I investigate it by looking through the code of the game. So when you did the extra step of letting me know the variable you are missing, I searched for it through the code to find where the game changes it, then back track to figure out how to access it
If you (or anyone is interested) in the code something like a8_36 == 0 is ASKING does a8_36 equal 0? This is used most often in "If a8_36 == 0" statements - that's NOT what I am looking for. I am looking for the assignment, a8_36 = 1 (or a8_36=1). This is updating the variable "a8_36 is now equal to 1", Spaces are mostly ignored in the code, so depending on the programmer, some add spaces while others don't.
Renpy games are very easy to decode and read through and even use what you learn to make your own game. With little-to-no experience, you can get the basics from online tutorials. In my own opinion, it's much harder to get the graphics than it is the coding.