#oh. btw. this is the last time you'll be offered a choice in this chap :)

[salty-an-disco]

“Maybe there’s a key somewhere here…” [Look through the trash in the basement.]

“Maybe. I wouldn’t know.”

The Princess glances at the objects surrounding her; most out of reach.

Voice of the Hero: Maybe someone forgot the key here. Or maybe we can find something that can help us lockpick the chain.

Like a paper clip. Or a thin enough pen. Office workers are known for their fondness for paper clips and pens.

You search through the rubber, the Princess’ curious gaze on your back as you move. There’s something of a wait on the air; an anticipation. Despite her stoic outside, the Princess can’t help but clench her fingers around her dress in hopefulness.

Voice of the Hero: Aww.

Ahem.

Voice of the Hero: Sorry, sorry… Continue with your narration.

Thank you.

It isn’t long before you find a torn paperclip amidst a pile of crumpled up paper. Several, in fact—office workers really like their paper clips.

You take a handful, not sure which one is best fitting for the art of lockpicking. As you turn, the Princess perks her head up, wide unblinking eyes looking directly at you as you approach.

You show her the clips, then, taking her wrist in your hands, turn the shackle in search for the keyhole. Hm.

Voice of the Hero: What?

[Sound of rifling through paper.]

There isn’t any mention of a keyhole…

Voice of the Hero: There should have a keyhole, though, how else did they trap her in here?

Yes, yes, of course. The keyhole is definitely implied but there isn’t a mention of what happens once– [more rifling through paper] Oh, screw it. This script is so barebones anyway, might as well improvise a bit.

After finding the keyhole, you select a particularly thin clip and insert it into the opening.

Voice of the Hero: I think you need two of those to lockpick…

“Here.”

The Princess selects another clip, and inserts it alongside yours.

It takes a few stumbles, but together, the two of you manage to manipulate the mechanisms in the lock. And with a clack, the Princess is free.

“Huh.” She rubs her wrist. “You really did it. I didn’t doubt you, but, it’s still surprising that the first person I ever met also decides to free me. Right after saying you’re here to kill me, no less.”

Voice of the Hero: It was the right thing to do.