1.1 Bounty

## Little Red

On March 25th, Jake Moors died in his sleep from cardiac failure. He was described as melancholic and quiet, living far north outside of Yellow Pass. While his death isn't all unusual, a memory bounty was posted by his sister, Harley Moors. She writes that Jake's 16-year-old daughter, Avery, is missing.

Since the police have failed on their part, Harley turns to fishers on the matter in hopes that some clues may be found within Jake's many tragic memories. She was willing to pay for any deposits that may shed some light on little Avery's location. The Parable crew had to gather enough empathy on Jakes's life to complete this task.

## Assignment

#### Route A

Harley informs the crew that Jake used to live in Willowfield, Ordene. She provides an address leads to an empty plot in the quaint suburban neighborhood. Lucius confirmed that it was there a home once stood.

Cicero asked a nearby woman about her missing neighbor. She informed them of his off-putting reputation and obsessive tendencies, being the first to mention his involvement in local court cases. To further enlighten the crew to Jake Moors' life, they separated to pursue leads both new and old.

Mallory and Cicero asked around further, inquiring about the specifics of the missing house. Their stories begin to meld into a single, similar story. A load roaring sound bursting within his walls. Police, ambulances and firemen lined up outside his home. A spray of terror between the shouts, smoke, and embers. A man running to the scene inaudible through his anguish. His house was all but abandoned as a smoldering carcass, void of memories. The pieces of their retellings were as fractured as Jake’s old home. Speculations and fantasy filled the dubious holes of the event. Too much of it was unseen from his recluse neighbors, so they thought it was best it stayed that way.

Tom and Briar visit another neighbor who worked with Jake at the school. She was the first to speak of him kindly, claiming he cares deeply for children and others. She mentions he lost his job a while before he moved away and the she misses his company. A similar story was given on Chunlin and Octavian's side. The townsfolk mention how Jake’s vigorous involvement started as long as they remember. He was a teacher for a while, learning much about the happening through the words of children. It always made him seem ironically distant, unwilling to befriend older figures with similar attention.

Before Victoria’s death, many folks even thought they had divorced since they were rarely seen together. Victoria kept herself cooped up within their home as Jake made his intrusive, lecturing laps around town. “It sounds a lot like coping.” The woman said, “Victoria grew up here, so we all know how sweet she could be. People talk and say she was abused or neglected before she turned recluse but Jake…” She looked to her child before her next words, “He really did care about his students. Even if it did seem scary to other people.”

Some made a stop at the nearby school where Jake taught. There, Gia asked some students questions regarding his character. A teacher interjected and informed them of Jake's caring, devoted nature. Thus introducing a reoccurring characteristic of Jake Moors' savior complex. The man lost his job over his intrusive exploits and was widely disliked by many parents. Chunlin pressed the teacher further to connect this information with that of the local court cases. It was only then they learned that is was the Hackard family that cost Jake his job. They had all moved away, but has remained a problematic point in his life. Mimi dug further, finding information through sharing photos of the Hackards in addition to the target. “Yeah, that’s Nora.” Many people, even the younger students, were able to easily pinpoint the photo of ‘Harley Moors’. Avery, not so much. People said they vaguely recognized her as a student or didn’t remember altogether. Ultimately the agreement was at least made that she used to be present in the school. “She was kind of quiet I think.” An older student mentioned, “Hm? Oh, yeah, in Mr. Moors’s class. A lot of people got pulled from the school even before he was fired I think. My mom almost didn’t let me come either. She says we’re impressionable or he’s bad luck or something, I don’t know. Oh ‘why?’ I don’t remember, ma’am. Sorry, it was like… so long ago.”

When pursuing this lead, the crew was informed of Jake's true nature; A sympathetic tortured soul. He wasn't originally from the town, shedding light on a lot of words or actions townsfolk found strange. Mrs. Laslow, a local, also explained his relationship with his wife. Victoria was a former school counselor, recusing herself after some unknown event. The crew made deductions that it was the day they lost their biological child, both coping in varying ways.

When visiting the cemetery, the crew sought to learn more about Jake's family. Like everything else, they found more answers on the Hackard family instead. Aster caught sight of their family plot, noting the lack of child graves in contrast to the court case information they've been given.

#### Route B

To learn more about Jake, the crew combed through the cabin where he died north of Yellow Pass. Upon entering, Henry took note of the architecture contrasting that of Willowfield residence, pointing the entryway away from the sun. They then proceed to Jake's bedroom, finding a list of letters addressed to his deceased wife and absent Hackard family members. Gia too was rummaging about the contents of his disheveled desk space. In addition to his letters, there also were some sparse photos of his life in Ordene, some with assumed friends, wife, family, coworkers, and even students. He even had some wallet-sized childhood photo of himself. She noted the absence of his sister or daughter among them. Speculation of controversy, insanity, or remorse was made before proceeding to examine his living space. It was orderly despite the disarray of his office space, implying comfortable living.

When making way into Avery's room Aster finds a boarded-up entryway within one of her dressers. Diana managed to pry it open revealing a passageway into the garden. Briar works in examining Avery's interests, finding that she's quite a dreamer and artist. In the process she observes that Avery is in possession of some drawings done by another child despite the implied isolationism of her life. They cease their examination of the rooms and proceed onwards.

In the garden, Mimi notices how all the flowers are vibrant red begonias. Bushes were closely trimmed as well as flowerbeds controlled regardless of their spill onto the stone pathways. When admiring the heart of it, two stones poked out, polished like a heaven’s gates, standing strongly on the plush bed of flowers. One was far larger than the other, yet both failed to rise any higher than the knee. Mallory took initiative in digging up the implied graves, finding a small tin box with an engraved 'A'. He brought it to the Parable meeting room where they proceeded to open it (after 3 failed attempts) revealing itself as a woman's jewelry box with a baby's bracelet on top.

Chunlin tasked herself with the living room. It appeared to be the obvious place where they studied or read, finding an abundance of academic books more than anything. On the windowsill was a small photograph of a girl. She was no older than perhaps five, bearing no resemblance to the Avery they know. Her eyes were blue, skin somewhat fair, expression gentle. Recalling the rest of the home, this is the only photo of this child seen. Knowing that marked the room with a muted nostalgia as if it was a sanctuary of a kind comfort.

Meanwhile, Cicero and Mallory examined the kitchen. They found it to be well-loved, adorn with notes and children's art. Cicero calls to attention Avery's drawings hanging on the fridge. He notes, like the rest of the house, there are no depictions of her mother. Instead, there is a doodle of her among many other children with Jake present.

#### Route C

Details on Avery's mother are completely unknown. The only clues are a half-burned photo of her in Jake's room, her wedding ring on his nightstand, and the fact all her possessions are gone. The crew worked in obtaining information from official records.

Tom requested information on Ms. Moors' death, only to reach a barrier established by the police. They were still capable of letting him know her named and place of death before Chunlin and Gia pressed for details; Victoria Moors, Jake's wife, died from pulmonary swelling and subsequent asphyxiation. While her information was not bound by the Pact of Discretion, further information was yet to be found.

   Cicero approached on a different occasion about Jake's health instead. He learned the man always had high blood pressure, remaining sickly for most of his life. The only absent clues between Victoria and Jake's hospital records was the implication that a Pact of Discretion was established for some unknown aspect of their life.

Using his law knowledge, Henry approached at another end for information on Nora Hackard's case. As neighbors mentioned, it took place 6 years ago under the accusations that Nora murdered her child. It was brought forth by Vincent Hackard; accuser, distant neighbor, and brother of Nora.

The conditions of the case were as fuzzy as the rumors. Her child, Lily Hackard, had disappeared months before the accusation. Neighbors came forth with speculations of abuse and neglect, only having it point to the idea of murder once introduced by Jake Moors himself.

He spoke of witnessing her conspire when pulling Lily from school grounds, consistently threatening the girl’s life before removing her from the institution altogether. Additionally, he brought forth a letter she wrote addressed to him. It treads along the lines of him guiding Lily towards her demise, threatening the both of them if they were to ever meet again. Ultimately the motive and threat were secured, allowing her to be detained until further evidence or Lily herself could be found.

With Jake’s disappearance soon following, the truth of his claims eroded from local doubts. Lily still was never found and Nora Hackard was released.

#### Route D

The crew met with Harley Moors in the meeting room. There they asked her a series of questions regarding Jake's family and living conditions that were met with vague, dubious answers. Between inconsistencies and transparent lies, the crew deduced Harley Moors is not who she says she is. Her identity is speculated to be Nora Hackard in reflection to her interests and strong opinions, placing a dilemma on how to Parable wishes to proceed with their unethical client.

[ Harley Moors Interrogation Log ]

The Parable is parked far outside of Willowfield domain awaiting the final steps of its investigation. Mere moments ago, Captain Cor gathered all the available crew members in preparation for an expected guest. “Won’t be long!” She reassures them despite her own restless impatience.

In ONE HOUR, Harley Moors will arrive at the Parable for questioning! You are free to prepare what you wish to discuss in the meantime. The interrogation will be an open roleplay lasting around 60 minutes, so try to confirm or clarify whatever speculation you have while you can.

**COR:** Eyo! She’s here! [Her gaze was glued to the window.] Give me just a moment, kiddos. [COR departed the room only to return moments later with a woman by her side.]

**HARLEY:** [She appeared much like the portrait given on the bounty form. The main exception was the blue tattoo sleeve dressing her left arm and stern demeanor.] Nice to meet you all. I’m Harley Moors. I appreciate your help with all this so I’ll tell you what I can. [She looks to them expectedly the moment she made herself comfortable at the table.]

**GIA:** Hi! :relaxed: [Oh yeah baby, here comes the blindingly bright demeanor.] Nice sleeve.

**HARLEY:** [She gives the girl a slight smile.] Hm? Oh thanks.

**TOM:** He had been casually snacking on some chips as they waited, but promptly put them down and Harley arrived. "Hello, Miss Moors, nice to meet you! Thank you for meeting with us!"

**GIA:** You're welcome! [She leans back in her chair and rifles through some of the papers they have on the table.] What can you tell us about your brother, Miss Moors? What kind of a man was he?

**HARLEY:** A bit moody. Annoyingly private. And of course, stubborn. [She didnt think too long on her answer.]

**HENRY:** Thanks for joining us, ma'am. [Having seated himself besides GIA, he simply props his arm up on the table and rests his chin on his hand, absentmindedly twirling a pen in his right hand.] Were the two of you close? Sounds like he was a guarded man... [He drawls this out before smiling.] Even to family?

**HARLEY:** Our... parents weren't from here. He came to teach or something, that or to marry uh... right Victoria. So no, he never was one about family. Too busy getting involved with others, clearly. [She was suppressing a scowl]

**TOM:** "So he was more worried about the lives of strangers than his own family?"

**GIA:** Huh! Did he ever mention his relationships, then? With Avery, Veronica, maybe some of his old neighbors in Willowfield...

**CHUNLIN:** [She's tilting her head at the pause.] Did you meet Victoria before her passing, Miss Moors?

**HARLEY:** Something like that. [@TOM] I never met Victoria, really. I think she was a stay-at-home mom... or maybe one of those knives salesmen? [She snickers at the thought.] Is a shame she passed though. I'm sure that's why Jake moved, right? I did see him mingle some with neighbors too while he was still here. He was close to Avery I think. That's why I posted the bounty.

**GIA:** [Serene.] I bet she was a cute baby!

**HARLEY:** [She lights up.] Ah yes she was adorable. So precious. She looks so much like her mommy.

**CHUNLIN:** [She leans in.] Miss Moors, are you saying that you've never met Avery while they lived in Willowfield?

**CHUNLIN:** [Ah, never mind.] What about when she was... let's say around the ages of two to ten? Did you visit and see Avery then?

**HARLEY:** Hm? Oh I've met her! Jake isn't very good at taking care of children so I of course would see her as much as I can.

Two to ten? You mean before he moved? Yes that was the only time I saw her. He was keeping her close when he went crazy and moved away like he did so I didn't see her after.

**MIMI:** [looks at this lady. Like her bro. Did not give a good feeling, but ignored it.] ...how have you met Avery but not Victoria?

**TOM:** And can you tell us more about Jake and Avery's relationship? You said they were close, but... Were they happy? Do you think they were, eventually, happy after they moved out of Willowfield?

**GIA:** Ahhh, to be a primary school teacher but go home and not be so good at taking care of children...

**TOM:** To Gia. "Being good at teaching and being good at actually taking care of a child's daily needs are two different things, though..."

**HARLEY:** [She side-eyes MIMI] I never liked that woman so I never bothered to. Avery is much more pleasant to be around anyway. She quite liked my company too. I'm sure she'll be much happier with me than with them. No conditions to raise a child, you think?

[@TOM] They talked a lot. Really talked. He was all words when I knew him. Gives her bad habits like making her all recluse too. A bit snappy as well. I can't imagine her life was all that healthy once they moved out, right? He never was good at giving his own family attention, so why would that change now?

**CHUNLIN:** Was he like that even when you two were children? How was your family dynamic when the two of you were growing up?

**HENRY:** Did you not visit her after he moved? He raises a brow intuitively. After all, you found him didn't you? You must have seen her then.

**HENRY:** Well, during your prior visits that is.

**GIA:** A little fast on the uptake there, Miss Moors. You aren't stricken about how Avery went missing and your brother dying?

**TOM:** [Looks at Harley with an apologetic smile.] I find it weird how you say they were close, and spoke a lot, then you say he never gave his family attention... Isn't that a bit contradictory?

**MIMI:** ...from the sound of it...it sounds like Avery isn’t Victoria’s birth mother. Am I correct?

**HARLEY:** He was uh... quiet? Our parents were very loving but he usually did his own thing. [She shifts to Henry's questions instead] No I didn't visit him. Couldn't even find him. He never told anyone where he was going. Of course by the time I do track him down he's... well....

[@TOM] Well he... was never home, you know? Every time I came over he wouldn't even say hello. Probably never even speaks to his parents. Heck, I heard he wasn't even there when Victoria died.

[@MIMI] Birth mother? [She pauses for a bit.] That could be true... yes. I don't know. You think he stole her?

**TOM:** Didn't you just said Avery looks just like her mom?

**HARLEY:** I uh.. yes I did.

**MIMI:** You also spoke very complimentary of her mom.

**HENRY:** How did you track him down? He continues. You said you hadn't heard from him for some time prior to seeking him out. Were the two of you corresponding via letters?

**TOM:** And why would you immediately assume he stole, instead of adopting her?

**HARLEY:** [@TOM] He was like that... I don't know. Impulsive? Like I said, he's stubborn. [@HENRY] No he didn't mail me. I had to ask around. Worried about Avery when he disappeared.

**CHUNLIN:** How did you know that he disappeared if he never kept in contact with you to begin with?

**HARLEY:** Also I... don't know what you mean by complimentary. But I'll take that as a compliment. I care for Avery.

**HARLEY:** Well his house was gone for one. [She didn't hide her sarcasm]

**HENRY:** He moved often, didn't he? It took you six years to locate him? Do you reckon he was perhaps fleeing from something or someone?

**HENRY:** I've heard he was involved in quite a number of court cases. Were you aware of this?

**HARLEY:** Maybe. Probably another one of his people paranoia things. I did know about the court cases. He had many enemies, you know.

**TOM:** [Gets up and puts the box they found in the garden in front of her, open, with the contents showing] Would you take a look at these? Do any of them seem familiar to you?

**HARLEY:** [She looks over at the box and shakes her head] Not really. Were these Victorias?

**GIA:** He had many enemies? How so?

**CHUNLIN:** I meant after his death, Miss Moors. You didn't exchange letters with Jake to begin with, so what do you mean you "hadn't heard from for a few days"? What prompted you to go visit him? Wasn't communication already very scarce between the two of you?

**HENRY:** How many were involved them and were they of the same nature as Nora's?

**TOM:** [He shrugs and gives her a smile.] Unfortunately we don't know, either, but it was found on his property. Thank you either way. [He closes the box and puts it to the side before sitting down again.]

**HARLEY:** [She leans back] He lost his job cause the school kicked him out. Mothers didn't like him. They saw through all his bad habits. [@CHUNLIN] I already told you, I was worried about Avery. [@HENRY] Nora? Yeah like the mothers at his job. He liked to tell people how to parent but he's not so greet himself. But I don't know what you mean by 'nature'?

**CHUNLIN:** [She stares at HARLEY. She didn't answer the question.]

**HARLEY:** [She stares back]

**GIA:** It seems somewhat concerning that he'd be very invested in the lives of his students, but not as much when it came to his daughter.

**TOM:** You said it took you all these years to track him down and find his body, no? Why'd it take you so long? Where they using fake names? Can you give us more details about how you found him, or rather, his body?

**HARLEY:** More details? I asked around about Jake and Avery is all. Figured it wouldn't be far from Willowfield but would be a new country. He's actually a registered resident of the Reach now, did you know that? Made it easy to find him when I told the police I'm his sister. His body though... I don't know. I found him like that.... [She leans back instead of answering further.]

**TOM:** I understand, it's ok. It must've been very hard for you, finding him like that, and then Avery missing. Despite all else, he was your family, after all.

**HENRY:** So he often stepped in, believing others to be treating their children poorly? [He glances towards CHUNLIN, feeling the pregnant pause]

**HENRY:** Ma'am, I trust you want to find Avery given how close you seemed to her, but it would be paramount to our case if you could be more upfront about the information. You stated previously you hadn't heard from him in days. How come you say now that you haven't heard from him in years? That the two of you hadn't corresponded since he moved, six years prior?
[I WOULD LIKE TO USE INTUITION]

**CHUNLIN:** [Her gratitude towards HENRY is palpable.]

**GIA:** [Gives HENRY an encouraging leg pat.]

**MIMI:** [Is eyeing Harvey’s tattoo and trying to keep it in memory.

**HARLEY:** Yes... we haven't talked for 6 months. [She clearly seemed a little taken back, backtracking her own words for a moment.] I said 'days' back then probably cause I was nervous. I don't know, I answer a lot of questions. [She was lying.]

**DIANA:** [just woke up from my nap :uguu: Diana is there taking notes, but primarily is left out of the whole 'chit-chat' phase. Her pencil taps against the table annoyingly]

**GIA:** [Side eyes HENRY like LADIES AND GENTLEMEN WE GOT HER. PRESS HER INTO A CORNER, LAWYER MAN!]

**HENRY:** And it said here, [he taps on their files] she wasn't seen before her father's death. Did he tell you that six months ago? [He does not believe that she had simply Talked to him]

**HENRY:** Furthermore, you said he moved around ever since. That implies moving more than once, does it not? How many places had he resided before settling in the cabin?

**HENRY:** [He glances to GIA before giving her a subtle shake of his head. Can't trust this lady.]

**HARLEY:** I don't know where he moved, I just know where he ended up. If I did know I would have told the cops already. Gosh, maybe Avery would have even been there. I'm sure she wasn't seen 'cause he drags her around like that too. Who could meet a girl who doesn't even have a home to settle in? [She was annoyed]

**GIA:** Why would you have told the cops?

**HARLEY:** [She throws her hands up] For the last time, to find *Avery*! [She looks to COR] Are we done here?

**GIA:** :relaxed: Oh, no! Please get comfortable.

**TOM:** "You said you spent all this time looking for them, with no luck. How did you knew they moved around a lot, and were unknown through the places they went by, if you didn't knew where they were before?"
I'd also like to use intuition here

**DIANA:** [Well, she'll be, HENRY wasn't doing half bad.]

**DIANA:** [she smirks beneath the brim of her hat before shaking her head. Tap tap, the pencil hits the desk once more.]

**HARLEY:** [She sighs. Ok last one for the pretty boy.] I talked to a bunch of cops... for *Avery* [She glares at GIA] ...and basically picked up on their names. They even helped me out for a while telling me where he passed and what-not. He didn't really have a house until I found that Cabin though. I guess he got comfortable? [She was telling the truth]

Anyways, you clearly have everything figured out about Jake, so I won't be much help anymore. Can I go now? [She looks to COR yet again, who in turn gave her a nod.] Good. Again, thanks for the uh... help. Good luck on your hunt.

**CHUNLIN:** [She’s smiling pleasantly. This woman was going down.]

**GIA:** :grin: [Immune to glaring.] Is that so! Thank you so much.

**MIMI:** .Thanks for your help. Hope we can help you find your daug—sorry, that’s Jake’s daughter, your niece. (Yawns)

**ASTER:** One more question, madam. [He raises his pen from the back, to get Harley's attention.]

**ASTER:** Are you actually related to Jake Moors, by blood? [Using da Intuition here]

**HARLEY:** [She was already at the door when she was ignoring all their farewells when she paused at the final question.] Of course. [She was lying.]

**HENRY:** He smiles at the final nail on the coffin, looking at HARLEY with a rather warm gaze. Have a good day, Miss Hackard! He calls to her as she leaves.

**ASTER:** [He writes down in his notepad.]

**ASTER:** Have a good rest of your afternoon.

**CHUNLIN:** Fantastic. Have a pleasant day then, Miss Moors.

**TOM:** [He waves her off with a smile] Thank you again for your help, Miss!

**HARLEY:** [Without another word, she leaves the meeting room.]

## The Final Hunt

#### Day One

With the crew, fishers concentrate on the sentinel placed before you. They think of Jake, taking upon what they believe defines him. It is only then the crew sees the whispering threads drift, weaving and twining into a wiry web. Certain ones seem stronger, thrumming like a heartbeat. They pull them in and twirl their mental compass, echoing distinctly above, below, left, right. They know these to be the whispering paths you the crew can follow, but the question is which one is Jake’s?

[ Whisper 1 ]

> *“If that’s what you want… I… ok I’ll sign it. I’ll do anything for her… for you, you know that.” My words were enough for her to finally look to me with those melancholic eyes, “Thank you. Just know that this is what’s best for her. For her purity.”*
>
>

> *I don’t really get it, she knows that, but I still want her to be right. I want this town to be right. But something within me knows it’s all not. “Is it really better to just… hide everything?”*
>
>

> *She shakes her head, “The best way to help anyone is to set them free, even in memory.” That may be true, but this is not how you do it. This is not helping you-- This is caging you.*
>
>

> *As if reading my mind she gave me the gentlest of smiles, “You can’t save everyone.” I can always try.*
>
>

[ Whisper 2 ]

> *“You’re against me, this whole damn place is against me!” I seethe.*
>
>

> *“You know that’s not true!” Her unwelcome words fed my anger. Only a loud CRASH snaps me out of my height of emotions. The window… did I do that? Did I throw something? I glance at her as if she’d tell me, but instead, I get a look of terror.*
>
>

> *“Shit, I’m sorry. That wasn’t me, I’m sorry.” It was futile as she pointed to the door, “Just leave.” I open my mouth to protest before she cuts me off, “It was a mercy.”*
>
>

> *“A what?”*
>
>

> *“It was a mercy the angels took her from you.”*
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>

[ Whisper 3 ]

> *There’s nothing… there’s not a single thing I can do. One minute she is there and the next… there’s nothing I can do. Useless. I’m useless.*
>
>

> *I lift myself off the ground trying to stifle my tears, hiding myself from peering eyes. What’s left for me other than to run? To hide? Flee this… this weakness. Hatred. Shame.*
>
>

> *“Over here!” a voice calls out. I look up to spot a spurring commotion as they pull her from the debris. I can’t even look at her, at any of them. I’m useless. She knows it like the rest of them.*
>
>

> *So I’ll run.*
>
>

Most of the crew believed 1 to be Jake's, tugging them in the correct direction. Upon listening further they found their next set of whispers.

#### Day Two

[ Whisper 1 ]

> *The bells on her little bracelet chime sweetly as her hand holds my finger. “She’s so small,” I adore. “Already looks so much like her mommy, doesn’t she? Let’s hope grows as smart and strong as her mommy too.”*
>
>

> *“You mean as smart and strong as daddy!” she corrects. We both know that’s not what I meant but I indulge her anyway, “Maybe with enough studying she can be!”*
>
>

> *She’s laughs, “Normally daddies buy their new babies kid’s books, not textbooks.”*
>
>

> *“I… I wanted her to get a headstart!” I flush with embarrassment. Maybe I’ll go out and get some kid’s books too… just in case.*
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>

[ Whisper 2 ]

> *The book sits on the nightstand, its cover adorned with a deep red circle. She holds it out to me, begging me to take it. “Again? Go ask mommy to read it. I gotta head out.”*
>
>

> *I watch her pout and whine prompting a slight chuckle from me, “OK I’ll read it when I get back. How about that?”*
>
>

> *She doesn’t look amused. “You’re lying!” Sudden tears well up in her eyes, “You always lie!”*
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>

> *“Daddy doesn’t lie, hun.” I correct her before checking my watch. It was hard to hide my concern about those precious seconds ticking by. “Book. You. Me. When I get back, alright? Daddy’s gotta run.”*
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>

[ Whisper 3 ]

> *I give the door a little knock. “Can I come in?”*
>
>

> *“No!” she snapped from the other side.*
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>

> *“I’m sorry about what we said. We feel better with you home, sweetie. You know that. You can go anywhere when you’re older.”*
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>

> *“Home stinks!”*
>
>

> *“Out there is--” I stop myself, “Yes, home stinks.” Entering the room, I hold a plush bear out in front of me. “I got you this… as an apology. Do you want it?”*
>
>

> *After a long silence I simply lower the plush to the floor before backing out of the room, “That’s fine. He’ll be here if you want him though, OK?”*
>
>

The answered seemed to obvious to them, leading minds astray and empathy skewed. A divide tugged at both 1 and 3, ultimately allowed the latter to be the victor.

#### Day Three

[ Whisper 1 ]

> *I give the door three knocks as I warily whisper, “It’s me.” She answers it quickly before wrapping her arms around my waist.*
>
>

> *“Did you see anyone while I was gone?” Her head shakes no. “Ok good, then we’re heading out tonight.” She nods, this time more slowly as she lets go. “You’ll have to listen to me very carefully, but I promise it’s all for you, OK? Grab your bag, let’s go.”*
>
>

> *We don’t have long, but at this point, we don’t have a choice.*
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>

[ Whisper 2 ]

> *“She can’t stay here,” he finally admits. It’s nothing new but it still stings. “But we don’t even know if she’s safe yet.” I protest.*
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>

> *“Then you take her.”*
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>

> *“Take her? You know I… I really can’t right now. Plus, wouldn’t it be obvious?”*
>
>

> *“She’d be in more trouble with me, that’s for sure.” He’s not wrong. Either way, it’s not really our choice. I kneel down and look at her, trying my best to give her a comforting smile. “What is it you want?” Her hand reaches out for mine, refusing to share anything more. “...Alright,” I confirm as I clasp it, “I’ll be back for you then. There’s one more person I have to ask.”*
>
>

[ Whisper 3 ]

> *“What are you talking about?” I listen to the rambles on the other side of the line, growing increasingly concerned with each word spoken. “That’s not good. We can’t stay here then. You have to get her.”*
>
>

> *He protests.*
>
>

> *“We don’t have a choice. If they see her, I’m in trouble. I hid her in the back… yeah that one. Bring her to the house in an hour. OK, I’ll be here.” I hung up and took a deep breath. Finally, It was all coming together.*
>
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The majority of the crew felt drawn to 1, leading the ship down a path it could not fulfill. The sentinel snapped and that was the sudden end of the Final Hunt. Unfortunately only 1 out 3 whispers were correctly followed, leading the ship astray before Jake’s memory can be found. All material gathered is handed to the Willowfield Police thus allowing them to limit Nora Hackard’s future fraudulent actions. While her and Avery’s fate is unknown, everyone may rest knowing their failures will not impede on justice. The WPD will do their best to keep the crew updated as well.

## Summary

The Parable crew discovered all the main twists and turns of the investigation. Harley Moors was indeed Nora Hackard, an obsessive, overbearing mother on the hunt for the daughter Jake Moors absconded with. Avery Moors is speculated to have long deceased along with her mother, Victoria Moors. The crew fixated on the latter's death, but could not find any answers regarding the house fire in any records.

As for Jake Moors himself, he appeared to be a complicated man. He ran away with Lily Hackard, hiding her under the name of his late daughter. He seemed firm, kind, overbearing, sympathetic, all the words that ultimate lead the crew astray from his true self. While his memory couldn't be found due to the failed Final Hunt, many stones were turned to lay the foundation of justice.