Leon album from the record table.
Alex: (thinking) This is perfect for the memory table.
If Alex has the photo, she puts it back.
Photo
Alex can take the family photo from on top of the dresser.
Alex: (thinking) You're coming downstairs.
If Alex has the album, she puts it back.
Returning to the Lantern
Alex: (thinking) Glad I have something to add to Gabe's table.
She places the item she took from upstairs on the table.
Conversation with Jed[]
Once in the Black Lantern, Alex will have a conversation with Jed. It starts in one of two ways.
Alex rights an overturned chair
Alex finds a chair on its side, and sets it back on its feet. Jed approaches from a back room.
Jed: Oh, hey kid. You don't have to do that.
Alex: Too late.
Alex attempts to exit
Alex gets to the front door. Jed approaches from a back room.
Jed: Oh hey, Alex. You got a second?
Alex: Um, sure.
Alex approaches Jed. He rights an overturned chair.
Jed: Won't take long.
Jed: I wanted to apologize. For all of us. We're all grieving, but that's no excuse. It was your brother's wake, and you both deserved better than listening to a bunch of fools squabble.
Mac's fault.
Alex: Thanks, Jed. But it wasn't your fault. Mac started it.
Jed: Yeah, but I didn't exactly stop it though either, did I?
Alex: I'm sure Gabe would have been happy that we had it here. I could tell he really loved this place.
Appreciate it.
Alex: I appreciate it. That was pretty rough. Although it's hard to imagine a good version of your dead brother's wake.
Jed: No, there's no good version. Just all of us trying to get through it together the best we can.
Jed: Wasn't the first wake held in this old building. I doubt it'll be the last. Anyway, if there's anything I can do, just let me know.
Alex: I need to talk to Mac. I know he's lying. I just don't know why. Any idea where I can find him?
Jed: Well, he helps out Eleanor at the flower shop, that'd be the place to start.
Alex: Thanks.
Alex starts to leave.
Jed: I feel like I should warn you, though. You might not get the kind of closure you're looking for, if you get any at all. Just… don't pin all your hopes on Mac Loudon.
I get it.
Alex: Thanks for looking out for me, but… what else am I supposed to do?
Jed: I wish I had an answer for you.
I have to.
Alex: I don't have a choice. He was my brother, I have to at least try.
Jed: Yeah. You do.
Jed: But if you get a chance before you go all Dirty Harry, swing by the dispensary. Charlotte wants to see you. And, one more thing…
Jed pulls out a key.
Jed: I've been meaning to give you this for the last few days, but I didn't want to disturb you up there. It'll get you through that door and the one upstairs.
Jed gives Alex the key.
Jed: This is your home, now. For as long as you'd like.
What about rent?
Alex: What about rent? I don't want to be a freeloader.
Jed: Don't worry about that for right now. We'll work out a way for you to earn your keep when the time comes.
As long as I like?
Alex: As long as I like? Really?
Jed: I don't wanna make any assumptions, or put any pressure on you about what to do next, but… You're always welcome.
Alex: Thank you.
Jed winks at Alex, then walks behind the bar.
Jed: Give 'em hell.
Alex laughs and puts the key in her back pocket. She then receives a text from Ryan. He wants to talk to her.
Alex: (thinking) I… I have no idea what to even say to him…
Alex can Speak to Jed again.
Jed: Hopefully things around here can settle down again.
Alex: Yeah. That'd be good.
Alex leaves the Black Lantern.
Tracking Down Mac[]
With the exception of the visit to Lethe Flowers, reading Riley, and talking with her about Mac after doing so, all interactions are optional. Alex can roam freely until she confronts Mac.
The Park[]
Conversation with Ethan[]
Alex: Hey, buddy.
Ethan: Hey, Alex.
You okay?
Alex: Are you doing okay?
Want to talk?
Alex: Do you… want to talk about it?
Ethan: I'm fine.
Alex: (thinking) Okay, definitely not fine.
On trying to talk to him further:
Alex: I'm here for you. Whenever you need me.
Alex can read Ethan.
Ethan: (thinking, anger) Everyone needs to stop. Telling me. It's okay. It's not.
Alex: (thinking) Fuck. Losing Gabe's been hard enough for a supposed grownup like me. But for Ethan…
Conversation with the Birdwatcher[]
Alex can read the birdwatcher.
Birdwatcher: (thinking, sadness) Where are you hiding, my feathered friend? Please. I need you.
Alex: (thinking) Is she looking for… a bird? Maybe I'll keep an ear out.
After reading her, Alex can speak with her.
Alex: Cool binoculars. You birdwatching?
Birdwatcher: Yeah, I'm trying to win a contest.
Alex: Oh. Good luck.
Birdwatcher: Thanks.
Alex can find a hawk on a tree behind the diner.
Alex: (thinking) I wonder if this is the bird that woman is looking for… Maybe I should let my binocular-ed friend know.
Alex returns to her and speaks to her again.
Alex: There's a huge bird over by the wall.
Birdwatcher: Seriously?! That might be my hawk! Thank you!
She goes over to look at it.
Other NPC Conversations[]
Glasses Guy
Glasses Guy: I used to babysit Ethan when he was little. This whole thing is so horrible.
Teen Brother: Did you see him over by the water?
Glasses Guy: Yeah, he looked rough. I didn't want to talk to him. I wasn't really sure what to say.
Alex can read Glasses Guy.
Glasses Guy: (thinking, sadness) There's literally nothing I can do for Ethan. I feel so useless.
Alex: (thinking) I've been there.
Boyfriends
Alex can find Jesse Whitaker and his boyfriend sitting on a picnic blanket.
Supportive Boyfriend: You're writing a novel? Since when?
Jesse: I just started. I have no idea what I'm doing.
Supportive Boyfriend: Babe, this is great. We wanted to take a class together, right? Let's do creative writing.
Jesse: But that wouldn't start until summer.
Supportive Boyfriend: What's the rush?
Jesse: I guess I… No, you're right. You're right.
Alex can read Jesse.
Jesse: (thinking, fear) What if I die tomorrow, just like that guy? What have I done with my life?
Alex: (thinking) I don't have any easy answers for that.
Newspaper Guy
Alex can read a man sitting on a bench, reading a newspaper.
Newspaper Guy: (thinking, sadness) This is awful… He was so young…
Alex: (thinking) He must be reading about Gabe.
Main Street[]
Conversation with Pike[]
Pike is leaning on his squad car.
Alex: Hey, Pike.
This startles him. He turns and sees Alex.
Pike: Hey. How ya holdin' up?
I'm okay.
Alex: I'm okay.
Pike: Okay is… good, I think.
Been better.
Alex: Guess I've been better.
Pike: Yeah, right. Dumb question.
Pike: Hey, I want you to know I meant what I said back there. Gabe was… something else. He could bring a smile to my face even on the worst days.
Alex: Yeah, that's what everyone's been saying.
Pike: And uh, when you're ready, I still need to get your statement for the investigation.
I'll be ready soon.
Alex: I think I'll be ready soon.
Pike: Yeah, yeah. No rush.
Mac's a liar.
Alex: Mac Loudon--the guy that showed up at Gabe's place throwing punches, the safety manager on duty that night--is lying to you. That's my statement.
Pike: I know you're angry, Alex. But it's an ongoing investigation. I'm still going to need to interview you.
Alex: Sure. Whatever.
Pike returns to his car and the conversation ends.
Alex can try talking to him again.
Pike: Whenever you're ready for that interview, gimme a call!
Alex: Yep. Will do.
Alex can read Pike.
(before conversation)
Pike: (thinking, sadness) Gabe was too young. Just too young.
(after conversation)
Pike: (thinking, sadness) Poor kid. Came all the way out her for her brother. And now…
Alex: (thinking) And now, I'm gonna figure out the truth.
Conversation with Riley[]
Alex finds Riley sitting on a bench in the alley by the dispensary.
(Default)
Alex: Hey, Riley.
Riley: Alex, hey.
Alex sits next to her.
(after exhausting all dialogue options, then reading Riley)
Alex sits next to her.
Alex: Do you… want to talk about Mac?
Riley shakes her head. Skip directly to the "Mac?/(Okay./He's acting so weird.)" choice in the tabber below.
Gabe?
Alex: I know you and Gabe were close. How are you doing?
Riley: I miss him so much. He was like an older brother to me.
I'm glad you had him.
Alex: I'm glad you had him.
Riley: He was a really good guy, Alex.
I'm glad he had you.
Alex: I'm glad he had you.
Riley: Thank you, Alex. Really.
Player must now choose any of the remaining options.
Eleanor?
Alex: You and Eleanor seem close.
Riley: She's taken care of me ever since I was little. I never really knew my mom, but she's always been there for me.
Alex: What does she think about you going away to school?
Riley: She's thrilled. I think she just wants me to end up happy.
That's sweet.
Alex: That's really sweet.
Riley: She's the most selfless person I know.
Will she be alright?
Alex: Will she be alright without you?
Riley: She's a tough cookie, but I do worry about her sometimes. She's getting older… One day I'll have to take care of her.
Alex: I know having you work with her in the shop has meant the world.
Riley: Yeah, to both of us.
Player must now choose any of the remaining options.
Mac?
Alex: That fight Mac had with Gabe, over your secret meetings? They were about you applying to college, right?
Riley: Yeah. Ever since the first time Mac lost his shit in front of them, Gabe and Charlotte had tried to get me to end things with him. And after all this… I can see that they were right.
Think Mac ignored Gabe's call?
Alex: Do you think he could have ignored Gabe's call? I mean, do you think he's capable of that?
Riley: I don't want to believe that. But…
Think Mac's telling the truth?
Alex: Do you think he's telling the truth about the call? That Gabe never made it?
Riley: No, it's not that. I…
Riley: Sorry. I'm really not ready to talk about it.
Okay.
Alex: Okay.
Riley: I don't want to believe that. But…
Talking might help?
Alex: Are you sure? Sometimes talking about it can help you sort it all out.
Riley: I'm just not there yet.
He's acting so weird.
Only available, and replaces "Talking might help?" if Alex read Riley.
Alex: Yeah, I get it. It's just… if he didn't do anything wrong, why is he acting like he has something to hide?
Riley: He asked me to leave Haven with him.
Alex: What?
Riley: Right after the wake. He wouldn't tell me why, but he just looked so guilty.
(Alex didn't get involved in Riley and Mac's argument)
Riley: I told him I'd have to think about it, but Alex, I--
(Alex called Mac out)
Riley: I told him no, and that we were done, and now--
Riley: I'm scared he did something horrible.
Alex: Riley-- Thank you for telling me.
Riley: You deserve the truth.
Player must now choose any of the remaining options.
Gotta run…
Alex: I gotta run. There's some stuff I need to do.
Riley: Okay.
(didn't select "He's acting so weird.")
Alex: (thinking) I don't want to push Riley, but I need to know more about Mac. How do I get her to open up?
(did select "He's acting so weird.")
Riley: We'll talk soon?
Alex: Yeah. Whenever you want.
Alex: (thinking) Mac trying to skip town is sketchy as shit. I bet I could use that to stoke his fear.
Either before or after the above conversation, Alex can read Riley.
Riley: (thinking, fear) If he's innocent, why is he acting like this?
(default)
Alex: (thinking) Acting like what? Maybe I can get her to tell me.
(after selecting "He's acting so weird.")
Alex: (thinking) Sorry, Riley. I don't think he's innocent.
Other NPC Conversations[]
Diner Buyer
Alex can find a realtor with a man in front of the Brown Bear Diner.
Realtor: This location gets all the foot traffic. And word around the water cooler is, the mining company is about to expand. More jobs means more customers for you.
Diner Buyer: What about that accident? Frankly, I'm a little spooked. If Typhon goes under, I'd lose all my business.
Realtor: It's very unlikely that anything with Typhon will change. They've been the largest employer in Haven for decades.
Diner Buyer: Yeah. Okay, yeah. I'm sold.
Realtor: Glad to hear it! I'll draw up the contract and call you tomorrow to talk next steps.
Diner Buyer: Great.
Alex can read Diner Buyer.
Diner Buyer: (thinking, fear) Hope customers here are a lot nicer than in Denver…
Alex: (thinking) Never been to Denver, but I guarantee they're nice here.
Miners
Alex can find three miners gathered by a bench on Main Street.
(before visiting the dispensary)
Miner 1: That's bullshit! We have a right to know what's happening to our jobs.
Miner 2: You guys don't think anything's really gonna change, right?
Miner 3: It's hard to say.
Miner 1: Yeah, because they won't tell us a damn thing.
Miner 2: I just still can't wrap my head around it. Someone died?
Miner 3: It's a shit situation, but the least they can do is be up front with us about our job security.
Miner 1: Exactly.
Miner 3: I just hope the council passes the vote.
Miner 1: So, anyone seen Loudon?
Miner 3: Not since his shift that night.
Miner 2: Poor son of a bitch…
Miner 3: We should get him a beer sometime.
Alex can read one of the miners.
Miner 1: (thinking, anger) I give Typhon eight years of my life, and they can't give me back one simple answer about my job?
Alex: (thinking) Typhon doesn't give a shit about anyone.
(after visiting the dispensary)
Miner 3: Man. These overnight shifts really take it outta me.
Miner 2: Yeah, my sleep schedule's fucked.
Miner 1: Coffee in the morning, whiskey before bed. Works like a charm.
Alex can read one of the miners.
Miner 1: (thinking, fear) "Don't talk about the accident"? How would I know that? Fuck, now I'm on Diane's shit list.
Alex: (thinking) Thanks, Diane.
Friends?
Alex can find Josh Hopkins and Julia Crowe (identified as Guy Friend and Gal Friend) in the alley by the dispensary.
Josh: Do you… want to do something together next week?
Julia: Sure. I have a pottery class Wednesday night. Wanna join?
Josh: A class? Um, maybe. Could we get dinner first?
Julia: Yeah, I usually grab a bite with Katie. You should come.
Josh: Oh. I meant just the two of us.
Julia: Dude, we hang out all day. Aren't you sick of me?
Josh: No?
Alex can read them.
Josh
Josh: (thinking, anger) Come on, man, can't you take a hint? She's not into you. Let it go.
(Alex read him first)
Alex: (thinking) That's rough.
Julia
Julia: (thinking, fear) If I tell him I like him, we'll date and then we'll break up and then I'll lose my best friend…
(Alex read her first)
Alex: (thinking) I mean… you don't know that.
(After Alex reads the second person)
Alex: (thinking) Hmm. Maybe I could help them. Wait, hell no, what am I thinking?! This is none of my business.
Hikers
Alex can find two hikers on Main Street.
Hiker Man: Sorry about today.
Hiker Woman: It's not your fault. But I was really looking forward to climbing Teller's Peak.
Hiker Man: I think the trails will be closed for a while. Someone died up in the ravine a few days ago.
Hiker Woman: Oh. Well, we can try again when I come out with Mom and Dad for the Fourth of July.
Hiker Man: Yeah, that'd be good.
Alex can read the hiker woman.
Hiker Woman: (thinking, anger) Why should one accident close all the trails? What a wasted vacation!
Alex: (thinking) Yes, we're all suffering here.
Bald Guy
Alex can find a guy (only identified as Bald Guy) on the phone near the dispensary.
Bald Guy: It's fine. I love being on hold. I love this song. … Finally. Cancel AAA membership. … No, I said cancel. Cancel! … Not transfer! Cancel! … Representative! … Representative! … A person! I just want to talk to a person! (The conversation loops to the beginning.)
Alex can read him.
Bald Guy: (thinking, anger) Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!
Alex: (thinking) Yikes.
Bench Girl
Alex can read a girl sitting on a bench.
Bench Girl: (thinking, sadness) Oh… It's that guy's sister. I feel so bad for her.
Alex: (thinking) Getting sick of people feeling bad for me.
Ice Cream Couple
Alex can find a couple in front of the ice cream shop.
Angela: I don't get it. Do people just not want ice cream anymore?
Sonny: I looked over the budget. If we only open three days a week, we'll be able to scrape by.
Angela: Is that it? Are we always just going to scrape by?
Sonny: Things will get better. Piratey Peaches is making an actual profit, remember?
Angela: Fine, you were right about Piratey Peaches.
Sonny: Oh, I was right, huh? How do those words taste?
Angela: Not like peaches.
Sonny: We should push the Rum Raisin harder. It's surprisingly addictive.
Angela: You haven't been putting actual rum in it again, have you?
Sonny: …No. Anyway, I took out a radio ad, too. That'll help!
Angela: Please say it's not the one you read to me the other day. That was so weird.
Sonny: It's not weird, it's fun! Don't you like fun?
Angela: Sonny!
Sonny: It makes an impression! Don't worry, okay? This town's gonna make a comeback, trust me.
Angela: I sure hope you're right.
Alex can read them.
Sonny
Sonny: (thinking, fear) Have to keep up a brave face for Angela. She loves our store so much.
Alex: (thinking) He must be exhausted.
Angela
Angela: (thinking, anger) We're losing our business! But it's like everything's a joke to him!
Alex: (thinking) She must feel so alone. Hope they figure it out.
Chatting Couple
Alex can overhear a conversation between two people near Lethe Flowers.
Chatting Man: How's your progress in Moondrop Ranch? Did you buy your chicken coop?
Chatting Woman: No, I couldn't. I spent too much money romancing the lumberjack.
Chatting Man: I can't believe you think I would like this game.
Chatting Woman: Just play it. You'll see!
Chatting Man: Only if you start Dust and Daylight.
Chatting Woman: Eh, I'll think about it.
Rocky Mountain Record Traders[]
Alex enters the record store.
Alex: (thinking) Steph asked me to swing by. She's gotta be around here somewhere.
Conversation with Hoodie Guy[]
Alex can read Hector Gonzales, who is looking through albums in the Break-up Songs section of the store.
Hector: (thinking, sadness) How could Chrissy leave me? After everything we've been through together…
(before seeing the Found Dog posting)
Alex: (thinking) It's hard to beat breakup music, but maybe I can find something around here to cheer him up.
(after seeing the Found Dog posting)
Alex: (thinking) Chrissy… Wait, isn't that the name of the found dog?
Alex can look at the bulletin board, where she notices a posting about a found dog named Chrissy.
(before reading Hector)
Alex: (thinking) Chrissy looks sweet. It would definitely be wrong to claim someone else's lost dog, right?
(after reading Hector)
Alex: (thinking) Wait, Chrissy? She's a… dog?
After reading Hector and looking at the bulletin board, Alex can speak to him.
Alex: Hey, you posted about a lost dog, right? I think they have her over at Todd's Hardware.
Hector: Are you serious? Thank you so much, I'll call them right now.
He takes out his phone.
Hector: Hi, I'm calling about the lost dog? Chrissy? … Is she okay? … Oh, thank god! Is she there now? … Oh, awesome. Yes. Thank you so much. Can I pick her up today? … No sweat, take your time. I'll wait.
After this, Alex can talk to Hector again.
Hector: Thanks again. Me and Chrissy owe you one.
Alex: You bet.
Conversation with Steph[]
Alex knocks on the window of the radio studio to get Steph's attention. She looks and finds Alex. She smiles, then walks out to her.
Steph: Hey. I'm glad you stopped by. I've only got a sec, but…
She grabs two sheets of paper from inside the booth and holds them behind her back.
Steph: Have you talked to Ethan at all?
(Alex talked with Ethan)
Alex: "Talked" is maybe too strong a word. I tried.
(Alex didn't talk with Ethan)
Alex shakes her head.
Steph: He's taking it really hard. But what you did for me this morning got me thinking: what if Ethan needs something like that too? Something fun and distracting. Something like a LARP.
Alex: Like the one you and Gabe were gonna take him to?
Steph: Yeah, but designed just for him. And Thaynor.
Good idea.
Alex: He'll love that.
Steph: Yeah? I'm glad you think so.
Can we do that?
Alex: Can we even pull that off?
Steph: It won't be high production value, but it'll still be fun.
Steph: I need your help, though. I want it to be as good as it can be. Ethan gave you one of his comics, right?
Alex nods.
Steph: So, what do you think?
She reveals two characters drawn on the sheets of paper. One is labeled "Cravius, Lord of the Underworld," and the other is labeled "Stormwrither, the Undead."
Steph: Who would the famous monster slayer have the most fun defeating?
Cravius.
Alex: Cravius looks pretty badass. Go with that.
Stormwrither.
Alex: Stormwrither looks like a worthy opponent. He gets my vote.
Steph: Alright then. Oh, I gotta get back in there. There's some stuff in my comp book. It'd be cool if you could check it out, help me make some calls?
Alex: I'll see what I can do.
Steph returns to the booth as the song that's playing finishes.
Steph: Heya, Haven listeners! That was PhoneTap with their new single "Elephant in the Room." We've got a sweet block of indie rock coming down the pike, but first a few announcements. The Spring Festival is just around the corner, sponsored by Typhon Mining Company. Admission is free this year, so bring your friends, bring your family. Hell, bring your ex, I'm sure it'll be different this time.
Steph plays the next song.
Steph's comp book[]
At any point after Steph returns to the radio booth, Alex can look inside the comp book at the front counter. Inside, Alex finds a page labeled "The Bard" with a sticky note attached which reads, "Alex! Fill in your character!"
Alex: (thinking) Ok. Looks like Steph wants me to do more than just make some decisions… she wants me to play a bard. Guess I'm in. Let's start with my name.
Alex will write the selected name in the space next to "Name" on the page.
Alwynn.
Only available if Alex looked at the Thaynor comic on the front counter.
Alex: (thinking) How about a throwback to Ethan's old buddy?
Alto.
Alex: (thinking) Alto is a good name for a bard.
Alexandra.
Alex: (thinking) There's beauty in simplicity.
Alex: (thinking) Ability time. Distortion Field sounds fun, but Healing Serenade could really come in handy…
Alex will circle the selected ability.
Distortion Field.
Alex: (thinking) Let's go with Distortion Field.
Healing Serenade.
Alex: (thinking) Healing Serenade it is.
Alex: (thinking) How did I meet Thaynor?
Alex will write the selected story under "How did you meet Thaynor?"
Heroic story.
Alex: (thinking) It was a dark and stormy night…
Funny story.
Alex: (thinking) A wolf and an ogre walk into a bar… ugh… oh god.
Alex: (thinking) This LARP thing just might work…
Return to free roam.
The Silver Dragon[]
As Alex enters the Silver Dragon the first time, she runs into someone walking out. It's Diane Jacobs.
Alex: Oh, sorry.
Diane: We met briefly, you're Gabe Chen's sister, right?
Alex: Alex, yeah.
Diane rests a hand on Alex's shoulder.
Diane: I didn't know him well, but I could tell he had a big heart. I'm so sorry for your loss.
Diane walks away and Alex enters the dispensary. Charlotte is at the front counter, looking worringly at an envelope placed on it.
Conversation with Charlotte[]
Alex: Charlotte?
Charlotte: Alex. Hey.
Alex: Jed said you wanted to see me.
Charlotte: I just wanted to see how you were doing.
I'm okay.
Alex: I'm okay. Keeping my chin up.
Charlotte: Sometimes that's all you can do.
Staying busy.
Alex: I've been trying to stay busy, mostly.
Charlotte: Yeah. Distractions help…
Alex: How about you? I can't even imagine what you're going through.
Charlotte: Honestly, I'm really trying to keep it together for Ethan. He's hurting.
(Alex spoke with Ethan)
Alex: He does seem distant.
(Alex did not speak with Ethan)
Alex: Is he alright?
Charlotte: He practically just lost a father… But he's shutting me out. He's never done that before, not when it mattered.
He needs time.
Alex: Everyone grieves differently. Maybe he just needs some time.
Charlotte: We've been through a lot together, with the divorce and moving. He's never shut down like this. I just can't get through to him.
Stay strong.
Alex: Stay strong. You'll get through the hard parts. Both of you.
Charlotte: Easier said than done, huh?
Alex: Yeah. No shit.
Show him you're hurting too.
Available (and replaces "Stay strong") only if Alex read Ethan in the park earlier.
Alex: He's a pretty insightful kid. He knows how much you're hurting, even when you try to hide it from him. Instead of trying to be strong, maybe the best thing you can do is show him that it's okay to hurt?
Charlotte: That's really helpful Alex, thank you.
Charlotte: I can't get over the feeling that the one person who could help me deal with the aftermath of Gabe's death… is Gabe.
After a moment, Alex notices the envelope on the counter.
Alex: What is this?
Charlotte: An affidavit. From Typhon. If I sign, I'm agreeing not to press charges in exchange for a payment. A big one.
That's shady.
Alex: That's so shady. Why would they be offering you money if they didn't do anything wrong?
Charlotte: They say it's an "offer of good faith," but you're right. He's dead because of them and I'd be letting them off.
How big?
Alex: How big are we talking?
Charlotte: It's send-Ethan-to-college big.
Alex: Shit.
Alex: Are you gonna sign it?
Charlotte: I don't know. I'm trying to put Ethan first, but… What would you do? Do you think it would be a betrayal of Gabe?
TAKE THE MONEY FOR ETHAN
Alex: You have to put Ethan first. If the money helps, I think you should take it.
Charlotte: Thanks, Alex. That means the world.
Alex: (thinking) That affidavit feels scummy, but Ethan should come first.
Charlotte: I really appreciate you stopping by. Feel free to take a look around, if you want.
Alex: Yeah, okay.
Alex can read Charlotte.
Charlotte: (thinking, sadness) She said it's not betrayal. Still makes me feel sick.
Alex: (thinking) Same, but… Gabe would understand.
TURN THE OFFER DOWN
Alex: I don't think you should sign it. I'm sorry, I know it's hard. But you can't let Typhon buy you off. Gabe made that call and I'm gonna prove it. I just-- I need some time.
Charlotte: Thanks for being honest.
Alex: (thinking) If they're willing to pay Charlotte to keep quiet, they're definitely hiding something.
Charlotte: I really appreciate you stopping by. Feel free to take a look around, if you want.
Alex: Yeah, okay.
Alex can read Charlotte.
Charlotte: (thinking, sadness) Of course she's right. But I could really use that money.
Alex: (thinking) We can't give in, no matter how hard it is.
Alex can speak to Charlotte again.
Charlotte: I'm always here for you if you need anything.
Alex: Thanks. Back at you.
Other Actions[]
Gummies
Alex can trigger a memory (sad) on a jar of gummies in a back room.
Gabe: Man, these things better do the trick. I'm averaging, like, three hours a night.
Charlotte: Pro tip? Insomnia doesn't usually come from nowhere, and THC is way better at treating it when you're also tackling the underlying cause. Any idea what's keeping you up?
Sculpture
Alex finds a sculpture in the front. It looks like a person screaming. Alex Makes faces at it.
Charlotte: That's a zemi. In the Dominican, they're said to house the spirits of gods. Mostly I just like how it looks.
Alex: It's really cool.
Strain list
Alex finds a list of strains available at the Silver Dragon. One of then is called "Stairway to Haven."
Alex: Stairway to Haven?
Charlotte: Believe it or not, Gabe named that one.
Alex: Oh, I believe it.
After leaving the Silver Dragon, Alex sees Diane leaving a conversation with the miners.
Lethe Flowers[]
Alex walks into the flower shop. She sees Eleanor working on a floral arrangement on the counter. Alex waves to get her attention, but she doesn't respond. Alex walks up toward the counter and waves again. She finally speaks to her.
Alex: Eleanor?
This startles Eleanor.
Alex: Sorry!
Eleanor: No need to apologize. How are you, dear?
Alex: Oh. I'm um…
I'm okay.
Alex: I'm okay, I guess. Taking it one moment at a time.
Eleanor: That's the best way to be.
Adjusting.
Alex: Still just trying to adjust, I think.
Eleanor: Give yourself some time. Change is always hard.
Alex: Is Mac here?
Eleanor: He was helping me not too long ago, I think he just left. Can't have gotten too far.
Alex: Got it. Thanks.
Alex turns to leave.
Eleanor: Now what was I… hm.
A purple aura suddenly appears around Eleanor. Alex turns and notices.
Alex: (thinking) She looks terrified… I can't leave her like this.
Other Actions[]
T-shirt
Alex can trigger a memory (anger) with a T-shirt in a lower cabinet.
Riley: What do you want? You wanna make fun of me too, like those other jock assholes?
Mac: What? No. You made a sick killer robot and won a fucking contest, that's--
Riley: First of all, we got third place, and anyway, he's not a robot, technically, he's … ugh, god, way to take the bait, Ri.
Mac: You know what? Fuck those pricks. You rule. And I… would really like to see… your robot. If you wanna show me.
Cool Gnome
If Alex put sunglasses on the big gnome in the previous chapter.
Alex: (thinking) That guy is still bad to the gnome.
Alex looks at it and lets out a quick laugh. Eleanor notices.
Eleanor: What's that?
Alex: Oh nothing. Just something funny Gabe said.
Eleanor: That boy and his jokes.
Alex uses her power on Eleanor, and a wave of purple aura fills the room, focusing on the cash register, a bouquet of lilies, the open/closed sign, and two things in the office: the phone, and a picture of Eleanor with Riley.
Alex: (thinking) Okay, time to figure out why she's afraid.
Alex can now reveal fears connected to these objects. As Alex reads Eleanor's thoughts, her words are overlaid with Alex whispering the same words.
Sign
Eleanor: (thinking) If they know about my condition, they'll make me close this place.
Lilies
Eleanor: (thinking) The doctor said I had more time, but everything is becoming so… out of order.
Register
Eleanor: (thinking) All my memories are fading. I feel… broken.
Phone
Eleanor: Thank you, dear. I'll get started on it right away. Just come by with the check whenever you're free.
Photo
Eleanor: (thinking) If Riley finds out… She can't find out.
After reading the final object, Alex puts her hands on her head for a moment.
Alex: (thinking) Holy shit.
A dense fog covers up the windows. Flowers begin wilting. Cracks form on the walls. Even the letters on the various signs in the shop appear to be changing positions. The large sign on the wall behind the counter, which once said "FLOWERS" now reads "FERWOLS."
Alex: (thinking) It's not that she forgot what she was doing. She's afraid she's forgetting… everything. But how can I help her?
Helping Eleanor[]
Alex approaches Eleanor.
Alex: Forget what you were working on?
Eleanor: You could say I'm having a bit of a senior moment.
Alex: Well, maybe I can help.
Retrace your steps?
Alex: Seems like you have a lot going on today. I could help you retrace your steps?
Eleanor: Oh, I don't want to keep you.
Alex looks at Eleanor assuringly.
Alex: Hey, I wanna help.
Eleanor reluctantly allows Alex to help her. This continues to Retracing Eleanor's Steps, below.
Ask Riley?
Alex: Does Riley know? You could ask her.
Eleanor: Oh, no, no. I can't ask Riley. I wouldn't want to bother her.
Player must now choose one of the remaining options.
Think harder?
Alex: Maybe try closing your eyes and really concentrating on what you were doing?
Eleanor tries this.
Eleanor: If only.
Player must now choose one of the remaining options.
Focus on something else?
Alex: You could focus on something else for a bit and see if it comes back?
Eleanor: I suppose. But I can't help feeling like it was something important… Whatever it was.
Player must now choose one of the remaining options.
Retracing Eleanor's Steps[]
Alex: (thinking) Okay what would Eleanor have done first?
Correct Order
Sign
Alex: You must have flipped the sign to open…
Eleanor: I always flip it first thing when I come in. And then I open my mail…
She looks at the pile of mail on the counter, which remains unopened.
Eleanor: Something must have distracted me.
The sign returns to normal.
Alex: (thinking) Better. We can do this.
Phone
Alex: Could a phone call have distracted you?
Eleanor walks into the office.
Eleanor: Yes! I got a call first thing in the morning… but I can't think who it was.
Alex: Maybe we can find something to remind you.
Photo
Alex: Could it have been Riley who called?
Eleanor: I think that's right. She called to tell me about a new order… Goodness, what was the order for?
Lilies
Alex notices a note attached to the lilies: "rush order, paid with check."
Alex: (thinking) Rush order. This must be what Riley came in for.
Alex: I think that order might have been for these lilies.
Eleanor walks over to the cooler where Alex is standing.
Eleanor: Of course! Riley helped me pick them out before she left.
Alex: Now we just have to figure out who ordered them.
Register
Alex: The check for the lilies would be in here, right? That could tell us who bought them.
Eleanor: It should.
Alex orders the cash drawer and finds a check from "Mr. Jedediah Lucan."
Alex: (thinking) Mr. Jedediah Lucan, huh?
Alex: Looks like the lilies are for Jed.
Alex closes the cash drawer.
Eleanor: That's right! Riley dropped off an order for Jed!
Continues to After Figuring it Out, below.
Incorrect Order
Phone
Unavailable after selecting the sign first.
Alex: Did you maybe call someone?
First time
Eleanor: You don't have to do this… I'll be alright on my own.
Alex: Hey, I'm not going anywhere.
Further times
Eleanor: I can't say for sure.
Photo
Unavailable after selecting the phone second.
Alex: Did anything happen with Riley?
Eleanor: I… I don't know.
Lilies
Unavailable after selecting the photo third.
Alex: Did you trim these flowers today?
(Eleanor is at the counter)
Eleanor: I… don't remember…
(Eleanor is in the office)
Eleanor: I don't remember…
Register
Unavailable after selecting the lilies fourth.
Alex: You were over here when I came in. Maybe you were counting the drawer?
Eleanor: I would have done that last night… (The tone of voice varies depending on whether Eleanor is behind the counter or in the office.)
After Figuring it Out[]
Everything in and around the flower shop returns to normal and the fog disappears.
Alex: I knew you'd figure it out.
Eleanor: I couldn't have done it without you.
Eleanor returns to the arrangement she was working on.
Eleanor: Jed must be hosting some event… I wonder why he wants lilies though, they're traditionally for funerals.
Alex: (thinking) God. She doesn't remember.
TELL HER ABOUT GABE
Alex: They were… They were for Gabe's wake.
Eleanor: Gabe's wake?
Eleanor suddenly gets a look of remorse on her face as she realizes.
Eleanor: Gabe's wake. I… missed it. Alex… I'm-- I'm so sorry.
Alex: Hey, it's--
Eleanor: Excuse me.
Eleanor quickly walks to the office and shuts the door behind her.
Alex: (thinking) Okay, that sucked. But at least I told her the truth.
After selecting this option, Alex can read Eleanor through the office door.
Eleanor: (thinking) That poor young man. How did I forget?
Alex: (thinking) I'm so sorry, Eleanor…
SPARE HER THE PAIN
Alex: You know Jed. Probably doesn't know the difference between a lily and a tulip.
Eleanor laughs.
Eleanor: Don't sell him short. He's more clever than he seems.
She returns to working on the arrangement.
Eleanor: Thanks again for your help. Don't be a stranger!
Alex: I won't. Promise.
Alex: (thinking) She was finally feeling better. I didn't want to ruin that.
After selecting this option, Alex can talk to Eleanor again.
Eleanor: I hope you find Mac.
Alex: Thanks.
After leaving the flower shop:
Alex: (thinking) Eleanor said Mac is nearby. I don't see him here. Maybe at the bridge?
Bridge of Flowers[]
After talking with Eleanor, Alex can find Mac on the bridge. She can read him.
Mac: (thinking, fear) I'm so fucked…
Alex: (thinking) Can't hide from me forever, Mac.
Alex can speak to him.
Alex: Mac.
Mac turns to look at Alex.
Mac: Alex? Look, it's not a good time.
Alex: You owe me an explanation about what happened to Gabe.
(Alex didn't get involved in Riley and Mac's argument)
Mac: I'm really sorry he died. And I appreciate that you-- you didn't out me to Riley the other night, but I can't talk to you.
(Alex called Mac out)
Mac: What? Costing me my girlfriend wasn't enough for you? Now you're gonna accuse me of killing Gabe, too?
I know you're lying.
Alex: Drop the act, I know you've been lying about that night.
Mac: You don't know shit.
I get that you're afraid.
Alex: I get it. He died on your shift and you're freaked. But you have to come clean.
Mac: Please. There's nothing I can tell you.
Alex: Mac, come on. He was my big brother.
Mac: I can't.
(Alex didn't get information from Riley)
Alex: (thinking) Something definitely has him scared. Maybe if I could tap into his fear, I could get to the truth… I just need to find something I could use to push him over the edge.
Return to free roam.
(Riley opened up to Alex)
Alex: (thinking) Something definitely has him scared. If I could just push him over the edge…
Confrontation with Mac[]
First time
Alex: (thinking) What Riley told me might do it. But I should make sure there isn't anything I still want to do around town first.
Further times
Alex: (thinking) Alright. Am I ready for this?
I'll come back.
Alex: (thinking) There are a few things I want to do…
Return to free roam.
Ready.
Alex: (thinking) Okay. Let's do this.
Continues below.
(Alex didn't get involved in Riley and Mac's argument)
Alex: I got Riley to tell me about your plans to leave town. That's not something innocent people do.
(Alex called Mac out)
Alex: Your ex-girlfriend told me about your plans to skip town. That's not something innocent people do.
Mac: Oh god-- It's not-- I didn't do anything!
Alex uses her power on Mac, and a wave of purple aura floods the scene.
Mac: Just fuck off! Leave me alone.
Mac runs off the bridge toward Main Street. Alex tries to follow him, but by the time she reaches Main Street, he's nowhere to be found. What Alex does find is that everyone is looking at her. She gets the feeling that she's being watched, even by surveillance cameras placed nearby. The aura focuses on the surveillance camera, a newspaper box, a warning poster, and Riley, who is now standing on the sidewalk near the alley.
Alex: (thinking) Fuck. I'll deal with Mac when I get to him. For now, I need to learn everything I can.
During this scene, but not at a specific point:
Alex: (thinking) Mac feels like everyone's… staring at him.
Alex can now reveal fears connected to these objects. As Alex reads Mac's thoughts, his words are overlaid with Alex whispering the same words. Only the interaction with Riley is required.
Camera
Mac: (thinking) Typhon's always watching. They run this whole town.
Newspaper
Mac: (thinking) Everyone thinks I killed him. They all hate me.
Poster
Mac: (thinking) It's not fair. I didn't do anything wrong!
Riley
As Alex approaches Riley, she turns to face her.
Riley: It should have been you instead.
Alex steps back, in shock.
Riley: Alex?
After the interaction with Riley, Alex walks down the alley past the mural, she notices the large elk painted on the mural has been replaced with a man hanging from a noose. She hears Mac's voice as if it were from a phone call.
Mac: No! What the hell, there are people out there! I told you to call it off!
Alex walks over to the river wall, and hears Mac's voice coming from the other side.
Mac: I saw they way they looked at me at the wake. They all think I let him die.
Alex looks over the wall and sees Mac sitting on the grass of the river bank, hyperventilating. Alex climbs over the wall and stands in front of him.
Alex: I know why you're lying.
You were jealous.
Alex: You were jealous about Riley! You wanted Gabe out of the way.
Mac: I didn't You don't know what you're talking about.
Player must now choose one of the remaining options.
Typhon is pressuring you.
Alex: Typhon's forcing you to deny the call.
(selected this option first)
Mac: What the fuck?
(didn't select this option first)
Mac: Whatever you think you know--
You're guilty too.
Alex: You might not have been the reason he died, but you covering for their fuck-up makes you guilty too!
Don't take the fall.
Alex: I know you tried to stop it. They fucked up, not you. Stop lying for them!
Mac stands up.
Mac: You don't get it. This wasn't some accident! I told them you were down there and they detonated anyway.
Alex: On purpose? Why?
Mac: I don't know, I swear! And then I get a message telling me to deny there was ever a call.
Alex reacts to that.
Mac: You gotta believe me. Gabe and I, we didn't get along, but I didn't want him dead. Now-- now Typhon's watching me. My girlfriend, she-- she thinks I'm a murderer. My neighbors all hate me, I mean what the-- what the fuck am I supposed to do?
Alex: (thinking) I think I can calm him down. But does he deserve it?
CALM MAC DOWN
Alex sighs, then starts walking toward Mac.
Alex: Alright, Mac, come on. You gotta calm down, okay? Dude. Stay with me.
She kneels.
Alex: I know what it's like to be doubted. To have everyone think the worst of you. But the truth will come out. I'll make sure of it.
Mac: But Typhon--
Alex: If Typhon comes after you, they're going to have to get through me too. Okay?
Mac takes a few deep breaths and stands up. The aura no longer surrounds the scene.
Mac: Thanks. I actually feel a little better.
Alex stands.
Alex: Yeah, well you learn a thing or two hanging out with shrinks your whole life.
Mac: So… What are you gonna do now?
Alex: Don't leave Haven. I'm gonna get to the truth.
Alex walks back toward Main Street, passing the mural which has been restored.
WALK AWAY
Alex: You deserve everything you're getting.
Mac: What?
Alex: Maybe you didn't kill him, but you could have done something. You could have spoken up at the wake, or told the police what really happened and you didn't.
Mac: I-- I didn't have a choice!
Alex: You always have a choice!
She steps closer to Mac.
Alex: I hope this feeling crushes you.
Alex walks away as Mac falls to the ground. As Alex walks back down the alley, she sees the image of the hanging man on the mural. She calms herself down, then looks at it again to find it restored. The aura no longer surrounds the scene. She continues walking toward Main Street.
You made a mistake.
Alex: I know you didn't mean for Gabe to get hurt. But you screwed up, and it's time to come clean!
Mac: I'm not the reason he's dead!
Player must now choose one of the remaining options.
It was about revenge.
Alex: You wanted revenge for the fight. You were hoping he'd get hurt!
Mac: That had nothing to do with it!
Player must now choose one of the remaining options.
After the Confrontation[]
Alex leans on a building near the alley and takes a few breaths. She then pulls out her phone and calls someone.
Alex: Hey. … Yeah, it's-- Can we talk? Where are you?
Alex listens for a while.
Alex: Okay.
Once More, at the Ravine[]
Alex walks through the forest and finds Ryan standing at the edge of the ravine, the place where they rescued Ethan the other day. She approaches him.
Alex: You were right. About Typhon. About Mac.
Ryan: Alex…
Alex: Mac got the call.
Ryan turns his head to look at Alex.
Ryan: How do you know that?
Alex: He got the call, and he lied about it.
He turns back to the way he was.
Ryan: It doesn't matter.
Alex: Someone is putting pressure on him to keep quiet, someone from the mine, and--
A red aura forms around Ryan.
Ryan: It doesn't matter!
Alex is surprised at this.
Ryan: I keep coming here. And playing it back. But it always ends the same.
Alex: Ryan--
Ryan: He's dead. He's really dead, Alex.
Alex uses her power on him, putting a hand on his shoulder as she does so. Everything around them seems to crack, crumble, fall, and fade away until they are left standing on a small piece of rock floating in a void.
Ryan: (thinking) It was my fault. My job is to keep people safe, and I failed.
You saved Ethan.
Alex: You saved Ethan. That kid is alive right now because of you.
You saved me.
Alex: Ryan, I owe you my life.
Typhon did this.
Alex: You did everything right. Typhon took him away from us, not you.
Ryan: (thinking) She's wrong. I let her cross that log. I put Gabe in harm's way. I'm not a hero, I'm a coward. Worse than worthless.
You're braver than me.
Alex: You were brave this morning. You're brave now. I've never been as brave as you.
Neither of us is worthless.
Alex: I know what it's like to feel worthless and helpless. But we saved Ethan and you saved me.
How could you have known?
Alex: You've got to stop torturing yourself. You did everything you could have.
Ryan: (thinking) It doesn't matter. Gabe's dead. Because of me. Gabe… I'm so sorry.
Ryan takes a couple of steps toward the edge, but Alex grabs his arm to stop him. He looks at her.
Gabe would forgive you.
Alex: Gabe loved you, Ryan. He would forgive you. You know that.
I forgive you.
Alex: I forgive you. How could I not?
Forgive yourself.
Alex: There's only one person holding you responsible for this, Ryan. You need to forgive yourself.
Alex: You're not alone.
Ryan falls to his knees and begins crying. Alex hugs him. As she does so, the view around them returns to normal, revealing that they are at the edge of the ravine.
Joy[]
Some time later, Ryan and Alex are lying on the grass near the site where the previous scene occurred. They are laughing.
Alex: Whoa hold on, there's a guy in a gorilla suit? Does he also jump off of the cliff and into the pool?
Ryan: Nah, he chases a guy in a banana suit. That guy jumps off the cliff and into the pool.
Alex: I'm sorry, this is a Mexican restaurant?
Ryan: Eh, nominally. The food is, uh, well, terrible. But it's Gabe's favorite place. I tell ya, he's the oldest twelve year old I know.
Ryan sits up.
Ryan: Can I ask you something?
Alex: Of course.
Ryan: You came up here to tell me I was right about Mac. About him getting the call. How did you know?
Alex pauses before answering. Then she sits up.
Alex: There's something you should know about me, and it's going to be easier to show you than to explain it.
She turns to him.
Alex: This is gonna seem sorta weird at first. Then really weird. Do you trust me?
Ryan looks around, then nods.
Think of something sad.
Alex: Okay, think of something sad. Like, breaks-your-heart sad. Really focus, until you feel it.
He does so. She uses her power to read his thoughts, but we see this from Ryan's perspective. No aura, no thoughts. Just Alex saying:
Alex: Gabe's laugh. You never made anyone laugh like him. You're sad you'll never hear it again.
Ryan: Never a dull moment. The kinds of stuff we got up to…
Think of something scary.
Alex: Okay, think of something that just scares the shit out of you. Really focus, until you feel it.
He does so. She uses her power to read his thoughts, but we see this from Ryan's perspective. No aura, no thoughts. Just Alex saying:
Alex: Mac, Typhon, all of it. You're afraid you won't know how to handle it without Gabe.
Ryan: Never knew anyone so good at getting into and out of trouble. Man, this one time…
Think of something infuriating.
Alex: Okay, think of something that makes you so angry you just want to scream. Really focus, until you feel it.
He does so. She uses her power to read his thoughts, but we see this from Ryan's perspective. No aura, no thoughts. Just Alex saying:
Alex: The wasted potential. You're angry for me, for Ethan and Charlotte, for everyone who had their futures with Gabe stolen.
Ryan: Wish you could have been there with us. There was no one in the world more fun to be around. Man, this one time…
A golden aura forms around Ryan as he begins laughing.
Alex: Whatever it is you're thinking about right now, don't stop, okay? Keep going.
Ryan: (laughing) Okay.
Ryan lies down on the grass, continuing his laughter.
Alex: (thinking) What emotion is this?
Alex uses her power to feel Ryan's emotion. A burst of yellow flies from Ryan and eventually, Alex is smiling as well. She lays down and looks up into the sky.
Alex: (thinking) Must be a good memory. I wonder if I can piece it together?
Alex sees three specific clouds in the sky. One shaped like a goose, another shaped like a car, and another shaped like a shovel. She uses her power to reveal the memory associated with each one.
Goose
Background noise suggests they are riding in a car.
Ryan: Gabe, goose.
Gabe: I see it. It'll move.
Ryan: It's not moving.
Gabe: It'll move!
Ryan: Gabe!
Sounds suggest someone (presumably Gabe in this context) slams on the brakes and then stops. Followed by the sounds of Ryan and Gabe exiting the vehicle.
Car
Background noise is the car's engine running.
Gabe: Oof. That's a lot of blood, huh?
Ryan: Gabe. This is serious. Killing a Canadian goose is a violation of international law.
Gabe: Shut up, it is not…
Ryan: They're Canadian geese, Gabe. Property of the Crown.
Gabe: The… the crown of--
Ryan: Property. Of. The Crown, Gabe.
Gabe: What do we do?
Shovel
Background noise is the sound of digging.
Gabe: How deep, you think?
Ryan: Deeper than that! The Royal Canadian Mounted Police can spot a goose grave at a hundred paces!
Gabe: The Mounties…?
Ryan laughs.
Gabe: Oh come on, man!
Ryan: (laughing) I'm sorry! I'm sorry!
Gabe: How long were you going to let me dig?
Ryan: I wasn't gonna stop you!
After looking at all three:
Alex: (laughing) So, did you finish burying the goose or not?
Ryan looks at her.
Alex: (laughing) Okay, also… "property of the Crown"? Really?
Ryan: Well, they are technically protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
Alex laughs harder. Ryan sits up.
Ryan: But… How?
I'm basically some kind of superhero.
Alex sits up as she speaks.
Alex: So I guess I have this… power. I can see other people's emotions. They show up like an aura, and if I get too close, I… I feel what they feel. As if I was feeling it myself. And when I focus, I can even understand why they're feeling it.
Ryan: And that's what you just did with… with me?
Alex nods.
Ryan: Whew… "Some kind of power…" No kidding…
I'm basically some kind of freak.
Alex sits up.
Alex: There's something wrong with the way I process other peoples' emotions. I see these… auras, I guess. And sometimes, if somebody's feeling something… big… it sort of infects me, and I start feeling it too.
Ryan: And that's what you just did with… with me?
Alex nods.
Ryan: There's nothing wrong with you. You're a literal wizard.
Alex: It's-- It's only ever been the bad emotions before. But that-- that was pure joy.
Ryan: Who else knows?
(Alex didn't tell Gabe)
Alex: I've never told anyone until now.
(Alex told Gabe)
Alex: Gabe did. But… now, I guess… just you.
Alex: And that's how I know Mac's terrified of Typhon. He reported Gabe's call and they ignored it. Now they're putting pressure on him to toe the line.
Ryan: Okay, but why?
Alex: I don't know yet. Someone made the decision to let the blast go off. Seems like finding out who would be a good start.
Ryan: So you're going after Typhon…
Alex looks at him and shrugs.
Ryan: You'll need help.
Alex: You don't have to.
Ryan: You're stuck with me now.
Handshake.
Alex: Okay, then. Team up? Do the buddy cop thing?
Alex holds out her hand. Ryan chuckles.
Ryan: You're a loose cannon, Chen. But you get results.
They shake hands. Alex giggles.
Hug.
Without saying a word, Alex hugs Ryan. Surprised, he hugs her back.
Ryan: You're, uh… welcome, I guess.
Alex: Yeah. Thanks. Thank you.
Ryan: No. Thank you.
Lighting Up the Night Sky[]
The scene opens on the exterior of the record store. After a moment, we see a microphone in the radio studio inside. Steph steps up to the microphone.
Steph: This one's for you, Gabe. I miss you.
She puts the needle on the spinning record. "Hold On To" begins to play. Our view cuts to a view of a speaker inside the Black Lantern, which slowly gets wider, then cuts to a close-up of a shot glass on the bar. A hand grabs the glass, and our view cuts to reveal that it's Jed sitting at the bar, drinking a shot of whiskey.
(Alex told Eleanor about Gabe's wake)
Outside the flower shop, Eleanor closes up while Riley waits for her. They both follow Jed to the Bridge of Flowers.
(Alex didn't tell Eleanor about Gabe's wake)
Outside the flower shop, Riley closes up. She follows Jed to the Bridge of Flowers.
On the Bridge of Flowers, Ryan is seen holding a sky lantern. Alex stands next to him, and Steph stand next to Alex. Deputy Pike, Charlotte, Ethan, Duckie, and Diane are also there. If Alex calmed Mac down earlier, he will also be there. Everyone surrounds Steph, Alex, and Gabe as Alex begins to speak.
Alex: I didn't speak this morning. I couldn't. Hearing everyone talk about him, about the life he had here, with all of you… I lost the chance to have that. But even though I only had one day with him… He changed my life. I said I didn't know if I belonged here. He told me that home isn't something you find. It's something you build.
Alex turns to look at Ryan. He steps closer to Alex and she places her hands on the lantern. They lift it up and release it. The lantern slowly rises into the night sky.
Alex: I love you, Gabe.
As the lantern continues to float away, everyone but Alex gathers on one side of the bridge to watch it. Alex stays back. From Alex's point of view, first Ethan, then almost everyone else there begins to emit a yellow aura – the aura of joy. Alex looks at her hands and begins to feel their joy. She then looks at those gathered, watching the lantern. All of them have a glowing joy aura surrounding them… except for Diane, who shows a purple fear aura. Diane looks back at Alex. Alex notices this before turning her attention back to the lantern. We then see a very wide shot of the scene as the lantern floats further into the sky.
END OF CHAPTER 2: LANTERNS
References[]