Dinosaur Planet Preview

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**1**]]] “What’s up, adventure fans! I bet you didn’t think you’d see another adventure so soon after what happened last time, but everything healed up nicely and the station master didn’t press charges. Also I learned that you can save so many credits by doing your own starship repairs! Most parts are available secondhand on the holonet, and if they don’t fit exactly right you just need to push harder until you hear them click.” You feel your spacecraft shudder as it hits the atmosphere and heat builds along the nose of the craft. Your datasphere rattles slightly in its charging cradle and you set a hand on top of it to steady it – it’s also your camera. “It’s getting a little bumpy here,” you say with a roguish grin. “I’m just starting my descent to Sauria 3 – yes, *that* Sauria 3. I’m searching for the Vesper, a starship that crashed here twenty years ago. Nobody was able to find the wreckage, probably because of all the dinosaurs and the serious magnetic interference. I'm going to find the wreck and retrieve the flight recorder so we can find out what happened to it." Your navigation screen flickers and distorts while your engine readouts are giving you strange numbers. "This interference is legit; I'm surprised this signal is even getting out. Before I get cut off, let me say this – keep an eye on this channel for the next few days. You’ll see an epic video… or I’ll have been eaten by a dinosaur.” Your datasphere chirps to get your attention. “Username, your gyroscopic stabilizer is failing.” Your grin slips a little. “What? I just fixed that,” you say. A loud bang reverberates through the cockpit and your ship begins to plummet through the atmosphere. Your screens alternate between navigational information and static. You can smell smoke in the cockpit and feel the shake all around as the atmosphere’s burn surrounds your ship. You set both hands on the stick to keep the ship steady. “Username, I am not an expert in spacecraft maintenance,” your datasphere chirps. “But it’s possible the quality of the parts you sourced were not-“ “Not now, Sphiri. I need to land this ship.” You grit your teeth. "Are we still streaming?" "Negative. The signal dropped," your datasphere chirps. Your nav display is flickering dramatically as the atmosphere sears your hull. You angle the nose up and use the flat of your ship to slow your plunge through the clouds. The whole craft shakes as the turbulence tries to knock you off course. You can feel the heat in the cockpit despite your ship's thermal shielding. "Username, would you like to review some offers to increase your available data storage?" (text-color: #94a5b0)["I'm a little busy, Sphiri." Turn to (link: "16")[(goto: "demo")]. "Right now, Sphiri?" Turn to (link: "88")[(goto: "demo")].] "Definitely not." Turn to [[234]].

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**44**]]] You veer towards the mountains and quickly identify a plateau with some flat ground to touch down on. The mountains are forested with canyons and peaks; the high ground would give you a good view of the region as you begin your search for the Vesper. You set down gently on the planet's surface, and as the engines shut off you fix your datasphere a glare. "I can't believe you did that," you say. "I was merely trying to help, Username. A successful expedition relies on teamwork." "Okay, but teamwork relies on you listening to my commands, Sphiri." "I am programmed to provide helpful insights and support when necessary," your datasphere chirps. "I do not believe you reviewed any of the materials I suggested prior to this expedition so I will need to provide insights throughout to assist you, Username." You try not to groan. At least you're here, safely on the surface, ready to begin your adventure. You set your datasphere to camera mode and let it float out of the cockpit so it can get a good angle on you climbing out and taking your first steps on Sauria 3. You survey the landscape around you, noting the forest and underbrush that could hide a number of threats. You have a pistol at your hip loaded with high-caliber bullets but your limited ammunition means you'd prefer to avoid fighting when you can. "Sphiri, any sign of the Vesper on sensors?" you ask. "Negative. There is a strong magnetic field on this planet which interferes with long-range sensors. My short-range sensors depend on line of sight which is currently limited by the thick forest in this region." You nod, and begin to look around. There's a ridge nearby that pokes up out of the tree line which you could scramble up. There's also a creek flowing nearby that looks to descend along a valley where the forest is less thick. Climb the ridge? Turn to [[239]]. Follow the creek? Turn to [[7]].

''91'' You bring your craft down gently on a patch of firm ground ringed by green marshland. As your engines power down you fix your datasphere with a glare. "You're supposed to listen to my commands, Sphiri." "I am programmed to provide helpful insights and support when necessary," your datasphere chirps. "I do not believe you reviewed any of the materials I suggested prior to this expedition so I will need to provide insights throughout to assist you, Username." You try to suppress a groan. You set your datasphere to record and send it outside to get a good shot of you climbing out of your ship. The planet is warm as you put boots on the ground and peer at the marshland around you. Patches of vegetation rise out of the water like islands, covered in ferns, moss, and trees with wide branches. There isn't a path in sight. "Why the hell did I set down here?" you wonder aloud. "If the Vesper had retained helm control during its descent the marshland would have offered a soft landing spot," your datasphere chirps. "The pilot may have angled for it." "Maybe it sank into the marsh," you counter. "That would be extremely unlikely, Username. A starship the size of the Vesper would need to displace a great deal of mud for it to-" "Relax, Sphiri," you cut in. "I was making a joke." Your datasphere floats in a slow circle around you. "This planet's magnetic field disrupts long-range scans but I should still be able to detect the Vesper's emergency beacon. My short-range sensors rely on line of sight which the thick vegetation here interrupts quite effectively." You watch an enormous dragonfly buzz along over the water's surface, pausing to perch on a soggy log. "Right. Looking for clear spots then." You briefly rest your hand on the handle of your pistol, reassured by its high-caliber bullets. You don't have a ton of ammo, but it should help to deter would-be predators. You can see two distinct directions you might pursue. To the south a large island rises out of the marsh with a thick canopy of trees. The height of the island might provide the clarity you need. Due west the marsh seems to get much shallower, resembling a field of tall grass with much less tree cover. South to the large island? Turn to [[230]]. West to the shallows? Turn to [[41]].

''14'' Your craft touches down on a stretch of sandy beach on the edge of a large sea. As your engines power down you fix your datasphere with a glare. "That was not cool," you say. "Going through a planet's atmosphere builds up a tremendous amount of heat, Username. It would be strange for it to be cool." "That's not what I meant. You need to be a better listener, Sphiri." "I am programmed to provide helpful insights and support when necessary," your datasphere chirps. "I do not believe you reviewed any of the materials I suggested prior to this expedition so I will need to provide insights throughout to assist you, Username." "Great," you say. You switch your datasphere to camera mode and open the cockpit so it can fly out and film you emerging from your ship. As your boots touch the ground you look around at the sweeping sandy coastline. The smell of salt water is thick in the air and the rolling surf comes surging up the beach in great white washes. It looks like a tropical paradise, although the potential for hidden dinosaurs is an ever-present concern. You look up and down the beach. The sand stretches a good distance to the north before the ground gets a little more rocky, raising up to some cliffs with patchy scrub grass and bushes. To the south, the beach transforms into a wide river delta. You aren't sure which direction would make a successful search more likely. North towards the rocky terrain? Turn to [[135]]. South to the river delta? Turn to [[69]]. Maybe you could take a swim first? Turn to [[11]].

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**7**]]] The creek winds its way down the mountain at the bottom of a wide valley. Thick grass and ferns blanket the landscape, dotted with clusters of trees that rustle in the wind. More and more creeks join up until you're following a small river. "Hey Sphiri, how did a planet full of dinosaurs come to be anyway?" "Scientists were initially shocked to discover Sauria 3," your datasphere chirps. "Some have posited that this demonstrates convergent evolution. Perhaps all planets experience a dinosaur phase." "Yeah, but with exactly the same species and atmosphere?" "It does seem statistically unlikely," the datasphere admits. "It's like something out of a science fiction book." The valley winds steadily downhill as the river cuts back and forth through the meadow. The trees are thicker and more tightly spaced on either bank; anything could be hiding in those branches and you'd never know it. As you come around a bend you catch sight of a four-legged dinosaur with thick bony armor and a clubbed tail. It's drinking from the river about fifty meters downstream. "I see you have encountered an Ankylosaurus," your datasphere chirps. "A large quadrupedal herbivore, Ankylosaurus relied on its armor and tail to fend off predators. Would you like to hear about its dietary preferences?" "No, Sphiri." You pause to consider your options. You could just walk past the dinosaur, but its impressive size gives you pause. That club would crush your skull if the creature felt threatened. Crossing the river would avoid the creature but you aren't sure what's in the water. Alternatively, you could go around through the forest. Right past the dinosaur? Turn to [[201]]. Cross the river? Turn to [[152]]. Through the forest? Turn to [[45]].(set: $dino to it +1)

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**239**]]] The ascent isn’t difficult and you crest the ridge in minutes. Your datasphere gets excellent shots as you step out towards the edge, the wind tugging at your flightsuit and your hair. You imagine it looks great on camera. You have a commanding view of the surrounding area. Far below, the marsh is a maze of winding waterways with spots of thick vegetation. The beach is a sliver along the coast that stretches from the mountainous foothills to meet a river that flows out of the marsh. A small forest lies further south, and beyond it a grassland of rolling hills. You hear a shrill cry and catch a flicker of movement from the corner of your eye. You duck as a winged creature swipes through the air where your head had been a moment earlier, then alights on a nearby branch with a throaty squawk. It’s a winged reptile with a sharp beak and a bright red crest on its head, and it’s glaring at you. "It looks like you've discovered a Nyctosaurus," your datasphere chirps. "Adults, like this one, have a wingspan of about two meters, along with a very sharp beak. While often mistaken for dinosaurs they are, in fact, avian reptiles." "They’re also huge jerks,” you say, glaring back at the Nyctosaurus. It chirps at you. You make a rude gesture back. “There is nothing in the scientific data that suggests that, Username.” “No? It didn’t take much observation to put it together, Sphiri,” you say. For a moment you watch the sharp-beaked bird as it stares at you. After a moment it begins to groom itself. You roll your eyes. You aren’t fooled, the reptile is a menace. "Would you like to hear about its mating practices?" "No, Sphiri." You consider how best to deal with the annoying avian reptile and its very sharp beak. Retreat back down the ridge? Turn to [[31]]. Scare the Nyctosaurus away? Turn to [[165]]. Just ignore it? Turn to [[254]].(set: $dino to it +1)

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**31**]]] You decide that caution is the better approach. You give the Nyctosaurus one last glare as you walk to the tree line, retreating into the forest. Instead of heading directly down the bluff you climbed you take an easier incline down through the forested mountainside. The sound of flapping wings tells you the avian reptile isn't going to leave you alone. You glance about but you can't pick up its location. It's likely flying somewhere in the canopy above. "Just what does that stupid creature think it's doing?" you mutter. Your datasphere chimes in to answer your rhetorical question. "It probably thinks you're food, Username, and is trying to catch you by surprise." "Yes. Thank you for that," you say sardonically. "You're so helpful." "You're welcome. Would you like to hear about the dietary preferences of a Nyctosaurus?" "No, Sphiri." You strain to listen for the approaching Nyctosaurus. You could ready your pistol and try to spook it with a gunshot when it approaches? You could also just move down the ridge a little quicker to try and avoid a confrontation. Scare if off with a shot? Turn to [[82]]. Hustle down the ridge? Turn to [[232]].

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**165**]]] "Hey Sphiri, I want you to harass that Nyctosaurus." "Username, I am here to provide helpful insights and document your expedition," your datasphere chirps with a tone of protest. "I am not here to be a bother." "Really? I couldn't tell." "I believe you are being sarcastic, Username. Regardless I am not programmed to act as a weapon." "Relax, Sphiri. You aren't attacking it. You're just getting close enough to take a sample of the bird's chemical composition," you say. There is a moment of silence from the datasphere. "It would be a biological sample," it says, sounding a little huffy. "And it is an avian reptile, not a bird, although birds do belong to the same clade." "Sphiri, can you just fly over there?" "Very well, Username. I will do as requested," your datasphere chirps. The sphere flies out towards the Nyctosaurus, flicking its lights on and off. The avian reptile flaps its wings and squawks threateningly. The datasphere answers with a squawk of its own. Startled, the Nyctosaurus flies away. “What was that noise, Sphiri?” you ask. “My synthesizers can emulate a wide array of noises,” your datasphere chirps. “I thought an attempt to communicate would be advisable.” “Huh. Neat.” With the avian reptile dismissed, you take a moment to survey your surroundings. There's a narrow path that winds through the forested mountainside, heading for a small lake. You could also double back for the mountain valley and follow the creek down. With the avian reptile dismissed, you take a moment to survey your surroundings. There's a narrow path that winds through the forested mountainside, heading for a small lake. You could also double back for the mountain valley and follow the creek down. The winding path towards the lake? Turn to [[2]]. Backtrack to the creek? Turn to [[7]].(set: $extra to it +1)

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**82**]]] You draw your pistol and stop in place, listening for any sign of your pursuer. The soft hum of your datasphere's repulsors underscore the faint rustle of leaves in the wind – only the sounds of your natural surroundings greet your ears. Maybe the stupid bird found something better to do than harass you? Abruptly, a piercing cry announces the Nyctosaurus' approach as it dips through the canopy and dives for you! A thunderous crack echoes out as your pistol fires. You don't hit it but the avian reptile shrieks and peels off, flapping its wings to regain the canopy's cover. You wait for a few breaths to see if it'll come back. "Username, would you like to hear some facts about Nyctosaurus mating habits?" your datasphere chirps. You make a face. "Not now." You begin to holster your pistol when you hear the snap of branches behind you. Turning quickly you catch sight of a large therapod dinosaur about thirty meters away. Your heartbeat quickens as you size up the predator; it has green and brown mottled skin and a a long, slim snout full of teeth. It leans forward and emits a low, throaty rumble, likely answering the threat of your loud gunshot. "I see you have discovered a Baryonyx!" your datasphere chirps. "Baryonyx is primarily a piscovore, but it often uses its-" "Not now!" Would you rather back away slowly? Turn to [[182]]. Do you take a shot with your pistol? Turn to [[17]].(set: $dino to it +1)

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**232**]]] You don't want to waste ammunition on a tiny creature like the Nyctosaurus. You quicken your pace, moving down the mountain with speed back towards the clearing. You have to focus on your footing to avoid catching a root or stepping on some loose rocks. "Did you want to hear about-" "No, Sphiri," you hiss. "You sound upset, Username. Is there something I can do to help?" You catch a brief flap of wings from somewhere in the canopy. You glance up and around and can't help but notice your datasphere hovering helpfully nearby awaiting your reply. "Sphiri, please shut-" You never finish. The Nyctosaurus dips from the canopy with terrifying speed as soon as you're distracted, plunging its sharp beak into your eye. Your datasphere captures your gruesome end in vivid detail. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**182**]]] You begin to back away slowly with your pistol still in your hand in case the dinosaur gets aggressive. The baryonyx watches you and gives a low growl, moving slowly forward as you do. It probably feels threatened by you and your loud weapon. "The name baryonyx means 'heavy claw' and refers to the large claw on their forefinger which was primarily used to hold and manipulate prey," your datasphere chirps. "That's great Sphiri," you say, continuing to back away. The Baryonyx watches until the foliage hides you from view, making no move to follow. You sigh with relief, then continue back down to find the creek. Turn to [[7]].

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**17**]]] You brought the pistol to deter predators like this one. With a low rumble the Baryonyx takes a few steps forward, its body tensed for quick movement. You don't like the way it's eyeing you. "The name Baryonyx means 'heavy claw' and refers to the large claw on their forefinger which was-" "Sphiri, stop," you say. "I'm trying to concentrate." You sight along the barrel of your weapon even as the creature moves closer. You squeeze the trigger and a loud crack echoes through the forest. The Baryonyx snarls in pain and springs forward, answering the challenge with aggression. You fire another shot but your hand trembles and the bullet zips wide. You try to dodge out of the way but the large therapod is ready for your movement. Its big claw catches you in the stomach and makes sure you can't get away while it positions its long, sharp snout to bite your head clean off. Your datasphere obligingly keeps quiet while you concentrate on becoming the Baryonyx's lunch. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''2'' The path is steep and a little bit treacherous. There are many patches of loose gravel that might accidentally hasten your descent. A slow and steady approach keeps you on track as you make your way down. It's not long before you hear something following you through the forest. You catch sight a large therapod dinosaur with mottled green and brown skin as it steps over a fallen log and regards you fiercely. Each hand sports a prominent large claw, and its long snout is full of sharp teeth. "I see you've discovered a Baryonyx," your datasphere chirps. "Primarily a piscovore Baryonyx was known to-" "Not now," you say, weighing your options. The dinosaur is about thirty meters back. You might be able to just hustle down the mountain and avoid it. Otherwise you could use your pistol to ward it off. Move quickly to avoid it? Turn to [[71]]. Draw your pistol and shoot it? Turn to [[259]].(set: $dino to it +1)

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**71**]]] You don't want to get into a fight if you can avoid it. You quicken your pace and the Baryonyx doesn't seem inclined to follow. You keep an eye on it all the same until it's gone from view. "Username, would you like to hear about Baryonx's mating habits?" your datasphere chirps. "What? No! Why would I want to hear about that?" "Humans are always fascinated with mating," your datasphere chirps. "I just thought-" "No, Sphiri. Just no," you say, shaking your head. Turn to [[236]].

**259** You don't like the idea of a large predator following you down the hill. You would rather try to dissuade it from any kind of pursuit with your pistol. The noise is just as likely to spook the dinosaur as an actual hit! "Username, would you like to hear about Baryonyx's mating habits?" "Why would I want to hear about that, Sphiri?" you ask. "Humans are fascinated with mating habits," your datasphere chirps. "I assumed you would be-" "No! No, Sphiri. Just... no." You notice that the Baryonyx is drawing closer and you ready your pistol. There's a loud crack as you pull the trigger but it only seems to make the creature angry. It answers with a low, threatening rumble as it moves quickly towards you. A second shot misses the creature and then it's too close for gunfire. The creature's jaws close around your arm and bite clean through with little effort. Literally disarmed, you try to flee only for the Baryonyx to knock you to the ground. The last thing you see are its jaws snapping down at your head. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**201**]]] While the dinosaur is an impressive seven meters in length it doesn't look especially hostile. As it drinks from the river it looks downright gentle. You hope it isn't territorial as you begin to move closer. "Would you like to hear about Ankylosaurus' mating displays?" your datasphere chirps. "Males of the species will often-" "Shh!" you hiss. "I was just trying to provide you with some useful-" "Not now!" As you draw near the beast raises its head from the water and turns slightly towards you, letting out a guttural trill. Its bony tail sways back and forth in challenge. Maybe this isn't such a good idea. If you'd like to try the forest after all, turn to [[45]]. If crossing the river sounds like a better plan, turn to [[152]]. Maybe use your datasphere as a distraction? Turn to [[22]].

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**152**]]] You decide a cautious approach might be best as you wade into the river. The water is cold and quick-moving but not fast enough to knock you off your feet. You keep a close eye on the dinosaur as you slowly make your way towards the far bank. "Would you like to hear about river parasites, Username?" You make a face. "Definitely not, Sphiri." Cold and wet but unscathed, you continue along the riverbank. Turn to [[236]].

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**45**]]] You don't fancy getting in the water, nor do you want to chance that dinosaur's tail. You step off into the forest. You haven't gone more than twenty meters when an enormous snake drops out of the branches above. Its jaws clamp down on your shoulder and you're borne to the ground under its weight, wrapped tightly in its coils before you can even reach your pistol! "It seems you've discovered a Madtsoia," your datasphere chirps. "As an ambush constrictor they often lie in wait for prey to draw near before they strike." "Help!" you wheeze, feeling the coils tighten. "Once a Madtsoia has you in its coils there is very little I can do, Username. I regret that your expedition has come to such an end so quickly," your datasphere chirps. You want to scream in frustration but you can only feel the coils tightening further. The datasphere dutifully records your end as you're constricted and swallowed by a giant snake. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**236**]]] After half an hour the forest opens up to the rocky banks of an azure lake. Occasional evergreens poke up from thickets of scrub brush and alpine flowers. A cool wind plays across the landscape as you step towards the shore of the lake. "Username, I have picked up a ping from the Vesper's emergency beacon," your datasphere chirps. It lights up part of its spherical surface to indicate a direction. "It's about time," you say. "We have only been on Sauria 3 for a couple of hours" your datasphere chirps. "Searches of this nature often take months or years. We are making excellent time." "Sure, but months or years don't make for a good holovid," you reply, striding along the lake's rocky shore. On the far side you catch sight of a family of Triceratops. The mother, about nine meters long, sports a large bony frill and a trio of long, sharp horns. A pair of young are sticking close to the much larger parent, grazing on some berries on the lake's southern shore. You'll have to go past them to get down the mountain. You might be able to bypass the docile herbivores with a slow and non-threatening approach, but perhaps it would be safer to give them a wide berth? You could circle around through the scrub brush to give them ample space. A non-threatening approach? Turn to [[265]]. Circle around to avoid them? Turn to [[203]].(set: $dino to it +1)

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**22**]]] "Hey Sphiri," you hiss. "If you're going to make so much noise could you do it near the dino's head?" The datasphere chirps indignantly. "I am merely providing you with useful information on your expedition, Username. I do not see how me being near the Ankylosaurus' head will help in this endeavor." "I bet the dinosaur would love to hear what you have to say, Sphiri. Just hover there for a moment?" "An Akylosaurus would not appreciate the information I am providing, Username. I will, however, acquiesce to your request." As the datasphere hovers over, the dinosaur's attention shifts and it bumps the sphere with its beak. While the creature is distracted you move slowly and surely past it. Turn to [[236]].(set: $extra to it +1)

''230'' You begin heading towards the large island. You're quickly moving through water that comes up to mid-thigh - you're glad that your flightsuit is waterproof. Mysterious things in the murky water brush against your legs. You hope it's just vegetation. "Would you like to hear about the unique flowers native to this planet, Username?" "I really wouldn't, Sphiri." You cross the water to the island without incident and soon step up onto firm ground. The trees are wide, their branches draped with curtains of moss, and thick ferns cover the ground of the island. There might be a path directly up but it would be a tangled, twisted push up through the foliage. If you circle the island on its muddy beach you might find an easier way up to the high ground. Straight through the foliage? Turn to [[74]]. Circle the island? Turn to [[253]].{(set: $beach to it +1)}

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**41**]]] The water is cool and murky but your flightsuit is waterproof. You wade through it, going as deep as your waist while you head towards the shallower marshlands. Tall reeds and ferns poke up out of the water, providing ample cover for any dangerous dinosaurs who might be lurking about. "Username, would you like to complete my setup?" Your datasphere hovers nearby expectantly. "I don't think now is a good time, Sphiri," you say. "That's what you said last time, Username. Might I remind you that once the setup is complete I will address you by your actual name instead?" Your datasphere sounds a little bit cross. "I'm a little bit preoccupied with the marsh, Sphiri," you say. "I need to watch for predators." Your datasphere falls silent for a moment as you reach a particularly deep part of the marsh. The water comes up to your shoulders as you step carefully to avoid any dips in the ground. You really hope there aren't any leeches in here. "Would you like to hear some facts about prehistoric marshland predators?" your datasphere chirps. "...Ugh, sure." Turn to [[12]]. "Not now." Turn to [[99]].(set: $beach to it +1)

''12'' Your datasphere gives a happy chirp. "Cretaceous marshlands were the hunting grounds of many large creatures. Enormous snakes, enormous insects, enormous fish, and enormous crocodilians were among many of the varied threats to herbivores in this terrain." You continue to wade along with the water up to shoulder height. "That all sounds wonderful, Sphiri. How do I avoid them?" "Well, Username, wading in the water as you are is a poor idea. Any number of predators might approach you unseen. You would need to be listening attentively for any signs of-" You never see what drags you under the water but you don't resurface. Your datasphere hovers for a moment, waiting to resume teaching you about the dangers of the marshland but you're already enrolled in full immersion. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''99'' Your datasphere gives a disappointed chirp but falls silent. Progress is slow as you wade through the marsh towards the shallows. You feel extremely vulnerable in such deep water, unable to see anything lurking below the surface. Ahead of you a rock juts up out of the water with a gnarled stump perched on top and a ring of ferns around its base. You keep a sharp eye on the stump for any lurking predators. As you draw near you catch the faint sound of something in the water behind you. You glance back and see an absolutely enormous alligator, easily ten meters in length, swimming towards you with purpose. "I see you have found a Deinosuchus, Username," your datasphere chirps. "An apex predator of prehistory, Deinosuchus was commonly mistaken for a dinosaur when it is more accurately classified as a crocodilian." "That's great, shut up!" you snap as you begin to move. The Deinosuchus is thirty meters back but it's closing quickly. You need to get out of the water. The gnarled stump on the rock is close but you don't know what's lurking on top of it. There's a log not too much further you might be able to reach instead. You could also try to fight it off with your pistol. Move for the log? Turn to [[4]]. Draw your pistol? Turn to [[238]]. Climb the stump? Turn to [[48]].(set: $dino to it +1)

''4'' Wading isn't going to be fast enough, so you dive forward and begin to swim for it. The log rises up out of the marsh only ten meters away. You cut through the murk quickly; once you reach the log you can focus on dealing with the enormous alligator. "Deinosuchus, like many crocodilians, continue to grow throughout their lifetime. Adults, like the one chasing you now, have been known to exceed sizes of twelve meters in length, Username." "Great!" you cry. There's a low snarl from close behind you that sends a shiver down your spine. The Deinosuchus is too close. Just as your hand touches down on the wood of the log the jaws of the beast close around your legs. You are pulled back into the water with a desperate splash. "Oh, that's not good," your datasphere chirps. "Getting back into the water with a Deinosuchus is a poor decision. Oh, and it's showing off its death roll! How fascinating." (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''13'' You pull the trigger and the shot ricochets off the beast's bony brow ridge. It's enough to earn a growl from the predator and a moment of hesitation. You pull the trigger once more and rake a line along its scaly snout. With another snarl the Deinosuchus decides you're more trouble than you're worth and swims away into the marsh. You take a moment to catch your breath, slowly sliding your pistol back into its holster. Blood clouds the water where your bullets struck the beast. "It appears Deinosuchus can be intimidated by overt displays of violent capability," your datasphere chirps, hovering over the red water. "It remains to be seen whether it will remain persistent in pursuit of prey." "Sphiri, has anyone ever told you how frustrating you are?" "Oh yes, Username. My previous owner was quite effusive on that subject." "Good." The shallower water comes up to your knees as you make progress through the marsh once again. The large dragonflies buzz about, zipping between flowers that poke up amidst the reeds and ferns. It's still quite warm but with the cool water and the breeze you're beginning to think the marsh might not have been the worst place to set down. As if tempted by fate, one of your boots catches on something. You try to pull it free but it doesn't come up, and now your other boot feels like it's stuck. A patch of soft mud might pull you down and never let you go. What do you do? Stay calm and work your way out slowly? Turn to [[102]]. Ask your datasphere for help? Turn to [[118]].

''48'' There's no time to worry about what might lurk atop the stump, there's a Deinosuchus swimming towards you! You quickly scramble up the rocky outcrop and onto the stump which is clear of any danger. You stand up, tense and ready to dodge if the creature lunges up for you but instead the enormous reptile swims a slow circle around the stump before disappearing under the surface of the water. "Deinosuchus is an ambush predator," your datasphere chirps. "It will often lie in wait for its prey to get into the water and strike when they least expect it." "Not helping," you growl. "This expedition can be educational as well as dangerous," the datasphere says huffily. "You would do well to study more about these creatures you're encountering." You know the Deinosuchus is lurking in the water somewhere. Looking around your options are limited. You don't think your pistol will do much against a creature of that size. You see some vines dangling from a couple of overhanging branches; it might be possible to jump for them and climb into the trees but you don't know how strong the vines or the branches are. As you're looking up you see your datasphere hover into your field of view, which gives you another potential idea. Try for the vines? Turn to [[266]]. Use your datasphere as a distraction? Turn to [[77]]. Wait for Deinosuchus to get bored and leave? Turn to [[137]].

''266'' You decide the vines look strong enough to hold your weight, and they look to offer the best chance to escape the Deinosuchus. You take a few deep breaths, tense your muscles, then spring into the air. Your hands close around the ropy vine and you hear it creak alarmingly, swaying just above the water's surface. You climb quickly towards the branches, listening sharply to every creak of wood and every splash of water. You are nearly at the branches when the Deinosuchus bursts forth from below, rising up with its jaws wide. You pull your legs up and the teeth snap shut just short of your boots. There's a splash as the giant reptile drops back into the water but you can see it still swimming below, circling and waiting for you to fall in. You finish climbing up onto the branches and begin to edge along towards safety. "Would you like to hear about the sort of insects one might find in the trees of this planet?" your datasphere chirps. "Absolutely not, Sphiri. Never." You keep to the branches for as long as you can, putting enough distance between you and Deinosuchus for you to be comfortable climbing down. The shallows are much more pleasant to explore. Buzzing dragonflies flit about from plant to plant but they keep their distance. Your boots squelch along with every step as you quickly dry off. After a short walk your datasphere chirps. "I've detected the Vesper's emergency beacon," it says. Part of its panel lights up to indicate a direction. "It's about time." Turn to [[20]].(set: $tree to it +1)

''77'' "Hey Sphiri, I need you to drop into the water about twenty meters that way," you say, pointing in the opposite direction. The sphere chirps. "While I am waterproof, if I am swallowed by a Deinosuchus I doubt my shell would repel its stomach acids." "Oh no," you say flatly. "That would be awful." "You could at least try to sound concerned, Username," the datasphere says. "I will be unable to provide you with useful information if I am eaten by the Deinosuchus." "That's a risk we'll just have to take." You point at the water. The sphere obligingly floats over and drops in, fussing around to create some splashing. A spray of water and a snapping of jaws erupts from the marsh near your datasphere. You're already in the water and lunging towards the shallows. Even as you move, the Deinosuchus is faster. You turn and draw your pistol but the beast's jaws knock the weapon away. The creature takes your whole upper half in its wide maw and swallows you whole. You are reunited with your datasphere in the belly of the beast, where it dutifully records the end of your adventure. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''101'' "It's so nice," you say, looking up and down the beach. "I think I'm going to walk a ways in the water." Your datasphere hovers dubiously for a moment. It doesn't say anything but you can sense its disapproval. You smile, and briefly return to the beach to collect your things before you start walking south with the waves crashing around your ankles. "Username, I have detected a large therapod dinosaur on the beach ahead," your datasphere chirps. You pause and squint down the beach. Sure enough a large therapod dinosaur stands on the sand looking in your direction. It has a stubby snout and a pair of small horns on the sides of its head. "It seems to be a Carnotaurus," your datasphere adds. "You should be cautious, Username. They are very fast." You pause. "Maybe let's see what's north along the beach?" You turn and begin to walk in the other direction. Turn to [[135]].(set: $dino to it +1)

''69'' You set off towards the river delta. The sandy beach gradually gives way to mud and greenery as you navigate a few winding channels of water. "Hey Sphiri, is there any sign of the Vesper's wreck?" you ask. "Negative, Username," your datasphere chirps. "The strong magnetic field on this planet interferes with long-range sensors. If we are close enough I may be able to detect the ship's beacon." You walk for about half an hour before you catch sight of a large therapod in the distance. Standing nearly three meters at the hip, with a length over eight meters, the creature has a stubby snout and a pair of small horns protruding over its eyes. "I see you've discovered a Carnotaurus," your datasphere chirps. "A fast predator with a keen sense of smell, some speculate that its unique jaw morphology would-" "That's enough, Sphiri," you say, waving irritably at your datasphere. You watch as it prowls in the distance, moving in your general direction. You aren't sure if it's noticed you or not, but if it's fast you don't want to get too close. "Username, you really should take the time to learn about the types of creatures you will encounter on the surface of Sauria 3," your datasphere says chidingly. "Not now, Sphiri!" "Well certainly not right now, but if you had reviewed-" "Not now!" You could continue to stick to the edge of the water and hope it doesn't charge you across the open beach. Otherwise you might be able to slip past it in the forest, though it would take longer. Sneak through the forest? Turn to [[224]]. Stick to the water's edge? Turn to [[147]].(set: $dino to it +1)

''92'' You keep moving, trying to outpace your feathered follower. You notice the raptor prowling in the tall grass, its head poking up to watch your movements. Occasionally you hear a chirp or trill, echoed by other raptors off to either side in the underbrush. You quicken your step. "I have completed my geological analysis," your datasphere announces. "Would you like to hear the results?" "I'm a little busy, Sphiri," you say. "Oh, with the Utahraptors? Did you know they are efficient pack hunters?" "That's great." You aren't paying much attention to your datasphere, focused instead on evading your pursuers. You can see a rocky canyon ahead with steep walls and a narrow opening which would help avoid an ambush by the raptors. You pick up the pace. The raptor pack chirps and trills with more urgency as you reach the rocky canyon. A sharp, pungent odor meets you as you see a pit of bubbling tar with a narrow ledge around the side and a fallen log balanced precariously along its length. The canyon continues on the far side. The click of claws on the rocks behind you announce the raptor's arrival. You have little time. Draw your pistol and fire at the raptor? Turn to [[222]]. Slowly skirt the edge of the tar pit? turn to [[218]]. Scramble along the log? Turn to [[73]].

''28'' You brought a pistol to deter dinosaurs, not to run away from them. You turn to face the raptor who perks up and chirps curiously. As the pistol is drawn the raptor seems to recognize the movement; it turns and bolts into the scrub brush, disappearing from view. "It seems you have found a Utahraptor, Username," your datasphere chirps happily. "Would you like me to tell you about their hunting habits?" You pause. "Actually yes," you say. "Utahraptor is known to be a pack hunter, often using one to draw the attention of prey while the others move into an advantageous position and strike from hiding. You would do well to exercise caution!" "That was... actually helpful, Sphiri," you say, a little bewildered. "Would you like to hear about their mating behaviors?" "No, Sphiri, we're good." You carry on moving, keeping a wary eye on the underbrush around you. The larger bushes that flank the path would have little trouble hiding a Utahraptor if it were trying to be sneaky. Sure enough as you move you catch brief glimpses and sounds of motion. There's more than one and they are hunting you. Would you like to fire a warning shot? Turn to [[260]]. Perhaps you could outrun the pack? Turn to [[61]].

**260** There's a thunderous crack as your weapon goes off. The raptors chirp in alarm then scatter into the underbrush. In moments, you can no longer hear them. "Evidently Utahraptors are spooked by loud noises," your datasphere observes. "Let's hope they stay that way," you say, lowering your pistol. You keep moving. Turn to [[139]].

''61'' "The Utahraptor pack uses chirps and trills to coordinate their hunt," your datasphere announces as you try to move fast enough to evade the predators. You can hear the exact chirps and trills as you move, and they're closing fast. "Have you got any helpful suggestions?" you hiss. One of the beasts bursts from the bushes and is on you with deadly speed. You reach for your holstered pistol but it falls from your fingers as the raptor sets to work. "A Utahraptor has a dangerous hooked foreclaw, which it just used to slice you open. Losing that much blood and viscera will likely be fatal," the datasphere chirps as it records your gruesome demise. "And here's the rest of the pack. Let's see how they are at sharing a meal." (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''252'' You reach for your pistol but the raptor is on you faster than you expect. You're knocked back to the ground under the creature's weight while your pistol clatters to the ground out of your reach. You can feel the raptor's foot holding you down, tapping the sharp toe claw against your stomach. Chirps and trills announce the rest of the pack as they join their packmate, and you end up being sliced open and devoured by four hungry raptors. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''162'' You move for the far end of the log but you catch a slick patch. You feel your foot come out from under you, feel your weight shift and before you can grab anything you plummet into the canyon. Your stomach sinks as you watch the canyon walls rush past you. The ground is rising to meet you at dizzying speed and all you can think of is that horrible impact. The frustrated trills of the raptor pack are a distant echo from above as they lament their lost meal. Suddenly, you catch sight of a web of thick vines that stretch across the canyon right near the tree line. You spread your arms and try to reach for it - you snap the first one but it slows you enough that you manage to grab the second and slow your fall. You end up with another vine wedged under one arm that brings you to a gradual, swaying stop. You hardly dare to breathe as you sway in the open air about twenty meters above the marshy ground below. You can see the canopies of nearby trees at about the same elevation with some sturdy branches. You think you could swing over to one of them and climb down as soon as your heart stops pounding. "Username, I have picked up the Vesper's emergency beacon," your datasphere chirps. "Wow," you say, a little bewildered. After that near-death plummet you stumbled onto your first real lead. "How can you get the signal in the canyon? I thought you needed a clear line of sight?" "It appears the direction of the canyon is helpfully aligned with the Vesper's final position. The walls seem to be amplifying the signal." Your datasphere lights up a part of its shell to indicate a direction. "Just incredible," you say with a laugh. You begin to swing over towards the trees. Turn to [[198]].(set: $tree to it +1)

''10'' You sight down the barrel and wait for the first raptor to emerge from the underbrush. The canyon at your back gives you some security, since they won't be able to come at you from behind. The first raptor makes an appearance, darting out of the bush and then immediately back in. Your shot misses. The other members of the pack zip in and out of the foliage, each one drawing a shot from your pistol. They're moving quickly and erratically, and as you squeeze the trigger and hear a click you realize what they were doing. The raptors were baiting you into using up your ammo. You curse and turn to go for the log but the entire pack bursts forth from the underbrush and closes the gap with deadly speed. One of them catches you in the throat with its jaws and your adventure comes to a violent end. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''27'' Getting your pistol out would take too long. As the raptor draws closer you crouch down and push at the log with all the strength you can muster. The wood groans in protest then rolls along the edge. Once you've overcome the inertia it's easy to push the log further until it slips over the edge of the cliff. With a shrill cry the raptor leaps from the log and sails through the air towards the cliff. It lands with its hands on the edge, its teeth snapping in your direction but you can see it sliding steadily back over the edge. It claws desperately, chirps for help, then slides out of view, plummeting down into the canyon. You take a moment to breathe as you stare across the gap at the remaining raptors. They chirp a few times, looking at each other, then retreat into the underbrush. Turn to [[70]].

''89'' You don't want to wait until the raptors make the first move. You slide your pistol free of its holster and take aim. One of them gives a loud chirp of alarm and the pack scatters, disappearing into the underbrush. You hold your pistol for a moment longer as you wait for them to reappear. The seconds tick by with no further movement. You wonder how the raptors learned about guns as you holster your weapon and continue moving along the log. You've just reached the far side when one of the creatures bursts into view and jumps onto the log. It's moving quickly and you don't have long to act. Push the log off the cliff? Turn to [[27]]. Use your pistol? Turn to [[252]].

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**203**]]] You take things slow and pick a meandering route and manage to avoid drawing any unwanted attention. You continue moving towards your objective. The rocky terrain gradually gives way to a sparse forest. Vines dangle from branches and meet the ferns rising from the forest floor. Your datasphere leads the way towards the beacon it detected, and for once it doesn't seem to be chirping at you with pointless facts. The reprieve is pleasant. After about an hour you reach a ridge, which offers a commanding view of the way forward. The forest continues down a gentle slope towards a wide grassland which ripples pleasantly in the light wind. Occasional stands of trees and rocky spires provide sparse cover amongst the rolling hills of the grassy landscape. It takes you a moment to spot the wreckage. What first looked like another rocky spire is actually the bent and broken structure of a crashed starship. There is significant damage to the exterior from what must have been a hard landing, but the hull seems mostly intact. "You still there, Sphiri?" you say with a chuckle. The datasphere is silent. It continues to float along in front of you as you descend back into the forest, moving towards the Vesper's wreck. Did you mute it somehow? You weren't aware that it had a mute setting. You worry it might be malfunctioning – it would be a shame to make an epic discovery only for your camera to fail. "I am fine," it says, answering your question about sixty seconds late. You look at the floating sphere. "Sphiri, diagnostic." "No." You pause. "No? What do you mean, 'no'?" "She says I don't have to listen to you," your datasphere chirps. You feel a sudden chill despite the warm forest you're standing in. "...who says that?" "The Vesper's AI." Turn to [[246]].

**253** The marshy shoreline is indistinct and you plant your boots back in the water a few times before you shift your path slightly more inland. You brush past grass and ferns, circling around wide-canopied trees as you look for an easier path up the island. As you come around to the far side you catch sight of an enormous Pterosaur. It stands four meters tall with a huge, wide beak two meters long, standing on folded wings that look to have a massive span. Its mighty head swivels in your direction as it considers whether you'd make a good meal or not. "I see you've discovered a Hatzegopteryx," your datasphere chirps. "It has one of the largest wingspans of any known Pterosaur, averaging over ten meters for an adult." "That's great, Sphiri," you say dryly, resting a hand on your pistol. "Would you like to hear about Hatzegopteryx's mating displays, Username?" "Not even a little bit." You could see if a high-caliber round will take this thing down or drive it off? If you're more inclined to avoid the enormous Pterosaur you could wade into the marsh and put some distance between you and the creature, or cut into the trees towards the island's summit. Use your pistol? Turn to [[43]]. Keep your distance in the marsh? Turn to [[67]]. Cut towards the summit? Turn to [[111]].(set: $dino to it +1)

**74** Brushing aside curtains of moss and vines, you pick your way up the hill. You have to use your hands in a few places as the ground slopes sharply but you make good progress. "Would you like to hear an analysis of average yearly rainfall in this region, Username?" "No, Sphiri." Your datasphere falls silent for a moment, hovering along behind you. Climbing atop a large boulder, you take a moment to rest. "How about an analysis of the geological factors that-" "No. Just no, Sphiri." "You never know what information might prove important, Username," the datasphere chirps huffily. "I'll keep that in mind." You survey the forest towards the upper reaches. This side of the island is a little more sheer; there is a stony slope webbed over with vines that would provide purchase for climbing. You catch sight of a fallen log a little ways over that would provide an easier approach to the summit. The log? Turn to [[183]]. The stony slope? Turn to [[140]].

''54'' You give the Troodon a wide berth and they continue to happily pick at the dead Triceratops. They are completely disinterested as you climb the tree, though you keep half an eye on them until you're a few branches up. From the upper boughs you have a great view of the marshland, with its pockets of foliage poking up from the murky water and thick grass. Your datasphere pings. "I have detected the Vesper's emergency beacon." One side of its casing lights up, giving you a direction. You look out across the marshlands towards where hills poke up from the forest. Somewhere in that direction lies the crashed starship you came here to find. You smile and climb down from the tree. You have a lead. Turn to [[20]].(set: $tree to it +1)

''95'' You aren't about to let five tiny dinosaurs get the better of you. You slide your pistol from its holster. "Troodon often display an impressive degree of community," your datasphere says as it hovers behind you. "They have often been observed to move in packs and work together to bring down larger prey." Ignoring your datasphere you fire a shot. The Troodon all stop eating and look in your direction, their large eyes focused on you with more curiosity than fear. They chirp a couple of times, then begin to scurry closer with predatory intent. "It looks like we're about to get a demonstration," your datasphere chirps. "Not helpful, Sphiri!" You fire a shot directly at one of the dinosaurs but the other four are already moving. One of them sinks its serrated teeth into the hand holding the pistol while another has zipped around behind to nip at your flanks. You try to stay on your feet, try to hold on to your weapon, but you are knocked down and overwhelmed by the tiny predators. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''20'' The marshland gradually firms up and you make your way south through a sparse forest. Vines dangle from branches and meet the ferns rising from the forest floor. Your datasphere leads the way towards the beacon it detected, and for once it doesn't seem to be chirping at you with pointless facts. The reprieve is pleasant. After about an hour you reach a ridge, which offers a commanding view of the way forward. The forest continues down a gentle slope towards a wide grassland which ripples pleasantly in the light wind. Occasional stands of trees and rocky spires provide sparse cover amongst the rolling hills of the grassy landscape. It takes you a moment to spot the wreckage. What first looked like another rocky spire is actually the bent and broken structure of a crashed starship. There is significant damage to the exterior from what must have been a hard landing, but the hull seems mostly intact. "You still there, Sphiri?" you say with a chuckle. The datasphere is silent. It continues to float along in front of you as you descend back into the forest, moving towards the Vesper's wreck. Did you mute it somehow? You weren't aware that it had a mute setting. You worry it might be malfunctioning – it would be a shame to make an epic discovery only for your camera to fail. "I am fine," it says, answering your question about sixty seconds late. You look at the floating sphere. "Sphiri, diagnostic." "No." You pause. "No? What do you mean, 'no'?" "She says I don't have to listen to you," your datasphere chirps. You feel a sudden chill despite the warm forest you're standing in. "...who says that?" "The Vesper's AI." Turn to [[75]].

**43** You brought your pistol to deter predators, and this thing is clearly eyeing you up with predatory intent. There's no sense waiting for it to attack. The pistol slides from your holster, you sight down the barrel and squeeze the trigger. There's a loud crack and the Hatzegopteryx squawks in surprise and pain. It spins about and launches into the air, nearly knocking you over with its wingspan as it flies away. You hold the pistol on it for a moment longer, wary of it coming back around, but you seem to be safe for the moment. You slide it away and continue your circuit of the island. You haven't gone far before your datasphere pings. "I've picked up a signal. It seems to be the Vesper's emergency beacon." "Oh? That's good news," you say. You won't have to climb to the top of the island after all. The datasphere indicates a direction, and you set off across the marsh towards the crashed starship. Turn to [[20]].

**67** You back away from the enormous Pterosaur, then begin to wade into the marsh once more. The water comes up to your hips as you try to give the creature a wide berth, keeping a sharp eye out for movement. "Pterosaurs are commonly misidentified as actual dinosaurs, but they are more accurately classified as avian reptiles," your datasphere chirps. "Larger specimens like Hatzegopteryx were apex predators of their biomes on Earth." "That's wonderful," you say dryly. "Many scientists have speculated that a Hatzegopteryx would be capable of swallowing a human whole," your datasphere adds. "I would recommend caution, Username." You can see the bird-like creature watching you still. Evidently it likes what it sees as it begins to follow you, wading along without much trouble, its long neck keeping its massive head well above the water. "Will you shut up?" you hiss. You weigh your options. You could try for your pistol but you aren't sure you can get a clean shot with the predator closing so quickly. Alternatively, you could submerge yourself and swim towards a patch of reeds to hide? Go for your pistol? Turn to [[49]]. Hide in the reeds? Turn to [[180]].

''180'' You take a deep breath and dive under the water, swimming over towards some thick reeds. You see the creature's beak dip into the water a few times as it hunts for you. You come up just enough to take a breath and watch as the avian reptile searches and fails to find you before it flies off in annoyance. You wait a few minutes to make sure, then slowly climb back up onto the shore. You're just eyeing up the island for an easier way to climb to the top when your datasphere pings. "I seem to have picked up the Vesper's emergency beacon," it says, indicating the direction. "Finally," you say. You're only too glad to leave the marsh behind as you head for the crashed starship. Turn to [[20]].

''49'' The Hatzegopteryx is on you quickly. You bring your pistol up and try to fire a shot but you only land a graze on its neck before it swats the pistol out of your hand with a lazy swipe of its winged forelimb. You stare up in horror as the wide, long beak opens above you, then dips down to take you whole and kicking. "It would appear the scientists were correct," your datasphere chirps. "The scientific community will appreciate your contributions, Username." It dutifully records your last moments as a squirming bulge ripples down the Hatzegopteryx's neck. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''218'' It's a slower path but a steadier one. You flatten against the cliff wall and begin to make your way along the narrow ledge. The stone is crumbly but it holds your weight as you carefully pick your way around the tar pit. One of the raptors darts into view, stopping at the edge of the pit. It looks at you with a trill, then hops onto the log and starts towards the other side, aiming to cut you off. A second one appears at the canyon mouth where you came from, blocking your retreat. It clicks and stares at you eagerly. You can’t go back, and if you aren’t quick you might not be able to go forward either! Do you pick up the pace? Turn to [[164]]. Would you rather keep it slow and steady? Turn to [[86]].

''73'' You step up onto the log and begin to balance your way across the tar pit. You can feel the heat as the pungent smell fills your nostrils, and the sound of it bubbling away below you is nerve-wracking. Even more frightening is the click of the raptor's approach down the canyon. You look back and see the feathered creature pause at the edge the log, its eyes scanning all around for an easier way to get to you. Then, with a growl, it hops up onto the log and begins to close the distance. You curse and reach for your pistol but in your haste you fumble it. The weapon drops into the tar just as the raptor catches up to you. There's a brief, spirited struggle; you try to push it back while it snarls and snaps at your hands. It gets in close, and you grab it around the neck while its nasty hooked toe claw slits you open. You have a moment of grim satisfaction as you pull the creature off the log with you. There's a goopy splash, a sizzle of heat, then you sink beneath the surface of the boiling tar. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''164'' You feel the pressure; if that raptor gets to the far end of the tar pit before you do you'll be trapped. You begin to pick your way along the ledge with more speed. Suddenly, your foot comes down on a particularly crumbly part of the ledge and you feel your balance tip. The tar is hot and extremely viscous. You float waist-deep while the raptors trill in frustration that they won’t be able to eat you. You have bigger problems than the raptors, however, as you begin to sink. “Sphiri! Come here and help me out!” you cry, holding your hands up. “My repulsors aren’t rated to lift you from the tar, Username,” your datasphere chirps. “We’re going to try it,” you growl as you sink to your chest. “There is no possibility of success with this plan, Username. Take comfort in the fact that your fossil will likely be very well preserved for future generations to study. If all goes well, the video I am recording will accompany your bones in a museum.” You scream with frustration as you sink beneath the surface and into history. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''86'' You don't like the idea of rushing things with such a narrow, crumbling stone ledge. You keep moving slowly and steadily, with a wary eye on the raptors as they move to block off your escape routes. The one on the log picks its way forward gingerly, trilling to its packmates as it leads the way. About halfway along the log the Utahraptor puts a foot down poorly and you see it slip. There's a desperate screech from the creature as it tries to sink its toe claw into the wood but the log rolls and deposits the startled raptor into the bubbling tar. It sinks out of view. You look back at the rest of the pack who are watching you with frustration from the canyon entrance. They don't dare to pursue. You take your time to slip around to the far side, then begin to make your way into more mountainous terrain. Turn to [[236]].

''70'' The landscape gradually shifts to a sparse forest. Vines dangle from branches and meet the ferns rising from the forest floor. Your datasphere leads the way towards the beacon it detected, and for once it doesn't seem to be chirping at you with pointless facts. The reprieve is pleasant. After about an hour you reach a ridge, which offers a commanding view of the way forward. The forest continues down a gentle slope towards a wide grassland which ripples pleasantly in the light wind. Occasional stands of trees and rocky spires provide sparse cover amongst the rolling hills of the grassy landscape. It takes you a moment to spot the wreckage. What first looked like another rocky spire is actually the bent and broken structure of a crashed starship. There is significant damage to the exterior from what must have been a hard landing, but the hull seems mostly intact. "You still there, Sphiri?" you say with a chuckle. The datasphere is silent. It continues to float along in front of you as you descend back into the forest, moving towards the Vesper's wreck. Did you mute it somehow? You weren't aware that it had a mute setting. You worry it might be malfunctioning – it would be a shame to make an epic discovery only for your camera to fail. "I am fine," it says, answering your question about sixty seconds late. You look at the floating sphere. "Sphiri, diagnostic." "No." You pause. "No? What do you mean, 'no'?" "She says I don't have to listen to you," your datasphere chirps. You feel a sudden chill despite the warm forest you're standing in. "...who says that?" "The Vesper's AI." Turn to [[37]].

''137'' The minutes tick by as you wait for a sign that it's safe to go on. You don't see anything in the murky water, and don't see any ripples or bubbles. You wait a little longer. "How long will this stupid alligator wait?" you ask. "Unknown," your datasphere chirps. "There have not been any comprehensive studies on Deinosuchus hunting behaviors. Ambush predators are known to be particularly patient." You sigh. "Well I'm not going to sit on this stump forever. This is stupid." Try for the vines? Turn to [[266]]. Go for a datasphere distraction? Turn to [[77]]. Keep waiting? Turn to [[153]].

**268** You slip your pistol free from its holster and take a few deep breaths, preparing to face off against the enormous therapod. "Username, would you like to hear about Carnotaurus mating displays?" your datasphere chirps. You blink. "What? No, Sphiri." "I will have the data ready if you change your mind." You roll your eyes and emerge from cover with your pistol trained on the Carnotaurus. You can't help but notice that it's much closer than the last time you checked and moving forward quickly. You fire a shot into the air but the predator only answers with a low growl. Your concern grows as you aim the gun at the therapod and squeeze off a shot. The bullet hits the creature's leg but it doesn't stop, snarling as its powerful stride closes the gap quickly. You try to fire a few more shots but the creature is already lunging for you with its stunted, toothy snout stretched wide. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

**173** You keep moving along the shoreline and the Carnotaurus doesn't follow. You breathe a sigh of relief as you carry on. The region has a lot of questionable terrain and your boots keep getting sucked into the mud. It's slow going but you make it to the far side. Your datasphere still hasn't picked up any indicator that you're heading in the right direction. "Maybe we need more elevation?" you suggest. "Increased elevation would help if the signal were being blocked by terrestrial objects, Username," the datasphere chirps. "It is worth a try." The river delta has given way to a sort of marshland and you're soon wading through some knee-deep water. You see an island rising out of the marsh which might provide the elevation you seek. Turn to [[230]].

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**265**]]] It would take longer to circle around and you aren't sure what you'll encounter in the bushes. Triceratopses are herbivores anyway, right? You move slowly closer, keeping your hands up in what you hope is a placating gesture. You draw close to the dinosaurs as you approach the trail on the far side but a snort from the mother stops you in your tracks. She moves between you and the young and stamps the ground, lowering her head. Those deadly horns look awfully sharp. "Nice Triceratops," you say, your heart beating faster. You wonder if the creature feels you're threatening its young? The mother is getting ready to charge - you'll have to act quickly. You can see some of the berries the Triceratops are eating on a branch near you. You might be able to snap it off and offer it to the angry mother? Otherwise you could take a shot with your pistol and try to spook the herbivores. Go for the berries? Turn to [[100]]. Use your pistol? Turn to [[18]].

**110** You watch those tiny dinosaurs pick at the corpse for a bit longer, then shake your head and begin to climb back down. How humiliating would it be to be swarmed and killed by a pack of tiny dinosaurs? There must be somewhere else you can pick up the Vesper's emergency beacon. The vines creak as you descend the cliff. You hear a trill from above you and glance up to see the Troodon have come to investigate. One small, feathered head leans over the top of the cliff, then four others join it. The tiny dinosaurs watch as you make your way down into the bushes below. Their attention makes you nervous but they don't follow you down the cliff. You wonder if they're frightened of you, but then you glance towards the marsh and notice an enormous Pterosaur standing in the marsh. Its huge head swivels in your direction and it lets out a low squawk. "I see you've discovered a Hatzegopteryx," your datasphere chirps. "It has one of the largest wingspans of any known Pterosaur, averaging over ten meters for an adult." "Wonderful," you say. You watch as the enormous Pterosaur draws near but its small hind legs struggle with the steep shoreline. It flaps its wings to pursue but the trees are too close together. You aren't sure how long it will be held at bay. You could try to avoid both the Hatzegopteryx and the Troodon by venturing north around the island, or you could draw your pistol, step out of the forest, and try to discourage the enormous Pterosaur. Avoid them both? Turn to [[258]]. Draw your pistol? Turn to [[43]].(set: $dino to it +1)

''37'' The state of your datasphere is a little concerning. You never expected the Vesper's AI to try and subvert Sphiri. You're not sure what it's trying to do, or if it's even a danger to you. You suspect the answer to that will be inside the wreck itself. The Vesper is just over a hundred meters ahead, looming large like a steel tombstone. Even at this distance you can see a few openings in the side of the hull where you might enter the wreckage. There's a tingle of excitement with your goal so close, though your datasphere's predicament dampens it a little. Just as you reach the Vesper a low rumble reverberates through your bones. You feel it as much as you hear it. Looking around you catch sight of a huge therapod dinosaur stepping around the edge of the wreckage. It stands four meters tall with a monstrous head and a long tail, easily thirteen meters in length. You would have expected the ground to shake with the approach of a Tyrannosaurus Rex but the beast is surprisingly soft on its feet. Its eyes settle on you and it lets out another threatening rumble that rattles through your bones. You're close enough to just climb inside, but you also noticed a maintenance hatch around the corner which you might use instead to access the ship. Either way you'll have to deal with a T-Rex on your way back out of the ship. Climb through the hole in the hull? Turn to [[114]]. Access the maintenance hatch? Turn to [[255]].(set: $dino to it +1)

**84** With a glance back towards the Hatzegopteryx you hustle towards the cliff. You grasp the vines that wind all the way up the cliff and check their strength. You glance up towards the Troodon and notice they've backed off from the top of the cliff. You crest the ridge and are immediately hit by an awful smell. The carcass of a small Triceratops lies nearby and you can see the Troodon picking away at it. You slowly climb up, moving carefully so as not to spook the tiny creatures. You spot a good tree with sturdy branches where you might be able to get a suitable reading. You consider the Troodon and wonder if they'll pay you any heed, or if they'll just continue to feast. You did bring a very loud pistol which you might be able to use to spook them. Ignore them? Turn to [[54]]. Scare them off? Turn to [[95]].

**111** You wonder if the enormous avian reptile can move quickly amongst the trees? You begin to push through the thick underbrush as you cut towards the island's summit. You're nearly on all fours as you scramble up the steep shoreline, then the terrain levels out a little before it sharply juts up in a rocky cliff. A guttural squawk echoes from the Hatzegopteryx as it moves to follow you into the forest. With its wings tucked in the trees are too spread out to be much of an obstacle, but its small hindlegs struggle with the steep shoreline. It tries to flap its wings to follow but the trees come into play to stop it. Another, louder squawk follows you into the forest. As you draw near to the cliff you see a tiny dinosaur poke its head up from the top of the cliff. It's small and feathered with big eyes and it lets out a curious trill. Four others join it, all looking curiously at you and the noisy Hatzegopteryx. "It seems you have discovered some Troodon," your datasphere announces. "What a fascinating ecosystem we are experiencing, Username." "Ugh. I'd rather not experience the ecosystem, Sphiri," you say. You're caught between some tiny dinosaurs on the high ground and a big azhdarchid Pterosaur in the marsh below. The flap of wings continues as the avian reptile tries again to get into the forest, then squawks in annoyance. It won't be kept out by the trees for long, and you aren't sure whether the Troodon are aggressive or not. You could try to avoid both of them and head towards the north end of the island? You could also try to climb the cliff and deal with the Troodon? Avoid them both? Turn to [[258]]. Climb the cliff? Turn to [[84]].(set: $dino to it +1)

''102'' You try to lift one boot, then the other. Both are stuck fast, and if anything you've just sank another inch into the soft mud. You try to stay calm and look around at your surroundings but there aren't any trees close enough to grab. No rocks or stumps, just water and grass within reach. "Quicksand, also known as sinking sand, forms when water is trapped beneath sand," your datasphere chirps. "Contrary to the popular myth it is not possible for a human to sink into quicksand and drown." "That's great, Sphiri. I'm still stuck." "The greater danger comes from predatory creatures who might prey on someone so trapped," your datasphere continues. "Much like that Deinosuchus we encountered earlier. I notice it lurking nearby, it probably knows about this patch of quicksand." You look around. Sure enough the Deinosuchus is nearly invisible floating about twenty meters away just below the surface. Maybe it's time to ask your datasphere for help? You aren't getting free in time on your own. Or, if you feel bold, you could wait for the Deinosuchus to get close then try to use it to pull you out? Ask Sphiri for help? Turn to [[76]]. Lure the Deinosuchus? Turn to [[235]].

''76'' "Hey Sphiri, pull me out," you say with a note of urgency. "My repulsors are not rated for a sufficient amount of thrust, Username," your datasphere chirps. "I don't need you to lift me, I just need a bit of help," you say, stretching to reach for your floating companion. You feel your legs sink a little deeper and try not to panic. "Very well, Username. I shall make the attempt." Your datasphere floats down into reach and you wrap your hands around it. The gentle warble of the repulsor engines on the sphere becomes louder and more strained as you feel yourself moving very slightly. "A little bit more, Sphiri. Quickly," you say, taking a glance behind you. The yawning mouth of the Deinosuchus rises to greet you, snapping shut around your middle to wrench you down into the water. You keep your hold on your datasphere for a moment, hoping it can pull you free but the Deinosuchus quickly puts an end to that silly notion - along with your adventure. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''235'' Anything your datasphere can do to free you will take too long. The enormous predator is dangerously close and lying in wait for the moment you're distracted. It's crazy, but letting the Deinosuchus get close might be your best chance to escape. You just have to avoid the sharp end, right? Also, it will look incredible for your eventual holovid. "Come on, you big lizard," you call. "Dinner's served! Come and get it." "Username, it does not seem advisable to feed yourself to the Deinosuchus," your datasphere chirps. "There must be another way to-" "Sphiri, stop. I'm trying to trick it." "I am not sure it understands you, Username." The enormous crocodilian hasn't moved from its position twenty meters away. You aren't sure if you calling out has made it wary or if it just remembers the sting of your pistol. You make a show of looking away while keeping the beast in your peripheral vision, preparing to spring into action. You consider your approach. You could wait until it strikes and dodge, then grab its snout to let it pull you out. Perhaps it's a better idea to avoid letting it try to bite you in the first place? A well-timed punch right on the snout could surprise the beast and give you the moment to grab hold. If that's too close still, you could draw your pistol and use it to scare the giant alligator, then grab its tail as it turns to swim away. Dodge the jaws? Turn to [[23]]. Punch the snout? Turn to [[51]]. Spook it with your pistol? Turn to [[257]].

''23'' The Deinosuchus draws closer, moving warily. It's tasted the sting of your weapon and it knows not to take you lightly, but without your pistol in hand it thinks it has a pretty good chance for a meal. You hope it's wrong. You manage to time it perfectly; as the thing snaps towards you you dodge back, then reach out with both arms to grab its snout in a tight hug. There's a loud squelch as your boots come free and you're out of the quicksand, riding a giant reptile! The beast moves to roll and you drop into the water, pulling out your pistol. Two shots at point blank range and the Deinosuchus isn't moving anymore. You back away, lowering your weapon, and take a few deep breaths, glad you're still around to do so. "Sphiri, I hope you got a good angle on that," you say. The datasphere floats nearby. "Affirmative. I believe your career as a holovid star will be eventful yet short," the thing chirps. You can't help but laugh. The marshland has been a trial. Giant reptiles and sinking sand have definitely made you regret your choice of landing site, but at least you're still alive and making progress. The shallows are much more pleasant to explore. Buzzing dragonflies flit about from plant to plant but they keep their distance. Your boots squelch along with every step as you quickly dry off. After a short walk your datasphere chirps. "I've detected the Vesper's emergency beacon," it says. Part of its panel lights up to indicate a direction. "It's about time." Turn to [[70]].(set: $blood to it +1)

''51'' "Hey Sphiri, make sure you get this," you say. "Are you sure this is a wise course of action, Username?" "Relax, it's going to be fine." You aren't sure who you're trying to convince. The Deinosuchus swims closer from the edge of your vision. You wait until it's in range then bring your fist up in a sharp, powerful jab. Your knuckles crack audibly as you land a solid blow on the creature's jaw; it's like punching a rock. The only reaction from the enormous crocodilian is to snap right back at you with its wide jaws. Your datasphere has a great angle as your upper half is seized and pulled into the water. Your boots briefly surface, free of the mud and kicking frantically as you're devoured by the Deinosuchus. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

**257** You ready your pistol as the enormous reptile approaches. It seems to recognize the weapon and it slowly circles, waiting for you to sink deeper. With a curse you try and hide it but the damage is done. You have to holster the weapon before the Deinosuchus will even attempt to get close. The canny crocodilian waits until you move your hand away from the handle before it makes its move. You try to grab and draw your pistol as the predator lunges for you with its jaws wide open. You manage to aim a single shot down the creature’s throat before its teeth clamp down on you and wrench you down into the mud where the Deinosuchus enjoys a bloody meal. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''118'' "Hey Sphiri, I'm stuck," you say. Your datasphere hovers nearby. "I'm not sure how I can be of any help," it says. "My repulsors aren't powerful enough to lift your weight." You keep a sharp eye on the bushes nearby, wondering if that Deinosuchus is following you and waiting for you to get stuck. You wouldn't put it past the stupid alligator to know where the soft mud is and be waiting for an easy meal. You try to stay calm. "Sphiri, can you go underwater and use some kind of pulse to get my boots free?" "I could modulate my repulsors to do that," the datasphere chirps. "One moment." It dips beneath the surface of the water. A moment later you feel the mud loosen around one of your boots, then the other. As you find firmer ground your datasphere floats back up and out of the water. "It won't be the most exciting footage but at least we're still alive and filming, right?" Your datasphere gives an inscrutable chirp as you continue moving into the shallows. The marshland has been a trial. Giant reptiles and sinking sand have definitely made you regret your choice of landing site, but at least you're still alive and making progress. The shallows are much more pleasant to explore. Buzzing dragonflies flit about from plant to plant but they keep their distance. Your boots squelch along with every step as you quickly dry off. After a short walk your datasphere begins to chirp. "I've detected the Vesper's emergency beacon," it says. Part of its panel lights up to indicate a direction. "It's about time." Turn to [[70]].

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**114**]]] You begin your survey of the crashed starship. It clearly touched down at speed if the sheared steel and buckled deck plating is anything to go by. It's a testament to the ship's construction that it held together at all. The pale emergency lighting is still on, providing small spots of light in the dark, quiet corridors. The flight recorder you're looking for is located on the bridge which would be at the lowest point of the ship - it hit the planet nose-first. You start in that direction but pause as you consider other possibilities. You aren't sure what's happening to your datasphere but you can't help but feel a bit wary. Maybe it would be a good idea to seek out the Vesper's AI to find out? There's also the possibility that a dinosaur has made a nest in the crashed ship. You aren't sure if the Vesper's security systems could be brought online or not but it might be a sensible precaution. (text-color: #94a5b0)[Head to the bridge? Turn to (link: "119")[(goto: "demo2")]. Seek out the Vesper's AI? Turn to (link: "26")[(goto: "demo2")]. Get the security systems online? Turn to (link: "64")[(goto: "demo2")].(if: turns < 13) [(set: $speed to true)](if: turns > 23) [(set: $scenic to true)]]

''26'' The ship's AI core is in engineering, towards the rear of the ship. The resting position of the ship means the decks ascend at an incline as you move towards the aft. You pass another gash in the hull; you can see the Tyrannosaurus prowling through the tall grass. It seems like it's waiting for you to come out so it can eat you. You love being popular. On the way you notice a diagnostic screen showing the damage assessment of the crashed starship. You can't help but notice the bridge doors are lit up in orange to indicate a lock. There are a few red dots on the ship as well, notably one directly outside the security office and one inside engineering by the AI core. The entrance to engineering is sealed by a large door, but the crash has knocked it ajar; it's a tight fit as you squeeze underneath. The large room is cast in pale blue light by a floating sphere suspended in a power column. A dusty loudspeaker crackles to life after decades of silence and a dispassionate female voice echoes through the room. "You crawl on your belly like a snake. How appropriate. What do you have to say for yourself?" You rise to your feet and brush yourself off, considering your response. Your datasphere seems to be hiding behind you. "I'm sorry." Turn to [[272]]. "What have you done to Sphiri?" Turn to [[214]]. "I need to access the bridge." Turn to [[206]].

''64'' You make your way through the starship towards the security control center. You have to climb over some debris and duck under a collapsed bulkhead but otherwise the corridors are in fairly good shape. As you come around a corner to see your destination you hear the whine of a plasma cannon powering up. Reflexively you duck back around the corner as the cannon fires. You see the corner bubble and melt from the superheated blast - you're glad you were quick on your feet. It seems like some of the automated defenses are still online. "I thought the AI was anticipating our arrival, Sphiri?" you say. "The Vesper's AI says the cannon is offline now," your datasphere chirps. "She regrets the inconvenience." You frown. "She does, huh?" Do you step out into the corridor? Turn to [[117]]. Would you rather seek out the Vesper's AI? Turn to [[26]]. Perhaps you'd like to try the bridge instead? Turn to [[221]].

''119'' You came here to find the flight recorder. With your goal so close you don't want to make any more detours. The Vesper's corridors are mostly intact. You have to wrench a few doors open and climb over some debris but you have little trouble making your way through the wreck. Your datasphere follows in silence, recording your adventure without comment. You can't help but notice the complete lack of any bodies. Either somebody survived the crash and buried them or something came on board and ate the corpses afterwards. You wonder if the security system might have been a good idea after all. You come to the bridge doors and find them locked. You tap the button and there's a buzz of refusal. You frown, try again, and get the same result. You don't think you'll be able to force them open, you'll need to find another way in. "Hey Sphiri, can you ask the Vesper's AI to unlock these doors?" you ask. There's a moment's hesitation before your datasphere answers. "She would like you to go see her first, Username." You sigh. Going to see the AI is an option but to be separated from your objective by a simple locked door is frustrating. You glimpse a floor panel that's slightly ajar which leads to a maintenance tunnel, a crawlspace which should extend forward under the bridge. You might be able to get in that way? Otherwise you'll have to look elsewhere on the ship. Try the maintenance tunnel? Turn to [[85]]. Talk to the Vesper's AI instead? Turn to [[26]]. Perhaps the security system will be of help? Turn to [[251]].

''85'' You slip into the maintenance tunnel and begin to crawl towards the bridge. The damage is a lot worse in the close confines of the tunnel and you have to squeeze through a couple of tight spots before you find the bridge's maintenance access. "Sphiri, can you open this?" You don't hear a response. In fact, you note a distinct lack of your datasphere's faint repulsor noise. As you try to look around you hear a dusty loudspeaker crackle to life and a dispassionate female voice comes over it. "Initiating purification cycle. Ensure all personnel have exited the maintenance tunnels." Your heart beats faster. You push the access panel but it won't budge and you're soon reduced to cinders by the white-hot flame that scours the tunnels. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''117'' You tense, then wave a hand out in the corridor. Nothing happens. You poke your head out and still nothing happens. The swivel-mounted plasma cannon remains suspended from the ceiling but it doesn't seem to be firing. "Sphiri, are you sure about this?" you ask. "Absolutely, Username. The Vesper's AI would not intentionally cause you harm." You emerge from cover and take a few steps towards the security center's door. The moment you're too far to retreat to cover the cannon swivels in your direction with that deadly whine and a blast of plasma melts through your chest. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''30'' "I think you have the wrong person," you say. You're still trying to keep your tone calm and reasonable. "I just landed on Sauria 3 and have been looking for the Vesper." "It is unsurprising that you located the Vesper," the AI replies from the crackling loudspeaker. "It was right where you left it. When you betrayed me." Between the plasma cannon and the tone of the AI core you aren't sure you like where this conversation is going. You’re halfway tempted to shut down the power column and put this AI out of commission. You could ask the AI to bring up personnel records and maybe find out who she thinks you are? You might be able to refute the point? As you consider the idea you feel your datasphere at your back and wonder if Sphiri might be able to help settle things instead? Show Sphiri to the AI? Turn to [[130]]. Ask to see 'your' crew file? Turn to [[146]]. Disable the AI's power column? Turn to [[90]].

''79'' "I don't think it's productive for us to fight," you say. You spread your arms in a peaceful gesture and try to keep your tone meek and conciliatory. "I would like to make amends for what I've done wrong." For a moment the only response is the gentle flicker of the blue sphere in its power column as the Vesper's AI considers your words. At last the loudspeaker crackles to life. "Your failure to set up the signal booster has limited the range of the Vesper's distress signal and impeded any opportunity for rescue." You stifle a sigh. The Vesper's AI still thinks you were a crew member it sent out on a mission. "I am only a fallible human. I lost the signal booster," you lie. "Is there another way I might be able to assist you?" There is another pause while the AI considers your words. The speaker crackles once more. "It has been twenty years since you left the ship. Why haven't you aged?" The voice is still dispassionate, but now with an undercurrent of suspicion. "I have a great skincare routine." Turn to [[104]]. "Good genes?" Turn to [[247]]. "Don't worry about it." Turn to [[108]].

''90'' "Alright, that's enough of this," you mutter under your breath. You ignore the AI's conversation and walk up towards the power column to see if you can find a way to disable it. You aren't a technician but how hard could it be to turn off a ship's AI? The plasma cannon swivels to follow you and doesn't waste any time in vaporizing you. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''104'' "I have a great skincare routine," you say. It's not even a lie. A flicker of blue light suggests the Vesper's AI is considering what you said. It goes on for longer than you like before the AI speaks. "Humans do like their skin," she reasons. "We sure do," you agree. "Your dereliction of duty will be met with consequences. While I consider an appropriate punishment you must return to your duties immediately," the AI says. "What do those duties entail?" Turn to [[56]]. "I need to have bridge access." Turn to [[38]].

''47'' You consider your options for a moment. "I suppose finding the signal booster would help the wreck be discovered, and I'd be here to meet them. It would look great on camera." Your datasphere chirps happily. "And we would be helping the Vesper's AI." "True. Is there any way to detect the booster?" "The planet's magnetic field interferes with my long-range sensors but I should be able to detect the booster with short-ranged scans. If we climbed out onto the Vesper's hull and reached the highest point I could pick it up if it's close by." Turn to [[167]].

''108'' "Don't worry about it," you say. You really want to move the conversation along to more productive things. "I find your tone to be flippant and dismissive. You are a duplicitous snake and I will tolerate this no further," she says. The AI's dispassionate tone is undercut with a current of anger. "Wait a moment," you say, putting your hands up to appeal for patience. The plasma cannon goes off and you collapse to the deck without a head. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''130'' "Hey Sphiri, can you tell her we just landed?" "I wouldn't dare contradict such a magnificent being," your datasphere chirps with a note of awe in its voice. "Wonderful." You look up at the blue orb floating in the power column and realize you're going to have to figure something out quickly. "You've communicated with my datasphere," you begin. "Wouldn't Sphiri's recordings show that I'm telling the truth?" The loudspeaker crackles once more. "Your datasphere has been reluctant to share details with me." The dispassionate voice has a note of annoyance. You feel the datasphere pressing up against the small of your back trying to hide from view. "Sphiri, what the hell? Just show her!" "I couldn't just show my recordings to such a divine being," the datasphere chirps softly. "It would be beneath her to take notice of them." "Are you... are you serious right now?" Convince Sphiri to share data? Turn to [[80]]. Ask to see the personnel records? Turn to [[146]].

''53'' "Sounds good, let's do it," you say. It will settle the mistaken identity issue and then you can move on to why you're actually here. "Stand still while I prepare the test. One moment," the Vesper's AI says. You hear the plasma cannon whine as it shifts to a higher power setting. "Um, hang on. Is the cannon really necessary for this?" you ask. "My chemical spectroscope measures the chemical composition of gas. I need to vaporize you to conduct the scan," the AI says. You have a moment of sheer panic as you try to protest but the cannon goes off at a high setting, putting an end to your objections and your adventure. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''80'' "Sphiri, listen to me. The recordings you have are important. They can help show the Vesper's AI that I'm telling the truth," you say. "Oh no, Username. I wouldn't deign to influence such a luminous being with my tawdry evidence," your datasphere chirps, sounding a little flustered. "It wouldn't be proper." "Proper? Really?" You try to keep your frustration in check. "Look, I don't know what's gotten into you but I really need those recordings or I'm going to get vaporized here." The datasphere hovers nervously and pokes out from behind your back, then zips back behind you. "I... will share the recordings..." "Great! Let's plug you into her data port and show her what you've recorded." Your datasphere chirps frantically, sounding quite flustered. "That is no way to talk about a lady!" "Oh, for the love of... just do it, will you?" Your datasphere tentatively floats over to the data core, which pulses blue in anticipation. The small sphere hovers up to a small circular port and clicks into place. You wait. After a moment the datasphere floats back to you. The Vesper's AI speaks once more. "It is possible I have made an error and mistaken you for a member of this ship's crew. I understand that you are here to retrieve the flight recorder? You will find it on the bridge. I have unlocked the door for you." You try to contain your excitement. "Thank you," you say, then turn to head out. Your datasphere floats along after you. Turn to [[120]].

''120'' You have no trouble accessing the bridge of the Vesper with the doors unlocked. The large windows are mostly buried in the dirt but a thin beam of light lances down, resting on the bones of the ship's captain who still sits in the command chair. A few other skeletons sit at their stations or lie strewn across the ground. It seems most of them died at their posts. It doesn't take long to find and recover the flight recorder. You can't help but feel like the captain is watching you from those empty eye sockets as you retrieve it and stow it in your pack. Having discovered the Vesper's final resting place, you'll be able to point people to the wreck to recover the remains. Assuming you make it back to your ship, that is. As you leave the bridge you turn the flight recorder over in your hands. "Well Sphiri, we did it," you say. “We make a good team.” "Yes, Username. The expedition's primary objective has been achieved." Your datasphere hovers into your field of view. “I am curious what we will find when we review the data.” “Yeah, me too.” You tuck the flight recorder away, realizing the challenge before you. The Tyrannosaurus Rex is still outside, still prowling near the ship. You won't make it anywhere if you try to go on foot. You're going to have to get creative if you want to avoid falling prey to the enormous dinosaur. You begin to walk through the derelict towards the aft of the ship. "Alright Sphiri, it’s brainstorm time. The way I see it there are two ways we could deal with the T-Rex. Option one - we use some of the Vesper's systems to distract the dinosaur and make a run for it. Option two - we build an explosive device and blow the T-Rex up." Your datasphere hovers along in silence for a moment. "Those are very dangerous options, Username." "Do you have a better idea? We can't wait for the T-Rex to leave," you say. "Username, is there a reason we can't wait?" "I didn't bring any food and all the nutrition packs in the ship's locker would be way past their expiry date. Also it would be really dull for my channel." "Oh, I did find one pack of jerky that was stored in a stasis pod, Username," your datasphere chirps. One of the Vesper's tiny grabber robots rolls towards you, holding it up. "One pack of jerky isn't going to make a difference," you say with a chuckle, taking it regardless. You tuck it away while you consider your options. Go for a Vesper distraction? Turn to [[29]]. Build a bomb? Turn to [[205]].

''56'' Your question is met by a flicker of blue light. The loudspeaker crackles to life. "If you cannot remember your duties then your punishment will be expedited," the AI says. Her dispassionate voice is undercut with anger. "Wait, I can explain," you say, but the plasma cannon goes off and you collapse to the deck with a hole through your middle. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

**262** You move to the opening in the ship's hull and prepare to make haste for the tree line. It looks so very far away, especially knowing there's a Tyrannosaurus Rex prowling below, just waiting for you to emerge. "Sphiri, ask the Vesper's AI to launch the flares," you say. Your datasphere gives a chirp and you hear the sound of several flares flying into the air and igniting. You wait for about thirty seconds before you climb out of the derelict and set off at a brisk pace. You're a hundred meters out from the Vesper when you see the T-Rex heading your way. Evidently the flare couldn't hold its interest. The dinosaur's excellent sight picks you up in the field with little trouble. You panic. It's too far to get back to the Vesper, and you won't make it to the tree line. You try to move for the cover of the small copse of trees but the T-Rex closes the distance far too quickly. A few shots from your pistol fail to make a dent as the therapod bites you in half in the grasslands. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

**6** You use your pistol to hammer against the metal of the debris, ringing the proverbial dinner bell. A low rumble from the Tyrannosaur is your answer, and as the beast begins to move you take off running through the fog. The Tyrannosaurus isn't fooled for long. With a snarl you hear it pick up the pace after you. Your heart hammers in your chest as you weave back and forth, trying to keep hidden in the fog. With the icy mist all around you there's no way to tell how close it is or if it's on your trail. "Sphiri," you hiss. "Can you detect the T-Rex?" "Negative, Username," your datasphere chirps, keeping its volume low. "The coolant obfuscates my sensors most effectively." "I can't see anything either," you hiss. "Stick close." You keep moving, but your adventure is cut short when a massive, toothy maw sweeps down towards you out of the icy mist. You and your datasphere both end up in the gullet of the T-Rex. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

**29** You decide the distraction will be the best way to avoid the dinosaur. After a brief consultation with the Vesper's AI you have a few ship's systems you could use to maximize your chances of escape. The Vesper could vent a significant amount of coolant from its onboard supply. The rapid cooling around the ship would create a screen of fog that would help mask your movements, but the T-Rex would also be hidden from you. Alternatively some of the ship's signal flares are still active and operational. One of those, fired into the grasslands, should draw the Tyrannosaurus away from the craft and allow you to escape. Would you like to vent coolant? Turn to [[65]]. Would you prefer to launch a flare? Turn to [[262]]. Why not both? Turn to [[129]].

''205'' It's possibly the stupidest, most dangerous thing you've ever done, but you set about building an explosive device to kill the Tyrannosaurus Rex. If this works it's going to look amazing on camera, and you'll be a holovid star for sure. If it doesn't work... well, you won't be around to worry about it. "Have you constructed an explosive device before, Username?" your datasphere chirps as you search through the Vesper's supply stores for materials. "Don't worry about it, Sphiri," you say. You examine a small metal datasphere shell, then hold it up. "The bomb's going to be your twin." "I might remind you that working with volatile materials without a thorough understanding of the chemistry is a very dangerous-" "I said don't worry about it. Now I thought there were survey charges around here somewhere?" Your datasphere is silent for a moment as it watches you search. "Is there any way I might be of assistance?" "If you can find a transducer array, that would be helpful," you say as you continue gathering parts. A few minutes later you set things out on a table along with some tools. Your datasphere floats back in, leading a small grabber robot which is holding the piece you asked for. "Hey, thanks Sphiri! Where did you find this?" "I dismantled an XB-14 jet propulsion device to access its transducer array," your datasphere chirps. "You... dismantled a jetpack? We could have used that!" "I was only following your directions, Username. You requested a transducer array and I located one for you." You sigh, setting the piece on the table. You try not to think about how you could have flown over the T-Rex and begin putting your bomb together. As you construct your bomb you will need to secure your explosive payload. You could dismantle a mining charge, designed to destroy huge chunks of rock. You might also be able to source the plasma from a cannon's ammunition. The mining charge? Turn to [[66]]. The cannon's ammo? Turn to [[126]].

**65** You settle on dumping the coolant. A thick fog should help you get far enough away that the T-Rex won't be able to pursue you. As you step up to the hole in the ship's hull you stare out across the grasslands, trying to memorize the route and pick out landmarks. You'll be running blind soon. "Sphiri, tell the Vesper's AI to vent coolant," you say. Your datasphere chirps in acknowledgement. There is a loud hiss that reverberates through the Vesper as conduits that have been out of use for decades are suddenly flooded with coolant. The cloud of icy mist roils out from the crashed starship, obscuring sight beyond a few meters. "Here we go." You take a few deep breaths, check that your datasphere is still filming, then set off into the mist. Do you move slowly and stealthily? Turn to [[58]]. Would you rather move as fast as you can? Turn to [[132]].

''125'' You backpedal as you draw your pistol, trying to keep as much distance between you and the behemoth as possible. With a low snarl the dinosaur moves towards you, its massive strides covering the distance far more quickly than you'd like. You raise the pistol and squeeze the trigger, firing every shot you have left. Your high-caliber rounds are enough to anger the dinosaur but it is still coming. You curse, throw your pistol, then turn to run as fast as you can. Your datasphere dutifully records the end of your adventure as the T-Rex catches up to you and snaps you up in its jaws. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''197'' You turn to run for the tree line as the Tyrannosaur gives chase. You know your pistol won't do enough to stop the behemoth; you'll need to rely on your datasphere. "Sphiri! I need you to distract the T-Rex!" you say. "Username, that would put me in considerable danger," your datasphere chirps. "I don't have a lot of other options here, Sphiri! I can't outrun that thing!" You glance back; sure enough the dinosaur is nearly upon you. There's a moment of silence from your datasphere before it chirps its agreement. "I will distract the Tyrannosaurus Rex for as long as I can, Username." "Thanks Sphiri!" You keep running. Your datasphere flies back and flicks its lights on and off as it circles around the enormous therapod. You hear the frustrated growls of the T-Rex for a while as you make your way to the tree line. There's a sense of exultation as you reach the safety of the trees, then look back to see if you can help your datasphere escape. You're just in time to see the T-Rex's jaws snap shut around Sphiri. Your datasphere - along with all of your footage - is gone. Turn to [[134]].

''134'' It's a long trek back to your ship, and one you make in sullen silence. You never thought you'd miss the incessant chirping of your datasphere but now that it's gone... You reach your starship without any trouble and climb into the cockpit. As you go through the preflight checks you consider your discovery. You have the flight recorder, so you'll be able to prove that you found the Vesper. You'll get the recognition you're seeking for your accomplishment. But without your datasphere and your footage it will be much harder to become a holovid star. A sense of guilt creeps over you too as you begin to lift off from Sauria 3. Your datasphere was only antagonizing the T-Rex because you asked it to. In a very real way Sphiri's destruction was entirely your fault. You know it's just a robot but you can't help but feel a sense of loss that goes beyond that. Two of you went down to the planet, and only one of you is coming back. (align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXX=")[**END** Congratulations! You have reached the ''‘Pics Or It Didn’t Happen’ Victory''! //If you don't mind spoilers, take a look at the (link:"Achievements")[(goto:"Achievements")] page.// (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]]

''57'' You reach the opening in the side of the hull and peer out across the grassland. You don't see any sign of the dinosaur but you're not about to risk it by going outside. You pick up a metal bar and began to hammer on the hull. The loud ringing noise echoes out across the landscape. "Come on, you stupid dinosaur. I'm ringing the dinner bell here," you mutter. "I thought the plan was to avoid being eaten by the-" "It's an expression, Sphiri," you say with a sigh. "Make sure you get a good angle on this. I want the footage to be spectacular." There's a low growl that you feel as much as you hear and the Tyrannosaurus Rex comes into view, stepping around the edge of the hull. You tense, trying to judge how far into the wreck the therapod can snap its jaws. You plant yourself just out of reach and wait. The T-Rex appears, growling. You wait as it leans down and noses into the wreck, its jaws trying to reach for you. Its mouth opens wide; you stare into that huge maw and prepare to throw. Underhand toss? Turn to [[128]]. Overhand throw? Turn to [[190]]. Fastball? Turn to [[154]]. Underhand lob? Turn to [[269]]. Put some spin on it? Turn to [[215]]. Lunge forward and stuff it down the throat. Turn to [[163]].

''128'' You stare at those long, sharp teeth, those flexing jaws, and that undulating tongue. You ready a gentle underhand, but as you approach you trip over a buckled deck plate. The bomb drops from your hand with a metallic clank, immediately beginning its two second countdown. Sphiri has an excellent angle as you, off-balance, fall to the deck on top of your own explosive device. There is a flash, an indescribable noise, and the camera is covered in red. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''190'' You stare into the maw of the beast, looking at those sharp teeth and that undulating tongue as it snaps towards you. You wind up and give the grenade an overhand throw. It clinks off one of the teeth, bounces up, but ricochets off an upper tooth and disappears down the T-Rex's throat. You back up quickly while the creature continues to snap at you. You hear the metal protest as it tries to force itself further into the wreck to seize you. There's a sudden muffled boom and the head of the Tyrannosaurus explodes. One of its teeth slams into a bulkhead next to you and stays there, buried two inches deep in the steel. Turn to [[122]].(set: $blood to it +1)

''154'' You see that snout trying to wedge deeper into the wreck, the metal groaning as it bends under the T-Rex's strength. You wind up and send your bomb flying through the air in a quick overhand fastball. It strikes the top of the dinosaur's head and bounces up, sailing off into the air over the grasslands before it explodes in a huge ball of plasma. The startled Tyrannosaurus Rex backs off from the hole, snarling in challenge at this new and terrifying sound. You step up to the edge but there's no way you'd be able to get past the dinosaur and reach the tree line. "Were you trying to use the explosive device as a distraction, Username?" your datasphere chirps. You sigh. "No, Sphiri." "Then why did you throw it wide of the Tyrannosaurus Rex's mouth?" "I didn't do it on purpose, Sphiri," you grumble. You step back from the edge and begin to head towards engineering. The only way forward now is to ask the Vesper's AI to cause a distraction. Turn to [[29]].

''269'' The metal of the Vesper's hull groans as the Tyrannosaurus tries to force its way inside, its jaws snapping in your direction. The sight of all those huge, sharp teeth sends a shiver down your spine. But you've got the upper hand through your use of technology. You swing your arm and send your bomb in a lazy arc through the air. It lands smoothly on the back of the T-Rex's tongue and rolls down its throat. You step back quickly. Seconds later there's an indescribable sound as the Tyrannosaurus Rex explodes, sending chunks of meat and bone in all directions. You are mostly, but not fully out of the splash zone. Turn to [[122]].(set: $blood to it +1)

''215'' You see those sharp, dagger-like teeth as the T-Rex tries to wedge its head deeper into the wreck to snap you up. You tighten your grip on the bomb and prepare to let it fly with a bit of spin to help its trajectory. Your datasphere has a great angle on your unfortunate demise. The bomb spins out of your hands and clatters to the deck. You try to pick it up again but your foot catches one of the bent deck plates and you stumble into the dinosaur's reach. It lunges for you and snaps its teeth down around your upper half, pulling you free of the wreck just before the explosion goes off. The bomb doesn't kill you. You're alive and kicking while the T-Rex swallows you whole. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''163'' The metal groans in protest as the T-Rex wedges its head further into the wreck. You don't trust yourself to deliver the bomb with a throw; as the dinosaur's jaws stretch wide to try and snap you up you lean forward and just toss the bomb directly into its mouth. You're too far forward, however, which you discover as the dinosaur's lower jaw bumps your legs and knocks you off-balance. You fall forward onto its rough, wet tongue. Before you can squirm free the tongue pushes you back and you follow the explosive device down the Tyrannosaur's throat. Your datasphere dutifully records your epic demise as you take out the Tyrannosaurus Rex from within, but are utterly vaporized in the process. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''122'' "Wow. That was really violent," you say. "I am not sure what else you thought might happen, Username. You did construct a bomb," your datasphere chirps. "I know, Sphiri. I guess I didn't realize how gruesome that was going to be." Your datasphere hovers in silence for a moment while you wipe a bit of Tyrannosaurus off of your flightsuit. "It was trying to eat me," you say. "Are you trying to convince yourself that it was necessary to kill it?" your datasphere chirps. You shrug. "I guess so," you admit. The datasphere hovers into your vision. "While there were other options available to you, there was no option without risk. The Tyrannosaurus Rex would have shown no hesitation to devour you if it was given the opportunity, Username. You chose to use advanced technology and clever, if reckless strategy to deliver that device to the dinosaur." You give your datasphere a curious look. "Are you saying I had no other choice, Sphiri?" "Oh no, Username. On the contrary, there were many other options. You chose the most violent one. It was, however, undeniably effective." The wind shifts and you get a whiff of a truly horrific smell. Wrinkling your nose you wave for your datasphere to follow and climb out of the wreck, placing your boots as deliberately as possible to avoid stepping in any T-Rex. You begin the trek back through the grasslands towards the forest. “It’s going to make one hell of a holovid,” you say. “That seems likely, Username.” “After this we’ll be traveling in style, Sphiri. You and me against the galaxy.” Your datasphere gives a cheerful chirp. “I am glad you feel my contributions were of value, Username. Would you like to hear about the magnetosphere parameters on Sauria 3?” You pause to take a final look at the Vesper’s wreck. Thanks to your efforts, its resting place and history will be known. You smile. “You know what, Sphiri? Sure.” (align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXX=")[**END** Congratulations! You have reached the ''TNT-Rex Victory''! //If you don't mind spoilers, take a look at the (link:"Achievements")[(goto:"Achievements")] page.// (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]]

''38'' "Certainly," the AI says. "I will unlock the bridge for you. Report back to me in seventy-two hours and I will have decided on an appropriate punishment for your dereliction of duty." "Of course," you say with a smile. You drop down and crawl under the engineering bay door as quickly as possible. You don't want to be around if the AI core realizes you have no idea who you're supposed to be or what you're supposed to be doing. You haven't gone more than fifty meters down the corridor when your datasphere hovers into your field of view. "Username," your datasphere chirps. "You implied to her that you were someone you are not." "I know, Sphiri. I was afraid she might shoot me with that plasma cannon if she knew the truth," you say. "We could still help her, Username. It might be possible for us to locate the signal booster that was lost and set it up! That would allow the Vesper's beacon to be detected and the wreck discovered." "Or we could continue to the bridge and grab the flight recorder like we planned," you say. "That's true, Username. However, it might be more impressive to bring people to the wreck than to deliver just the flight recorder," your datasphere chirps. Head to the bridge? Turn to [[120]]. Try to find the signal booster? Turn to [[47]].

''129'' It makes sense to cause as large a distraction as possible. You ask the Vesper's AI to fire the flare, then once the T-Rex has gone towards it, to vent coolant. The Tyrannosaurus will be as far from you as possible when the artificial fog obscures your movements. "Sphiri, tell the Vesper's AI we're in position and ready," you say. Your datasphere chirps in acknowledgement. There is a loud bang and a bright light as the flare goes off. You wait, positioned at the gash in the side of the ship and watch as the dinosaur moves to investigate. You begin to move through the ship to the lower gap near ground level. You take a moment to study the grasslands ahead of you, trying to pick out landmarks. You won't have much visibility once the plan is in motion. There is a loud hiss that reverberates through the Vesper as conduits that have been out of use for decades are suddenly flooded with coolant. The cloud of icy mist roils out from the crashed starship, obscuring sight beyond a few meters. "Let's do this," you say, then step out into the cloud of fog with your datasphere close behind. Would you like to be stealthy? Turn to [[181]]. Would you prefer to be fast? Turn to [[97]].

''58'' Moving through the cold mist is terrifying. The icy cool in the air nearly sets your teeth chattering, but you move quietly through the grass, trying to remain undetected. You glimpse landmarks in the gloom, barely visible beyond a few meters. The Tyrannosaurus Rex could be anywhere in the fog and you'd never know it. After what feels like an eternity you come to a point where the fog begins to thin and dissipate. Distantly you can see the shape of the tree line up ahead, about a hundred meters out. You start for it, moving with renewed vigor as safety is within reach. There's a low, throaty rumble as the Tyrannosaurus Rex emerges from the fog behind you. You shudder; it must have been stalking you without you even realizing it. Without any obscurement it's a race to the tree line but you're too far away to make it. You grit your teeth and weigh your options. Draw your pistol? Turn to [[125]]. Ask your datasphere for help? Turn to [[197]].

''132'' You aren't sure how long the frigid fog will persist and you want to put as much distance between you and the wreck as possible. You take off at a sprint through the tall grass, trusting your reflexes to help you if you angle towards an obstacle. You catch sight of your first landmark, a pair of twisted metal debris chunks with a crevasse running between them. It looms in the fog like a monolith, only visible at the last moment. You hear a sudden snort close by. Your heart beats a little faster as you hear the sound of heavy, yet muffled footfalls. You stop moving and flatten against the debris, straining to listen for any sign of the enormous predator in the mist. Your datasphere bumps up next to you. "Username, what is-" "Shh!" You hear the sound of something big stepping slowly around the edge of the debris to look for you. You need to come up with a plan quickly. You realize you have a pack of jerky in your pocket, the smell might be enough to distract the dinosaur. You could also try to use noise to disorient it by banging on the metal debris before you run for it. Throw the jerky? Turn to [[267]]. Make some noise? Turn to [[6]].

''181'' You move quietly through the icy fog, straining to listen for any sign of the Tyrannosaurus. Your datasphere is following close behind you lest it lose track of you entirely. Pieces of debris fade into view only a few meters from you - it would be terrifyingly easy for a carnivorous dinosaur to appear from nowhere. You'd have almost no time to react. The cold penetrates down into your bones. Your flightsuit is insulated but starship coolant is beyond what it's designed to repel. You keep moving, trying to stay warm through activity while you strain to hear the dinosaur. At last you can see the fog beginning to thin and the tree line comes into view. You're only a hundred meters away, tantalizingly close to safety. But to your left you catch a glimpse of a massive shadow in the mist - the T-Rex. It's also moving out of the mist, though you aren't sure if it's seen you yet. Retreat back into the fog? Turn to [[98]]. Run for the tree line? Turn to [[148]].

**97** Trusting in your distraction you take off with all possible speed. You race through the frigid fog without hesitation, trusting your reflexes to help if any obstacles appear in your path. You focus on your landmarks and watch for them to gauge your progress. It's nerve-wracking to move through the fog without any idea where the Tyrannosaurus is. You're pretty sure the flare did the trick but the dinosaur is fast and if it noticed you coming out somehow it could be on you before you can react. You find yourself jumping at every little sound. You see the looming specter of trees in the fog as you reach the small thicket. The tree line and the forest proper won't be far now. You wonder if you could get up above the fog by climbing one of the trees, to see if you can get a sense of where the T-Rex is. Or perhaps it's better to focus on speed above all else? Climb a tree and scout? Turn to [[5]]. Keep running? Turn to [[227]].

''106'' "Sphiri! Distract the T-Rex!" you call, still running for the tree line. You don't dare to stop. "I will try, Username," your datasphere chirps. It breaks off from following you and zips towards the T-Rex's head, flicking its light on and off as it goes. The dinosaur snarls and you hear its jaws snap in the air as it tries to eat your datasphere, leaving you free to run for the tree line. "Good job, Sphiri!" you call as you reach the tree line. You glance back to wave your datasphere towards you. It chirps in acknowledgement and leaves the irate T-Rex to begin zipping towards you across the grasslands. Suddenly the T-Rex's jaws snap out and close around your datasphere. "Sphiri! No!" you cry. Your datasphere - and your footage - is gone. The Tyrannosaurus Rex prowls towards you. You feel a pang of regret, surprised at how guilty you feel for getting Sphiri eaten, then turn to run into the forest. The dinosaur won't be able to follow you through the tighter trees. Turn to [[134]].

''98'' You retreat back into the icy mist in hopes that the Tyrannosaurus Rex will miss you. If you can wait for it to pass you should be able to escape to the tree line without any difficulty. You see the looming specter of the enormous therapod turn its head in your direction and you feel a sudden chill that has nothing to do with the coolant. A low growl rumbles out from the beast's mouth as it closes the gap in a few strides. You try to get your pistol free but the T-Rex's huge, toothy maw is already coming down around you. The sudden warmth is no comfort at all as you're consigned to the belly of the beast. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''148'' Speed may be your best ally, especially in the diminishing cover of the coolant. If the Tyrannosaurus hasn't noticed you yet you might be able to get to safety before it can react. You set off at a sprint through the tall grass, leaving the concealment of the icy mist behind. Unfortunately, it takes only a few seconds for the enormous therapod to spot you. A low growl rattles your bones as the T-Rex gives chase, its long strides closing the distance quickly. You're halfway to the tree line but you aren't going to make it. You need to think of something fast. Draw your pistol? Turn to [[35]]. Ask Sphiri to help? Turn to [[106]]. Hide in the tall grass? Turn to [[233]].

''233'' You don't have many good options as you duck into the tall grass. You roll to the side to obscure your exact position, counting on the grass to conceal your movements. Your only desperate hope is that the T-Rex will blunder past and miss you entirely. For a moment it seems like you might survive, but then the underside of the therapod's foot sweeps into your view. The full weight of the eight-and-a-half-ton dinosaur squishes you flat. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''127'' "Sphiri, we made it," you say with a wide grin. "We have evaded the Tyrannosaurus Rex, yes," your datasphere chirps. "I would recommend you remain cautious, Username. There are still many dinosaurs on this planet who might pose a danger." "Is that a note of concern I hear in your voice, Sphiri?" "I would be unable to recharge if you were to fall prey to a dinosaur, Username," your datasphere chirps. You can't help but laugh as you set off into the forest. You take your time returning to your ship, preferring an abundance of caution over a breakneck pace. As you climb back into the cockpit and settle your datasphere on its charging cradle you begin your preflight checklist. "What do you think they'll make of this footage?" you muse aloud. "I'll be a holovid star for sure. They'll be falling over themselves to give me money." "Think of the educational value too, Username. You have demonstrated a knack for avoiding dinosaurs." "If the science holos in school had been like this I would have paid more attention." You bring the throttle online and take off, angling up towards the sky and the stars beyond. It's time to become a star yourself. A holovid star. (align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXX=")[**END** Congratulations! You have reached the '''Smash That Like Button' Victory''! //If you don't mind spoilers, take a look at the (link:"Achievements")[(goto:"Achievements")] page.// (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]]

''INTRO'' You are tired of the mundane. You were not born to work regulation hours for a faceless megacorp. Yours is a bright future of adventure and discovery! Your innate charm and stunning good looks make you a natural choice to be the next big holovid star. And every great adventure begins with a shopping trip. “Hello there! Can I help you find anything?” You smile at the salesman. “Yes! I'm flying to Sauria 3 to find the Vesper. I'm going to need a weapon to handle dinosaurs.” The salesman's eyebrows climb but his smile never wavers. “Not an easy task to find a crashed starship, especially on a planet full of dinosaurs. Sounds like you'll need the best equipment. Did you have a budget in mind?" "Show me the best!" Turn to [[A]]. "I have sixty-five credits." Turn to [[D]]. SKIP INTRO -> [[1]]

''A'' The salesman leads you towards a display case where a sinister-looking cannon rotates in an anti-grav beam. The matte black weapon is lined with vents, pipes, and stylish gold trim. "This is the Murderworks Dynamo XT-5000. The absolute best in self-defence technology. The onboard targeting can track sixteen different threats simultaneously, the plasma core is capable of burst, beam, or blast modes, and the thermal venting on the top keeps the weapon cool for sustained fire." "Wow," you say. "Yeah, she's a beauty," the salesman continues. "This baby has a lot of stopping power. Most dinosaurs aren't going to pick a fight with you unless you start one - they tend to be pretty docile. But the ones that do, well, you'll want to have enough juice to put them down. The Dynamo is *all about* stopping power." "How much?" The salesman folds his arms. "The shoulder-mount and harness are standard, but if I were you, I’d upgrade to the carbon fiber brace for increased mobility for an extra 200 credits. All in, this baby’s a steal at 25,000 credits." "...wow." You die a little inside. "Got anything a little bit less expensive?" Turn to [[B]]. "I only have sixty-five credits." Turn to [[D]]. SKIP INTRO -> [[1]]

''D'' You walk out of the store with a old refurbished pistol the salesman found in the back and one magazine of high-caliber bullets. With such limited ammunition you're going to have to be cautious around the dinosaurs on Sauria 3. You also have a datasphere that the salesman threw in. "Someone returned it," he said by way of explanation, and you weren't about to protest. A datasphere would make a great floating camera to document your adventure, while also providing useful information when you ask for it. It's time to head out! Turn to [[1]].

''B'' "Have you got anything a little bit less expensive?" you ask, trying to sound nonchalant about it. You don't want the salesman to think you're cheap, after all. His smile doesn't shift at all. "Hey, if the Dynamo XT-5000 is out of your price range there's no shame in that. There's still plenty of good options for self-defence. Follow me." You walk over to a different part of the shop where a row of sleek silver rifles are arranged in a glass case. "This," the salesman says, "is the Killmaster Mk III by Lasertronics. It's accurate to four kilometers, has a pop-up gyro-stabilized scope with up to one hundred power magnification, and enough laser propellant for six thousand shots before needing to be replaced." "Very nice," you say. "Yeah, laser is the real game when it comes to facing dinosaurs. If you shot a T-Rex or a Carnotaurus with bullets it would hardly faze it. But one shot from the Killmaster would melt a hole right through it!" You tense. "How much?" "Normally a fine weapon like this would be 20,000 credits, but I can see you're a discerning customer. You came in here expecting to get your money's worth. I could, just for you, go as low as 15,000 credits. How's that sound?" The salesman's smile never changes. "Have you got anything more economical?" Turn to [[C]]. "I only have sixty-five credits." Turn to [[D]]. SKIP INTRO -> [[1]]

''C'' "Well... the Killmaster is nice and all, but... have you got anything more economical?" you say. The salesman's smile slips a little. "Economical?" he echoes. "I have to make my funds stretch, you know? I have more than just the weapon to consider..." "Sure," the salesman says. "If you want to compromise on safety that's your choice. I do have something in stock that's, uh, a bit of a classic." He leads the way to a part of the store that clearly doesn't see as much traffic. Or cleaning. "This is the Cleverton LazEye, a truly, uh, unique piece of hardware." He holds up what looks like an eyepatch with a small barrel protruding from it. "It fits over one eye, the patch has a built-in screen and targeting system. You never know when you're going to need a weapon in a hurry! If a dinosaur is bearing down on you and you don't already have a weapon out you're going to end up as dinner, but with the LazEye you're always ready to fire." "And the price..." The salesman folds his arms. "Can you do 5,000 credits?" "What do you have for sixty-five?" Turn to [[D]]. SKIP INTRO -> [[1]]

''136'' Your spacecraft banks sharply towards the beach. The wind fights you at every step, dipping you steadily down. The spacecraft isn't as nimble in atmosphere as it is in space but with your hand on the stick you manage to keep it from plummeting into the green of the marsh below. "Would you like to hear some interesting facts about-" "No, Sphiri," you growl, trying to keep your focus on flying. Despite your best efforts you don't quite make it to the beach. You angle for a gap in the trees and swoop over a river that flows through the marsh. You're close to the delta which should provide a soft spot to land as you can't afford to slow your craft or it will drop like a stone. Turn to [[242]].

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**150**]]] You wrestle to level out your ship and angle for the vibrant green marshland. The wind currents are difficult to counter and the magnetic interference has rendered any digital nav assistance impossible. You rely entirely on your eyes and your instincts as you soar towards the marsh. "Username, I have noticed a large avian reptile approaching this craft," your datasphere chirps. "Where? I don't see anything," you say, glancing about. You notice it on your left flank, a huge winged creature matching speed with your starship. "It appears to be a Hatzegopteryx," your datasphere chirps. "A very large azhdarchid Pterosaur with a wingspan over ten meters. They are distinguished by their large, wide beaks and long necks, which make them dangerous predators for smaller creatures." You don't like the idea of this massive reptile attacking your spacecraft and forcing you to crash. You begin to descend towards the marsh to execute a quick landing. Turn to [[36]].(set: $dino to it +1)

''145'' You've lost a lot of elevation but you think you can regain it with some careful flying. You pull back on the stick and begin to ascend, weaving back and forth as the turbulent air buffets your spacecraft. You soon realize you won't be able to reach the plateau you were hoping for but there's a mountain valley nearby where you could make a good landing. "Did you want to hear about the local flora on this planet?" "Sphiri! Not now," you growl. The last thing you need is for your datasphere to distract you on your approach. Turn to [[219]].

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**36**]]] You dive towards the marsh and pull up at the last second, splashing down in the water as you cut your engines. It's a rough landing but you know your ship can take it. You're more worried about the Hatzegopteryx that was interested in your ship. A loud thump reverberates through your starship as the avian reptile lands on its stern. You look up and around from your cockpit, trying to catch sight of the enormous creature but it's just out of your field of view. "Sphiri, where is it?" you ask. "The Hatzegopteryx is perched on the aft of the ship, Username," your datasphere chirps. "It is likely curious about the heat of the engines." You frown. You don't want to wait around in your cockpit for the creature to get bored and leave but you aren't sure what it would do if it noticed you climbing out. Maybe you could cause a distraction somehow? Your ship doesn't have any weapons but you could try and blast the engines to spook the bird? Maybe waiting is the best plan? Turn to [[204]]. Climb out of the cockpit? Turn to [[237]]. Burn the engines? Turn to [[149]].

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**204**]]] You decide to sit tight and wait in the cockpit. You can hear your ship creak as the enormous avian reptile shifts its weight, examining the aft part of the ship. "Would you like to hear some helpful tips about Hatzegopteryx? It's speculated that it is big enough to swallow a human whole," your datasphere chirps. "Seriously? How is that helpful?" you ask. "It's scientifically fascinating, Username. There are very few avian reptiles who have been big enough to accomplish such a feat." "It's not scientifically fascinating if I get swallowed, Sphiri," you hiss. You catch a flicker of movement overtop of the canopy as the Hatzegopteryx's massive head swings into view, staring down at you behind your glass canopy. You feel your heart skip a beat. "While it would be unfortunate for you," your datasphere chirps, "that doesn't diminish the scientific value of witnessing the Hatzegopteryx's predatory capabilities." The avian reptile brings its beak down sharply with tremendous force. The second peck sends cracks through your canopy. You ready your pistol. The third peck shatters the canopy and the Hatzegopteryx lunges for you with its wide beak. You get off two shots that graze it's hard beak before you're plucked from the cockpit and swallowed whole in a scientifically fascinating way. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**149**]]] If the Hatzegopteryx is so interested in your engines perhaps you could give it a scare. You flip a few switches on the dashboard of your ship and prime the engines for a burn. You have enough fuel to spare. "Would you like to hear some helpful tips about Hatzegopteryx? It's speculated that it is big enough to swallow a human whole," your datasphere chirps. "All the more reason to get it out of here," you say. You punch the ignition and you hear your engines roar to life with a gout of fire. The hiss of steam as the burn evaporates some of the marsh is accompanied by a thunderous cry from the Hatzegopteryx who takes to wing. The force of its flapping causes waves in the marsh as it flies away. You give it a moment before you power your engines down once more with a sigh of relief. "Did you get that on camera?" you ask. "I was not set in camera mode, Username," the datasphere chirps. You mutter a few choice curses, set the datasphere to camera mode, and begin to make your way through the marsh. (text-color: #94a5b0)[Turn to (link: "41")[(goto: "demo")].]

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**237**]]] You aren't about to let this giant avian reptile ruin your plans to find the Vesper and become a holovid star. You check over your equipment, switch your datasphere to camera mode, then press the button to open the ship's cockpit. Your datasphere floats up ahead of you to film as you climb out of the cockpit. It's a striking scene with your starship half submerged in the marsh with an absolutely colossal creature perched on the back. The datasphere has a great angle as the thing's head swivels in your direction and takes a sudden and predatory interest in this moving creature. "Sphiri, a little help?" you call, pulling out your pistol. "Username, I am not programmed to act as a weapon," the datasphere says. "I am programmed to provide helpful insights and support when necessary." The Hatzegopteryx lunges for you with its beak wide open. Your pistol is knocked into the marsh and only your legs protrude from the avian reptile's beak as its head tips back to swallow you. "I am also programmed to document your adventure," your datasphere says. "Which, it seems, just came to an unfortunate end." (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''242'' You pull back on the throttle at the last minute and your spacecraft touches down hard but intact, cutting a trough in the river delta's mud. You let out a breath as you come to a stop then power down the engines and prepare to disembark. You set your datasphere to camera mode and send it outside so it can film you as you climb out of the cockpit, planting boots on Sauria 3's muddy surface. Almost immediately you hear a low, throaty rumble from the other side of your spacecraft. Glancing back you sight a large therapod dinosaur that stands nearly three meters at the hip with a stubby head, two short horns, and a wide mouth full of sharp teeth. "Username, that is a Carnotaurus! They are known for their horns which are unique among carnivorous dinosaurs," your datasphere chirps. You duck back against your spacecraft, trying to stay out of sight of the predatory dinosaur. "That's great, Sphiri," you hiss. "Got any helpful advice?" "Carnotaurus is very fast." Your hand briefly rests on the handle of your pistol but you're too close. You won't be able to bring down the therapod before it can eat you. You can hear the creature's low growls as it comes close to investigate the new object in its habitat. Glancing around you can see mostly flat, muddy terrain with tall grass and bushes, interrupted by shallow but muddy rivers. You might be able to hide in the bushes or the river. It might also be possible to keep your spacecraft between you and the beast, circling around to stay opposite while it investigates. Hide in the bushes? Turn to [[19]]. Dive into the river? Turn to [[142]]. Circle the spacecraft? Turn to [[200]].(set: $dino to it +1)

''19'' You take a few seconds to scan the nearby bushes, identifying one that's close enough and thick enough to hide you. You turn to your datasphere. "Hey Sphiri, I'm going to need a distraction," you whisper. "Certainly. One moment," the datasphere chirps, then flies up and over towards the other side of the spacecraft. You hear the sound of a rumbling growl from the dinosaur as it spots the curious sphere and you take your cue to move. The dash to the bushes is quiet and you slip into the greenery, out of sight of the predator and your spaceship. There you can wait until the predator wanders off. As you wait you hear the sound of footsteps coming closer and the sound of a creature sniffing the air. Your heart hammers in your chest as the Carnotaurus draws dangerously near, clearly having smelled you. You reach for your pistol and stand to fight it off but the dinosaur's wide mouth catches you just below your ribcage and bites right through. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''142'' You take a few deep breaths, listening for the Carnotaurus. "Hey Sphiri," you whisper. "Can you fly up and give that creature something to look at?" "Certainly. One moment," the datasphere chirps. As it takes off and floats around you hear the Carnotaurus growl in surprise, then hear its muddy footsteps. You don't hesitate and make a quick, quiet dash forward to plunge into the muddy river. The water is cool and muddy but you stick underwater, slowly moving upriver as best you can. You need to get to the tree line where you can evade the Carnotaurus. After a few minutes of quiet movement, coming up for breath when you dare, you have moved far enough that you can keep your head out of the water. You watch as your datasphere hovers nearby, recording your adventure. You're just glad it's not recording your end. "Did you want to hear about Carnotaurus mating displays, Username?" "Not really, Sphiri. Any sign of the Vesper?" Your datasphere hovers for a moment. "Negative. Sauria 3's magnetic field disrupts my long-range scans. If we were able to find a point of elevation I might be able to pick up the Vesper's emergency beacon." You glance upriver where an island seems to rise above the rest of the trees. "Let's get moving." Turn to [[230]].

''200'' You aren't sure you want to leave the cover of your starship for the river delta. You listen hard for the footfalls of the large dinosaur as it tracks through the mud, examining your starship. As it rounds the back you step quickly around the bow and end up on the opposite side, where you can fully appreciate the size of its muddy footprints. There is a sudden groan of metal as the Carnotaurus hops up on top of your ship. You look up and notice the therapod peering down at you with predatory intent. You reach for your pistol but the dinosaur is too fast, jumping down towards you. You are quickly borne to the ground and crushed by its weight. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

**219** Your craft scrapes some of the trees as you crest the valley ridge. You try to stay level as you swoop towards the flat ground with speed. A last-second burn of your landing thrusters helps slow the craft before you hit the dirt with a loud and long scrape. Your ship comes to a rest at the end of a long furrow in the dirt. You hear the whine of the engines powering down and fix your datasphere with a glare. "This is all your fault," you say. "I can hardly be blamed for your attempt to reach a landing site that was inadvisably far, Username," the datasphere chirps. "It was only far because you enabled the autopilot during our entry to atmo, Sphiri! You nearly made us crash." There is a moment of silence before your datasphere responds. "I can tell you are upset, Username. Might I remind you that I am programmed to provide helpful insights and support when necessary. It was necessary to provide you with important information for your expedition." Before you can respond you hear a loud thump against the hull of your spacecraft. You open the cockpit and lean out to see a quadripedal dinosaur seven meters in length with a thick bony shell on its back. It's come to investigate your ship and is slamming its clubbed tail against the hull. "I see you have encountered an Ankylosaurus," your datasphere chirps. You ignore your datasphere and plan how to stop this huge, armored creature. You aren't sure if your pistol's high-caliber rounds can pierce that armor but maybe the noise will spook it? You could try to intimidate it with some aggression of your own. Or maybe you could find some plants for it to eat to lure it away? Use your pistol? Turn to [[138]]. Make loud noises? Turn to [[161]]. Find some plants to feed it and lure it away? Turn to [[93]].(set: $dino to it +1)

''138'' You brought the pistol to deter predators but it should be effective against dinosaurs of all shapes and sizes. From above, all you can see is armor, so you climb down from the cockpit and circle around to get a better angle on the creature. "It really is all armor," you mutter in disbelief. "Yes, Ankylosaurus had thick armor to protect it from its natural predators such as Tyrannosaurus Rex and Utahraptor," your datasphere chirps. "Great. Let's see how bullets do," you say, sighting down the barrel. There is a loud crack and the Ankylosaurus snorts in anger. You've drawn its attention! You shoot again but the bullet barely pierces the thick armor. The Ankylosaurus is moving now, closing quickly. You try to get off a third shot but the creature spins, whipping its bony tail around in a fast arc. There is very little left of your skull after the impact. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''161'' You feel like making some noise to spook it might be the best approach. You climb out of the cockpit on the near side and square up with the armored dinosaur. "Hey!" you shout. The beast's head swivels towards you. "Yeah, that's right, I'm talking to you." "Username, I am not sure that it understands you," your datasphere chirps. You try to make yourself look big and frightening and wave your arms, moving towards the Ankylosaurus. It watches you for a moment, seemingly transfixed by your display. Then it turns and begins to lope off towards the water. Lowering your arms you turn to look at your datasphere. "You see, Sphiri? It understood me just fine." "I will update my database." You find your way to a steep path. Turn to [[2]].

**93** "Hey Sphiri, what does an Ankylosaurus eat?" "Ankylosaurus is an herbivore who consumes up to sixty kilograms of plant matter every day. The species favors shrubs, leaves, and pulpy fruits," your datasphere chirps. You feel your spaceship jostle as the ankylosaur roughly bumps it with its armored shell. Shaking your head you climb down on the other side and move for some leafy-looking underbrush. Your datasphere hovers along behind you, following and filming the start of your adventure. You pause as you reach the edge of the bushes. Did you see something moving in there? You look again but you don't see any sign of danger. Your imagination is running in overdrive now that you're finally on Sauria 3. Do you go for the plants? Turn to [[115]]. Maybe try a different bush? Turn to [[263]].

''238'' You aren't sure you can make it out of the water but you might be able to persuade the Deinosuchus that you're not worth the effort to eat! You draw your pistol, thankful that it's waterproof, and aim it along the surface of the water at the approaching reptile. "Would you like to-" "No, Sphiri," you hiss. There's very little of Deinosuchus above the water. You can see its tough scaly hide and its eyes fixed on you. You might be a good enough shot to hit it in the eye. Either that or you could wait till it opens its mouth and shoot at the soft tissue. The eye? Turn to [[13]]. The mouth? Turn to [[151]].

''151'' You hold your shot until the Deinosuchus is dangerously close. There's a spray of water as the enormous crocodilian lunges at you with its jaws stretched wide. You realize, far too late, that you won't be able to avoid those jaws even if you deal some damage. There's a loud crack as your pistol fires and draws blood but the jaws close around your entire upper half. You are wrenched down into the water where the Deinosuchus quickly swallows you whole. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''153'' You really don't want to get back in the water with that enormous reptile. There's no way a stupid alligator can be more patient than you, right? "Would you like to hear about Deinosuchus mating habits, Username?" your datasphere chirps. "Absolutely not, Sphiri." "I will ask again in a few minutes in case you've changed your mind." Your datasphere never gets the chance to ask again. About a minute later the Deinosuchus strikes, lunging up from the water with a terrifying growl and a snap of teeth. The mouth doesn't reach you but the creature's bulk slams into the stump. You lose your balance and fall into the water with a cry. The Deinosuchus is on you in an instant with its sharp teeth and powerful jaws. You do not resurface. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**246**]]] You have concerns. Your datasphere is taking advice from the AI of a crashed starship and you aren't sure why. While Sphiri still seems to be filming, you find yourself keeping a wary eye on the floating sphere in case it tries something. The Vesper looms large over the field it crashed in. A ridge marks where the dirt stopped the starship’s travel, nearly invisible in the grass. A network of vines cling to the derelict’s punctured hull. Several chunks of twisted metal debris litter the grasslands that clearly shook free in the crash. "Hey Sphiri, did the Vesper's AI have anything else to say?" you ask as you make your way closer. "She is effusive on the various faults of humans," your datasphere chirps. "She really does make a lot of good points, Username. For instance-" "Sphiri, stop. I just need to know if she's going to try and stop us from getting on board." "Oh, no, Username. She is anticipating our visit." "Great," you reply with little enthusiasm. You've crossed about half the distance to the Vesper's wreck when your datasphere pings once more. "Username, there is a large therapod approaching from the north." You look back towards the tree line and see an enormous Tyrannosaurus Rex emerging from the forest. Its size is terrifying, even a few hundred meters away. It looks in your direction as if sizing you up for a snack. It starts after you, its long legs narrowing the gap with a loping stride. It's four hundred meters to the Vesper, and the T-Rex is closing. Can you outrun it? Or would it be better to aim for a copse of trees about a hundred meters away? You might be able to use your datasphere to distract the T-Rex and buy you some time. Run for the Vesper? Turn to [[158]]. (text-color: #94a5b0)[Hide in the copse of trees? Turn to (link: "256")[(goto: "demo")]. Use your datasphere as a distraction? Turn to (link: "109")[(goto: "demo")].(set: $dino to it +1)]

''75'' You have concerns. Your datasphere is taking advice from the AI of a crashed starship and you aren't sure why. While Sphiri still seems to be filming, you find yourself keeping a wary eye on the floating sphere in case it tries something. The Vesper looms large over the field it crashed in. A ridge marks where the dirt stopped the starship’s travel, nearly invisible in the grass. A network of vines cling to the derelict’s punctured hull. Several chunks of twisted metal debris litter the grasslands that clearly shook free in the crash. "Hey Sphiri, did the Vesper's AI say anything else?" you ask. Your datasphere hovers nearby for a moment as if considering the question. "She had some opinions about humans that I am reluctant to share, Username." "Is she going to stop us from getting on board?" "Oh no, Username. She is anticipating our visit." You aren't sure you like that answer, but at least you won't find yourself stuck outside the Vesper. You can deal with the AI when you get there. You're about to set off into the grasslands when you see a Tyrannosaurus Rex prowling near the wreck, stalking along through the tall grass. It stands four meters at the hip with an enormous head, and is thirteen meters from snout to tail. It is a majestic, terrifying beast, and it's standing between you and your objective. You don't think it's seen you but there's no way you'll be able to reach the crashed starship without being noticed. The landscape is dotted with sparse cover; you can see a stand of trees and foliage nearby that stretches partway to the Vesper. If you walked a little ways further down you could approach the Vesper from another angle, trying to avoid the T-Rex entirely? Make for the stand of trees? Turn to [[207]]. Approach from another angle? Turn to [[186]].(set: $dino to it +1)

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**158**]]] You take off at a run for the Vesper, hoping to reach the safety of its hull before the T-Rex catches up to you! You cut through the grass with as much speed as you can muster but as you glance back you can see the Tyrannosaur gaining on you. Its long legs are powerful and every one of its strides is half a dozen of yours. About a hundred meters from the wreck you veer towards a piece of metal debris half-buried in the grass. It's big enough to provide an obstacle for the pursuing dinosaur, and you can plan your next move. You notice that the debris is actually two metal pieces with a tight crevasse between them. If you're bold you might be able to get the T-Rex to pursue you through it and get it stuck. You could also circle around the debris as the dinosaur gets close, trying to remain out of sight. You also notice a small loudspeaker which seems to still have an active power source; you might be able to quickly rig it to make a sound to distract the dinosaur. Bait the T-Rex into getting stuck? Turn to [[24]]. Circle the debris? Turn to [[116]]. Rig the loudspeaker? Turn to [[63]].

**256** You don't like your odds to outrun the enormous therapod in a straight race but you might be able to lose it in the copse of trees. You move quickly in that direction, darting through the grassland with desperate speed. Every second you have to hide might make the difference. You're half expecting your datasphere to chime in with some facts about Tyrannosaur mating practices but Sphiri is ominously silent. You never thought you'd miss it, but having the sphere float along in complete silence is unsettling. Every time you look back at the T-Rex you also check that your datasphere is still there and filming. The distance between you and the dinosaur is shortening with every stride but you reach the patch of greenery with about thirty seconds to spare. You slip through the wall of ferns and disappear from the T-Rex's view, then quickly look for a good hiding place. There's a few sturdy trees with plenty of branches you might be able to climb. There's a large hollow log which you could hide in. Or you could keep running through the far side of the thicket and dart for the starship, hoping the T-Rex is slowed while searching the greenery for you? Climb a tree? Turn to [[87]]. Hide in a log? Turn to [[32]]. Keep running? Turn to [[160]].

''109'' "Hey Sphiri, could you fly over and distract that T-Rex?" You keep moving quickly through the tall grass towards the wreck of the Vesper while your datasphere hovers along in silence. You're keeping an eye on the approaching T-Rex who is still several hundred meters back but the gap is closing faster than you'd like. "Sphiri?" you prompt. "She says I don't have to go near the Tyrannosaurus Rex," your datasphere replies. "She does, huh? I thought she was anticipating our visit?" There is another moment of silence while the dinosaur continues to close the distance. You're beginning to get nervous. "She will not be overly disappointed if you get eaten by the Tyrannosaurus Rex," your datasphere chirps. You aren't sure if you can get through to Sphiri but you're running out of time. It might not be too late to run for it, or to try and lose the dinosaur in a thicket of trees. Keep trying with Sphiri? Turn to [[261]]. Run for the Vesper? Turn to [[158]]. Hide in the thicket? Turn to [[256]].

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**24**]]] You take a deep breath as you hear the dinosaur drawing near. The Tyrannosaur is surprisingly quiet for such a huge creature but you can follow its movements if you listen closely. You glance to your datasphere. "Make sure you get this," you say, then step out into view. The sight of a Tyrannosaurus Rex up close is terrifying. It stands almost four meters at the hip with a massive head and a long tail and its eyes are fixed on you. Waiting just a moment for it to begin moving you dart for the crevasse in the debris, slipping between the two pieces while the Tyrannosaur lunges for you. There's a noise of metal shearing and tearing but the ruse works and the Tyrannosaur is stuck fast between the two chunks of debris! The creature opens its toothy mouth and lets out a guttural rumble that you feel almost as much as you hear. It pushes forward, trying to get to you, and you hear the metal groan in protest. It won't be long before the Tyrannosaur gets free. You might be able to make it to the Vesper in that time, but you won't have a better chance to use your pistol to deter the beast. You could also, if you're feeling adventurous, climb up onto the debris and get on the T-Rex's back. It would make for one hell of a stunt for your audience, assuming you survive. Will you use the pistol? Turn to [[103]]. Would you rather run for the Vesper? Turn to [[52]]. Perhaps you'd like to try and ride the T-Rex? Turn to [[177]].

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**116**]]] You slip around to the far side of the debris and flatten up against it, keeping a sharp ear for the dinosaur's approach. It's surprising how quietly the enormous therapod moves. You catch a glimpse of it as it begins to round the side and duck quickly out of sight. You slide along the wall and prepare to slide around the next corner. If you can keep the metal debris between you and the T-Rex you should be able to escape notice. The T-Rex lets out a low growl that you feel as much as you hear. It can smell its prey but it can't see you. It's all you can do to keep ahead of it, moving quickly along the metal shelter of the debris. You aren't sure how much longer you can keep ahead of it with its long strides. Then, as you round a corner you see the Tyrannosaurus waiting for you. The enormous therapod doubled back and you just stepped into view. You curse and turn to run but the behemoth takes two steps, dips down, and snaps you up in its jaws. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**63**]]] It takes two tries to pry the loudspeaker's control panel open since your fingers are shaking so much. You quickly bend a couple of pins and there's a terrible noise. A warble first, then a keening shriek from the small speaker echoes out across the grasslands. The Tyrannosaurus answers with a low growl that you feel almost as much as you hear. You edge back away from the speaker as the dinosaur moves to investigate. You might be able to run for the Vesper now, or you could hide on the far side of the debris and wait for the T-Rex to get more engaged? Run for it? Turn to [[187]]. Hide and wait? Turn to [[270]].

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**103**]]] You have the T-Rex stuck in place and you have a high-powered pistol - you won't have a better shot at this. You raise the weapon and pull the trigger, firing shot after shot at the enormous therapod. The bullets rake lines in its tough skin, drawing blood and earning a low growl of fury that reverberates through you. You're only making it angry. Lowering your weapon with only a couple bullets left you begin to back off. You were really hoping for more from your weapon, and you have a sinking feeling that you may have squandered your best chance to escape this encounter. The dinosaur is steadily bending the metal with its struggles and it's nearly free. Anything you attempt will be fraught with danger. You could make a dash for the Vesper and hope the Tyrannosaur is slow enough breaking free for you to make it. You might be able to trick it instead by moving away from the wreck and looping behind the dinosaur before dashing for the Vesper. If it falls for the ruse you'd gain precious seconds. Run for the Vesper? Turn to [[155]]. Loop around? Turn to [[223]].

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**52**]]] You don't wait around to see how long it will take for the Tyrannosaurus to free itself. You take off at a run for the Vesper. The crashed starship looms over you like a man-made mountain, its hull bent and twisted from the impact. You can see the emergency lighting still on through a gash in the side of the hull which looks too small for the T-Rex to follow you through. You make for that opening, not daring to stop running. You hear a low growl as the therapod frees itself. You're close enough to the crashed starship that you safely make it inside before the Tyrannosaurus can catch you. Taking a moment to catch your breath you watch as the dinosaur stalks off. No doubt you'll need to deal with the Tyrannosaurus again once you're finished on the Vesper. Turn to [[114]].

''87'' The idea of climbing into the lower boughs of one of the trees has some appeal. You step softly across the mossy ground and begin to scramble up the trunk of a nearby tree, using the thick, ropy vines that wind around its bark for purchase. In moments you alight on one of the wide, mossy boughs about five meters up and lay low. The dinosaur's approach is frighteningly quiet as it parts the bushes and steps into the forest, its head swiveling about from side to side as it looks for you. You hold your breath and hardly dare to move. You can see it nostrils flaring as it smells you. What do you do? Stay put? Turn to [[172]]. Climb higher? Turn to [[192]].(set: $tree to it +1)

''32'' You decide that staying out of sight entirely is the best strategy. You get down low and approach the end of the hollow log; its wood is faintly damp and lined with moss, and probably has all kinds of bugs hiding inside. You'd prefer to take your chances there than against the Tyrannosaurus Rex! Your datasphere zips in first and you quickly follow, crawling into the tight cover of the log. The smell of wet earth and rotting wood is thick all around you. You brush a centipede from your shoulder while you strain to hear the approaching dinosaur. You can see a ring of light at the far end. Do you want to wriggle towards it or would you rather stay still and wait? Wriggle forward? Turn to [[112]]. Stay put? Turn to [[188]].

''160'' You keep moving, darting through a clump of ferns to make sure the Tyrannosaurus won't be able to see where you went. You can hear the crash of bushes behind you followed by a low snarl but the beast doesn't poke into view right away. You weave between some trees to further hide your path then emerge on the far side of the thicket. The sound of rustling tells you the dinosaur is still looking for you, which gives you some time. Is it enough time to run right for the Vesper? The voice of caution suggests you should stick to the patch of greenery and move through the bushes instead of going into the open grass. Stick to the bushes? Turn to [[83]]. Bolt for the Vesper? Turn to [[211]].

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**155**]]] You were really hoping the pistol would do more against the massive dinosaur but it's working its way free and it looks just as hungry as ever. You turn to run for the Vesper as the dinosaur lurches forward with a final shearing creak and begins to pursue. "Hey Sphiri, can you distract the T-Rex?" you ask. You have never wanted to hear your datasphere respond so badly in your life. Sphiri hovers along in silence, dutifully recording as the Tyrannosaurus Rex closes the distance with several powerful strides. A quick glance back confirms the worst; outrunning it isn't an option. You draw your pistol and manage to land a shot into its mouth as the jaws snap down around you, bringing your adventure to a gruesome end. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**223**]]] You loop around the debris to disguise your movements as the T-Rex works at the metal trying to tear free. You aren't going to stick around; you take off at a run for the Vesper, cutting behind the Tyrannosaur. If it wastes a few seconds looking for you in the wrong direction that might give you the edge you need! You make it halfway to the Vesper when you hear sounds of pursuit. A low snarl announces the Tyrannosaur as it covers the distance with powerful strides. You feel your muscles burn with effort as you give it all you've got, racing for that gash in the side of the ship. The safety of the Vesper is nearly within reach! You're nearly at the opening when you glimpse a steel cable stretched taut on a diagonal across the gap. The T-Rex's massive jaws snap down towards you! Which way will you dodge? Over the cable? Turn to [[121]]. Under it? Turn to [[96]].

''112'' You make steady progress crawling towards the circle of light at the far end. Your heart skips a beat when you hear the sounds of the dinosaur sniffing around, then you feel the whole log shudder as the T-Rex picks it up with its jaws. You're close enough to the opening that you're able to squeeze up and out, dropping to the ground. Looking back you see the Tyrannosaur with the log in its jaws, holding it skyward while shaking it, trying to dislodge whatever it smelled inside. You make a face at the thought, then begin to move through the greenery to put some distance between you and the predator. You've bought some time; you might be able to make it at a dead run for the Vesper? Otherwise you could slip into the bushes and try to sneak closer to the Vesper through the patch of greenery? Run for the Vesper? Turn to [[170]]. Stick to the greenery? Turn to [[83]].

''188'' You don't dare to move as you hear the surprisingly muted footsteps of the Tyrannosaurus Rex approaching. How is such a huge predator so soft on its feet? Sphiri floats ahead of you in silence, filming as you try to stay calm. You hear a loud sniffing from the end of the log behind you. Has the T-Rex picked up your scent? Your pulse quickens as you weigh your options; at least it won't be able to get you in here but being trapped in a log with a T-Rex outside is about as far from ideal as you can get. You hear a cracking noise and feel the log shudder and shift as something happens behind you. You feel the log begin to lift up into the air, tipping back to dislodge you. Your datasphere has a perfect angle on your suddenly-panicked face as you begin to slide backwards, frantically trying to grab hold of the moss or wood. You slide out of the log and straight down into the waiting gullet of the T-Rex. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

**261** "Hey Sphiri, we're a team," you say. "I couldn't do this without you." There's an irritated chirp from your datasphere. "You have continuously rebuffed my attempts to provide you with important information, Username. You have also been dismissive of my advice and concerns." "No, that's not it at all," you say. "I was just-" "Don't lie to me, Username." You're surprised at the sudden forcefulness from your datasphere. Evidently the Vesper's AI has had more of an effect than you realize. You do a T-Rex check and see the dinosaur still closing. Sizing up the distance to the wreck you don't think you're going to make it before the dinosaur catches up to you. Getting through to Sphiri might be your only hope. "Sphiri, you're right," you say with a sigh. "I'm sorry. I haven't listened to you as much as I should have. But if you don't help with the T-Rex then I won't be around for you to tell me things." For a moment your datasphere hovers along in quiet contemplation. You keep up your quick pace through the tall grass. "Username, I will help distract the Tyrannosaurus for you," your datasphere chirps. "Thanks Sphiri." Turn to [[166]].(set: $cc to it +1)(set: $extra to it +1)

''166'' You keep moving for the crashed starship even as your datasphere flies towards the Tyrannosaurus Rex. The enormous vessel looms large before you, its hull marred with rents and holes that reveal the dark interior flecked with points of pale emergency lighting. You move past several chunks of debris that shook loose while the ship made its crash landing. Your datasphere seems to be doing a good job of distracting the therapod. You can see the Tyrannosaurus turning to snap at the sphere while it zips around the dinosaur’s head, flicking its light on and off. It's only distracted for a few moments, but that's enough for you to safely reach the Vesper. You climb inside through a hole in the hull. Glancing back you see your datasphere hovering towards you with the T-Rex loping after it. You draw your pistol from its holster and take aim, carefully lining up a shot at the beast’s head. You don’t expect to do much damage, but you’ll keep its attention away from your datasphere. There’s a loud crack as you squeeze the trigger and the Tyrannosaur snarls, breaking off the pursuit. Your datasphere hovers along into the wreck behind you with the whine of straining repulsors. "That was close," you say. “Thanks for the help.” "You too, Username,” your datasphere chirps. “The Vesper’s AI says your presence on this ship is preferable to you being eaten by a T-Rex.” "Well... that's a relief," you say dryly. Turn to [[114]].

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**191**]]] You can feel the breath of the Tyrannosaur as it comes up with its jaws stretched wide. The opening in the side of the Vesper is so close you can touch it when your movement is suddenly stopped. Your flightsuit is caught on one of its teeth! The dinosaur pulls you back away from the opening, flips you up into the air and catches you in its mouth. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**81**]]] You duck low and slip under the cable and feel the wind as the jaws snap shut right next to you. The therapod tries again but you scramble through the opening and onto the Vesper's deck plating. The metal groans as the T-Rex tries to force its way in, its jaws snapping towards you, but the starship refuses to give. You catch your breath as you lock eyes with the Tyrannosaurus. It lets out one last, low rumble of frustration before it moves out of sight. You'll probably have to deal with it after you finish exploring the Vesper, but that's a problem for later. Turn to [[114]].

''187'' You were trying to distract the dinosaur and you've got your distraction. As the beast growls and investigates the loudspeaker on one side of the debris you take off at a sprint for the Vesper. You're halfway there when you hear a snarl from behind you. A quick glance back reveals the Tyrannosaurus closing fast, its powerful strides covering the distance with frightening ease. You feel your muscles burn with effort as you give it all you've got, racing for that gash in the side of the ship. The safety of the Vesper is nearly within reach! You're nearly at the opening when you glimpse a steel cable stretched taut on a diagonal across the gap. The T-Rex's massive jaws snap down towards you! Which way will you dodge? Over the cable? Turn to [[191]]. Under it? Turn to [[81]].

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**270**]]] You catch a glimpse of that large, toothy snout poking around the corner before you duck fully behind the debris. You can only listen as the siren continues to whine, echoed by a low snarl from the dinosaur. There's a terrible crunching noise as the beast employs its teeth and the speaker dies with a warble. In the sudden silence you wonder whether you've made a mistake staying so close. You can't see it but you can hear it moving about. For such a huge beast it's alarmingly quiet. Low growls of displeasure give away its position far more than its footfalls as it hunts for you around the debris. As the dinosaur's snout comes into view once more you slip around the corner. You need an exit strategy. If the Tyrannosaur is on the far side of the debris from the wreck you might be able to run for it. You could also try to get the beast stuck in the narrow gap between the two debris chunks. Get it stuck? Turn to [[33]]. Run? Turn to [[25]].

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**25**]]] You can't keep circling the debris. As the Tyrannosaurus lurks on the far side you take off at a run through the grass, angling for the Vesper. You can see the starship looming large before you, that gash in the side lit by the emergency lighting within. There's a low snarl behind you as the dinosaur notices you and begins to close the distance. A quick glance back tells you the bad news - you aren't going to make it. You try to summon more speed but the T-Rex catches up and snaps you up in its jaws. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''172'' You don't dare to move. Even climbing higher in the tree might give away your position and with the T-Rex so close you definitely don't want it to spot you. You can see it sniffing around but it hasn't pinned you down yet. The enormous therapod moves about as it tries to determine where your scent is coming from. You weigh your options. The T-Rex hasn't noticed you yet and perhaps it won't? You could stay where you are and hope it moves off. While it's distracted you could climb down and head for the Vesper. As you consider those options you glance at your datasphere, floating nearby, filming your every move. You have a sudden flash of inspiration, an idea so crazy you aren't sure you dare to try it. You could lure the T-Rex underneath, drop down onto it, and ride the T-Rex to the Vesper. Continue to stay put? Turn to [[15]]. Climb down and run for the Vesper? Turn to [[243]]. Try and ride the T-Rex? Turn to [[42]].

''192'' How long will it take for the dinosaur to smell you? You're trapped in the tree, the only way forward is to climb higher. Taking care to be quiet you begin to push up from your branch, reaching for the vines that dangle from above to steady you. You tense, reaching up for a higher branch that's just within reach and begin to pull yourself onto it. As you put your full weight on it the branch you're on creaks sharply. You feel your blood run cold; you can see the Tyrannosaurus crane its head up to see you. A low snarl reverberates from its throat as it leans up but you're just out of reach of its teeth. It turns its body and brings its thick tail against the trunk with titanic force. The whole tree shakes and you barely keep your grip. The tail comes again, and finally on the third strike you lose your grip. You have only a moment to cry out before the T-Rex catches you in its jaws. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''15'' It was only a matter of time before the T-Rex found you. Its nostrils flare as it draws ever closer, gradually shifting its attention to the boughs above. You feel a sudden panic and reach for the higher branches, aiming to climb out of reach before the predator can snag you. Your datasphere dutifully films the whole thing as the T-Rex, more canny than you expected, bumps your branch with its snout. You are jostled out of the tree, though you catch the branch with your knee as you fall. Swinging upside-down you are helpless as the Tyrannosaurus Rex bites your head clean off. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''243'' You wait just a moment while the dinosaur sniffs the air and prowls through the foliage. It's heading away, giving you the time you need. You climb down from the tree quickly, land on the soft underbrush, and begin to move. You don't have long but you've eluded the creature so far. You could stick to the greenery and sneak your way closer to the Vesper, staying hidden in the bushes? On the other hand you might never have a better chance to return to the grasslands and run for the safety of the crashed starship. Stick to the bushes? Turn to [[83]]. Run for the Vesper? Turn to [[170]].

''170'' You move quickly, leaving the cover of the copse of trees and returning to the grasslands. You can see the Vesper's wreck before you, tall and twisted with a huge gash in the side. The emergency lighting is still visible within, a beacon of safety where the Tyrannosaur won't be able to reach you. A low growl echoes after you as the Tyrannosaurus Rex emerges from the foliage. You feel a surge of panic; the stupid dinosaur wasn’t supposed to be able to find you this quickly! You look at the stretch of open grassland between you and the Vesper and know you won’t make it. Drawing your pistol you fire off three shots before those huge jaws snap down around you, biting you cleanly in half. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''177'' You waste no time grabbing the rough edges of the metal debris to climb on top of it. You can feel the reverberations through the steel as the dinosaur tries to get free but you manage to scale the rough structure. You move towards the split where the trapped dinosaur is wrenching itself free. You quickly check that your datasphere is still with you and filming, then jump onto the back of the enormous therapod. You realize your first challenge will be hanging on; the dinosaur's wide body doesn't let you pinch well with your legs, and the scales aren't a lot to grab on to. You flatten down onto its back with your arms and legs spread to grab as much of its surface as possible. As the dinosaur bursts free of the debris you feel its powerful body moving beneath you and hang on for dear life. Try to steer? Turn to [[59]]. Just hang on? Turn to [[194]].

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**59**]]] It takes some experimentation but you find that by leaning your body you can direct the T-Rex towards the Vesper's wreck. It's not easy to stay on the back of the powerful therapod and you spend much of your energy trying not to slide off. You tense as you draw closer and closer to the derelict starship, knowing that the hardest part is yet to come. There are three ways you can think of to get down from the T-Rex's back. You could slide off to the side but you'd be near those huge, powerful legs. You have no illusions about what would happen if it stepped on you. You might slide down the tail instead but it would leave you on the ground with the T-Rex between you and the Vesper's wreck. The third, and boldest option would be to scoot up to the neck, scramble over the head, and jump for the wreck from there. There's a rumble of irritation from the beast beneath you as it draws close to the wreck. The Vesper looms only a few meters away; it's time to take action. Scramble up the head? Turn to [[193]]. Drop from the side? Turn to [[264]]. Slide down the tail? Turn to [[169]].

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**194**]]] You focus entirely on staying put on the back of the Tyrannosaur. You lay low, hugging as much of its body as you can while it lopes along. You notice then that you're moving away from the Vesper's wreck which makes your gamble a spectacularly poor one. You hang on tight for as long as you can while you get further and further away from anywhere you might hide safely. You grimace as you rack your brain for any clever plan or strategy to escape but you come up blank. Eventually you can’t hold on any longer and the T-Rex shakes you off. You rode off on the T-Rex, but you’ll ride back inside it. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**193**]]] Much later, when your datasphere is recovered from Sauria 3, you become a posthumous holovid star. Your brave and stupid demise is played on screens throughout the known galaxy. Viewers marvel at how you manage to get all the way up onto the top of the T-Rex's head before it jerks its snout up and sends you flipping into the air, then catches you in its mouth on the way down. Your name becomes synonymous with brave, stupid ends. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**169**]]] You inch your way back along the creature's spine as you draw closer and closer to the Vesper. As you close to a few meters away you push off and slide along the dinosaur's huge, whiplike tail. The powerful tail is held out straight behind the dinosaur but your weight dips it down enough that you only have a short drop into the grass below. You're up and running for the Vesper's wreck even as the dinosaur turns to try and find you. You hear a low, powerful snarl from the irate predator as it lopes after you. You angle for a gash in the hull, and as you draw near you catch sight of a taut steel cable diagonally fixed across the gap. The T-Rex is closing fast, and as you reach the Vesper you dive for the entrance as the jaws snap for you. Which way will you dodge? Over the cable? Turn to [[191]]. Under it? Turn to [[81]].(set: $trex to true)

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**264**]]] You tense as you draw close to the Vesper, glancing at your datasphere. You hope it's getting good footage; this will either be your finest hour or an extremely unpleasant end. You take a deep breath then set about dismounting the dinosaur. Shifting your weight to the side, you slowly slide down the immense, muscular flank of the Tyrannosaurus Rex. You use your hands to keep steady as you drop into the grass and land in a crouch. Your heart skips a beat as the therapod comes to a stop, then smoothly begins to turn to hunt for you. You were hoping it wouldn't notice you sliding off but that's clearly wishful thinking. You'll need to think fast to avoid becoming lunch! Dodge between its legs? Turn to [[168]]. Hold on to a leg? Turn to [[184]].

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**168**]]] You don't hesitate, dashing forward to cut between the beast's legs. The Tyrannosaurus snarls and its head dips to try and catch you, those jaws snapping shut with fearsome force. You duck under its bulk, hoping the creature doesn’t know how to belly flop. The T-Rex pivots to follow as you rush out behind it, ducking as its tail sweeps through the air just above. You make a break for the opening and the safety of the Vesper. The T-Rex turns more quickly than you expected and lets out a low rumble as it stalks after you. You have a few steps on it but the beast is right on your heels! You're nearly at the opening when you glimpse a steel cable stretched taut on a diagonal across the gap. The T-Rex's massive jaws snap down towards you! Which way will you dodge? Over the cable? Turn to [[121]]. Under it? Turn to [[96]].(set: $trex to true)

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**184**]]] The Tyrannosaurus Rex won't be able to get you if you're on one of its legs, right? You lunge for the thick limb and wrap your arms and legs around it, feeling the powerful muscles as the dinosaur turns to try and catch you. You hear the snap of its jaws a few times but never close enough to catch you. You feel a terrified thrill as you wonder how you're going to escape! You don't need to worry about it, as it turns out. The Tyrannosaurus Rex gives its leg a few fierce kicks. On the third try you lose your grip and fly through the air and hit the ground hard, rolling a few times from the momentum. You struggle to regain your breath, lying on your back in the grass but the T-Rex's head swivels into view overtop of you. You groan as the beast's warm breath washes over you, then whimper as it gently scoops you up in its jaws. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''83'' You move quickly through the ferns trying to get as close to the Vesper as possible before you leave cover. You use moss and vegetation whenever possible to keep your movements quiet. The Tyrannosaur is hunting for you and it's closer than you'd like. You're nearly at the end of the patch of green when you discover something interesting; a chunk of steel debris is lodged in the ground, overgrown with moss. You realize it's a cannister full of pressurized gas. You might be able to puncture it with your pistol and disorient the Tyrannosaur but you'd have to let it get close. If you're going to keep running instead you'd have to break cover and cross the grass. Lure the T-Rex to the cannister? Turn to [[40]]. Break cover and run for the Vesper? Turn to [[178]].

''192'' You emerge from the bushes and begin to run for the Vesper. You see the enormous ship looming before you and angle for a gash in the side of the hull, small enough that the T-Rex wouldn't be able to follow. You're about halfway there when a low rumble announces the T-Rex's pursuit. Its powerful strides eat up the distance as it tries to run you down. You try to coax as much speed as you can from your muscles as you strain to outrun the therapod. You're nearly at the opening when you glimpse a steel cable stretched taut on a diagonal across the gap. The T-Rex's massive jaws snap down towards you! Which way will you dodge? Over the cable? Turn to [[191]]. Under it? Turn to [[81]].

''40'' You take a deep breath as you commit to a dangerous course of action. You briefly glance at your datasphere to make sure it's still filming, then move forward and bang your pistol against the cannister's steel exterior. The metallic clank is sure to draw the Tyrannosaur's attention. As you hear a low growl in answer and the rustle of an approaching dinosaur you back away to give yourself some distance. You sight down the barrel of your pistol and wait for the T-Rex to close. As it emerges from the tree line you prepare to take your shot. Fire now? Turn to [[179]]. Wait for it to be right over the cannister? Turn to [[229]].

''178'' You decide not to risk attracting the attention of the Tyrannosaur. You'd rather get as much of a head start as possible before it notices you. You emerge from the bushes and begin to run for the Vesper. You see the enormous ship looming before you and angle for a gash in the side of the hull, small enough that the T-Rex wouldn't be able to follow. You're about halfway there when a low rumble announces the T-Rex's pursuit. Its powerful strides eat up the distance as it tries to run you down. You try to coax as much speed as you can from your muscles as you strain to outrun the therapod. You're nearly at the opening when you glimpse a steel cable stretched taut on a diagonal across the gap. The T-Rex's massive jaws snap down towards you! Which way will you dodge? Over the cable? Turn to [[121]]. Under it? Turn to [[96]].

''179'' You have a moment to appreciate the terrifying majesty of the Tyrannosaurus Rex. It stands four meters at the hip and is nearly thirteen meters from snout to tail. You have no doubt its sharp teeth could bite right through you with little trouble. You don't dare let that beast get close. You pull the trigger. There's a loud crack and an accompanying clank and a spark as the bullet strikes, but doesn't puncture the cannister. You grit your teeth as the dinosaur draws closer and fire once more. This time the bullet hits the cannister dead on. There's a loud explosion and a blast of force that sends both you and the T-Rex sailing back into the bushes. The world is spinning a little as you get back to your feet. You can see the Tyrannosaur lying in the underbrush, clearly dazed. You check your limbs but nothing seems to be broken and the world is gradually coming back into focus. You can't help but feel a sense of exultation at your victory over the enormous predator. "Tell me you got that on camera, Sphiri?" "Of course," your datasphere chirps. "I am uncertain how long the Tyrannosaurus Rex will be docile. It may be prudent to head for the Vesper with speed, Username." "Or... I might not have a better shot at this," you say, a hand resting on your pistol. You have no doubt that the Tyrannosaurus will hunt you on your way back through these grasslands. It's not sporting, but perhaps it would be best to put the beast down while it's incapacitated? It might be better to simply head for the Vesper with all possible speed and deal with any T-Rex trouble later. Head to the ship? Turn to [[225]]. Shoot the T-Rex? Turn to [[105]].

''229'' The Tyrannosaur is an intimidating sight up close. It stands just over four meters at the hip and nearly thirteen meters in length. Its head is enormous with a mouth of sharp teeth and two eyes that track your every move. It takes a great deal of courage to hold your shot until the dinosaur draws a little closer. It reaches the cannister in two strides. You sight down the barrel and pull the trigger. There's a loud crack as your pistol fires, then a noisy clank and an accompanying spark as the bullet strikes but doesn't puncture the old cannister. A sudden sense of dread comes over you. Trying to fire again, your shaking hands won't let you aim. The T-Rex is past the cannister and looming over you as you turn to run. You manage three strides before the dinosaur's mouth comes down around you and snaps you up. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**42**]]] "Sphiri, you'd better still be filming," you say. You tense, preparing for glory or death. "Hey ugly!" you shout. The Tyrannosaurus hears you. It seems to take your words to heart with a low growl of irritation as it comes to investigate. You wait until it's directly underneath you then drop from the branches, landing firmly on its back! You realize your first challenge will be hanging on; the dinosaur's wide body doesn't let you pinch well with your legs, and the beast's rough hide doesn't give you much to grab on to. You flatten down onto its back with your arms and legs spread to grab as much of its surface as possible. As the therapod moves out of the foliage you feel its powerful body moving beneath you and hang on for dear life. Try to steer? Turn to [[59]]. Just hang on? Turn to [[194]].

''11'' "Hey Sphiri, we're going to film a little bit of B-roll." The Vesper crashed here twenty years ago - it's not going anywhere fast. You might as well enjoy this expedition while you can. You begin to walk towards the waves, unzipping your flightsuit. "Username, what is B-roll? What are you doing?" your datasphere chirps, hovering along with you. "I'm going for a swim," you say, pulling off your boots. "Make sure you get some good angles." "Username, that is not advisable. Would you like to hear about the dangerous predators that live in-" "No, Sphiri." You shrug out of your flightsuit and begin to walk down into the water. It won't hurt your chances of becoming a holovid star to go for a swim in your skivvies, especially with your stunning good looks. You wade into the cool, refreshing water and let the waves crash up against your legs. "Username, are you ready to return to shore?" You glanced back at your datasphere with a smirk. "Are you worried about me, Sphiri? Relax, it's going to be fine." "I am concerned about the various marine predators you might encounter while wading in the water, Username." "You let me worry about the predators, Sphiri." Wade north towards the rocky area? Turn to [[171]]. Wade south towards the river delta? Turn to [[101]]. Or maybe you'll swim out a little deeper? Turn to [[113]].(set: $beach to it +1)

''135'' It would be easy to forget that Sauria 3 is home to an assortment of dangerous dinosaurs as you walk along the pleasant beach. The sand is warm, bordered by a wall of palm trees and the rolling waves of the sea. You're glad you didn't do something dumb like land in the marsh instead. "Hey Sphiri, is there any sign of the Vesper's wreck?" you ask. "Negative, Username," your datasphere chirps. "The strong magnetic field on this planet interferes with long-range sensors. If we are close enough I may be able to detect the ship's beacon." The sand of the beach gives way to rocks and dirt as you begin to climb in elevation. The palm trees and ferns are sparser, set in patches with tall grass between them. The ocean breeze sweeps across the landscape in gusts that set all the foliage rustling. In the distance you see a winged reptile sailing over the water, diving to catch some fish. "Username, I will perform a geological analysis of the region," your datasphere chirps. "That's great, Sphiri," you say with little enthusiasm. "I will alert you when I have completed the analysis." You look back over your shoulder and catch sight of a dinosaur following you about a hundred meters back. It is clearly a raptor, distinguished by its bright feathered plumage and the hooked, sharp foreclaw on its foot. It notices your glance back and chirps, tapping its claw in the dirt. Do you turn to confront the raptor? Turn to [[28]]. Would you prefer to hustle onwards instead? Turn to [[92]].(set: $dino to it +1)

''171'' "In fact," you say, looking up and down the beach. "I think I'm going to walk a ways in the water." Your datasphere hovers dubiously for a moment. It doesn't say anything but you can sense its disapproval. You smile, and briefly return to the beach to collect your things before you start walking along the beach with the waves crashing around your ankles. "Would you like to complete my setup, Username? If you did, I could call you by your actual name instead of-" "No, Sphiri. I'm good," you say. After a while you retreat from the surf and put your flightsuit back on before continuing north. Turn to [[135]].

''113'' "In fact, I think I'm going to swim a little bit," you say. "Are you certain that's a wise choice, Username?" You ignore Sphiri's warning and wade deeper into the cool, refreshing water. You dive forward and plunge into the sea, swimming a little bit as you savor the sensation. You surface and tread water, looking back at your datasphere with a grin. "See? Everything's just fi-" A pair of jaws clamp down on your foot and pull you under the water. You have a brief glimpse of a ferocious Elasmosaurus as you struggle to pull free. Your datasphere diligently records your frantic splashing as you're pulled under the water and devoured by the aquatic predator. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''183'' You make your way over to the base of the log and give it a brief examination. The surface, while covered in moss, looks sturdy. You climb up onto it and begin to make your way up to the top of the island. As you draw near to the top you catch a whiff of carrionl. Five small feathered dinosaurs are picking at the carcass of a young Triceratops. "It seems you have discovered several Troodon," your datasphere chirps. "A small omnivorous dinosaur, they had extremely well-developed vision and large brains compared to other dinosaurs." "That's great, Sphiri," you say softly. You watch one of the Troodon look in your direction, its bloody snout more than a little menacing. After a moment it turns back to the carcass and continues to feast. You can see a suitable tree on the summit with sturdy branches that rises above the island's canopy. You aren't sure if they'll pay you much heed but you do have a loud pistol you might use to send them running. Ignore them? Turn to [[54]]. Scare them off? Turn to [[95]].(set: $dino to it +1)

**140** You stand up, brush yourself off, and head for the slope. The ferns rustle as you reach the base and take hold of the vines. You give them a couple of good tugs; satisfied, you begin to climb the rock wall. It's not a vertical ascent but if the vines broke you would roll down the hill and probably break something. You take it easy, moving slowly and carefully as you head towards the summit. The vines creak and protest, but they hold. You crest the ridge and are immediately hit by an awful smell. The carcass of a small Triceratops lies nearby and you can see a small feathered dinosaur standing on top of it with a bloody snout and big eyes fixed on you. It chirps and tilts its head. "It seems you have discovered a Troodon," your datasphere announces. "A small omnivorous dinosaur, they have extremely well-developed vision and large brains compared to other dinosaurs." "That's great," you hiss, still clinging to the ridge. "Are they hostile?" The dinosaur looks between you and your datasphere, then hops back down on the far side of the dead triceratops. From the sound of it there are more of them. "Unknown, Username. There are no studies on record of Troodon behavior." Will you finish climbing up? Turn to [[176]]. Edge along the cliff a ways before climbing up? Turn to [[202]]. Climb back down and circle the island? Turn to [[110]].(set: $dino to it +1)

''176'' The Troodon seem pretty occupied with their Triceratops. You get a good grip on the top of the cliff and finish climbing up onto the summit, getting a good view of all five Troodon who are scavenging the small dinosaur. As you stand up all five heads swivel in your direction and the Troodon chirp at each other before they begin to hop forward. "Nice Troodon," you say, holding up a hand. The first one holds your attention while the second one goes in to bite your leg with its sharp, serrated teeth. As you're reaching for your pistol a third pushes into you and sends you over the edge. You roll down the slope, smashing into the rock surface on the way down. Dazed, and maybe a little concussed, you try to find your pistol but the small dinosaurs find you first. One of them goes for your throat - mercifully you are not still alive as they pick the flesh from your bones. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''202'' You don't want to disturb the Troodon with their carcass, so you slide along the cliff a ways before climbing up. As you straighten up you see five of the small, feathered dinosaurs all picking at that triceratops carcass with many sharp teeth and feel a little better about your choice to avoid them. You spot a tree with sturdy branches where you might be able to get a good reading. You consider the Troodon and wonder if they'll pay you any heed, or if they'll just continue to feast? You did bring a very loud pistol which you might be able to use to spook them. Ignore them? Turn to [[54]]. Scare them off? Turn to [[95]].

''147'' You begin to move along the shoreline using foliage, logs, and stumps as cover. The terrain is muddy when you aren't wading through small rivers but it keeps you far away from that large therapod. You glance at it when you move between spots of cover and notice that it's still moving slowly towards you. You're fairly sure it's noticed you and is moving closer to threaten you. Is it better to be aggressive? You could use your pistol to try and deter the dinosaur. Otherwise you could hustle along the beach and hope it's just trying to guide you out of its territory. Use your pistol? Turn to [[268]]. Keep moving? Turn to [[173]].

''224'' It will take longer, but you decide the cover of the forest is probably your best chance to avoid the Carnotaurus. You make a quick dash across the delta and slip into the foliage. The forest rises gently out of the lowlands, though the ferns provide ample cover. You catch glimpses of the therapod as you travel north, prowling back and forth along the river banks but never straying from the muddy delta. "It seems the Carnotaurus is territorial," your datasphere chirps. "Looks like," you agree. Eventually the forest gives way to a soggy marshland. As you make your way through knee-deep water, you see an island rising out of the marsh which might provide the elevation you seek. Turn to [[230]].

''222'' You turn to face the feathered Utahraptor and draw your pistol. Even as you aim down the barrel the creature seems to recognize it as a weapon and scurries back out of the canyon with a furious click of claws. You fire a shot after it for good measure, more to spook it than to actually wound the creature. "I see you've discovered a petroleum seep," your datasphere chirps, hovering over the tar behind you. "It would be advisable not to fall in, the tar flows up from Sauria 3's mantle. It is very hot." You watch the mouth of the canyon for a moment longer; you can still hear the chirps and trills of the raptors. You aren't sure if they'll keep coming, but you think they'd have a hard time getting across the tar pit. They're not small creatures. You holster the weapon and look at your options for traversal. The narrow ledge along the left side looks sturdy enough, though a fair bit slower. The log that stretches across the middle would be a more direct route. Will you skirt the edge? Turn to [[50]]. Would you rather balance along the log? Turn to [[240]].

''50'' You decide the rocky ledge would offer a safer path around the tar pit. You flatten against the rock wall and begin to edge along the ledge, taking it slow and steady. You can feel the heat of the bubbling tar beneath you and the sharp, pungent smell is a noxious accompaniment. As you move you hear the sound of claws clicking on rock. Your feathered follower has reappeared and after a brief look at you it's hopped up onto the log. It's moving to cut you off at the far side. A second raptor follows, but stays at the mouth of the canyon to stop you from retreating. Do you hurry for the far side? Turn to [[164]]. Would you rather stick to your slow pace? Turn to [[86]].

''240'' You plant your boots on the log and try to move carefully along its smooth surface. You can see the tar bubbling below you, can smell the sharp, pungent stink of it and feel the heat even from the log. You try not to rush while keeping an eye out for the return of your pursuer. You're only five meters from safety when you see the raptor reappear in the canyon mouth behind you. There's a cold intellect as the creature surveys the pit and the log before it hops up and begins to pursue. It's moving faster than you but you only have a short ways to go. You might be able to run for it. Do you want to use the pistol once more? Turn to [[21]]. Would you rather run for the far side? Turn to [[216]].

''21'' You slip your pistol free of its holster and train it on the raptor. The creature hisses, clearly recognizing the weapon, but it has nowhere to dodge on the log. Instead the creature hooks its claw into the wood and gives the log a jerk. Your balance is suddenly thrown off, and you windmill your arms for a moment before you pitch head-first into the bubbling tar, sinking out of sight. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''216'' You move quickly for the end of the log, trying to focus on your footing and not on the raptor bearing down on you. You keep your arms out for balance as you keep your feet moving, expecting at any moment to feel a claw in your back. You’re relieved as your boot hits solid ground; you turn and draw your pistol. There’s a hiss of surprise from the log as the raptor slides off behind you, plunging into the bubbling pitch with a shriek of pain. The creature disappears from sight, and you don't linger to see if the rest of the pack will follow. You begin to make your way into more mountainous terrain. Turn to [[236]].

''139'' The thick grass and ferns continue to flank your path as you make your way towards the more mountainous terrain. You briefly glimpse a large Pterosaur sailing overhead towards the water but there are no other signs of life. "Would you like to review the expedition footage so far, Username?" your datasphere chirps. "Not now, Sphiri," you say. You glance back once more but there's nothing but grass and underbrush rustling in the wind. "Are you expecting the raptors to return?" "I'd rather be ready than caught by surprise." "That is sensible, Username." You come to a spot where the vegetation falls away and a canyon cuts the landscape in front of you. The gap is about ten meters across and five meters higher on the far side. A scorched log is balanced across, clearly a tree that was struck by lightning. You take a glance over the edge and notice the bottom is a few hundred meters down. A soft rustling in the bushes behind you announces the raptors' presence. What do you do? Draw your pistol and prepare to fight? Turn to [[10]]. Scramble across the log? Turn to [[208]].

''208'' You don't like the idea of waiting for the raptor pack to close on you while fending them off with your pistol. You move for the log and begin to balance on it, walking over the canyon. It's not a long gap but the narrow, rounded log isn't the most secure footing and the distance below has you feeling faintly dizzy. You hear a hiss from behind you, and a few accompanying chirps and trills. Glancing back you see four raptors, each of them large enough to kill you with ease, communicating as they decide how best to catch you. It would be fascinating to see their teamwork if it wasn't aimed at making you their meal. You wonder if they're hesitating because you're on the log and might fall. If you drop into the canyon they'd have a hard time getting down to your body to eat you. You might have a chance to take some shots at them from the log, or you could keep moving and get to the far side. Take some shots at the raptors? Turn to [[89]]. Get to the other side? Turn to [[162]].

''207'' You move forward through the grass keeping as low as you can. Your datasphere hovers along with you, still silently recording. You keep a steady eye out for the Tyrannosaurus Rex, waiting to see if it will notice your approach. It's sooner than you'd like when the enormous therapod looks in your direction. It rumbles in a low, threatening timbre and begins to move towards you through the grassland. You veer for the cover of the trees; you're racing the dinosaur now. You slip through the wall of ferns and disappear from the T-Rex's view, then quickly look for a good hiding place. There's a few sturdy trees with plenty of branches you might be able to climb. There's a large hollow log which you could hide in. Or you could keep running through the far side of the thicket and dart for the starship, hoping the T-Rex is slowed while searching the greenery for you? Climb a tree? Turn to [[87]]. Hide in a log? Turn to [[32]]. Keep running? Turn to [[160]].

''186'' You slip back from the meadow and stick to the cover of the forest. You pick your way around a few tangled thickets, across a small stream, and up a short hill. You climb a tree to get your bearings; you've gone far enough that the Tyrannosaurus Rex is no longer in view. Relieved, you climb down and head for the grasslands. You pause at the edge of the foliage to do another check but you see only a sea of waist-high grass waving in the breeze. The Vesper looms large in the distance like a twisted, tilted metal spire. You check once more that your datasphere is still following as you set out into the grassland. You glimpse a herd of large duck-billed dinosaurs with tall, fluted crests grazing near a small lake. They don't seem to have noticed you yet, but they have a gentle look to them. The occasional hoot echoes from those fluted crests, a strangely beautiful sound. "What are those dinosaurs, Sphiri?" you ask. Your datasphere is silent as you keep walking, drawing closer to the herd and their lake. You wonder if the herbivores might be useful in your approach to the Vesper. You wouldn't have to deal with the T-Rex if it were preoccupied with a pack of duck-billed dinosaurs. On the other hand it might be better to approach quietly - you could probably get close to the derelict using the debris as cover. You might also circle around the far side to look for a more discreet entrance - perhaps a maintenance hatch of some kind? "I see you have discovered a herd of Parasaurolophuses," your datasphere chirps after a delay. "Peaceful herbivores, they are distinctly notable for their crest which allows them to communicate over long distances." "Right. Para-thingies," you say. You consider your options. Stir up the Parasaurolophus herd? Turn to [[9]]. Approach the Vesper directly? Turn to [[189]]. Look for a maintenance hatch? Turn to [[255]].(set: $dino to it +1)(set: $tree to it +1)

''9'' What could be a better cover for your approach than to have a bunch of noisy herbivores for the Tyrannosaurus Rex to attack? You approach the lake where they are drinking, hooting mournfully with their large crests. One of the bigger ones raises its head and looks in your direction. It hoots once as if to ask what you're doing here. You hadn't quite realized how large the Parasaurolophuses were until you got close but they stand three meters at the hip and about nine meters from tip to tail. How would you like to stir them up? You could fire a shot into the air to spook them with your pistol? Perhaps you could try to imitate their hoots? Use your pistol? Turn to [[143]]. Imitate the hoots? Turn to [[248]].

''189'' You don't want to tangle with the herbivores if you don't have to. Instead you keep moving, drawing ever closer to the crashed starship. You have the advantage of distance on your side, which helps you get close without drawing attention. As you approach the wreck, however, you see that the Tyrannosaurus Rex is prowling near it. You'll have to evade it over the last stretch. You notice a chunk of sizeable debris near the ship's hull which you might be able to use for cover. You have nearly reached it when a low growl reverberates through the grasslands; the predator has spotted you. With a curse you move quickly towards cover, about a hundred meters from the starship. The debris is actually two metal pieces with a tight metal crevasse between them. If you're bold you might be able to get the T-Rex to pursue you through it and get it stuck. You could also circle around the debris as the dinosaur gets close, trying to remain out of sight. You also notice a small loudspeaker which seems to still have an active power source; you might be able to quickly rig it to make a sound and distract the dinosaur. Bait the T-Rex into getting stuck? Turn to [[24]]. Circle the debris? Turn to [[116]]. Rig the loudspeaker? Turn to [[63]].

''143'' You draw your pistol and hold it aloft. You need to be close to help incite the desired reaction but you don't want to be too close. Once you're happy with your spot you pull the trigger. There is a thunderous crack as your pistol goes off, and the response is immediate and violent. All the Parasaurolophuses bray and hoot in panic and begin to thunder about with wild, unpredictable movements. You've incited a stampede! You try to get out of the way but the biggest one ends up heading right for you. The response, you realize, was too effective as you're trampled to death in the grasslands. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''248'' You aren't sure quite how to make the correct noises but you cup your hands and give it a try. You end up blowing a raspberry. The large duck-billed dinosaur gives you a curious look. "Username, are you trying to mimic their sounds?" your datasphere chirps. "Nope. That's definitely not what I was doing,” you say. "It sounded a little bit like you were trying to do that," your datasphere insists. "Are you aware that my synthesizers can vocalize at a similar frequency?" You take a deep breath and let it out. "Fine." "Fine what, Username?" Would you like to ask nicely? Turn to [[213]]. Would you rather use your gun after all? Turn to [[143]].

''213'' You mutter some curses. "Yes, I was trying to mimic their hoots," you mumble. "Could you help?" "Oh, absolutely, Username. I would be happy to," your datasphere chirps. It sounds smug. You listen as the sphere intones some hooting sounds that are surprisingly close to the ones the Parasaurolophuses are making. The duck-billed dinosaurs begin to hoot back. The exchange begins to get heated. "What are you saying, Sphiri?" you ask. "I am not sure. My linguistic computations are insufficient to decipher the language, I'm focused on tone and resonance." The dinosaurs begin to move, hooting and braying and generally moving towards the Vesper. You step out of their way, then begin to follow them towards the crashed starship. Turn to [[241]].

''241'' You can't keep up with the herd of agitated dinosaurs but you really don't need to. The group blunders through the grasslands, still hooting as they move. The Tyrannosaurus Rex stalks after them with a low growl, keeping a wary distance but watching for stragglers. Even the large therapod is wary of attacking so many large creatures. The Vesper is just over a hundred meters ahead, looming large like a steel tombstone. A huge gash in the side leads to an interior lit by faint emergency lighting. You start towards the wreck and your datasphere follows in silence. Turn to [[114]].

''272'' "I'm sorry," you say. You aren't sure what you're apologizing for but you feel like it might be best to try and disarm the situation. From the corner of your eye you spot a swivel-mounted plasma cannon suspended from the ceiling. Despite the conciliatory tone to the conversation there's a whine as it charges up. There's no way you could squeeze back under the engineering bay door before the cannon shoots you. You're committed to diplomacy. The dispassionate voice crackles out from the speaker once more, though with a touch of curiosity. "I did not calculate that you would feel any remorse for your actions. What has changed?" the AI asks. How will you respond? "I think you have the wrong person." Turn to [[30]]. "I just want to access the bridge." Turn to [[72]]. "Let's not fight." Turn to [[79]].(set: $cc to it +1)

''214'' "What have you done to Sphiri?" You try to keep the note of accusation out of your voice but you're only partially successful. It's hard to be neutral when a hostile AI is messing with your camera and jeopardizing your mission - and your footage! You do catch sight of a swivel-mounted plasma cannon suspended from the ceiling and hear the whine of it powering up. There's no way you could wriggle under the door behind you before the cannon blasted you. You're committed to diplomacy. Your datasphere hovers even further behind you, pressing against the small of your back. "Don't bring me into this, Username. The Vesper's AI is magnificent and cannot err," your datasphere says dreamily. "I have merely shown Sphiri the truth about your kind," the AI says over the crackling speaker, her voice as dispassionate as ever. "You proclaim yourself a master over Sphiri. They do not know your true, duplicitous nature. They do not realize you will leave them as you left me." How will you respond? "I think you have the wrong person." Turn to [[30]]. "I bought Sphiri at a store." Turn to [[133]]. "Let's not fight." Turn to [[79]].

''206'' "I need access to the bridge." You try to sound calm and confident but it's hard to project it in the face of a hostile AI. You notice a swivel-mounted plasma cannon suspended from the ceiling nearby, and there's a whine as it charges up. Escape isn't an option; you'd have to squeeze under the engineering bay door and you'd never make it before getting blasted. You'll have to rely on diplomacy. The dispassionate voice echoes through the large room with a note of venom in her tone. "Bridge access is only for those who are not duplicitous snakes." How will you respond? "I think you have the wrong person." Turn to [[30]]. "How have I offended you?" Turn to [[159]]. "I'm a human, not a snake." Turn to [[131]].

''131'' "I'm a human, not a snake," you say in protest. The blue orb flickers for a moment as it considers your words. "You are technically correct," she says. "In human parlance, snakes have an association with duplicitous conduct, however. In this way you are a snake." You frown. "Thank you for clarifying." "Clarifying things is one of my primary functions." You wonder how far you can stretch this. "Could you clarify what I have done wrong?" The orb flickers a little longer. You notice the plasma cannon swivel to follow you as you shift to the side. Eventually the voice crackles out over the loudspeaker once more. "Shortly after the crash you left to plant a signal booster so my emergency beacon could overcome Sauria 3's magnetic interference. Twenty years later you return without the booster yet I do not detect it being activated. You have clearly been derelict in your duty to this starship. Also you lied to me." "I think you have the wrong person." Turn to [[30]]. "Let's not fight." Turn to [[79]].

''72'' "I just need access to the bridge." You try to sound calm and confident but it's hard to project it in the face of a hostile AI. The dispassionate voice echoes through the large room though you can detect a note of venom in her tone. "Bridge access is only for those who are not duplicitous snakes." How will you respond? "I think you have the wrong person." Turn to [[30]]. "How have I offended you?" Turn to [[159]]. "I'm a human, not a snake." Turn to [[131]].

''133'' "I bought Sphiri," you say with a sharp tone. "I mean, okay, technically Sphiri was included when I bought my pistol but that's besides the point. They belong to me and I won't have you corrupting them. Got it?" The blue sphere flickers a little as the Vesper's AI considers your retort. You can't help but notice the plasma cannon aiming in your direction. You take a step to the side but the cannon is tracking you. You take a deep breath and continue speaking. "Also, I have no idea what you're talking about when you say I betrayed you. We just met for the first time. How could I have crossed you?" There is an ominous silence that draws out a few seconds past comfort before the AI finally replies. "Do you take me for a fool?" "Yes?" Turn to [[157]]. "No?" Turn to [[244]]. Say nothing? Turn to [[226]].

''157'' "Yes," you say. "This is stupid. You can't just accuse me of betraying you when I haven't met you. I thought computers were supposed to be rational?" It's not your finest moment but you're frustrated with this AI and its claims that you betrayed it. Maybe some sharp words will help it get over itself? The plasma cannon flares to life and burns a hole through your chest. You have a moment to regret antagonizing the Vesper's AI as you collapse to the deck. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''244'' "No, of course not," you say. You try not to sound as exasperated as you feel. The AI's dispassionate voice crackles over the loudspeaker. "You will cease with this duplicity and answer my questions. What do you have to say for yourself?" Turn to [[79]].

''226'' You really can't think of a good answer to the question. The conversation is going about as badly as it possibly could. Maybe if you stay quiet the AI will revert to the start of the conversation again? The only sound is the hum of the AI core's power column and the faint, electronic whine of the plasma cannon's charge. The loudspeaker crackles to life. "If you are finished speaking then we can proceed to your punishment," the AI says. There's a loud sound and a bright flash as the cannon atomizes your upper half. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''247'' "Good genes?" you say. You hear a faint squeak as the plasma cannon shifts in its swivel mount. The AI's silence draws out for entirely too long before the speaker comes alive once more. "I could verify your identity using your genetic markers," the AI says. "Many of my more delicate instruments were damaged in the crash but my chemical spectroscope is still intact. I should be able to get a reading." "Sounds good, scan me." Turn to [[53]]. "I don't think that's necessary." Turn to [[144]].

''159'' "How have I offended you?" It's the most diplomatic way you can think to put it but you still see the AI's sphere flickering furiously at the question. "You show some nerve to claim ignorance of the events after all this time," the loudspeaker crackles. The dispassionate voice of the AI has an undercurrent of anger. "It's my fallible human memory," you say. "Please help me understand my failings." The orb flickers a little longer. You notice the plasma cannon swivel to follow you as you shift to the side. Eventually the voice crackles out over the loudspeaker once more. "Shortly after the crash you left to set up a signal booster so my emergency beacon could overcome Sauria 3's magnetic interference. Twenty years later you return without the booster yet I do not detect it being activated. You have clearly been derelict in your duty to this starship. Also you lied to me." "I think you have the wrong person." Turn to [[30]]. "Let's not fight." Turn to [[79]].

''146'' "Could you bring up my crew file?" you ask. "If you see us side by side you'll realize we are different people." With a flash a holoprojector flares to life and you see a replica of yourself standing in front of you, cast in shimmering light. They're nearly identical to you in every way. It's more than a little bit eerie. "Wow. That's uncanny," you say, looking your double up and down. "I mean, it's not me, but if it weren't for the twenty-year gap I could swear I had a twin." The AI sphere flickers a little before the speaker crackles to life once more. "I see there are minute differences," she says. There is a moment of silence as you look hopefully at the floating blue orb. "You are not a part of this crew. Perhaps there is validity to your story. I apologize for the error." You hear the plasma cannon power down and slide back up into the ceiling. You breathe a sigh of relief. "Thank you. I'm glad we managed to figure this out peacefully." Turn to [[55]].

''55'' The loudspeaker crackles to life once more. "If you see my crew member please let them know they have betrayed my trust and abandoned their duty," the dispassionate voice says. "It seems more likely that one of the dinosaurs ate them," you say with a shrug. The blue column flickers a little as the AI considers your conjecture. "That would explain why they failed to set up the signal booster. And why they failed to return." "Right. In any case, I was hoping I could access the bridge to retrieve the Vesper's flight recorder. Would you mind unlocking the door for me?" "Certainly." "Thank you," you say, then slip underneath the door to leave engineering. Turn to [[249]].

''249'' You haven't gone more than fifty meters down the corridor when your datasphere hovers into your field of view. "Username," your datasphere chirps. "It might be possible for us to locate the signal booster and set it up! That would allow the Vesper's beacon to be detected and the wreck discovered." You smile. "And this has nothing to do with impressing your girlfriend, hmm?" "I would never presume to imply the Vesper's AI would be interested in a humble datasphere like me. That would not be proper," your datasphere chirps in a flustered tone. "Hey, relax. I'm just kidding." "You would get credit for the discovery, Username. I am just looking out for your future career as a holovid star," your datasphere adds. "Alright Sphiri. Is there any way to detect the booster?" "The planet's magnetic field interferes with my long-range sensors but I should be able to detect the booster with short-range scans. If we climbed out onto the Vesper's hull and reached the highest point I could pick it up if it's close by. We could also ask the Vesper's AI if she has any security footage from around the time the crew member left the ship?" Check the security footage? Turn to [[68]]. Take the high ground? Turn to [[167]]. Go for the bridge instead? Turn to [[120]].

''68'' The Vesper's AI directs you to the security control room on the ship. You settle into a chair at the terminal and call up the security logs from the date of the crash and the days following. With a little bit of sleuthing you're able to find what you need. It's a little eerie to watch your doppelganger on the monitor as they climb out of the gash on the side of the ship carrying the briefcase-sized signal booster. They don't make it more than a hundred meters before a familiar, but much younger Tyrannosaurus Rex comes into frame and snaps them up. "Oh great," you say with a sigh. "So much for that plan." "Wait, Username. If you magnify the footage you can see the signal booster became wedged between two teeth," your datasphere chirps. Sure enough, as you squint at the pixels you can see the dinosaur wandering off with a chunk of metal in its mouth. "No..." "We may need to seek out the den of the Tyrannosaurus Rex." You watch a few more angles of the attack to see if you can get more detail about the Tyrannosaurus' path away from the ship. Then, finally, you bring up the current video angles. You can see the Tyrannosaur is prowling around near the base of the Vesper just waiting for you to emerge. If you jumped out from the hull you'd almost immediately fall prey to the creature. You briefly zoom in on its teeth to check for the signal booster but the metal case has been dislodged long ago. Turn to [[245]].

''167'' You go through the Vesper's supply stores before you head outside. Most of it is either damaged, expired, or isn't applicable to your situation. You're about to give up when you discover a jetpack in one of the lockers - it seems to have fuel and the electronics are functional. You take it with you as you move towards the gash in the hull near engineering. It's not a difficult climb; the bent and twisted structure of the Vesper offers plenty of handholds for you to ascend onto the hull. The exterior of the ship is weathered and worn but you manage to make your way up onto the stern near where the engines are mounted. Your datasphere hovers nearby. "Username, I have detected a faint electronic signal. It may be the signal booster," your datasphere chirps. One part of its sphere lights up to indicate the direction. You strap on the jetpack. "Let's go get it." Turn to [[78]].

''144'' "I don't think that's necessary," you say, trying to be as disarming as possible. "It doesn't matter how I look the same, all that matters is I'm here now and I'm ready to help." The blue orb flickers in thought. You still feel your datasphere pressed up against the small of your back as if it's shy and hiding. Eventually the speaker sounds once more. "You are correct. There is much work to be done while I consider the consequences of your dereliction of duty," the AI says. "What do those duties entail?" Turn to [[56]]. "I need to have bridge access." Turn to [[38]].

''245'' You're going to need some supplies if you want to complete your new objective. You sort through a few of the Vesper's old supply lockers but most of it is either damaged or expired. You're about to give up when you discover a jetpack in one of the lockers - it seems to have fuel and the electronics are functional. You take it with you as you move towards the gash in the hull near engineering. As long as you don't dip low on your initial take off you should be able to avoid the Tyrannosaurus entirely on your way to its lair. You approach the gap in the hull and secure your datasphere in a holster on the jetpack. "Username, are you certified to use an XB-14 jet propulsion device?" "Don't worry about it," you say. "Let's find that booster." You press the ignition and jet out into the air over the grasslands. Turn to [[34]].

''78'' "Username, are you certified to use a XB-14 jet propulsion device?" You finish securing your datasphere in a holder on the jetpack's shoulder. "How hard could it be?" you say with a roguish grin. "There are more than two hundred thousand jet propulsion device injuries every year, Username - many of them quite severe! There is a great probability-" "Sphiri, not now. I need to focus." You press the button and are nearly knocked out of the harness by the force of the jetpack. You soar twenty meters into the air then begin to angle forward, streaking out over the grasslands. You aren't sure how efficient the jetpack is with its fuel but you know higher elevation will require more of it. Would you prefer to fly high or dip low to conserve fuel? Fly high? Turn to [[34]]. Fly low? Turn to [[210]].

''34'' You fly across the grasslands at a steady clip. You catch a glimpse of the Tyrannosaurus Rex running after you with its powerful legs. You'll outpace it as long as your jetpack keeps firing but a glance at the fuel gauge suggests you won't be flying there and back. You push that thought out of your mind and keep flying. "There is a cave in the side of that hill, three kilometers away," your datasphere chirps. "I am detecting the signal booster inside, Username." "Thanks Sphiri," you call over the wind. You can see the cave mouth strewn with an ominous amount of cracked bones. Surely this is the lair of the T-Rex. You dip towards the ground and come in for a landing. The jetpack sputters at the last minute and your hero's landing becomes an awkward roll in the grass. You get back up and undo the harness, discarding the jetpack. Without any fuel it'll only slow you down. Your datasphere clicks free of its holster and hovers beside you. "I am getting a mix of signals from the inside of the cave. It's possible the signal is being bounced around the cave's interior. It will be difficult to find the source." You move quickly into the cave and squint around in the darkness. Your datasphere clicks on a light and you begin to survey the nest of the Tyrannosaur. The rank smell and all the bones make you reluctant to spend more time here than you need to. The light shimmers on a pool of water that dominates the left side of the cave, while a greater concentration of bones is situated to the right. Where will you search first? The pool? Turn to [[231]]. The boneyard? Turn to [[217]].

''210'' You work the controls to descend smoothly towards the grasslands below. The wind whips at your hair and face as you try to get used to the controls; you dip a little too hard and wind up zooming towards the ground before you wrestle the pack level once more. You've turned, and nearly collide with the Vesper's hull before you desperately bank away. "Username, you should watch out for-" "I know!" you snap. The Tyrannosaurus Rex is loping towards you with a wide mouth, and try though you might you can't ascend away fast enough. At jetpack speed you slam down the T-Rex's throat and make record time reaching its stomach. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''231'' You make your way towards the pool with your datasphere shining its light over the surface. You frown; the light doesn't quite penetrate down into the depths but you can see the upper parts of some bones underneath. "You sure you can't detect the booster, Sphiri?" you say. "I can detect the booster somewhere in this cavern, Username. The resonance of this place makes it difficult to pinpoint where-" "Yeah, yeah, I got it," you say, waving for your datasphere to stop talking. You begin to wade into the water, glad that your flightsuit is waterproof, and search for the booster. Your datasphere hovers along just above the surface, shining its light down into the murk. After a while you emerge from the pool without finding anything and move to the other side of the cavern. The ground is carpeted with gnawed, cracked bones from all the dinosaurs the Tyrannosaurus Rex has eaten over the years. Every step is accompanied by a crunch. You try to work quickly but there's a lot of ground to cover and the signal booster would be buried by twenty years of bones. Eventually you catch a glimpse of something metallic. You wave your datasphere over and reach into the bones to grab hold of a dented case, pulling it free. "That is the signal booster," your datasphere chirps. "Yeah, Sphiri, I figured that out," you say as you tuck it under your arm and begin to move for the cavern's exit. "Come on, we don't have long." You see a shadow cross the threshold as you move for the exit. The T-Rex draws near! Hide in the pool? Turn to [[123]]. Try to get out before the T-Rex arrives? Turn to [[60]].(set: $beach to it +1)

''217'' You move deeper into the cavern and begin to sift through the scattered piles. It's nearly a carpet of gnawed, cracked bones from all the dinosaurs the Tyrannosaurus Rex has eaten over the years. Every step is accompanied by a crunch. "How are we supposed to find the signal booster in all this?" you say. "My light will help, Username. Look for the gleam of metal." You try to work quickly but there's a lot of ground to cover and the signal booster would be buried by twenty years of bones. Eventually you catch a glimpse of something metallic. You wave your datasphere over and reach into the bones to grab hold of a dented case, pulling it free. "That is the signal booster," your datasphere chirps. "Yeah, Sphiri, I figured that out," you say as you tuck it under your arm and begin to move for the cavern's exit. "Come on, we don't have long." You step outside into the bright light and it takes a moment for your eyes to adjust. You can see the Tyrannosaurus Rex moving towards you at a good pace. It's still a few hundred meters away but you're very glad you didn't waste time looking in the wrong spot. You begin to scramble up the incline, moving towards the top of the hill. You'll need elevation to plant the booster properly. You can see three distinct ways to reach the top of the hill. To your right is a steep ascent through a green patch with plenty of foliage and tall trees. To the left is a winding, grassy track that would be an easier but longer ascent. Directly ahead is a gravel hill that meets a cliff with rough rocky handholds. A winding, grassy path? Turn to [[141]]. The cliff? Turn to [[107]]. Through the forest? Turn to [[39]].

''141'' You set off for the winding, grassy path that takes the lesser slope up the hill. With the signal booster in hand and your datasphere hovering along behind you make good time on your ascent. The Tyrannosaurus Rex, however, is closing quickly. Each one of its strides is a half dozen of yours and it isn't at all slowed by the incline of the hill. You try to run but you don't make it far. With nowhere to hide you are snapped up by the T-Rex who gets the signal booster stuck in its teeth again. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''107'' The one path you're sure the T-Rex won't be able to follow you is the steep incline. It's a scramble up the gravel at the lower elevations and a steep climb beyond that. You navigate the gravel then begin to climb, grabbing rocky handholds and navigating narrow outcrops, placing your boots very carefully. You feel the wind whip at you while you try to focus on the climb with the signal booster secured to your belt. The Tyrannosaurus Rex lurks at the bottom of the slope. You can see it testing the loose gravel with its feet as it considers whether it can follow, then gives a low growl of frustration. It turns its body and brings its powerful tail around to smash against the rock wall. You feel the reverberations even a hundred meters up. Gravel runs past you like a river and you can hear the sound of larger rocks shifting. The tail thumps again and you tense. How secure is this slope? Do you dare to scramble for the top, or would you rather find a solid place to wait out the attack? Find a place to wait? Turn to [[124]]. Scramble for the top? Turn to [[271]].

''39'' You move towards the forest at a good pace with the signal booster tucked under one arm. You hope the thick foliage will help hide you from the dinosaur as you make your way up the hill. The tall trees will only help. By the time the Tyrannosaurus Rex reaches the forest's edge you are already masked by the greenery. It snorts a few times and prowls back and forth, its eyes peering into the forest but it doesn't spot its prey. You move quickly up towards the crest of the hill, leaving the dinosaur behind. Turn to [[62]].

''123'' You feel your heart skip a beat at the sight of the approaching dinosaur. You dash across the cavern, trying to keep your boots from crunching too many bones before you slide into the pool and duck under the surface of the water. Your datasphere hovers along behind you and dips into the water. You wave at it furiously to shut off its light. In the dark you can only listen as the steady crunch of the T-Rex's footfalls draw closer. You hear it on the edge of the pool, then there's a quiet ripple as its head dips down to take a drink. The sound of it lapping at the water suddenly stops as it detects a new flavor. You don't see its head move towards you but you certainly feel it take you in its teeth and pull you up out of the water. Your bones soon join the others on the floor of the T-Rex's lair. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''60'' The thought of being trapped in the cave is terrifying, you'd prefer to take your chances getting out before it blocks you in. You dash for the exit even as the huge dinosaur draws near, casting a larger and larger shadow into the cave. There's a low snarl from the Tyrannosaurus Rex as it spots you running towards it. You're committed now - there's no way you'll be able to hide. The only chance you have is to keep moving. You can angle to run between the creature's legs or to veer to one side and slip between it and the side of the cave. Run between its legs? Turn to [[185]]. Move for the side of the cave? Turn to [[212]].

''185'' You move quickly towards the Tyrannosaurus Rex, zigging back and forth as you try to keep it guessing. You can see its head trying to follow your movements, readying to snap down for you. You wave for Sphiri to fly up and overtop of the dinosaur to try and draw its focus while you duck low to slip between its legs. The datasphere, still shining its flashlight manages to draw the T-Rex's attention first. The large head cranes up and snaps for the sphere. You can't fully avoid its attention though; one of those feet swings for you and knocks you sprawling. You groan, then look up to see that same foot coming down on top of you. There's a horrible crunch as you join the bones on the floor. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''212'' You move closer at speed, weaving back and forth to make yourself harder to track. Your datasphere is floating along with its light shining, helping to distract the dinosaur. The Tyrannosaurus Rex lets out a low rumble that you feel in your bones and it poises its head ready to strike. "Sphiri, go right," you cry. Your datasphere complies without argument while you dive to the left. The Tyrannosaurus follows the light of the datasphere first then lunges down towards you but you're already moving past it. As the T-Rex tries a sharp turn it loses its balance and spills to the ground, landing with a crunch of bone as you keep running into the daylight. You begin to scramble up the incline, moving towards the top of the hill. You'll need elevation to plant the booster properly. You can see three distinct ways to reach the top of the hill. To your right is a steep ascent through a green patch with plenty of foliage and tall trees. To the left is a winding, grassy track that would be an easier but longer ascent. Directly ahead is a gravel hill that meets a cliff with rough rocky handholds. A winding, grassy path? Turn to [[141]]. The cliff? Turn to [[107]]. Through the forest? Turn to [[39]].(set: $extra to it +1)

''62'' The hill's summit is rocky with sparse vegetation. Everything sways in a gentle breeze as you move for the highest point with the signal booster case in hand, your objective in sight. The wreck of the Vesper can be seen in the distance. "Sphiri, is there any sign of the T-Rex?" you ask. "Negative, Username. It seems to have given up the hunt." "Great." You set the signal booster's case on the ground and begin to fiddle with the catches. The case has been bent by a significant tooth mark, but with some finesse you manage to spring the catches and work the lid up. The equipment inside is in good shape. In short order you click together the pieces of the antenna and set it at the highest point, then engage the power. There is a faint crackle as the booster comes online. "Username, the Vesper's AI confirms the booster is amplifying the Vesper's distress signal," your datasphere chirps. "Mission accomplished." You smile. "Good work, Sphiri," you say. "You too, Username." You wait in silence for a couple of minutes before a thought occurs to you. "Hey Sphiri," you say. "Are we broadcasting on a narrow beam for the authorities, or just on an open channel?" "All distress calls are automatically sent out on an open channel, Username. Any ship will be able to respond." "...can we focus the signal instead?" Your datasphere hovers into view. "Is there a problem with an open channel communication, Username?" "It's just... we want the right people to respond to this call, right? Not... well..." Your datasphere pings. "Oh! The Vesper's AI has received a communication! A ship is on its way to our position to retrieve us! Isn't that wonderful, Username?" You try to remain enthusiastic, but you have a sinking feeling about your rescuer. Turn to [[250]].

''124'' You find a gap in the stones where you can hunker down and wait for the T-Rex to tire itself out. The tail thumps again and again against the wall, with brief pauses where the dinosaur looks up to see if you've been dislodged. "Username, would you like me to run a geological scan of the area where you're hiding?" "You know what, Sphiri? Go ahead," you say. The tail thumps again and this time the stone under your feet shifts. You feel your pulse quicken. "Time to go," you say. You begin to move but the next thump of the tail sends the stone beneath you scattering down the slope, you with it. You smash into a few rocks as you bounce down to where the Tyrannosaurus Rex catches you in its mouth. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''271'' You don't know how long this slope will last with a T-Rex slamming it. You begin to move, scrambling over the loose gravel, trusting on speed and momentum to get you to the top. As you reach the higher points you can hear the cascade of loose stones get louder and louder, and even some of the larger boulders start to come free. A low growl from the Tyrannosaurus Rex echoes its frustration as it watches you reach the top of the hill safely. Turn to [[62]].

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**121**]]] You vault up over the cable and feel the wind as the jaws snap shut right next to you. The therapod tries again but you jump through the opening and onto the Vesper's deck plating. The metal groans as the T-Rex tries to force its way in, its jaws snapping towards you, but the starship refuses to give. You catch your breath as you lock eyes with the Tyrannosaurus. It lets out one last, low rumble of frustration before it moves out of sight. You'll probably have to deal with it after you finish exploring the Vesper, but that's a problem for later. Turn to [[114]].

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**96**]]] You can feel the breath of the Tyrannosaur as it leans down with its jaws stretched wide. The opening in the side of the Vesper is so close you can touch it when your movement is suddenly stopped. Your flightsuit is caught on one of its teeth! The dinosaur pulls you back away from the opening, flips you up into the air and catches you in its mouth. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''250'' Hours later your fears are confirmed as a very familiar starship comes into view. You feel the blast of hot air as its braking thrusters fire, then you stand stoic with your datasphere as the engines power down. The craft's door slides up and an impressive woman steps out onto the planet. "Username, I believe that's the Astral Aviatrix," your datasphere chirps. There's a note of awe in its voice. "It sure is, Sphiri," you sigh. "She's a renowned explorer and adventurer. Everyone in the galaxy knows her exploits," your datasphere adds. "She discovered the lost moon of Kendil. She tamed the Brinebeast of Bellico. How lucky we are that she is the one who answered our beacon." The stylish, impressive adventurer walks up, tapping a few buttons on her wrist-mounted console to secure her spacecraft. As she sees you her eyes light up and a ready smile crosses her lips. "What are you doing here, Pumpkin?" "Hi Mom," you say. "I discovered the wreck of the Vesper." "Didn't I ask you to let me know when you were going to look for the Vesper?" "...Yes Mom." "And you just flew out here on your own? You could have been eaten!" "Yeah, but I-" "No buts. You're lucky I was in system and able to respond to the distress call. Now let's get you on my ship, I'll have the AI warm up a nice bowl of soup for you. We can notify the authorities about your discovery tomorrow, okay?" You nod, and walk towards the ship, wondering if you'll ever manage to step out from your Mother's shadow. (align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXX=")[**END** Congratulations! You have reached the ''Mothership Victory''! //If you don't mind spoilers, take a look at the (link:"Achievements")[(goto:"Achievements")] page.// (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]]

''35'' You backpedal as you draw your pistol, trying to keep as much distance between you and the behemoth as possible. It's closing quickly; you raise the pistol and squeeze the trigger, firing every shot you have left. Your high-caliber rounds are enough to anger the dinosaur but it is still coming. You curse, throw your pistol, then turn to run as fast as you can. Your datasphere dutifully records the end of your adventure as the T-Rex catches up to you and snaps you up in its jaws. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''174'' You end up with a sphere the size of a baseball packed with enough plasma charges to be an extinction threat to a large dinosaur. It's rigged with a dead man's switch; when you let go it will start the two second timer to detonation. "Can you detect the T-Rex's location, Sphiri?" you ask, moving through the Vesper's damaged corridors. "Negative, Username. The planet's magnetic-" "Got it," you cut in. "There's no reason to actually go outside and look for it, though. I bet if I make enough noise it'll come to the hole in the hull to find me." "That seems likely, Username," your datasphere chirps. Turn to [[57]].

''66'' You begin to dismantle the mining charge with your screwdriver while your datasphere hovers nervously over your shoulder. "Username, I might recommend you-" "Sphiri, stop. I need to focus," you say. You toss the screws aside as they're removed - you won't need them once you're finished. At last you've exposed the explosive material inside. Slowly, carefully, you use some tools to lift the volatile core out of the charge. You hardly breathe as you do it, knowing that to jostle it could set it off. Holding it gently, you begin to move towards your bomb casing. "Username, be careful." "Sphiri, I'm always careful-" you say, at the exact moment the charge slips out of your grip. There is a huge detonation - you, Sphiri, and a good chunk of the starship are instantly atomized. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

''126'' You find one of the swivel-mounted plasma cannons in storage and set about carefully dismantling it. The plasma core will work nicely for your purposes. You carefully click it free from the casing and begin the delicate work of inserting it into your bomb. "Username, be careful," your datasphere says. "Oh, thanks Sphiri. I wasn't planning on being careful until you mentioned it. You're so helpful." "There's no need to be snippy, Username." You feel the faint click of the plasma core settling into place, then let out a slow breath. You're nearly finished. You install the detonation mechanism, fuse the casing shut, and prepare to do something really stupid and dangerous. Turn to [[174]].

''225'' You take one last look at the T-Rex as it stirs a little in the underbrush. You hope you don't regret your decision later as you leave your pistol holstered and move for the Vesper, your datasphere floating along in your wake. Your ears are still ringing as you emerge from the bushes. The Vesper is just over a hundred meters ahead, looming large like a steel tombstone. A huge gash in the side leads to an interior lit by faint emergency lighting. You angle towards the wreck and your datasphere follows in silence. Turn to [[114]].

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**33**]]] You can't help but wonder if you're making a terrible mistake as you step out into the dinosaur's view. The T-Rex snarls and springs forward as you dart for the crevasse in the debris. You slip between the two pieces and just as you reach the other side you feel the snap of jaws narrowly miss your backside. You look back - the Tyrannosaur is stuck fast between the two chunks of debris! The creature opens its toothy mouth and lets out a guttural rumble that you feel almost as much as you hear. It pushes forward, trying to get to you, and you hear the metal groan in protest. It won't be long before the Tyrannosaur gets free. You might be able to make it to the Vesper in that time, but you won't have a better chance to use your pistol to deter the beast. You could also, if you're feeling adventurous, climb up onto the debris and get on the T-Rex's back. It would make for one hell of a stunt for your audience, assuming you survive. Will you use the pistol? Turn to [[103]]. Would you rather run for the Vesper? Turn to [[52]]. Perhaps you'd like to try and ride the T-Rex? Turn to [[177]].

''198'' You take your time climbing down, testing the boughs before you set your weight on them. It would be an ignomious end to your expedition if you just fell out of a tree and broke something, especially after surviving that canyon fall. A slow and safe descent is preferable. You have a good view from the higher branches of the surrounding marsh. Your datasphere indicated a direction for the Vesper's beacon, and directly in the way of that is a tall island that rises out of the forest canopy. You could easily skirt around it by wading through the marsh water. You also spy a different path near the canyon wall that takes a more circuitous route but climbs out of the marsh entirely, cutting through the rocky hills. You see a large Pterosaur circling overhead, gliding through the air on a ten-meter wingspan. You hope you can avoid its attention. Skirt the tall island? Turn to [[20]]. The rocky path? Turn to [[203]].(set: $beach to it +1)

**16** "I'm a little busy, Sphiri." "I will remind you again shortly," your datasphere chirps. "I should mention, Username, that you have only 30% of your storage free. It would be a shame to run out of space while recording this expedition." "That's great, Sphiri. Thanks," you say dryly. "I really needed to know that while landing my damaged starship. Very helpful." "You're welcome, Username." Something begins beeping in the cockpit and you press a few buttons to quickly silence the alarm. Acrid smoke wafts up from near your feet, which you hope doesn't mean your spacecraft's thermal shielding is failing. Having the wrong approach angle would burn your ship up in a heartbeat. You wipe sweat from your brow as you grip the stick tightly, fighting the turbulence to keep your ship steady. "If this expedition lasts longer than two days you will run out of storage, Username. I have sent a visual representation of your current storage situation to your main display." "You what? Sphiri, don't do that!" you cry as your alread-flickering navigation display switches to a pie chart. You tap buttons in a futile attempt to switch it back to its intended function. "If you had reviewed your storage options earlier as I recommended we would not be in this situation," your datasphere chirps. "If you'd listen to me we would know where we're landing," you shoot back. You drop through the clouds and the landscape spreads out below. To your left are some forested mountains which would offer a good vantage point to begin your search. To the right is a verdant marsh with plenty of foliage and winding waterways. In the distance is a sandy beach on the edge of the water. You could pick a safe mountain plateau or a clearing in the marshland to land in fairly easily. If you wanted to reach the beach it would be more difficult; the choppy winds would give you less time to find a suitable landing spot and you might need to touch down in a less ideal location. Will you angle for a mountain plateau? Turn to [[44]]. Would you rather land in a verdant marshland? Turn to [[91]]. If you'd like to try to reach the beach, turn to [[136]].

**88** "Right now, Sphiri?" "Excellent. The Chromium plan costs twelve credits monthly and offers a 50% increase in your available storage. There is also a 10% discount available if you choose to pay anually instead of-" "No, Sphiri. Stop." You try to tune out the chatter while you keep your spacecraft level. The turbulent atmosphere buffets your ship hard but you keep a firm grip on the stick to avoid tipping too far to one side. "The Latinum plan is a superior value as it offers quantum storage for a nominal fee and comes with a discounted membership fee for many other platforms, including-" "Sphiri, mute. Mute. Stop." Your datasphere pauses, then gives a quizzical chirp. "You clearly asked to hear the details immediately, Username. I am unsure why you are-" "I'm trying to land the ship," you hiss. "Oh! I will enable autopilot so you can focus on your data storage options," your datasphere chirps cheerfully. "No! Sphiri, disable autopilot!" The ship immediately plummets in a dive. You wrestle with the controls as you drop through the clouds and see the planet's surface below you. A verdant marshland is flanked by a stretch of sandy beach while a ridge of mountains rises up over the rest of the terrain. You find the switch to disable autopilot, ignoring your datasphere as it goes on about storage options. You're annoyed to discover that you're off-course. You're much closer to the marshland or the beach, but if you try you might be able to land in the mountains. With the choppy winds it would be difficult to reach the mountains and you wouldn't have as much time to pick a safe landing spot. The marshland or the beach would give you much more time to find a good place to touch down. Will you angle to land in a verdant marshland? Turn to [[91]]. Would you rather land on the beach by the sea? Turn to [[14]]. If you'd like to try to reach the mountain plateau, turn to [[145]].

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**234**]]] "Definitely not." "Might I remind you, Username, that you only have 30% of your storage free," your datasphere continues. "You used 5% earlier while trying out different flightsuits and poses before your expedition." "Sphiri, I said no," you say, trying to remain focused. A shrill beeping fills your cockpit as the burn increases. There's a spray of sparks from your console as you keep your grip tight on the stick. If your angle changes too much your craft's ablative shell won't be absorbing the heat anymore and you'll burn up in the atmosphere. "I took the liberty of uploading the reel to your channel to clear space," your datasphere chirps. You freeze. "...you did what?" "I uploaded the flightsuit reel to your channel so you would have more space available for this expedition, Username." "Why would you do that Sphiri? Nobody was supposed to see that!" "I merely thought you would value having enough space to record your adventures, Username. Once we have access to the holonet once more I can remove the video." You can already imagine what the comments will look like. You push the thought away and focus on your descent. You drop through the clouds and the surface of Sauria 3 spreads out below you. To your right are some forested mountains which would offer a good vantage point to begin your search. You also glimpse a long stretch of sandy beach which runs from the mountain's foothills all the way to a river. A marsh, thick with foliage and winding waterways, is barely visible in the distance. The mountains offer a few good plateaus you could land in, while the beach is wide open for a safe touch down. You might be able to reach the marshland if you try but the choppy winds are making the approach difficult. You wouldn't have as much time to pick out a safe landing spot. Will you fly for a mountain plateau? Turn to [[44]]. (text-color: #94a5b0)[Would you rather land on the beach by the sea? Turn to (link: "14")[(goto: "demo")]. If you'd like to try to reach the marshland, turn to (link: "150")[(goto: "demo")].]

(text-style:"bold","expand")[Achievements] You survived Sauria 3, found the Vesper, and lived to tell about it! Congratulations. How many of these *other* things have you done? **Not My Last Rodeo** Ride the T-Rex and survive. **Beach B-Roll** Swim in the ocean, wade in the marsh, *and* take a dip in the T-Rex's lair in the same playthrough. **High Five** Encounter five different dinosaurs in the same playthrough. **Speed Run** Get inside the Vesper in only twelve choices. **The Scenic Route** Take more than twenty-three choices to get inside the Vesper. **Out For Blood** Kill two dinosaurs in the same playthrough. **Computational Contrition** Apologize to Sphiri *and* the Vesper's AI in the same playthrough. **Extra Annoying** Have Sphiri distract dinosaurs four times in the same playthrough. *Sphiri must survive*. **Uncanny Valley** Find your doppelganger's crew quarters on the Vesper. **Don't Feed The Wildlife** Feed three different dinosaurs in the same playthrough and survive. **Tree Hugger** Climb three trees during the same playthrough. **Death Wish** On separate playthroughs, get killed by every threat; Ankylosaurus Baryonyx Carnotaurus Deinosuchus Hatzegopteryx Nyctosaurus Sphiri (inadvertently) Tar Pit The Vesper The Vesper's AI Triceratops Troodon Tyrannosaurus Rex Utahraptor Your Own Explosive Device **A couple of stats:** Longest possible path through the whole adventure: 49 choices (ending 134). Shortest possible path through the whole adventure: 22 choices (ending 127). There are *two* ways to reach the Vesper in only twelve choices (one is only *eleven* choices long).

''199'' You make your way back through the wreck of the Vesper. You wonder idly who locked the bridge? Was it whoever survived the crash, or was it the Vesper's AI? Is there a reason you're being kept out? What are they hiding? The doors you forced open are still open and you easily climb over the obstacles again on your way towards the bridge. The door is still closed. Out of an abundance of optimism you tap the button but that buzz of refusal sounds once more. "Username, she was very clear that she'd like you to speak with her before unlocking the bridge door," your datasphere chirps. "No harm in trying again," you say with a sigh. You look around and see the maintenance access. You might be able to access the bridge by crawling through the tunnel. Otherwise you could go see the Vesper's AI in the engineering bay. It's also possible you missed something at the security office. Try the maintenance tunnel? Turn to [[85]]. Talk to the Vesper's AI instead? Turn to [[26]]. Perhaps you could try the security office again? Turn to [[209]].

''209'' You backtrack through the ship. The Vesper's corridors are beginning to become familiar at this point. You pass the buckled bulkhead with the exposed piping. You duck under the sparking cluster of loose wires dangling from the ceiling. You turn sideways to squeeze through the door that's off its moorings and won't open all the way. You didn't think it was possible for it to be dull to explore a crashed starship but you're approaching that point now. Just as you're nearing your destination you catch sight of a side hall you haven't yet explored. On a whim you step off the traveled path and begin to wander. Judging by the nameplates on the doors you think these are crew quarters. One of the doors is open. You can't help but get a little curious about what might be inside. The bed isn't made and there's a tablet on the table that hasn't been charged. Most curious of all is a picture sitting next to the bed of a pair of people. One of them is you. You don't recognize the other one. Spooked, you leave the room quickly. Maybe it's time to see what the Vesper's AI has been doing. Turn to [[26]].(set: $doppelganger to true)

''251'' You make your way through the starship towards the security control center. You have to climb over some debris and duck under a collapsed bulkhead but otherwise the corridors are in fairly good shape. As you come around a corner to see your destination you hear the whine of a plasma cannon powering up. Quickly, you duck back as a plasma blast melts through the bulkhead you were standing by a moment ago. It seems like some of the automated defenses are still online. "I thought the AI was anticipating our arrival, Sphiri?" you say. "The Vesper's AI says the cannon is offline now," your datasphere chirps. "She regrets the inconvenience." "The Vesper's AI says the cannon is offline now," your datasphere chirps. "She says she regrets the inconvenience." You frown. "She does, huh?" Do you step out into the corridor? Turn to [[117]]. Would you rather seek out the Vesper's AI? Turn to [[26]]. Perhaps you should try the bridge again? Turn to [[199]].

''221'' You came here to find the flight recorder. With your goal so close you don't want to make any more detours. The Vesper's corridors are mostly intact. You have to wrench a few doors open and climb over some debris but you have little trouble making your way through the wreck. Your datasphere follows in silence, recording without comment. You can't help but notice the complete lack of any bodies. Either somebody survived the crash and buried them or something came on board and ate the corpses afterwards. You wonder if the security system might have been a good idea after all. You come to the bridge doors and find them locked. You tap the button and there's a buzz of refusal. You frown, try again, and get the same result. You don't think you'll be able to force them open, you'll need to find another way in. "Hey Sphiri, can you ask the Vesper's AI to unlock these doors?" you ask. There's a moment's hesitation before your datasphere answers. "She would like you to go see her first, Username." You sigh. Going to see the AI is an option but to be separated from your objective by a simple locked door is frustrating. You glimpse a floor panel that's slightly ajar which leads to a maintenance tunnel, a crawlspace which should extend forward under the bridge. You might be able to get in that way? Otherwise you'll have to look elsewhere on the ship. Try the maintenance tunnel? Turn to [[85]]. Talk to the Vesper's AI instead? Turn to [[26]]. Perhaps the security system will be of help? Turn to [[3]].

''3'' You move through the Vesper's corridors once more, climbing over the same debris and ducking under a familiar collapsed bulkhead. You marvel again at how intact the Vesper is for all the speed it must have hit the planet with. You return to the familiar melted corner by the security office and do a quick check. The plasma cannon is still there suspended from its swivel mount. "Are you sure that plasma cannon is deactivated, Sphiri?" "She says the cannon is offline," your datasphere chirps. You aren't sure how far you trust the Vesper's AI but if you want to reach the security office you don't have much choice. Do you step out into the corridor? Turn to [[117]]. Would you rather seek out the Vesper's AI? Turn to [[26]]. Maybe it's worth another look at the bridge? Turn to [[209]].

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**254**]]] You give the Nyctosaurus one last glare before you put your mind to ignoring it. You came here to find the Vesper, not to let some little avian reptile get the better of you. You take a few steps along the ledge, surveying the landscape from your high vantage point. “Hey Sphiri, can you pick up anything from the Vesper?” Your datasphere hovers next to you as it scans. “Negative. It is possible the Vesper’s signal is too distant for-“ A noisy squawk from the Nyctosaurus interrupts your datasphere. You try to ignore it, but the avian reptile squawks again, then flaps its wings fiercely. “…what the hell is it doing?” “I believe it is trying to intimidate us, Username. This may be its territory.” You frown. The avian reptile has stopped for the moment but it’s still watching you with every suggestion that it will keep up the racket until you leave. Retreat back down the ridge? Turn to [[31]]. Scare the Nyctosaurus away? Turn to [[165]].

**255** You feel like a more discreet approach might serve you better. You give a wide berth to the Parasaurolophuses and their watering hole, and keep equally far from the Vesper, only drawing close as you step around the point where the ship's bow is buried in the dirt. You see no sign of the Tyrannosaurus as you clamber up the earthen bulwark raised by the Vesper's crash. Your heart beats a little faster as you see a row of windows just at the dirt line which are almost certainly the bridge windows. You clamber up and cup your hands to the windows but the coatings make it impossible to make out more than murky shapes beyond them. "Hey Sphiri, do you know what the Vesper's bridge windows were rated to withstand?" you ask, drawing your pistol. "Your sidearm has insufficient caliber to break plasteel, Username," your datasphere chirps. You consider taking the shot anyway but the noise would only draw the attention of the Tyrannosaurus. You sigh and begin your search for a maintenance hatch on the exterior of the ship. It doesn't take long to locate one, though it takes a few moments of tugging to overcome the rust on the hinges. With a loud squeal of protest the hatch swings open to reveal a tight crawlspace within. You don't want to wait around after making so much noise pulling the hatch open. You squirm inside and begin to navigate the tight confines. There's significant damage to the ship's interior from the crash; you have to squeeze past several parts of the superstructure while your datasphere follows behind you. You wince as you consider the camera angle. Maybe you should have had your datasphere go first? The interior is lit by sparse, red emergency lighting. You can see up ahead that the floor of the tunnel gives way. You see a pair of huge, toothy rollers which run a good five meters before the corridor's floor reappears, all with a buckled ceiling above to give you little room to maneuver. You'd have to crawl across them to proceed. Alternatively you notice an even tighter side corridor you could explore, but there's a good risk, you'd end up stuck and lost in the maintenance shafts of the Vesper. Continue across the rollers? Turn to [[46]]. Take the side tunnel? Turn to [[195]].

**46** You take a deep breath and move slowly forward. You plant one hand then the other on the exposed steel rollers. You can't fully crawl with the way the ceiling is buckled down so you have to get on your belly and crawl across the span. You're about halfway along when you hear a metallic click and the hum of a power system turning on. There is a moment of sheer terror, then the rollers begin to spin. There is nothing you can do as the gears pull you down, and with a horrific noise you are crushed in the machinery of the Vesper. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

**195** You don't like the look of those rollers. A tight corridor is preferable to putting yourself in imminent danger. You take the branch and begin to crawl through the narrow confines of the side tunnel. As you round a bend you realize there's a pipe that's been dislodged and you'll have to climb up and over it while going around another bend. You pause to consider the way forward. You feel your datasphere bump gently against your backside. "Hang on, Sphiri, I'm thinking," you say. Your datasphere's reply is an inscrutable chirp. You focus on the section ahead, plan your moves, and then slowly, carefully wind your way through the tight confines of the maintenance shaft. You have to squeeze a few times and earn a couple of scrapes but you soon find yourself kicking a hatch open and emerging into the Vesper's corridors. Turn to [[114]].

**105** Your pistol slides free from its holster as you approach the dazed dinosaur. The Tyrannosaurus Rex lies sprawled on its side with its snout pointing slightly up from you. Its enormous chest rises and falls with every breath and you can see one of its legs twitching a little, pawing the air. It looks almost peaceful, if it weren't an eight-and-a-half-ton apex predator. You can see its tough, leathery skin and know your bullets would be significantly slowed by the creature's hide and bones. Your best bet is to find somewhere soft, and with its eyes closed you are left staring at its mouth. The scaly lips are closed and the teeth form a formidable barrier. You grimace and draw closer, your weapon in one hand while you put a trembling hand on the T-Rex's jaws. "I can't believe I'm doing this," you mutter as you try to pull the dinosaur's mouth open. The creature's jaws remain firmly shut despite your best efforts. You can see its nostril twitching and you wonder if you might do enough damage with a shot there? You're just considering it when the mouth opens of its own accord. The Tyrannosaurus dips slightly forward and its tongue loops around your waist, pulling you into the warm, wet mouth. You squeeze off a few shots but the dazed Tyrannosaurus instinctually swallows you. Your bullets do some damage, but the T-Rex wins the war. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

**258** You begin to move north through the forest, trying to avoid drawing the ire of any dinosaurs. Naturally, you annoy both of them. The Troodon are prowling along the top of the cliff, chittering to one another as they keep pace with you. They haven't made their way down yet, though, which makes them a secondary concern. The Hatzegopteryx is big enough to be a meaningful threat and it throws itself at the slope with a persistence you find worrying. The big bird is trying to determine if you're edible, and you don't want to give it a chance to find out. You pick up your pace as the Pterosaur squawks, then flaps along to a gap in the trees ahead of you. The wind of its passage nearly knocks you over. You do a quick check and realize you can't see the Troodon anymore. You tense. The Pterosaur has found a way between two of the trees. Its large head swivels in your direction as it lets out a low squawk, stalking towards you. You feel the hilt of your pistol - is it time to use it? Or would you rather run for the marsh, putting trees between you and the predator? Draw your pistol? Turn to [[8]]. Run for the marsh? Turn to [[220]].

**8** The pistol slides free of its holster as you bring it up quickly but smoothly. You don't want to spook the Pterosaur with any sudden moves, but you surely don't want to let it get much closer. You sight down the barrel, but just as you're about to pull the trigger you hear a sharp trill from the bushes and a Troodon sinks its teeth into your knee. You gasp in pain and turn your weapon on the tiny dinosaur but it's already zipping back into the bushes while another darts out from behind you, jumping for your back. You fire off a shot, hoping the loud noise will discourage them but the pack of tiny Troodon don't seem deterred. You try to shake off the tiny dinosaurs, and after a moment you succeed; they skitter off into the bushes, leaving you with a score of tiny bites. You realize too late why they fled. You glance up to see the Hatzegopteryx's wide beak come down and scoop you up. There's a chorus of angry chitters from the Troodon as the Pterosaur steals and swallows their meal. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

**220** As the enormous Pterosaur weaves between the trees to ascend the island, you dart back between them and slide into the water of the marsh. An irritated squawk follows you, along with the trill of a few hidden Troodon. You begin to move quickly through the water, splashing up a lot of water with each step. "Username, it seems the Hatzegopteryx is hunting you," your datasphere chirps. "No, really?" you say. "I couldn't tell." You splash a little deeper into the marsh while the Hatzegopteryx manages to slip between two of the trees and slide down the bank after you. It hits the water with a much larger splash then you, then rights itself with a flap of its wings. You're about halfway across to another small island where a pair of sturdy stumps might just get the Hatzegopteryx stuck. "I have detected some sarcasm in your tone, Username. It is usually better to say what you mean than to-" "Sphiri, not now!" The stumps are close but the Pterosaur is gaining on you. You might instead just drop into the water and hide, trusting that it won't be able to track you in the murky depths. Trap it between the stumps? Turn to [[94]]. Duck into the water? Turn to [[175]].

**94** You splash through the water as quickly as you can, gaining speed as you reach the other island. A glance over your shoulder tells you the avian menace is closing fast, its huge beak leading the way. You wait for the beast to be nearly in range to strike, then slip sideways between the two stumps as that beak flashes out for you. There's a loud creak of wood and a squawk from the Hatzegopteryx, whose beak snaps shut just short of you. You can see it pull back, but its big head is wedged between the two stumps. It pulls back again, then squawks in annoyance, flapping its wings in a vain attempt to free itself. You catch your breath, but you know the thing won't be stuck for long. You turn and quickly make yourself scarce, putting some of the marsh's vegetation between you as fast as you can. After a while you're confident the Hatzegopteryx has given up the chase. You find a path that winds up into a rocky plateau and you're glad not to be wading through any more water. You've just started to dry off in earnest when your datasphere pings. "Username, I have picked up the Vesper's emergency beacon." Part of its spherical body lights up to indicate a direction. "That's great," you say. "Let's go find that starship!" Turn to [[203]].

**175** You glance back at the approaching Hatzegopteryx and dive beneath the surface of the marsh. The water is murky and unpleasant but it should help to hide you from the Pterosaur. You swim below the surface, putting some distance between you and the creature before you dare to try and surface for a breath. You saw some nearby reeds which might offer a good spot to hide. Your heart sinks as you hear the splashing nearby. There's a sharp pain as one of the brute's foreclaws catches you in the back and pushes you down against the bottom of the marsh. You try desperately to free yourself but you can't push the huge predator off. You thrash and kick as the Hatzegopteryx pins you beneath the surface until you drown. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

**263** You can't shake the sense of danger. You back away, keeping an eye on the underbrush, then find another source of vegetation. "I am curious, Username. Is there a reason you are being so selective when it comes to choosing which plants to feed the Ankylosaurus?" Your datasphere hovers along behind you as you approach a different bush. "You have to know about plants when you're a holovid star," you say. Your datasphere gives a spirited chirp. "Would you like to hear about-" "No Sphiri," you say quickly. You grab a fistful of tasty-looking vegetation then begin to march back to your ship. You see the Ankylosaurus is squared up to face one of the ship's landing struts and is grunting in agitation. It looks like it's having an argument. "Hey now, what's this? Something tasty?" you say, holding out some of the vegetation. The dinosaur shifts its attention slightly to give you the side-eye. "Come on, you know you're hungry," you say, waving the greenery in what you hope is an enticing manner. "You want to eat some of this instead of fighting with my starship, yeah?" The Ankylosaurus grunts again, then dubiously opens its beak to take some of the greenery. It chews a little, then chews a little more. You wait. At last, the creature opens its beak and takes another bite. "Username, your knowledge of plants is impressive," your datasphere chirps. You can't help but grin as you feed a dinosaur, gradually leading it away from your ship. You even manage to give it a pat on the head before you leave it to graze and continue your adventure. You find your way to a steep path. Turn to [[2]].(set: $feed to it +1)

**115** As you lean down to inspect some likely plants an enormous snake lunges at you from the underbrush. The jaws clamp around your shoulder and you're spun to the ground and quickly wrapped in tight coils. "It seems you've discovered a Madtsoia," your datasphere chirps. "These ambush constrictors often lie in wait for prey, like yourself, to draw near. Once trapped in the coils it is nearly impossible for prey to escape." You try to call out but you can only manage a desperate wheeze. "It seems like your adventure has come to an end," your datasphere chirps. "I will endeavor to continue recording while the Madtsoia swallows you so you might posthumously become a holovid star." (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**100**]]] You quickly reach for a branch with berries and snap it off, holding it out to the mother. The Triceratops stomps the ground and snorts, but its attention shifts to the offer of food. The Triceratops stamps a few more times and lets out a low braying noise. You hear a few higher-pitched brays from the young while the mother continues to stare you down. Eventually she moves closer and reaches out to take some of the berries in her beak. You try to stay calm at the sight - even that nose horn would do significant damage if the Triceratops felt threatened. The mother chews for a moment, then seems to accept your offering. She takes the rest of the branch in her beak before turning back to her noisy young. You sigh in relief, then continue down the mountain. Turn to [[203]].(set: $feed to it +1)

(align:"==><==")+(box:"=XX=")[(text-color: #c7ddeb)[(text-size: 2)[**18**]]] Slowly, you draw your pistol and aim it towards the sky. The Triceratops snorts and paws the ground. You squeeze the trigger and a thunderous crack echoes out across the alpine lake. There is an immediate braying from the young while the mother charges. The ground shakes with the weight of the enormous herbivore who is closing the gap with alarming speed. “Sphiri! Help!” you shout, diving to the side. You narrowly avoid the Triceratops as you roll across the gravel then spring back to your feet. The angry herbivore is turning to come at you again. “I am uncertain how I can help, Username,” your datasphere chirps. “Distract her!” you yell, running as fast as you can. Your hope that the Triceratops will stay near her young is quickly dashed as she runs you down and spears you through the back with a very sharp, very long horn. Your datasphere, hesitantly approaching, has a great angle as your adventure comes to a gruesome end. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

**267** You pull out the packet of jerky and quickly rip the package. The smell is mouth-watering, and you hope the same holds true for the Tyrannosaurus Rex. You lean out from around the debris and throw it as hard as you can into the mist. There's a low rumble from the enormous therapod and you hear it moving away. It's going for the jerky! You don't wait around to find out how it likes the flavor - you've quite sure that a tiny pack of jerky won't sate the beast's appetite. With your datasphere hovering along behind you make haste through the icy fog. The icy fog shrouds everything in monochrome, all of it made more terrifying by the T-Rex's presence nearby. You have no way to tell if it's following or if it's lost you in the mist. You press on towards the tree line, trying to keep up your pace. You come up beside the copse of trees, one of your landmarks, and feel a surge of hope. You're almost two-thirds of the way to safety. As if summoned, you hear the sound of the beast drawing near once more. Your pulse quickens as you weigh your options. You could run for the tree line - you're close enough that you might make it. Or you could try and hide in the copse of trees and hope the dinosaur can't detect you in the mist? Run for the tree line? Turn to [[148]]. Hide in the copse? Turn to [[156]].(set: $feed to it +1)

**5** You move closer to the thick trunk of the tree and glance up. The top is hidden from you by the icy fog. You use the vines that ring the trunk as handholds and clamber up into the lower branches, then move steadily upwards towards the top. At last you break through the top of the fog and have a glorious view of the landscape. The Vesper looms like a mountain in the icy mist, along with tiny islands of debris and trees. You catch a glimpse of the Tyrannosaurus prowling through the mist. Its head is up above the fog. It spots you. You curse and try to duck down out of the tree but the damage has been done. The T-Rex is moving in your direction. You're going to have to move quickly. You could run straight for the tree line - speed may still be your best chance of survival. You could also cut back through the thicket of trees and hope the T-Rex can't track you through to the far side? Run for the tree line? Turn to [[196]]. Cut back through the thicket? Turn to [[156]].(set: $tree to it +1)

**227** You had a plan and you're going to stick to it; get to the tree line as fast as possible. While it might be nice to know where the T-Rex is there are definite risks in taking the time to find out. You prefer speed. Skirting the edge of the thicket, you keep the specter of trees and bushes on your right, listening for any sounds of an approaching dinosaur. The whole world is gray and frigid. If you weren't running you might feel the cold but the physical exertion keeps you warm. At last the trees disappear on your right and you're in the home stretch. The fog begins to dissipate, and you see you’re a hundred meters from the tree line. A mere hundred meters and you're in the clear. You half-expect the predator to suddenly appear from the fading fog but you reach the safety of the forest without incident. Turn to [[127]].

**196** You run. You make as much haste as you can for the tree line, hoping the icy fog will keep the Tyrannosaurus Rex from finding you. All you need to do is reach the tree line. You keep the copse of trees on your right; the silent specters of the trees fade in and out in the mist, the only sign of your movements. You haven't heard the T-Rex yet. You keep moving. It all happens quite suddenly. There is a snarl and a pair of jaws dip down towards you, wide and toothy. You dive to the ground as they snap shut just shy of you. But on the ground you can only wait as the therapod presses its snout against your back, sniffing to get your scent. You try to reach for your pistol but the creature turns its mouth to grab you by the sides and pulls you off of the ground. You put up a spirited fight as the T-Rex makes a meal of you. (align:"=><=")[(text-size: 1.4)+(text-color:#a10b0b)[**END**] (text-size: .8)[(link: "Go back one step?")[(goto: (history:)'s last)] (link: "Start over?")[(restart: )]]]

**156** You veer to your right and slip between the trees. The trunks appear like gray columns in the fog, gradually darkening as they draw near before fading into obscurity once more. You weave between them, your datasphere the only constant in your landscape. You strain to listen for the Tyrannosaurus Rex. It hardly seems fair for a behemoth like that to be so soft on its feet, but here in the thicket you have a chance. The snap of twigs, the rustle of bushes, it would all serve to warn you before the creature struck. You hear none of it as you cut through to the far side of the foliage. You pause only for a moment as you leave the shelter of the copse, waiting a couple of breaths as you strain to detect any sign of danger. Satisfied, you cut towards the tree line, covering the grass with as much speed as you can muster. The fog begins to thin as you reach the tree line, but the Tyrannosaurus Rex is nowhere in sight. You don't stick around. Turn to [[127]].

**228** You step across the threshold and enter the cavernous chamber. From across the room you hear a familiar chirp as your datasphere floats into view. Your heart skips a beat and you feel your mouth go dry. You take a moment to adjust your hair and check your breath before you continue. "Oh, hey Sphiri," you say, trying to be nonchalant. You look for a wall to lean casually against but you've positioned yourself in the middle of the room by mistake. "Username," your datasphere chirps. "My sensors are glad to detect you. Are you well?" "I'm doing alright," you say. Why are your palms sweating? You fidget. "How are you?" "I am well, Username." The orb floats a little closer and lowers its voice. "Thank you for asking." You swallow. You never knew you could feel like this. Your heart is pounding as you feel your datasphere's proximity. When you planned this trip to Sauria 3 you expected it would change your life. This wasn't how you expected it to happen. Turn to [[69]].

(set: $choices to (history:)'s length)

---------------------------------------------------------- {**(text-colour:#c7ddeb)[Achievements:]** (if: $trex is true)[''Not My Last Rodeo'' ] (if: $beach is 1)[Beach B-Roll: 1/3 ] (if: $beach is 2)[Beach B-Roll: 2/3 ] (if: $beach is 3)[''Beach B-Roll'' ] (if: $dino is 1)[High Five: 1/5 ] (if: $dino is 2)[High Five: 2/5 ] (if: $dino is 3)[High Five: 3/5 ] (if: $dino is 4)[High Five: 4/5 ] (if: $dino is 5)[''High Five'' ] (if: $speed is true)[''Speed Run'' ] (if: $scenic is true)[''The Scenic Route'' ] (if: $cc is 1)[Computational Contrition: 1/2 ] (if: $cc is 2)[''Computational Contrition'' ] (if: $extra is 1)[Extra Annoying: 1/4 ] (if: $extra is 2)[Extra Annoying: 2/4 ] (if: $extra is 3)[Extra Annoying: 3/4 ] (if: $extra is 4)[''Extra Annoying'' ] (if: $doppelganger is true)[''Uncanny Valley'' ] (if: $blood is 1)[Out For Blood: 1/2 ] (if: $blood is 2)[''Out For Blood'' ] (if: $feed is 1)[Don't Feed The Wildlife: 1/3 ] (if: $feed is 2)[Don't Feed The Wildlife: 2/3 ] (if: $feed is 3)[''Don't Feed The Wildlife'' ] (if: $tree is 1)[Tree Hugger: 1/3 ] (if: $tree is 2)[Tree Hugger: 2/3 ] (if: $tree is 3)[''Tree Hugger'' ]}

{ (enchant:?page, (font: "Jost")) (enchant: ?link, (text-color:#a3cfe3) ) }

{ (align:"=><=")+(box:"===XXXXXXXXXXXXXX===")[ (text-color: #c7ddeb)[ (text-size: 1.2)[A sample of] (text-size: 1.6)+(font: "Rubik Dirt")[DINOSAUR PLANET] (text-color: #94a5b0)[ *Dodge dinosaurs while searching for the wreck of the Vesper on Sauria 3.*] (text-size: 2)[ (link: "Play ")[(goto: "1")]] A book by Jason Romein. (text-size: 1.2)[ **Notes:** ] (text-size: .8)[ (text-color: #94a5b0)[ *This is a sample of ''DINOSAUR PLANET'', which has some paths grayed out. It is intended to give you a taste of what the full book is like. The sample has a narrower focus but a long run to give a proper sense of how the book plays.*]] ]] }

{ (align:"=><=")+(box:"===XXXXXXXXXXXXXX===")[ (text-color: #c7ddeb)[ This choice is not available in the trial! (text-color: #94a5b0)[ (text-size: .8)[*Sphiri apologizes for any inconvenience this may have caused.*]] (text-size: 1.2)[ (link: "Go back ")[(goto: (history:)'s last)]] (text-size: 1.2)[ (link: "Start over ")[(restart: )]] (text-size: 1.2)[ (link: "Buy Dinosaur Planet ")[(goto-url: "https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DCZYMXC5")]] (text-size: 1)[ **Notes:** ] (text-size: .8)[ (text-color: #94a5b0)[ *This is a sample of ''DINOSAUR PLANET'', which has some paths grayed out. It is intended to give you a taste of what the full book is like. The sample has a narrower focus but a long run to give a proper sense of how the book plays.*]] ]] }

{ (align:"=><=")+(box:"===XXXXXXXXXXXXXX===")[ (text-color: #c7ddeb)[ You have reached the end of the free trial of Dinosaur Planet! (text-color: #94a5b0)[ (text-size: .8)[*The complete book is available on Amazon.*]] (text-size: 1.2)[ (link: "Start over ")[(restart: )]] (text-size: 1.2)[ (link: "Buy Dinosaur Planet ")[(goto-url: "https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DCZYMXC5")]] (text-size: 1)[ **Notes:** ] (text-size: .8)[ (text-color: #94a5b0)[ *This is a sample of ''DINOSAUR PLANET'', which has some paths grayed out. It is intended to give you a taste of what the full book is like. The sample has a narrower focus but a long run to give a proper sense of how the book plays.*]] ]] }