Awards Killing Game 2x2: Moon of Hope (Game Thread)

[Superchao]

IMPORTANT LINKS

• Lounge Thread - Please look here for the rules of the game.​
• Unique Gimmicks - AKG2x2 has several unique gimmicks. They're all organized in this post.​
• Discord Server​

PLAYERS

#	Player	Presenting as	Status
1	@Turboo	Albina	Alive
2	@Waluigi Time	Dr. Tempest Ghouligrab	Alive
3	@Hooded Pitohui	Porticia Knightley	Alive
4	@Boo1268	Boo1268 & Specture Striker	Alive
5	@Roserade	Coral Glasses	Alive
6	@Cloudwalker	Jackson B. Humorus	Alive
7	@Fun With Despair	Dr. Lyra Orpheus	Alive
8	@TPG	Thanos	Alive
9	@MoonAge	Reigen Arataka	Alive
10	@MCD	MCD	Alive
11	@Lulu	Lulu Azhal	Alive
12	@Reverse Input	"Luke Atmey"	Alive
13	@Ninelevendo	Lee Chaolan	Alive
14	@BBQ Turtle	Ratigan	Alive
15	@Power Flotzo	Victor	Alive
16	@Yap	Winter	Alive
17	@InsaneBlathers	Lupin the Third	Alive
18	@Hearts		Alive

NPCS

#	Name	Status
1	???	???
2	???	???
3	???	???
4	???	???

MAP

Spoiler: Map

Map Key:
- Door is locked, pathway cannot be used.
- Door is paranormal exclusive, cannot be used on the normal map.
- Door is unlocked.
- Elevator, connects all three floors.
- Staircase or passage to floor above.
- Staircase or passage to floor below.
- Room is always lit by Darklight.
- Hazard, varies by location.
██ - ████████
██ - ████████████
██ - ████████

To be added as you explore!

PHASE CHANGES

The Grand Experiment begins today!

 

[GBA]

At the edge of the universe, a lone oracle casts their gaze towards yet another curious fold in spacetime. Like a stage curtain caught in its own rope, parting a brief rift, an opportunity. Forgotten set-pieces that once remained caked in dust for eternity prepare to rearrange themselves at the orders of those even more distant than they.

In a single blink, the five observed buildings become one. The story rewinds, revises, and rewrites. The rift in the curtain grows, and light flows through to the stage, illuminating an unassuming pile of invitations for the opening act.

You are cordially invited to this year's Grand Experiment, held at the GHOST Complex in Evershade Valley! Here, the greatest minds of the paranormal sciences gather, assembling at one of the world's greatest hubs of paranormal research, in order to push the boundaries of knowledge and pursue a deeper understanding of the world!

If you received this invitation, we have selected you based on either your innate paranormal abilities, or interest in the paranormal itself and its related technology. Either way, we would love to have you here to pool your knowledge and skills with the resources of the GHOST Complex. With your help, our knowledge will reach heights never before seen!

Please reply to this invitation to communicate your interest. We expect you on May 1st, when the Grand Experiment will begin!

Yours sincerely,

Gadd Z.

Now, a Grand Experiment is set to take place.

Our tale begins in Evershade Valley, a location renowned for its perpetually gloomy atmosphere, but more bizarrely, the presence of five perfectly intersected and even contradictory biomes. At the intersection of all lies a lone building, almost as mismatched as the valley itself: The Gloomy Haunted Old Secret Treacherous Complex, otherwise known as the GHOST Complex. It serves as a hub for researching the spiritual and paranormal. Countless ghosts, both benign and harmful, make their homes in the valley, while the few caretakers of the Complex live in harmony with these spirits, researching new technology with their assistance.

Hanging in the sky shines the Moon of Hope. A localised celestial body, old folk tales describe it being formed from the hearts of five heroes, who perished fighting a terrible demonic spirit after overcoming an arduous trial. As their final sacrifice, the Moon of Hope banished the spirit for good, and brought peace to the valley before remaining in the sky as its guardian.

However, the moon's once-radiant glow has waned considerably for reasons unknown, leading many to call it the Dark Moon instead. The Dark Moon's paranormal influence provides ample energy for ghostly research, as well as protection from malicious demonic spirits and terrible accidents. From it, Darklight technology was created, capturing the Dark Moon's wavelengths to illuminate the unseen and ghostly.

Under the moon's dark light, the lead researcher, owner of the Complex, and eccentric curator of the curious himself, Dr. Gadd Zooks, has been conducting the "Grand Experiment of Evershade Valley" once per year. The GHOST Complex invites many with an interest in the paranormal, or those claiming to possess powers of the paranormal, for a single week, when the Dark Moon is at its perigee.

At first, this year was no different to any other. The invitees arrived of their own accord, having received their assignments a few days prior. Some were given Gaddgets, personally designed inventions by Gadd Zooks himself, while others were preliminarily classified with Ghost Power files that summarize their abilities. Now officially test subjects, each with their own codename, many were excited and beaming at the opportunity before them, while others were less than impressed. Nonetheless, the Dark Moon rests in the sky, casting a welcoming light over the Valley and its new arrivals.

A distant torch grows brighter as it approaches, then its carrier opens the gate to the Complex with a loud creak, and a haze of smoke. A nearby group of idly hanging grey bats takes off at the small commotion.

Strangely, the one who greeted the test subjects at the front gate was not the famous Gadd.​

With nary a word, the figure begins handing out maps to each guest, smoke hanging heavy in the air around him. Only when the last guest receives their map does the hazy figure introduce himself to the crowd.

Spoiler: Vigil's Theme - A Distant Bell Tolling For Aught

...Be not idle. Thou may address me as Vigil, a lowly groundskeeper. Hast thou any questions, I remain at thy service for the duration of our gathering, save for at which moment Master Gadd calls. Presently, the master's whereabouts are unknown, yet I cannot hear the bell tolling his death.

Master Gadd oft vanishes into nothing as a matter of course. In due time, thou may realise Master's absences outnumber his appearances. So long as I cannot hear yonder bell, I worry not. Trust in the Master's ways, and thy faith will be rewarded.

Stray not far from the path ahead. Shall thee require knowledge of aught, I shall be thy temporary guide.

​

---

It is now Day Zero. During this phase, you can familarise yourself with your surroundings, and how you interact with them. Feel free to explore the map or interact with NPCs you have access to.

Presently, you are examining 1F - The Valley of Darklights. The Dark Moon hangs in the sky overhead.

Day 0 ends May 3, 2026 at 1:00 AM ​

Available NPCs:

• Vigil - The Valley groundskeeper who watches over the Complex's residents, living and non. An expert mortician and gardener all the same, his primary residence is the Graveyard. Where there's smoke, there's fire, and his lantern can often be spotted from the Complex's misshapen windows, wandering the distant valley grounds at night.
• ???
• ???
• ???

 

[Dr. Lyra Orpheus]

What the- Another anomaly?

Kyeh, I've seen about enough of you "spooky lantern guys in the woods" for one lifetime - talk about a generic archetype! What, did you follow the other two walking halloween decorations in? I think I'll hold off on categorizing you for now, at least until I can determine whether you have the capabilities to do... anything else. Not like we don't already have like three lantern men on file.

Whatever, let's go see the Lake - and that building next to it, if that's what it is. I'm a scientist, not a cartographer.​

 

[Lulu Azhal]

Oh, a study, I'll go check that out. I wonder what sort of old books this mansion has.

 

[Jackson B. Humorus]

"Whaat? No stage?! Vigil, buddy, you're breaking my heart! A large mansion and you don't have the one thing that a comedian such as I requires?! Surely there's gotta be a place to stand up for my stand up!"

"Let's check out that Hollow Tree that the map places front and center. Surely this ought to have some stump to perform upon."​

 

[Boo1268]

Boo1268:
Well, now this is a rather interesting location, I must say the architecture is rather stunning! dont you agree specture my good man?

Specture:
No kidding! This place makes our mansion look small in comparison! But im gonna Talk to Vigil what do you want to do boo?

Boo1268:
Well Specture my good man im first gonna check out the archives see what history this place has to offer!

 

[GBA]

What the- Another anomaly?

Kyeh, I've seen about enough of you "spooky lantern guys in the woods" for one lifetime - talk about a generic archetype! What, did you follow the other two walking halloween decorations in? I think I'll hold off on categorizing you for now, at least until I can determine whether you have the capabilities to do... anything else. Not like we don't already have like three lantern men on file.

Whatever, let's go see the Lake - and that building next to it, if that's what it is. I'm a scientist, not a cartographer.​

With a puff of smoke at your remarks, it fortunately doesn't appears like much bothers Vigil. The rusted-on groundskeeper gestures towards the path circling the complex, and bids you a wordless farewell.

You approach the Ice Lake, the main feature of the Snowy Grounds. A frozen-over lake spanning a wide distance sits here, and like other frozen lakes of its type, it appears the ice is sturdy and can easily support many people. You notice a single hole cut in the ice. A small fishing hut sits next to the lake, and just nearby, an abandoned, frozen-over water pump is emitting frequent puffs of ice-white, spherical ghosts. Ice Elementals. These small spirits are pure manifestations of one of the elements, and can be captured for use. Chilly!

 

[Superchao]

View attachment 63979
"Let's check out that Hollow Tree that the map places front and center. Surely this ought to have some stump to perform upon."[/CENTER]

You investigate the Hollow Tree. It's a large tree that extends through the entire Complex, as you can tell it goes both upwards and downstairs. Inside the tree is a staircase running around the edge of the tree in both directions, both heading down to the basement and up to the second floor. It appears the tree simply grows right in the middle of the building, with the rest of the area built around it.

 

[MoonAge]

Hang on, seems I didn't do my research before showing up. You guys patronize with spirits? Here I was, thinking you were only in the business of hunting and trapping 'em. You know, like pests? Clearly, you people's mothers raised you all to be too trusting if you're swearing up and down and all around that a swarm of spectres can just mingle around like this without it spelling certain doom for us all...unless you're treating them like unpaid labor that don't need sustenance or rest. In which case, you've got an impressive business model going on around here.

Anyway, gotta appreciate getting to explore at my leisure without some chirpy tour guide putting me on rails. Let's see, I could check out the Graveyard, get an idea of what these spirits might have been like in their mortal lives, or maybe-

...I went too hard on the complimentary tea in the train. Could you point me towards the Bath Rooms?

 

[Power Flotzo]

At last... The Killing Game has arrived. I suppose now is a prime opportunity to explore my surroundings before I--

My name? I have gone by many names over the years... But you may call me Victor.

Anyway, now that I have arrived, I shall investigate the Chalet as I adapt to these environs.

 

[GBA]

View attachment 63977

Oh, a study, I'll go check that out. I wonder what sort of old books this mansion has.

You wander towards the Study. It appears to be a worldly room, souvenirs and knick-knacks aplenty. A well-travelled person would reasonably own this room. It's chock full of books on subjects that match the exhibits in the back of the Complex: aeronautic books and locomotive books for the Aviation Exhibit and Train Exhibit on 1F respectively. You note books on astronomy and sea-faring books, presumably these are for the Space Exhibit and Nautical Exhibit on 2F. Some manuals on the exhibits mechanical functions exist, as well.

View attachment 63976
Boo1268:
Well, now this is a rather interesting location, I must say the architecture is rather stunning! dont you agree specture my good man?
View attachment 63980
Specture:
No kidding! This place makes our mansion look small in comparison! But im gonna Talk to Vigil what do you want to do boo?
View attachment 63976
Boo1268:
Well Specture my good man im first gonna check out the archives see what history this place has to offer!

...I wish to carry out mine own master's orders. Thy question is answered. I expect our time together shall be brief, provided Mona finishes her safety assessment of the second floor in time. Prithee, refrain from using the staircases until yond... uncertain time.
​

You examine the Archives. This room contains several dust-caked boxes, full of densely-written documents about past Grand Experiments and paranormal phenomena present in the valley. As well, there is a large computer server plugged into the back wall. A few boxes of less jargon-rich papers appear to be frequently accessed, their contents scattered haphazardly. A computer screen attached to the server dimly illuminates this room. It's asking for a password to access the server.

You pull up some of the documents in the scattered boxes. It appears they pertain to the Complex's design, and some of the entities currently occupying the building today. You pore over the boxes for more info on the history of this place, and surmise the Valley's history is... shattered, in a word. One day, the complex just appeared, and its title was granted to Gadd in a mysterious contest. You may wish to further your studies at a later time.

 

[Jackson B. Humorus]

...I went too hard on the complimentary tea in the train. Could you point me towards the Bath Rooms?

"On the topic of trains, I haven't been on one in ages. I'm gonna check out whatever that Train Exhibit is... and maybe the Aviation Exhibit afterwards."​

 

[GBA]

View attachment 63981
Hang on, seems I didn't do my research before showing up. You guys patronize with spirits? Here I was, thinking you were only in the business of hunting and trapping 'em. You know, like pests? Clearly, you people's mothers raised you all to be too trusting if you're swearing up and down and all around that a swarm of spectres can just mingle around like this without it spelling certain doom for us all...unless you're treating them like unpaid labor that don't need sustenance or rest. In which case, you've got an impressive business model going on around here.

View attachment 63983
Anyway, gotta appreciate getting to explore at my leisure without some chirpy tour guide putting me on rails. Let's see, I could check out the Graveyard, get an idea of what these spirits might have been like in their mortal lives, or maybe-

View attachment 63984
...I went too hard on the complimentary tea in the train. Could you point me towards the Bath Rooms?

Ah, I wouldst say there are certain spirits one wouldst consider "pests" haunting these hallow'd halls. Apparitions of rats, and such. With full respect to Sir Ratigan, of course. Pay this servant nary any mind. Forsooth, I require no use of these facilities... unlike thou.
​

Vigil opens the door to the Bath Rooms for you. It's a rather upscale bathroom, with all the essentials - toilet, sink, bathtub, and most of all, soap. It's a very well maintained latrine, and Vigil gazes at you as if to imply for it to stay that way.

...verily.
​

 

[Superchao]

Anyway, now that I have arrived, I shall investigate the Chalet as I adapt to these environs.

You investigate the Chalet. It's a comfortable sitting room, reminding you of nothing so much as a cozy winter cabin. It's even built with logs like one would be. A rocking chair sits in the middle by a polar bear rug (it's fake, don't worry), and a big couch allows one to recline while relaxing. A fireplace sits to one side, currently lit. It's just a normal fireplace, though.

View attachment 63986
"On the topic of trains, I haven't been on one in ages. I'm gonna check out whatever that Train Exhibit is... and maybe the Aviation Exhibit afterwards."​

You check out the Train Exhibit. It's a huge, fancy exhibit on the history of railroads, with everything from an old-timey conductor uniform to several train whistles on display throughout. The centerpiece is a full-fledged train engine, sitting on a single loop of track that circles the exhibit. A sign says it's fully functional.

You check out the Aviation Exhibit. A fancy museum exhibit about the history of airplanes and aeronautics, you can find everything from a 1920s-era aviator outfit to a replica of a modern airplane control board. Two old-time biplanes hang from the ceiling by strong wires.

 

[Boo1268]

...I wish to carry out mine own master's orders. Thy question is answered. I expect our time together shall be brief, provided Mona finishes her safety assessment of the second floor in time. Prithee, refrain from using the staircases until yond... uncertain time.​

Specture:
Actually that WASNT my question dude, my question is, are you cursed to that coffin too? Also what's it like having to manage such a large estate and its ground, also from one Keeper to another how do you deal with the ghost rats?

Boo1268:
Well this was informative! I Suppose I should check out the Plant Nursery see how the fuana fairs in this place.

 

[Lulu Azhal]

Aaah, I could spend days with these books, but that's not what we're here for unfortunately. I'll check out the Garage next, since it's right next door.

 

[MoonAge]

Phew, and just like that, I'm at inner peace.

Right, then, now I'll go visit that Graveyard. Might as well check out what kind of wards they have propped up, if any. No doubt it's holding spirits even this Complex would find too much to handle.

 

[Lee Chaolan]

Lee Chaolan​

Well, that's a tad disappointing. These mad scientist types are all the same, always with their head in the books and unable to realise that there's time to enjoy the finer things in life. I even brought my finest Romanee. No bother, I'll just have to open it in his honour.

The name's Lee Chaloan, Violet Systems. Can't say I entirely believe of these paranormal abilities and stuff that you bunch are claiming to have, but at the very least the tech in these Gaddgets is very intriguing, dare I say excellent.

Now if you'll excuse me, I'm off to search this maze of a mansion for some paints. For no particular purpose. Perhaps I should start in the drafting office?

 

[GBA]

View attachment 63987
Specture:
Actually that WASNT my question dude, my question is, are you cursed to that coffin too? Also what's it like having to manage such a large estate and its ground, also from one Keeper to another how do you deal with the ghost rats?
View attachment 63989
Boo1268:
Well this was informative! I Suppose I should check out the Plant Nursery see how the fuana fairs in this place.

...prithee, I misspoke.

One might say I am bound to this coffin, or what lies within is bound to my spirit, depending on the eye of the beholder. 'Tis not at mine own behest to freely divulge its contents. On your final question, ghost rats doth generally carry the same weaknesses as their mortal counterparts... so, cheese. And large mallets. One could also use a vacuum, as generally all spirits may be bound with such a force matching their power. The grounds are easily maintained with such tricks in mind, and normally, the facility is locked from public access, except for this week.
​

You examine the Plant Nursery. It's a room full of exotic plants that require special growth conditions. It's been carefully arranged to provide said plants with all the right conditions they could want. Some of the plants appear to be producing glowing fruit in three colors: blue, orange, and white. One particular plant catches your eye. It seems to have an exotic, crimson flower in the shape of an eye. A small tag next to it indicates it's one of only five extant specimens in the world. Such a plant would be... very expensive.

 

[Boo1268]

Boo1268:
How peculiar, this genus of flora from my research rather rare! perhaps I would enquire as to ask the owner Mr Zooks as to wheather or not I could precure this specimen for my own estate? Hmmm, a trifle for later I suppose, for now I shall see what lies in the studio perhaps I may meet another indevidual there.

 

[GBA]

View attachment 63990

Aaah, I could spend days with these books, but that's not what we're here for unfortunately. I'll check out the Garage next, since it's right next door.

You examine the Garage. It contains a single car parked in the middle of it, with a large garage door exiting to the outside, and various car tools lying around the interior. The car is currently not running, and the key does not appear to be in the ignition, or around the Garage in plain sight. The car appears to be a vintage model, and likely well out of production, but it's polished like new. A model like this would command a high price on the market. This room is well lit by blacklight.

Phew, and just like that, I'm at inner peace.

View attachment 63992

Right, then, now I'll go visit that Graveyard. Might as well check out what kind of wards they have propped up, if any. No doubt it's holding spirits even this Complex would find too much to handle.

You examine the Graveyard. It's a packed graveyard with plenty of gravestones, as well as a large mausoleum in the back. Vigil appears to keep this place in good condition. Under the Dark Moon's light, some of the more aged gravestones appear to glow with painted words, while their names and occupations are strangely scrubbed in places. The mausoleum is sealed shut. Does... does Vigil sleep here?

View attachment 63994
Lee Chaolan​

Well, that's a tad disappointing. These mad scientist types are all the same, always with their head in the books and unable to realise that there's time to enjoy the finer things in life. I even brought my finest Romanee. No bother, I'll just have to open it in his honour.

The name's Lee Chaloan, Violet Systems. Can't say I entirely believe of these paranormal abilities and stuff that you bunch are claiming to have, but at the very least the tech in these Gaddgets is very intriguing, dare I say excellent.

Now if you'll excuse me, I'm off to search this maze of a mansion for some paints. For no particular purpose. Perhaps I should start in the drafting office?

You examine the Drafting Office. It's a minor office for drafting grand designs and inventions, full of miscellaneous blueprints and other writing supplies. Some of the blueprints seem to correspond to machines in the facility. You spot one for the vintage car in the Garage spread out on the desk.

 

[Superchao]

View attachment 63995
Boo1268:
How peculiar, this genus of flora from my research rather rare! perhaps I would enquire as to ask the owner Mr Zooks as to wheather or not I could precure this specimen for my own estate? Hmmm, a trifle for later I suppose, for now I shall see what lies in the studio perhaps I may meet another indevidual there.

You investigate the Studio. It's a small art studio designed for painting, with plenty of canvases, paints, and other necessary supplies lying around the room. A fancy golden key hangs from a hook next to several existing paintings.

 

[Lin Beifong]

​

WINTER:
Ah.

Striker. One of your relatives, I presume?
There seems to be an epidemic of cursed coffins around here.

WINTER:
At last one of you facility people shows their faces. We have been left standing outside for the better part of a day. How rude!
Since you are graciously allowing me opportunity to study your collection of specimen here, I, Prince Winter of the Icewings, cousin to the Ice Queen, will overlook your negligence this once. But I expect better manners in the future.

You investigate the Chalet. It's a comfortable sitting room, reminding you of nothing so much as a cozy winter cabin. It's even built with logs like one would be. A rocking chair sits in the middle by a polar bear rug (it's fake, don't worry), and a big couch allows one to recline while relaxing. A fireplace sits to one side, currently lit. It's just a normal fireplace, though.

WINTER:
In any case, I see that this "winter cabin" room has been clearly designated as my domicile. I may have some notes on the decor, but I deem it to be adequate for now. Thank you. All of you may now clear out while I get myself situated. Shoo.

Two or three of the scavengers can stay.

 

[MoonAge]

WINTER:
Ah.

Striker. One of your relatives, I presume?
There seems to be an epidemic of cursed coffins around here.

Wait, so now that I'm looking at you up close...You're not a spirit who chose to look like that? You're an actual dragon in the flesh? I used to laugh at those "proof" videos on 2x2chan's paranormal board, but maybe those cheese ball goblins were right!

Please understand that I need to learn everything about you if I want to have any hope of staying up-to-date in this breakneck market of mine. Do you breathe fire? Do you sit upon a hoard of gold? Can I loan some of it? I, uh, want to set up a sister location in Condiment Town, you see.

 

[Boo1268]

View attachment 63996​

WINTER:
Ah.

Striker. One of your relatives, I presume?
There seems to be an epidemic of cursed coffins around here.

Specture:
Sorry Winter old buddy old pal, were not related, besides we arnt even the same species.