Hazy Minds

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/msD3QPt.jpg" width="100%" /> //Marquess Ludwig Fron would be delighted to have you as his guest this evening for an intimate dinner among friends to celebrate his youngest son's fifth birthday.// What a sapsucking treefucker. Only a pompous shitstain like Marquess Fron would take someone else's birthday and make it about himself. He sent the invitation on //gold parchment.// Just in case someone forgot how disgustingly rich he is. Frustration rolls through Myrick as he assesses his evening plans. He didn't actually have any plans, but he prefers getting more advanced notice with invitations. Something about his anxious, sensitive brain needs time to prepare for social functions. He's always been bad at socializing, but at least in his home world, fairies didn't feel the need to throw a party every single damn week. He could go longer periods of time without seeing another fairy. Except for his ex, of course, who is the whole reason he's even in the human world. Acadya is the bane of Myrick's fucking existence. How has she eluded him after all these years? If he had been a little more honest with her in the first place, perhaps he wouldn't be in his current situation... Myrick has been in a human body for a few decades now. It's been a weird experience. Not always unpleasant, but weird. He was delighted to realize he could be a man in this world, but he was disappointed to discover the human world doesn't have unicorn races. Humans don't even have unicorns, what the smeg. He looks at the invitation again. If he doesn't show up, everyone is going to wonder what happened to Lord Richard Gafford (that's his human name. It's cute). As much as he hates Marquess Fron's doorknob-shaped face, he hates being the subject of snarky gossip even more. He prefers to gossip about others. And, well, if the party is a disaster, he could always use a bit of magic to work in his favor. His conduit, a gorgeous glass slipper, fits easily in his pocket, making it easy to use magic discreetly. What should Myrick do? [[Decide to go to the party]] [[Decide later. Hit up the market for now to destress.]] [[Decide to stay home.]] (set: $flag_decline to "false") (set: $flag_lie to "false") (set: $flag_lie_again to "false") (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='regularquirky'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> Going to the party is the most obvious solution, if only to gripe about Marquess Fron's asshole hubris to the other nobles who are surely equally pissed about this sudden invite. The best part of the human game is that everyone is anxious to relieve their stress in the form of tearing down people who make them stressed. Myrick shows up at Marquess Fron's mansion dressed in his best emerald-studded tuxedo. He is both elegant and obviously rich. He is sure to fit in with everyone else at the party. After being announced by Marquess Fron's butler, the butler offers to take Myrick's coat and present for young Master Tanner. Oh. Yikes. Presents. Myrick forgot that humans did gift exchanges for birthdays. Fairies don't have birthdays, since they come from flowers, but they do celebrate the first bloom of every spring by getting their wings cleaned. It's a very public and very uncomfortable ceremony. Myrick didn't show up with a present for L'il Tanner, but he could make one appear. Or Myrick could spew bullshit. What should he do? [[Use magic to make a present appear.]] [[Tell the butler Tanner will receive his present in a few days.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='regularquirky'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Mr5tfZQ.jpg" width="100%" /> Shopping. Of course. Myrick goes to the market almost every afternoon. A combination of his magic plus the inheritance he received from the elderly dowager countess he wooed in his early human days allows him to go on frequent shopping sprees. He doesn't understand why his brain feels happier after he hands over money to receive something, but he just assumes it's one of those human things. Myrick pulls out his conduit. After magicing on a splendid lavender satin suit, he waves his conduit and makes a carriage appear outside, complete with drivers and horses (not unicorns. Though it's tempting to give those moody fuckers some rainbow tassels and a sparkly horn). He slips the conduit back into his pocket and ventures into town. When Myrick arrives at the market, he meanders through the alleys of cute humans peddling their goods. Anything he might want to buy is within reach. He stops in place when he spies Lovell Lynah's stall around the corner. Myrick doesn't really experience romantic attraction (the human world has words like 'aromantic', another aspect he has enjoyed discovering here), but he does experience sexual attraction to others. Myrick's newest friend, the scrawny farmer selling vegetables and candy in the distance, is also Myrick's latest pants crush. Or whatever the fuck humans call it when they want to bone. Not like Myrick would ever proposition Lovell. Lovell's his newest friend, yes, but the farmer has quickly become one of his most important ones. Lovell never teases Myrick when he forgets the word for the really long purple vegetable (why call it an eggplant if a birdplant doesn't lay it?), never trash talks other people, and never lets anyone go hungry. Lovell's the kind of man Myrick quietly wishes he could be. Also, he's one of the prettiest humans Myrick has ever met. Long neck, narrow face, doesn't care that he's only five feet tall in a society that favors tall men. Totally great at making Myrick's mind go hazy when he smiles. Regrettably, Myrick has ruined other friendships by letting his hazy mind do the talking. He's determined not to ruin his friendship with Lovell. "Lord Gafford!" Oh, shit. Lovell noticed him. Myrick hasn't even thought of a good topic to discuss yet. What should Myrick say? [[Say whatever comes to mind.]] [[Wave and stall.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='regularquirky'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/msD3QPt.jpg" width="100%" /> Oh, fuck it. Fuck Marquess Fron. Fuck pretending everyone has gathered to celebrate a child's birthday when most of them don't know how to act around a kid. Myrick is going to stay home in his nice, cozy mansion with nineteen bedrooms, two full libraries, a vibrant garden that would make a botanist cream themself, and absolutely no people. He pulls out his conduit and runs his thumb along the smooth heel. A turkey dinner with all the trimmings appears before Myrick. Books start dancing in the library with music floating out of the pages. The flowers in Myrick's garden glitter and almost look like the flowers back home. Myricks sits down and starts eating, enjoying the moment. He knows he's missing something--thanks, horrific ex-girlfriends--but for tonight, he is going to treasure what he has. ENDING: Home Is Where The Heart Is [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/gfF3zY3.jpg" width="50%" />->ENDING: Home Is Where The Heart Is]] [[Start over?->Opening]] (set: $endings_HOME to "true") (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='regularquirky'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Mr5tfZQ.jpg" width="100%" /> Myrick rushes over to Lovell without any kind of conversation plan. This probably won't go wrong. "Lovell, my dear friend! Great to see you. You won't believe the shit I've had to deal with today." That probably came across as super eloquent and noble, right? Right? Shit. Lovell graces Myrick with a small, genuine smile. He doesn't seem to notice Myrick's nervousness. Which is great because why would Myrick be nervous around a friend? Hah hah hah. Myrick quickly and quietly blames his feeble human body with its perplexing organs for being a giant bag of weird. "Hello, Lord Gafford," Lovell says. "What have you had to deal with today?" The only actual inconvenience Myrick has experienced today is Marquess Fron's sudden invitation. Is it worth bothering Lovell about? [[Yes, Lovell doesn't mind listening to a friend's gripes.->Whine about Marquess Fron.]] [[No, talk about Lovell instead.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='regularquirky'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Mr5tfZQ.jpg" width="100%" /> Stalling! Yes! Myrick is great at stalling. He waves to Lovell and pretends to get distracted by another shopkeep's seashell jewelry. What in the world would Lovell want to talk about today? It's easy to talk to other people. They always want something from everyone. Humans and fairies alike want to know what others can do for them. Myrick, having been around for five and a half centuries, has perfected the art of gossip. It is his contribution to social interactions. Lovell, though, he always seems happy just being near people. Even Myrick. The farmer never expects anything. Weird. Nice, but weird. As far as conversations go... Lovell likes vegetables since he's a farmer. He also has a daughter that he loves to pieces. And, to be honest, Myrick is a little stressed about the invite he got from Marquess Fron. It's not technically talking shit about Marquess Fuckface if Myrick just complains about the marquess's inability to remember his kid's birthday that happens on the same day every year, right? What should Myrick talk about? [[Ask Lovell about his crops.]] [[Ask Lovell about Cyn.]] [[Whine about Marquess Fron.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='regularquirky'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Mr5tfZQ.jpg" width="100%" /> The array of goods in Lovell's stall sparkle under the clear sky. Baskets of beets, parsnips, and green onions surround the sun-kissed farmer. In front of Lovell is a tray of his special candy--melted sugar that looks like glass. The farmer himself is sporting his usual weathered overalls and a holey plaid shirt. "How are the vegetables today?" Myrick asks. Lovell rubs the back of his neck. "They're great, as always." "What about the shit that's still in the earth?" Lovell rewards Myrick with a hearty laugh. "It's growing just like it should. The earth is fertile, the rain's a-plenty, and the sun is beautiful." Myrick can't help the goofy smile sprawling across his face. He doesn't know a lot about human poetry, but Lovell has a great way with words. Every ounce of him is sincere. It's good the farm is doing well. If it wasn't, Myrick wouldn't be able to help. Thanks to his ex-girlfriend, Myrick isn't as powerful as he used to be. He can do everyday magic, sure, but if Lovell's crops suddenly withered up, he wouldn't be able to reverse it. One day, Myrick will find his ex. One day, he'll be closer to being the real him again. For now, he's doing the best he can in the human world. With friends like Lovell, it's almost an enjoyable experience. There's also crumpets here. Those are tasty. Lovell rests his chin in his hands and looks up at Myrick with those lovely earthy brown eyes. "Are you doing anything tonight, Lord Gafford?" That's...interesting. Lovell often asks Myrick about his activities, but something about the farmer's tone is...different. How should Myrick respond? [["I'm going to Marquess Fron's dinner party."]] [["I haven't decided on my plans yet tonight."]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Mr5tfZQ.jpg" width="100%" /> Myrick gives the crowded market a cursory glance. Usually when he visits Lovell at his stand, Lovell's kid is playing nearby. Disappointment flickers in Myrick's chest with the little fireball's notable absence. "How's Cyn?" Myrick finally asks. Myrick's the only person who calls Cynthia 'Cyn.' He's not usually one to do something sentimental and gushy like give nicknames to people, but 'Cynthia' is far too long of a name for someone as tiny as the worm-catching five-year-old. Pride shines in Lovell's handsome visage at the mention of his daughter. His smile stretches from ear to ear. Real shame Lovell doesn't get himself mixed up with gossip. The widowed farmer would know he is the most talked about bachelor among Tolis's commoners. Women love devoted dads. So do men. And everyone who doesn't fit neatly into either traditional gender box. "Cynthia is a couple of stalls over, playing with a friend." Lovell sticks his fingers into his mouth and whistles. "Cynthia!" Moments later, the apple of Lovell's eye appears. Glee swims through Myrick's veins as the blonde-haired child comes running up. She's a super cute kid. Myrick's always happy to see her, even if he's not sure why. "Yes, Papa?" Cyn asks, fiddling with some kind of fabric in her hands. "Say hi to Lord Gafford real quick." Lovell ruffles her hair. "Are you behaving well?" "Of course!" Cyn huffs. She turns to Myrick and smiles. "Hi, Lord Gafford." How should Myrick respond? [[Ask Cyn about the fabric in her hands.]] [[Ask Cyn about her friend.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='regularquirky'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Mr5tfZQ.jpg" width="100%" /> Whining is always an acceptable decision. "Marquess Fron has invited me to some stuffy dinner party for his youngest kid's birthday." Myrick leans against Lovell's stand. "It's //tonight.// I got the invitation //this morning.// Do you think that puckered asshole forgot his kid's birthday? He only has three fucking spawnbeasts." Lovell laughs and brings a finger to his lips. His beautiful, pouty lips. "Watch your language. Other people can hear us." Right. The market's crowded, as it always is these days. King Longhollow had ushered in an excellent economy ever since he took his father's place on the throne. "Sorry," Myrick says. "I'm just irritated. Who does this doorknob think he is, assuming he is so important that all the nobles in Tolis can drop their plans last minute for him?" "He //is// the marquess of Tolis." Lovell tilts his head to the side. "//Did// you have any plans?" "No," Myrick admits after a moment. He pretends to be interested in the parsnips on display. It'd be too hard to meet Lovell's gentle eyes right now. Lovell never judges Myrick for his outbursts, but... "Are you going to go?" Lovell asks. "I had been hoping you would be free tonight, actually." Myrick looks up. Did Lovell want to do something with him tonight? That didn't sound like Lovell. He's always too busy with something on the farm or just taking care of his daughter. Maybe he needs a favor? A ribbon of bewilderment curls around Myrick's tongue. How should Myrick reply? [["What do you need?"]] [["Yes, of course I'm going."]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Mr5tfZQ.jpg" width="100%" /> Myrick does something he rarely does and takes a deep breath. Lovell's a kind, warm person. At the end of the day, it doesn't affect him if Marquess Fron hosts parties or not. It'd be better to focus on the farmer. What should Myrick talk about? [[Ask Lovell about his crops.]] [[Ask Lovell about his daughter.->Ask Lovell about Cyn.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='regularquirky'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Mr5tfZQ.jpg" width="100%" /> "What do you need?" Concern brews in Myrick's chest as he asks the question. He rarely feels concern for others. Humans and fairies alike stab him in the back when he expresses sentimentality, so it's something he chooses not to feel anymore. Tragically, human bodies don't have much of a choice over their feelings. Ok. Maybe fairies don't have much control, either. If they did, Myrick probably could have found a better way to break-up with his ex instead of pretending to be cursed. "It's nothing I //need//," Lovell says. "It's more like something I want. If you're not doing anything tonight, maybe you would want to come over to my house? Or I could come to yours?" His cheeks grow redder than his beets. Myrick stares at him, trying to figure out what the farmer wants. Lovell //never// wants anything. "What about Cyn?" Myrick asks. "Shouldn't you read her bedtime stories later or whatever fathers do?" Lovell runs his hands down his long neck, down to his collarbone. Do all farmers have a great collarbone, or just Lovell? "Actually," Lovell starts carefully, "I'm going to be alone tonight. Cynthia is staying the night at her friend's. I won't have anything to do after supper." The combination of his words and brilliant flush catch Myrick off-guard. //Is Lovell Lynah propositioning me? Does he want me?// Couldn't be. He //knows// Myrick prefers physical encounters that don't end in promises for future sex or romance. He //knows// Myrick has messed up so many friendships by fucking his pals with wanton abandon. Lovell knows how messy Myrick's social circles get. He wouldn't involve himself in that. Stars, though, if Myrick could kiss every inch of Lovell's gorgeous neck, it might be worth ruining the friendship. //No!// Lovell makes Myrick so happy by being his kind, pleasant self. He listens to the fairy's human drama. He gives Myrick glass candy when he's sad. The last thing Myrick wants is to ruin this friendship. How should he respond? [["What would we do?"]] [["Actually, I'm going to Marquess Fron's tonight."->Tell him you're going to Marquess Fron's.]] [[Tell him you're staying home.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Mr5tfZQ.jpg" width="100%" /> "Yes, of course I'm going." Myrick sighs dramatically. It's kind of fun to use human lungs to express dread. Fairies mostly express their feelings with their wings. Myrick runs his hands through his hair. When he catches Lovell's lips as flat as a line and his brow furrowed, something weird pummels Myrick's easily-excitable human ticker. Fear? Guilt? Maybe he should have asked Lovell what he needed. Too late now. Lovell shakes his head and gestures to a stall across from him. "If you need a present for the birthday boy, Perrie makes wonderful toys." Oh, Lovell. Always ready to help. He's a better human than Myrick or anyone else in the world. Myrick swallows hard and mumbles a thank you. [[Jump to Marquess Fron's party.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='regularquirky'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Mr5tfZQ.jpg" width="100%" /> "I'm going to Marquess Fron's dinner party." Myrick rolls his eyes. "Got the tree-humping invitation this morning. Some nerve, right? Real shame us viscounts have to keep up appearances." Lovell chuckles. Something about his laugh is off. "Aren't you an earl?" Oh, right. Myrick has a hard time keeping up with the details of his human history. He had inherited a title and land, but he didn't actually know what it all meant. It's probably normal for humans to forget their own shit, right? Myrick's willing to bet the queen consort of Whistlerwood herself can't keep track of her various titles. Lady Alice, Duchess of Blahblahblahblah. Lovell gestures to a stall across from him. "If you need a present for the birthday boy, Perrie makes wonderful toys." Oh, Lovell. Always ready to help. Myrick's grateful for friends like him. [[Jump to Marquess Fron's party.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='regularquirky'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Mr5tfZQ.jpg" width="100%" /> "I haven't decided on my plans yet tonight," Myrick says. "Why do you ask?" Lovell's cheeks grow red. "If you're not doing anything tonight, maybe you would want to come over to my house? Or I could come to yours?" Myrick stares at him, trying to figure out what the farmer wants. Lovell //never// wants anything. "What about Cyn?" Myrick asks. "Shouldn't you read her bedtime stories later or whatever fathers do?" Lovell runs his hands down his long neck, down to his collarbone. Do all farmers have a great collarbone, or just Lovell? "Actually," Lovell starts carefully, "I'm going to be alone tonight. Cynthia is staying the night at her friend's. I won't have anything to do after supper." The combination of his words and brilliant flush catch Myrick off-guard. //Is Lovell Lynah propositioning me? Does he want me?// Couldn't be. He //knows// Myrick prefers physical encounters that don't end in promises for future sex or romance. He //knows// Myrick has messed up so many friendships by fucking his pals with wanton abandon. Lovell knows how messy Myrick's social circles get. He wouldn't involve himself in that. Stars, though, if Myrick could kiss every inch of Lovell's gorgeous neck, it might be worth ruining the friendship. //No!// Lovell makes Myrick so happy by being his kind, pleasant self. He listens to the fairy's human drama. He gives Myrick glass candy when he's sad. The last thing Myrick wants is to ruin this friendship. How should he respond? [["What would we do?"]] [["Actually, I'm going to Marquess Fron's tonight."->Tell him you're going to Marquess Fron's.]] [[Tell him you're staying home.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Mr5tfZQ.jpg" width="100%" /> "Hello, my dear." Myrick gestures to Cyn's hands. "What do you have there?" "My mask!" Cyn holds up her new treasure and beams. It's a simple strip of red cloth with holes cut into it. There's nothing remarkable about it, but the fact it brings Cyn so much joy makes Myrick feel warm. "It's very nice," Myrick says. "What do you need a mask for?" "Lillian and I are playing masquerade." Cyn brings the mask to her face. "We're going to the ball." Lovell laughs. "The ball?" Cyn jumps up and down. "In Lillian's book, the prince and princess meet at the ball. She's the princess. I'm the prince." Myrick smiles. "The prince, eh? That's my girl. You be whatever you want and tell society to fu--" "Lord Gafford," Lovell interjects sharply. "Language." "...tell society to take a hike off a tall cliff if they give you any issues," Myrick finishes. Lovell nods approvingly. Cyn holds her mask out to Myrick. "Do you want my mask, Lord Gafford? You might need it." Myrick runs his thumb along his chin. Technically, he's already wearing a mask. This pale human face isn't anything like his petite, green fairy face. Still, the gesture touches him. A gift from a child who is nice and sweet might be the purest kind of gift, the type magic could never conjure. What should Myrick do? [[Accept her gift.]] [[Tell her to keep it.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Mr5tfZQ.jpg" width="100%" /> "Who's your friend you're playing with?" Myrick asks. He doesn't know all the commoner kids that hang around the market, but Myrick has become familiar with a few faces. It's not imperative to know everything about the people who make his clothes or shoes, but Myrick can't help being nosey when presented with the chance to learn something. After all, somewhere in this world is another fairy. One who has something Myrick needs. "Lillian," Cyn responds. The name is unfamiliar. Pretty, but Myrick has no idea who owns it. "Who's Lillian?" "My friend." Cyn wraps the material around her fingers. "Can I go back to playing, Papa?" Well, everyone should have known a five-year-old wouldn't be a great conversationalist. Lovell chuckles. "Okay, darling. I'll holler when it's time to leave." As soon as Cyn disappears into the crowd, Lovell turns to Myrick. "Lillian is the woodcutter's daughter. You buy your wood from Yosef, right?" "Uh, sure." Actually, Myrick just uses magic to make fire appear in his home when he needs it. It took a while to figure out fire belongs in the fireplace, though. Myrick knows it also goes somewhere in the kitchen because people use it to cook, but he's still not sure where. Lovell works his jaw. "Cynthia is going to stay the night at Lillian's after supper this evening. It's her first time sleeping at a friend's." "No kidding?" This is a big moment for both Cyn and Lovell. Lovell and Cyn have been inseperable since Cyn's mother passed away a few years ago. Lovell looks at Myrick for a long moment in silence before he starts talking again. "What are you doing tonight?" Oh. That's...a curious question from Lovell. How should Myrick respond? [[Tell him you're going to Marquess Fron's.]] [[Ask Lovell what he's doing.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Mr5tfZQ.jpg" width="100%" /> Myrick accepts her gift. "Thank you, Cyn. I'll treasure it always." He slips the red mask into his pocket, next to his treasured glass slipper. He has no fucking idea when he'll use it, but it's nice to have the child's mask. Lovell smiles at Cyn. His cheeks practically glow as he talks. "That was real nice of you, darling. You can run back to Lillian's stall, if you want. I just wanted you to say hi to Lord Gafford real quick." "Okay, Papa!" Cyn waves to Myrick. "Bye, Lord Gafford!" She takes off. As she disappears into the crowd, Lovell hollers, "I'll let you know when it's time to leave!" Myrick shakes his head. "I don't know how you raise a non-stop literal bundle of energy all by yourself." "It's not as hard as you might think." Lovell shrugs. "Patience and love is all you need." Is that really true? Humans need more than that, don't they? They require so much food, and heaven forbid if they go one day without water. Myrick's not sure if humans shrivel up without water or just turn into dust, but he's not eager to find out for himself. Where does one buy patience, anyway? Lovell clears his throat. "By the way, what are you doing tonight, Lord Gafford?" Lovell bites his lip after asking the question. Something about the way he does that stirs something inside Myrick. He has no idea where Lovell is going with this, but he has to say something. That's how conversations work. How should Myrick respond? [[Tell him you're going to Marquess Fron's.]] [[Say you don't know yet.]] (set: $mask to "true") (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Mr5tfZQ.jpg" width="100%" /> What the shit is Myrick going to do with a child's mask? "I appreciate it, my dear, but I think you should keep it," Myrick says. "You and Lillian need it more." "Why don't you go back to playing?" Lovell asks. "I just wanted you to say hello to Lord Gafford real quick." "Okay, Papa." Cyn blows her father a kiss. He catches it. Stars, they are disgustingly cute. Myrick almost envies their relationship when they're cute like that, though. "I'll holler when it's time to leave," Lovell says. "Okay, Papa! Bye, Lord Gafford!" Myrick smiles. "Good-bye, my dear." A second later, the little fireball disappears in the crowd. Lovell turns to Myrick. "So, Lord Gafford, what are you doing tonight?" Oh, boy. Logically, Myrick knew he had to decide at some fucking point if he was going to grace Marq-asshole Fron with his face or not. Before Myrick answers, he notices Lovell twirling a strand of his hair around his finger. Something about his demeanor is unusually timid. How should Myrick respond? [[Tell him you're going to Marquess Fron's.]] [[Say you don't know yet.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Mr5tfZQ.jpg" width="100%" /> "I have to go to Marquess Fron's dinner party." Myrick thrusts his hand on his hip and flicks his long hair behind his shoulder. "That poor sap can't host a successful shit without me there to grace his presence." Lovell laughs. If he's disappointed, he hides it well. "You better buy a present for the birthday boy, then." "Oh, freaking stars." Myrick grumbles, momentarily pleased he managed not to drop certain other curse words. "Seriously?" "Cynthia's five, and you buy presents for her." Yeah, but Myrick //likes// Cyn. Lovell's kid is amusing and sweet. Tanner Fron is just... Five. Okay. Maybe it's a douchey thing to hate on kids solely because they're related to Marquess Fuckface. "Good thing I have an expert on five-year-olds to help me pick out a gift," Myrick mutters. [[Jump to Marquess Fron's party.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='regularquirky'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Mr5tfZQ.jpg" width="100%" /> "I have no fucking idea," Myrick answers. Lovell arches an eyebrow. A streak of something resembling embarrassment shoots through Myrick. "Language," Myrick mutters. "Sorry." "Oh, no." Lovell covers his mouth. "I was just thinking if you're not doing anything, maybe you would want to come over to my house? Or I could come to yours?" His cheeks grow redder than his beets. Myrick stares at him, trying to figure out what the farmer wants. Lovell //never// wants anything. "What about Cyn?" Myrick asks. "Shouldn't you read her bedtime stories later or whatever fathers do?" Lovell runs his hands down his long neck, down to his collarbone. Do all farmers have a great collarbone, or just Lovell? "Actually," Lovell starts carefully, "I'm going to be alone tonight. Cynthia is staying the night at her friend's. I won't have anything to do after supper." The combination of his words and brilliant flush catch Myrick off-guard. //Is Lovell Lynah propositioning me? Does he want me?// Couldn't be. He //knows// Myrick prefers physical encounters that don't end in promises for future sex or romance. He //knows// Myrick has messed up so many friendships by fucking his pals with wanton abandon. Lovell knows how messy Myrick's social circles get. He wouldn't involve himself in that. Stars, though, if Myrick could kiss every inch of Lovell's gorgeous neck, it might be worth ruining the friendship. //No!// Lovell makes Myrick so happy by being his kind, pleasant self. He listens to the fairy's human drama. He gives Myrick glass candy when he's sad. The last thing Myrick wants is to ruin this friendship. How should he respond? [["What would we do?"]] [["Actually, I'm going to Marquess Fron's tonight."->Tell him you're going to Marquess Fron's.]] [[Tell him you're staying home.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Mr5tfZQ.jpg" width="100%" /> Unable to take his eyes off Lovell, Myrick asks, "What are //you// doing tonight?" "Nothing at all." Lovell's cheeks grow red. Myrick's never seen him look so shy before. "That's why I hope we could do something together." The combination of his words and brilliant flush catch Myrick off-guard. //Is Lovell Lynah propositioning me? Does he want me?// Couldn't be. He //knows// Myrick prefers physical encounters that don't end in promises for future sex or romance. He //knows// Myrick has messed up so many friendships by fucking his pals with wanton abandon. Lovell knows how messy Myrick's social circles get. He wouldn't involve himself in that. Stars, though, if Myrick could kiss every inch of Lovell's gorgeous neck, it might be worth ruining the friendship. //No!// Lovell makes Myrick so happy by being his kind, pleasant self. He listens to the fairy's human drama. He gives Myrick glass candy when he's sad. The last thing Myrick wants is to ruin this friendship. How should he respond? [["What would we do?"]] [["Actually, I'm going to Marquess Fron's tonight."->Tell him you're going to Marquess Fron's.]] [[Tell him you're staying home.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Mr5tfZQ.jpg" width="100%" /> "What would we do?" Myrick asks. Stars, he probably looks embarrassingly desperate as he voices his question. If only he could magic up a mirror and check himself out. Well, he could, but then he'd have to answer a lot of questions. "Whatever we want," Lovell responds. "Have tea, go for a stroll..." He clears his throat. "See if you know what an eggplant is." Myrick scowls. "I know what an eggplant is." Lovell bites his lip and gestures to his waist. His implication becomes clear. Holy fucking cosmos. Lovell actually wants //Myrick//. A woman interrupts the conversation to purchase some produce. While Lovell helps her, Myrick studies the farmer's smile and all the warm vibes he emits. He's never met a kinder person. If Myrick messes this friendship up, he will miss that smile. He'll miss talking to his kid. He'll miss this little slice of his new world where it doesn't matter if he has a peerage or money. The woman goes off with her newly purchased goods, leaving Myrick and Lovell alone again. Lovell looks at Myrick with pursed lips and wide, curious eyes. Myrick has to answer carefully. How should he respond? [[Promise you'll meet him later for tea.]] [[Promise you'll meet him later for a study in eggplants.]] [[Tell him you're going to Marquess Fron's.]] [[Tell him you're staying home.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/msD3QPt.jpg" width="100%" /> "Actually, I'm going to stay home." Myrick squares his shoulders and tries not to look too conflicted, even though haze has clouded his mind and the lower half of his body wants to guide his actions. "I could use some alone time." "Ah." If Lovell is disappointed by Myrick's response, he doesn't voice it. Still, his little smile borders on sad. "I suppose I could use some alone time, too. I hope you enjoy your evening." "I sure fucking will." Myrick points to the glass candy. "How much for all of this?" When Myrick gets home, he uses his magic to fill the bathtub with hot water and rose petals. He deserves this nice, long soak, doesn't he? He made not just one, but two responsible decisions. He prevented himself from screwing up a friendship //and// he got to skip Marquess Fron's stuffy affair. Myrick did the human thing really well! What a good day. ENDING: Home Is Where The Heart Is [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/gfF3zY3.jpg" width="50%" />->ENDING: Home Is Where The Heart Is]] [[Start over?->Opening]] (set: $endings_HOME to "true") (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='regularquirky'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NcEQJ0x.jpg" width="100%" /> "I'd love to meet you for tea," Myrick answers softly. "Maybe a stroll. I'm not too find of long walks, but it's been a while since I've seen your farm." Humans and their fucking legs. Those long things are so annoying and bumpy. If they had wings for a day, humans would never go back. Myrick gauges Lovell reaction carefully. Part of him worries that their friendship has already fractured. Myrick's been here several times with other pals who wanted to play in tangled sheets, and they never took rejection well. Lovell just smiles. "As long as we're together, that's fine with me." "Yeah?" Myrick works his jaw. "You sure tea is okay?" "I wouldn't have offered it if I didn't mean it." Lovell's words ring through Myrick as the rest of the day passes. Fairies and humans alike often have hidden meanings to their words. Myrick is used to playing mind games. Sometimes the mind games are fun. Lovell doesn't play games, though. He speaks from the heart. Could Myrick ever be that way one day? Having a clear heart is the key to strong magic. Even though he currently can't use magic well, what little magic he has could be better if he was more honest with his heart. Does it even matter if he can use magic well? Should he give up this pursuit for his ex? Should he go back to the fairy world and make do with what he has? All the thinking hurts Myrick's head. When he arrives at Lovell's later in the night and sees the farmer's bright eyes and wide smile, all the worries in the fairy's head and heart disappear. The sweet aroma of strawberry tea fills the house as the two friends dive deep into conversations about the upcoming calving season and Myrick's last croquet game with Marquess Davin. Tonight, Myrick is happy to be in the human world. Happy to be Lovell's friend. ENDING: Tea With A Friend [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/rOXAjr6.jpg" width="50%" />->ENDING: Tea With A Friend]] [[Start over?->Opening]] (set: $endings_TEA to "true") (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NcEQJ0x.jpg" width="100%" /> "I'll come over." Myrick's heart races as he keeps his gaze on Lovell. The sincere shine in Lovell's smile could probably make the fiercest vampire dragon explode. "I could do with a lesson on eggplants." "Really?" Lovell laughs and rubs the back of his neck. "I feared I was being too forward. I didn't even know if you actually were interested. The chance was here, and... You are a very attractive man... And you seem safe..." Safe? Myrick tilts his head to the side. No one has ever thought of him as safe. He's never gone out of his way to give that impression, either. Is that a quality he should strive for as a human? Ability to appear safe? What sort of responsibility comes with that? The day drags on forever as Myrick jumps back and forth between excitement and terror. On one hand, he is finally going to find out how Lovell's skin feels against his lips. On the other hand, he's not sure he'll live up to Lovell's expectations. And what is Myrick fucking going to do if Lovell wants to bring other kind of feelings into their relationships? Feelings Myrick might not reciprocate? As night falls across Tolis, Myrick arrives at Lovell's house. He waves his conduit to make his carriage and horses disappear once he's sure no one is watching him. Myrick makes the long walk up the door with a tight chest. He has a lot of questions in his hazy mind, but it's always been easier to just go straight to wooing when it comes to his friends with benefits. He knocks on the door. Lovell answers. He's changed out of his weathered clothes. His evening clothes aren't too fancy--a simple shirt and clean trousers--but they suit the farmer just well. Lovell smiles. "Hello, Lord Gafford." Every ounce of him radiates with gentleness. It's an honor to get the chance to be so close to Lovell. If tonight goes well, Myrick will never forget it. If tonight doesn't go well, though, his friendship might suffer. How should Myrick proceed with this evening? [[Ignore the questions in your head and kiss Lovell]] [[Talk to Lovell about your feelings]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='moresuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> Myrick arrives at Marquess Fron's mansion right on time, dressed in an emerald-studded tuxedo and armed with the best gift a five-year-old could receive--a set of miniature figurines. Carved from wood and finished to a shine, the figurines represent a wide variety of animals present in the human world. The box the figures come in can be used as a stage for a farm, forest, or jungle. The butler who takes Myrick's coat doesn't seem too thrilled, but young Tanner Fron happens to walk by at that moment. He's immediately drawn to the brightly painted box. "Is this for me?" Tanner asks timidly. "Of course!" Myrick hands him the box. "Happy birthday, Master Tanner." Tanner accepts the box and opens it. Once he sees what's inside, his face lights up with delight. He spits out a hurried 'thank you,' and takes off running with his new toy. It's a good thing Lovell helped Myrick pick out a present. [[Proceed with the party.]] (set: $tannergift to "true") (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='regularquirky'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NcEQJ0x.jpg" width="100%" /> Anxious human brains sometimes overthink situations. Lovell had clearly invited Myrick over for bedroom adventures. Lovell isn't the kind of person to quietly add strings to anything. He is different from any human or fairy. Lovell, too, is safe. While Myrick isn't overly sure if this is what Lovell means by "safe", the fairy feels better about tonight. And Myrick is eager to get started. Before he takes off his coat or asks Lovell how he's doing, Myrick leans forward and bends his knees a little bit to better match Lovell's height. Bliss surges through Myrick as his lips touch Lovell's mouth. Lovell grabs Myrick by the lapel of his jacket and draws him closer. They kiss for a long moment in the doorway, surrounded by the cool night air and the lanterns in the living room. Eventually, they make their way to the bedroom. Myrick spends an enjoyable night kissing every inch of Lovell and discovering how good Lovell is at pleasuring him. It's a safe and fun night. Once both men have worn themselves out and Lovell drifts off to sleep, Myrick kisses Lovell on the neck and digs his glass slipper out of his coat. There is a bit of longing in his heart as he teleports himself home, but they hadn't made any promises to spend the night together. Tonight was about sex, and it was safe and fun. Most importantly, Myrick is sure Lovell will still be his friend once the morning arrives. Myrick goes to bed in his house, feeling pleased that he did the human thing well today. ENDING: Who Needs To Talk? [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/4PI9O72.jpg" width="50%" />->ENDING: Who Needs To Talk?]] [[Start over?->Opening]] (set: $endings_TALK to "true") (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='moresuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NcEQJ0x.jpg" width="100%" /> Unable to hold his worries in anymore, Myrick blurts out, "If we fuck, are we going to ruin our friendship?" Lovell leans against the doorframe. He looks up at Myrick with large, curious eyes. "Why would it?" Myrick fidgets with the buttons on his coat. Maybe it's not too late to teleport away with magic and concoct a spell to make Lovell forget about this embarrassing encounter. As he reaches into his pocket, Lovell brings his fingers to Myrick's coat. He starts undoing the buttons for him. "Come inside. We can talk comfortably." "There's nothing to talk about," Myrick grumbles, letting Lovell help him out of his coat. Once the two are inside, Lovell plops onto the living room sofa. The sofa is worn and a boring beige, much like everything in the house. A painting of Lovell's late wife hangs over the mantle. It's the only piece of art in the house. Everything in Lovell's house is so simple and perfectly him. "What are you concerned with?" Lovell asks. "You can be honest." "Please, you know I hate talking about my damn feelings." Myrick carefully takes a seat next to Lovell. Lovell chuckles. "There's nothing wrong with open communication--with other people and with yourself." Yeah, yeah. Myrick has heard that load of minotaur shit before from the fairy elders. //Talk clearly to your heart, and you can conjure all the magic possible.// Bah. Still, when Lovell says it, it strangely means the world to Myrick. Not like he wants to confess that. He studies the way Lovell is looking at him. Lovell's lips are curved upward in a kind, gentle way. His legs are crossed lazily together. He has an arm thrown over the back of the sofa. Lovell is perfectly relaxed around Myrick. Doesn't the prospect of //talking feelings// make him nervous? "You know I'm not going to be interested in developing a romance with you, right?" Myrick asks. Lovell nods. Myrick cringes. "I mean it. If we knock wings, tonight is all I can promise." "Knock wings?" Lovell frowns. Shit. "Knock boots. Sorry, my asswad mouth gets words confused." Boots and wings are almost alike, right? Myrick huffs. "Going back to the subject at hand, //maybe// we can share a bed again in the future, but I don't know how I feel about having a regular bedroom partner. I have to take each sexual encounter one at a time." "That's fair," Lovell says quietly. He sits up straight and stiffens his stance. "I don't know if I would want more than one night of pleasure, either." Myrick tips his head to the side. Really? He stays silent and lets Lovell continue. "I've never been with anyone after Cynthia's mother passed away." Lovell glances at her portrait and fiddles with the ring on his hand. "One day, I'd like to remarry, but I don't think right now is the time. You, however, keep captivating me. Some base part of me is eager to satisfy my curiosities. There's something magical about you." The compliment makes Myrick laugh. //If only you knew.// When he laughs, most of the tension in Myrick disappears. It surprises him how comfortable he suddenly is. Lovell flashes Myrick a smile. "If you think us being intimate will ruin our friendship, though, I could go for some tea instead. As long as we're together, I'm happy. I cherish our friendship as much as you seem to. You don't even have to promise me tonight. We can just take each moment one at a time." "Yeah?" Lovell reaches for Myrick's hand. "If you want to stop, I'll stop. If I want to stop, you'll stop, won't you? I trust you." "Of course." Myrick entwines his fingers with Lovell's. Lovell's hard, rough hands are a far cry from Myrick's smooth, dainty, crafted-with-magic wiggly things. "I think you trust too easily, though. I'm afraid your good heart is going to get broken that way." "All you're doing is demonstrating why you're trustworthy." Myrick swallows hard, unsure if he deserves such a kind word directed his way. However, the two men seem to want the same thing. How should Myrick proceed? [[Ask to move to the bedroom.]] [[Ask Lovell for some tea.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='moresuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NcEQJ0x.jpg" width="100%" /> Myrick brings his lips to Lovell's hand. "A good first step is moving to your bedroom." Lovell jumps off the couch and tugs Myrick up with him. For a guy who barely scrapes the five feet mark on the vertical scale, he's got a lot of power to him. Said power is a total turn-on, of course. The pair are quick to crash their lips together once they're in Lovell's bedroom. Myrick sinks into the moment, losing himself in Lovell's salty, earthy taste. Rich people are always perfumed and covered in makeup. Lovell is all natural. So different. Just as enjoyable. As Myrick brings his lips to Lovell's gorgeous neck, he realizes he'll never forget a single moment about this evening. From Lovell's gentle smile to their heartfelt talk to the needy moans filling the air--Myrick has never felt more safe to have an adventure. Multiple times. Myrick and Lovell spend a wonderful night together, stopping frequently to check that the other is okay. When morning comes and Myrick realizes he's still in Lovell's bed, he's never more delighted to be human. Who knew waking up next to a trusted friend could be so nice? ENDING: A Study In Eggplants [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/XJOtrce.jpg" width="50%" />->ENDING: A Study In Eggplants]] [[Start over?->Opening]] (set: $endings_EGGPLANTS to "true") (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='emotional'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NcEQJ0x.jpg" width="100%" /> Myrick squeezes Lovell's hand. "You sure you're good with tea?" Lovell squeezes his hand back. "Of course. I made some great tea from boiled strawberries and honey earlier. It won't take long to heat it up. You'll love it. I made it just for you, actually." "Strawberry tea?" Myrick arches an eyebrow. "For me?" "You always smell like strawberries. You use some kind of strawberry cologne, don't you?" "Uh, sure." Actually, that's just the way Myrick's magic smells. However much he trusts Lovell, though, he can't share the whole being a fairy thing. He watches Lovell skip off to the kitchen. Myrick's never seen Lovell so giddy before. Maybe some day Myrick can tell Lovell about his real identity. Tonight, he's very excited to be a human who gets to share tea with a good friend. ENDING: Tea With A Friend [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/rOXAjr6.jpg" width="50%" />->ENDING: Tea With A Friend]] [[Start over?->Opening]] (set: $endings_TEA to "true") (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='emotional'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> Myrick is the king of bullshit at this point in his five and a half centuries of life. Or, well, at least he likes to think so. "I fear I only learned of the birthday boy's day of celebration today, you see." Myrick adjusts his lace bowtie. "We Gaffords see to it that every child gets a horse on their fifth birthday, which I could have easily procured today, but Master Tanner deserves only the best. The finest specimen of that majestic species will arrive in a few days." The butler nods and folds Myrick's coat over his arm. "Master Tanner will be pleased to learn he's getting another horse." Myrick blinks. "How many horses does he have?" "You are the seventh guest who has promised to send a horse later." Myrick forces himself to smile and definitely not say the string of curse words running through his head. [[Proceed with the party.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='regularquirky'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> Myrick pretends to search for his coat while he rubs his thumb along his magical conduit. Within seconds, he pulls out a neatly wrapped present from his pocket. "Five-year-olds like cufflinks, right?" Myrick whispers as he hands the box to the butler. The butler doesn't say anything as he takes the coat and present, but he doesn't look impressed either. [[Proceed with the party.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='regularquirky'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> Marquess Fron's parties never fail to be aesthetically pleasing to the eye--assuming one is pleased by ostentatious shit. Guests decked in silk and diamonds, crystal chandeliers laced with pearls, servants carrying trays of champagne some jerkoff fermented on a secluded island, string quartets performing in each parlor room because only plebians would dare to hire just one band for a party, etc. All of the usual nobles are present. Nobody who was anyone in this corner of Whistlerwood would have dared to miss young Master Tanner's birthday dinner, no matter how suddenly the party was announced. Myrick is glad he came. He wouldn't have been able to handle the gossip about his absence. Not that anyone would gossip to his face, of course, but he knows how to infer people's real meanings when they say stuff like, "It's a shame you missed the party. We had a good time. You should have been there." It means, //You missed an important move in the social game, and I am going to laugh at you when you turn your back to me.// At least, Myrick's 99% sure that's what that means. Humans have a lot more anxiety than fairies, and sometimes his fairy brain gets confused because it's in a human body. Myrick squares his shoulders. It's time to play the socialization game. It's important he talks to the right people, despite the weird feeling in his chest. What should Myrick do? [[Assess the crowd.]] [[Realize you're panicking and duck away to be alone for a moment.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='regularquirky'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> Quite the crowd has gathered in the main parlor room. Two people catch Myrick's attention right away. Marquess Fron's eardrum-rupturing laugh ripples through the room as he entertains his usual entourage of social vultures. The host glitters in his gold suit. There's no way Marquess Fron is letting anyone outshine him tonight (just look at him and his irritating insistence to one up anyone who dares to share a story). A group is playing a card game off to the corner. Mira Balbi, a baroness from the countryside north of Tolis, sparkles in the group. She is a formidable gambler and reminds Myrick a lot of his ex-girlfriend. In fact, he made the mistake once of sleeping with Lady Balbi to see if she was Acadya... ...and failed to properly set expectations on the relationship front. Things have been super awkward with Lady Balbi since. Tonight could be a good night to make amends. Who should Myrick talk to? [[Marquess Fron]] [[Lady Balbi]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='regularquirky'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> Okay. The prospect of socialization has suddenly tightened Myrick's throat and made him start sweating. Sweat is disgusting. The tight throat might be problematic. It's fine. It's fine. It's fine. It's fine. It's fine. It's fine. It's fine. It's fine. It's fine. It's fine. Those two words run through Myrick's head as he fumbles through the mansion, only giving a passing nod to people he sees along the way. Once he's alone and able to calm down, he can greet people more appropriately. Where the fuck is an empty room? How can there be so many people here? No one even knew this dinner was happening until this morning. Myrick finally finds an empty room along the third floor of the house. It's some kind of library, maybe. It has a lot of books, but they aren't stacked neatly on the shelves. There's also a bed off to the corner with a desk next to it. Oh, wait. Someone's at the desk. The young man turns his head and cuts a glare in Myrick's direction. So much for finding an empty room to ride out this anxiety shitstorm. What should Myrick do? [[Quickly apologize and leave.]] [[Ask if it's okay to stay.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> Awkward. Awkward. Awkward. Shit. Shit. Shit. "Sorry," Myrick mumbles. "Thought this was empty. I'll be going. Good-bye!" He ducks back into the hallway and fumbles into the next room. It's a bedroom, filled with flowery perfume and paintings of flowers. It appears to be actually empty, thank the fucking stars. After taking a few moments to himself (and using his magic to erase all evidence of that gross sweat stuff) and finally calming down, Myrick debates his next move. [[Go the fuck home.]] [[Time to chat! Go back to the main parlor room.->Assess the crowd.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='regularquirky'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> "Oh, stars, I'm sorry," Myrick mumbles. He takes out his kerchief and dabs his slick forehead. //Slick//. Ugh. Fucking anxiety. "I really just need to be somewhere quiet for a little bit. Is it okay if I stay?" "As long as //you// are quiet," the young man mutters and turns back to the books on his desk. The young man's sass startles Myrick. It also kind of infuriates him. Quickly forgetting about the sweat clinging to his hair and neck, Myrick wanders to the center of the room. He cranes his head and gets a better look at the youth. The young man's profile alone reminds Myrick of Marquess Fron. Myrick's not great at guessing human ages, but the softer, doughier features of the lad's face suggests someone still going through puberty. Marquess Fron's middle child is around fifteen. "You're Master Frey, aren't you?" Myrick asks. Frey looks up at him. Irritation colors his scowl. "I thought you wanted a quiet place, Lord Gafford." "This is quieter than the rest of the house." Pride swells through Myrick's chest. "You know who I am?" "My father talks about your long hair enough for me to recognize you without having met you before." Myrick huffs. Of course that bastard does. Probably jealous. "Why aren't you at the party?" Myrick asks. "It's your brother's birthday." "I know." Frey holds up his book. It has some really complicated-looking words on it. Words that Myrick immediately forgets as soon as he sees them. "I have to study." Right, right. Marquess Fron has a plan for all of his children--the eldest is the heir to the land and peerage, the middle is on the path to knighthood, and the youngest will honor the civilians by working as a lawyer or a doctor. Every step of the kids' lives is planned. Anytime Marquess Fron boasts about Frey, it's about how great his grades in school are or how well his weapon training in going. It doesn't seem like Frey ever gets to have fun. Something about it strikes Myrick as unfair, considering a fifteen-year-old is not technically an adult, even among humans. Not to mention, it's probably not great for a kid to have such dark circles under his eyes. A soft and weird feeling flutters through Myrick. Can he do something to help Frey have a night off from fulfilling his destiny as a future knight? [[Leave Frey alone to his studies.]] [[Ask Frey if he'd rather do something else.]] [[Start a fire with magic.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/msD3QPt.jpg" width="100%" /> Why the shit should he stay? Enough people saw Myrick briefly to know he was here. His reputation as a majestic social butterfly can't possibly get tarnished if he leaves now. Especially if no one actually sees him leave. Myrick runs his thumb along the glass slipper in his pocket and teleports himself home. Later in the evening, he uses magic to fill his bathtub with warm water and unwinds with a mug of rich hot chocolate. He feels like he survived as a human today, which is always a good thing. ENDING: Home Is Where The Heart Is [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/gfF3zY3.jpg" width="50%" />->ENDING: Home Is Where The Heart Is]] [[Start over?->Opening]] (set: $endings_HOME to "true") (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='regularquirky'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> Fire! Yes, of course. If the books get burned, then Frey //can't// study. Of course, this could be a bad idea. Maybe Frey likes those books. It'd probably ruin the party, too. [[Don't start a fire.]] [[Fire!!]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='moresuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> Thinking more about it, Myrick's actually doing everyone a favor by starting a fire. Everyone will talk for days about the sudden fire at Marquess Fron's party--everyone loves drama. The smegmalord will be the center of attention as he weeps over lost items he didn't actually care about, and Frey can take a few days off from studying while his library gets replaced. Once Frey leaves the bedroom to use the powder room, Myrick ducks into the hallway. He pulls out his conduit and breathes a puff of fire into Frey's room. The enchanted fire only damages Frey's books and some of the carpet because Myrick has never been fond of that maroon cashmere shit the marquess imported from Blahblahblahblah. Once smoke fills the house, panic ensues. Everyone evacuates safely, and the servants are able to douse the flames before the fire can spread to the rest of the mansion (not like it was ever going to). They determine a candle had fallen over in the midst of Frey's fatigue and started the fire. Marquess Fron promises to ensure his son gets more rest. It might not have been the most responsible way to help, but the dark circles under Frey's eyes might go away. Helping another human feels good. It's probably what humans should do for each other instead of gossiping. Maybe. ENDING: Irresponsible Magic [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/D6Eq3NV.jpg" width="50%" />->ENDING: Irresponsible Magic]] [[Start over?->Opening]] (set: $endings_FIRE to "true") (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='moresuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> Who is Myrick to interfere with the lad's studies? The kid already has the misfortune to be Marq-asshole Fron's child. If Frey's lucky, he'll become a knight and serve someone kind. King Longhollow doesn't seem bad, and his wife is kind of hot, too, if the paintings of her are accurate. The royal family has a kid, too, don't they? "Thanks for letting me enjoy a brief respite here," Myrick says. Frey nods, turning back to his book. "Good luck, Master Frey." The youth doesn't say anything as Myrick leaves. Whatever. Marquess Fron never shuts the fuck up, so it's nice that at least one Fron doesn't feel the need to constantly use his voicebox. [[Time to chat with the partygoers!->Assess the crowd.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='regularquirky'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> Yeah, a fire is probably the solution to escaping a dragon's maw, but it might not work for a kid who's been saddled with a lot of unreasonable expectations. [[Ask Frey if he'd rather do something else.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> "Is there anything else you'd rather be doing?" Myrick asks. "Huh?" Frey rubs his neck. "What do you mean?" Myrick gazes at the books in the room. They're all probably important. Myrick knows how to read, but he's never figured out why some books are considered more important than others. And why hasn't anyone written a book about how to be a human? There are philosophy and religion books, but those don't explain what's considered the proper volume for speaking. Myrick's first few months as a human were incredibly loud and embarrassing. Myrick clears his throat. "You're always reading a book or swinging some heavy sword around, aren't you?" "I'm not allowed to use an actual sword yet. My swords are still wooden." "Isn't wood heavy?" Myrick asks carefully, as if he totally knows the answer to his question. Frey stares at him. "How big do you think a sword is?" Myrick chuckles. For a long time. A sigh rolls out of Frey. "Lord Gafford, what are you really trying to ask me?" "Are you happy doing this studying shit all the time?" Myrick clamps his hand over his mouth. He's usually pretty good about not swearing around non-friends. Usually. Frey presses his lips together and shrugs. The dark circles under his eyes suddenly look heavier than...than heavy wood. There has to be heavy wood somewhere, right? Trees wouldn't stand straight if they weren't sturdy. Maybe Myrick should read more books. Or try manual labor. That would involve sweating, though. "Do you want to take a night off?" Myrick asks. "What would you rather be doing right now?" "Sleeping," Frey says. "That's not an option with all this noise." Myrick //could// use magic to take away Frey's hearing for a while, but he suspects that might alarm the lad. A more viable solution would be to cast a sleeping spell on Frey. That's incredibly doable. "Take a nap." Myrick reaches into his pocket. "I promise you'll fall asleep within two seconds." Frey snorts. "Even if I could, my father would be upset with me for slacking off if he catches me napping." Ahh. Marquess Fron Fuckface. Myrick could find a way to help Frey, but he might risk angering Marquess Fron, which would be bad for Myrick's reputation. On the other hand, Frey looks exhausted. Should Myrick still help Frey try to nap? [[Promise to cover for Frey.]] [[Ask Frey if he'd rather go get cake.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> Myrick rubs his thumb along his conduit, willing for sleep to fall over Frey. As much sleep as Frey needs. "Don't worry, Master Frey," Myrick says. "I'll tell your father you weren't feeling well. You always work hard, and your father damn sure hammers this fact into every fucking person he sees." Oops. There goes the swearing-around-strangers thing again. Oh, well. Uncertainty brims in Frey's eyes. For someone who works like an adult, he especially looks like a child in this moment. Someone that Myrick oddly feels compelled to protect. Myrick tries to shake off that weird feeling. He's not fit to be //anyone's// guardian. "I'll shove some abalone shells down his piehole if he tries to bother you," Myrick says. "Did you know you're not supposed to eat that part of the abalone? Those pretty little fuckers hurt your teeth." Frey snorts. "Everyone does, Lord Gafford." "Seriously?" Myrick mutters. He shakes his head. "Anyway, I know I'm not the only one who'll be pro-you-taking-a-nap. You're a good kid, and we all know how hard you work." "I'm not a kid," Frey protests. Myrick shrugs. Even Marquess Fron is a kid compared to Myrick's true age. "Get some sleep." The scent of strawberries sweeps through the room as Myrick's spell kicks in. Frey runs his hand through his hair and mumbles something about resting his eyes for just a few minutes. The youth curls into his bed and falls asleep instantly. The sight brings some joy to Myrick's chest, though he can't explain why. A little bit later, Myrick runs into Maruqess Fron. He explains that Frey's fallen ill and is getting some rest. Surprisingly, concern falls over the marquess's visage instead of irritation. Perhaps it's natural for a parent to want the best for their child. Maybe some parents don't know how hard they're being on their kids. It's tough for Myrick to say, especially since he has no desire to become a father himself. Still, it's nice to help Frey. It makes Myrick's heart warm. There's still a lot about being a human Myrick doesn't understand, but today feels like a success. ENDING: Sweet Dreams [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/necVOY1.jpg" width="50%" />->ENDING: Sweet Dreams]] [[Start over?->Opening]] (set: $endings_DREAMS to "true") (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> Cake! It has sugar, and sugar wakes humans up. "Why don't we go get some cake from the dining room?" Myrick asks. "It's your brother's birthday. Your father can't blame you for wanting to come down and indulge in some sweets." "There are //people// down there," Frey remarks. "No thanks." Sheesh. Myrick could relate to that comment quite a bit. "Most of them aren't going to bother you," Myrick says. "You deserve something nice like cake." "I'm concerned about the people who //are// going to bother me." Frey turns back to his book. "You are passable, Lord Gafford, but..." Passable! What the shit does that mean? Myrick is about to ask, but the way Frey never finishes his sentence catches the fairy's curiosity. "Is there someone particular you're avoiding?" Myrick asks. Frey closes his book. He slumps against the chair and stares up at the ceiling. The tell-tale sign of //yes//. "Who?" Myrick ambles to the desk and leans against it, trying to meet Frey's eyes. "Your mother? Your father? Big brother? Little brother?" "I like my family." Frey works his jaw. "I just don't like the people my family wants me to meet." "What people?" Frey sighs loudly. "The girls." Girls? Myrick tilts his head to the side. There were probably a few young ladies Frey's age at the dinner party. He couldn't think of anyone in particular, but most nobles popped out babies like they had nothing better to do. "What's wrong with them?" Myrick asks. "Hate making friends?" Frey finally meets Myrick's eyes. The lad looks even more tired than before. "I don't mind making friends, but that's not what my parents want me to do with women." Ahh. Frey's meaning becomes clear. Humans and fairies are alike in this regard--the vast majority assume everyone wants to get romantically partnered up to someone else forever. This amatonormative assumption is why Myrick is stuck in the human world, looking for his ex-girlfriend. Myrick senses a potential kinship with Frey. He could talk with Frey about feelings, a task he absolutely hates and is terrible at. Or maybe he could just bring some cake to Frey. [[Bring Frey some cake.]] [[Offer to talk about it.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='moresuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> Cake. Cake is the answer to all of life's awkward moments. "I'll get you some cake," Myrick offers. "Be right back." He steps into the hallway and makes sure no one is watching. Since he's not sure what exactly kind of cake there is downstairs and he's not going to do something exhausting like go down there physically, Myrick decides to conjure a slice of his favorite--vanilla topped with chocolate icing. Myrick steps back into Frey's room and sets the cake on the desk. "Here you go, Master Frey." Frey blinks. "That was really fast." Oops. Right. It takes time for humans to go from point A to point B. Oh, well. Frey seems content to have some cake. It's not much of a break, but at least Frey can avoid unwanted social encounters. It's nice to help. Myrick feels like he human'd very well today. ENDING: Cake!! [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/rHYSSY2.jpg" width="50%" />->ENDING: Cake!!]] [[Start over?->Opening]] (set: $endings_CAKE to "true") (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> Truthfully, the idea of talking about feelings makes Myrick a little nauseated. Being vulnerable rarely leads to happy endings, especially in the high society game where feelings are a weakness. Still... Myrick appreciated having the countess who took him in when he first arrived in the human world. Their physically fantastic relationship evolved into a kind of mentorship where the countess helped Myrick figure out all sorts of queer feelings, like the fact he's trans. Those long, tender talks are what Myrick misses the most about the late Lady Gafford. If Frey is queer, he might need someone who understands him. "You want to talk about it, Master Frey?" Myrick asks. "Your disinterest in women?" Frey tucks a lock of hair behind his ear and turns away from Myrick. "What's there to talk about?" Myrick drums his fingers along the desk and tries to keep his stomach from shooting up his throat. "Do you think you'll ever be romantically interested in women? Or do you think it's a 'not now' kind of feeling? I'm aromantic, so I'm never romantically interested in //anyone//, although, uh, there are other kinds of attractions I experience since I'm pansexual." Awkward silence fills the room. For a minute, Myrick debates casting a spell on Frey to make him forget Lord Gafford was ever there. Then Frey turns his gaze back to Myrick. Something resembling hope glimmers in his surprised expression. "You don't want to marry a woman?" "Stars, no." Myrick swallows hard. Thoughts of his ex creep to his mind. The way he struggled to tell Acadya these feelings. They might have ended better if he had the words then that he has now. "There are aros out there who want to marry, sure, but I personally don't want to wed anyone, regardless of gender." Frey bites his lower lip. "Is it okay to not marry a woman? It's not weird or bad?" "I'm doing great so far!" Myrick flicks his hair behind his shoulder. "I know society says we should all live one way, but that's not the reality. Queer people have to live behind closed doors, so we're unable to show you younger queer people that you're perfectly normal people with normal feelings." Myrick pauses, realizing his blundering. "Uh, sorry if I am assuming something you're not. I got carried away there." Frey takes a moment to reply. His words are softer and more delicate than a forest pixie's web. "I think I'm only interested in men." Warmth surges through Myrick. Frey trusted him with such an important facet of himself. Who knew being trusted could feel so good? Myrick flashes Frey a reassuring smile. Some of the fatigue chiseled in Frey's face disappears. He rewards Myrick with the tiniest smile. Eventually, after a long, quiet discussion, Myrick leaves Frey to his studies. Joy swells through Myrick as he bumbles through the rest of the evening. He doesn't know if he'll have much of a chance to talk to Frey ever again, but he hopes Frey will face his future knowing his feelings are all okay. ENDING: A Knight To Remember [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/yIq1S9R.jpg" width="50%" />->ENDING: A Knight To Remember]] [[Start over?->Opening]] (set: $endings_KNIGHT to "true") (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='emotional'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> It'd be pretty fucking rude to not greet the host of the party. Even the world's most anti-social centaur would know that. Myrick puts on his best suck-up face and marches over to Marquess Fron. He graces the marquess and his entourage with a bright, charming smile. "Hello, my dear friend." Myrick holds his hand out. "Wonderful to see you tonight." Instead of shaking hands, Marquess Fron slaps Myrick on the back. Myrick expected this tactic as it's a classic Marquess Fron maneuver, yet he still feels winded by the physical greeting. "So glad you could make it on such short notice!" Marquess Fron slaps Myrick on the back again. Myrick tries to stifle his cough, but a sad little wheeze escapes him. "Of course, I wouldn't miss any function you'd host. I'm impressed with how you were able to put all of this together on such short notice. You're truly a master at organizing sudden events, aren't you? I commend you." A few of the people around Marquess Fron glance at him questioningly. Another obnoxious peal of laughter ripples out of Marquess Fron. "There's nothing sudden about this," Marquess Fron explains. "I just hadn't thought you would be interested in attending since you don't have any kids. However, this morning, I woke up and thought of how much I would miss you were you not here. You are a good friend of mine, of course." A frown crosses Myrick. "Is having kids a prerequisite to attending kids' birthday dinners? Are there even any other kids here besides young Master Tanner?" The guests around Marquess Fron look excited. One speaks up. "We all brought our children!" "Oh?" Myrick tilts his head to the side. "Why aren't they running around here?" Marquess Fron chuckles. "Oh, Lord Gafford, it wouldn't do for children to be around us adults while we drink and play cards. No, we have all the children set up in the west hall. Do you wish to greet my Tanner? I'm sure he's playing with his special guest." Myrick tips his head to the other side, letting his neck get a real good workout while he tries to figure out what the shit Marquess Fron is getting at. It reeks of pretentiousness, whatever it is. (if: $tannergift is "true")[ "I already met our guest of honor when I came in," Myrick says slowly. "He looks well." Marquess Fron winks at Myrick. "My dear son is not the guest of honor tonight. No, tonight we have //the// prince of Whistlerwood present."] (else:)["Sure, I'd love to see your kid." Myrick smiles politely. "He's the reason we're all here, right?" Marquess Fron winks at Myrick. "Actually, it's not just my Tanner I want you to greet. I'm pleased to announce you'll also be able to meet //the// prince of Whistlerwood."] The prince of Whistlerwood?! Oh, shit goat balls. No fucking wonder Marquess Fron suddenly decided to send Myrick an invitation. It had nothing to do with being friends. Marquess Fron just needed to gloat to as many people as possible about having some brat with a crown at his kid's party. That prick. What should Myrick do? [[Go meet Tanner and the prince.]] [[Decline the invitation.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> Myrick squeezes himself into the circle of gamers. "Hello, my dear friends. I want to play next." The rest of the group greets him cordially, but Lady Balbi cuts Myrick a fierce glare once he takes a seat at the table. Her displeasure is enhanced by her amazingly chiseled eyebrows. Fairies don't have eyebrows in their true forms, and Myrick is always stunned by a great pair of hairy lines. Okay, while he had partly bedded Lady Balbi out of curiosity, he had also been drawn to the expressiveness of her ridges. ...and the perfect cut on the bodice of her dress... A hand squeezes Myrick's shoulder suddenly, pulling him out his hazy musings. "She's been humiliating us men all evening," a deep, cranky voice says. "Do you know what it's going to be like for me to go home with her tonight? Do us all a favor, Lord Gafford, and win so hard that she finally goes back to more lady-like hobbies." Myrick forces out a chuckle, recognizing the voice next to him. Another reason Myrick probably shouldn't have fucked Lady Balbi: she is incredibly married. Married to a misogynistic piece of shit, sure, but married all the same. The glare on Lady Balbi's face as her fury shifts to her husband doesn't go unnoticed by Myrick. [[Challenge Lady Balbi to cards]] [[Ask to speak to Lady Balbi alone.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> "No point in playing cards if I expect an easy win," Myrick says as he settles into his seat. "Deal me in, my dear friend. If the card table is where you are meant to be, then I am delighted to have you as my opponent." Lady Balbi scoffs, but she shuffles the cards anyway. The other gentlemen at the table laugh softly, almost as if they agree with Myrick. A low, irritated grumble rolls out of Lord Balbi. A few rounds into the game, it becomes clear that luck is not on Myrick's side tonight. He's great at bluffing (or so he likes to think), but lying can only take one so far on the felt table. When Myrick and Lady Balbi are the only players left in the game, Myrick takes a moment to study his opponent's face. Though her lips are pressed together into a tight line, her amazing eyebrows are sloped outwards, which possibly indicates relief on her end. She must be pleased to have a good hand. Myrick's hand, a four and a six off-suit, probably won't win this round. It would be easy to reach into his pocket and use his conduit to change his cards. Winning is always fun. Of course, if he bests Lady Balbi in front of her husband, things might become more awkward between Myrick and the viscountesss... What should Myrick do? [[Use magic to cheat.]] [[Fold.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='moresuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> Myrick tugs at his bowtie, trying not to do that gross sweating thing he always does once he starts getting nervous. "Actually, I'm not that interested in playing cards. I was wondering if I could speak to you alone, Lady Balbi?" Lady Balbi sets the cards down and stares at him. Lord Balbi lets go of Myrick. "What manner of conversation might you need to have with Mira that you can't have in front of everyone else?" //I fucked her, and now our friendship is worse than horseshit-stained boots?// "We're friends who haven't seen each other in a while," Myrick spits out. "I just wanted to catch up with her." Lord Balbi laughs. "There's nothing to catch up with about her. Mira's the same as always--a terrible cook and an excellent gambler. Everything a lady shouldn't be." The rest of the group roars in glee with Lord Balbi. Lady Balbi picks up the cards again and shuffles them, her cheeks pinker than her tightly-pressed lips. Myrick tightens his jaw. He knows some couples have a teasing relationship with each other, but usually both parties seem delighted when one pokes fun. The fire in Lady Balbi's eyes as she doles out the cards suggest she's anything but pleased. What should Myrick do? [[Quietly play cards.]] [[Stand up for Lady Balbi.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> There's probably no point in trying to get in between Lady Balbi and her dickbag husband. She's a grown woman with wealth and status. She has plenty of other friends to turn to if she needs help. Myrick picks up his cards and starts to play the game. The game starts off awkwardly, but after a few rounds of getting his ass kicked, Lady Balbi seems to be smiling again. The evening passes calmly. All through his various conversations during dinner, though, Myrick keeps thinking about Lady Balbi. Is she happy enough in life? Will he ever be friends with her again? It's tough to tell. Humans don't usually wrap up things neatly in a single encounter. This fact frustrates Myrick beyond belief, but it's also kind of fun being miserable in those confusing human feelings. ENDING: Shuffle Up And Deal [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/7DJXUEk.jpg" width="50%" />->ENDING: Shuffle Up And Deal]] [[Start over?->Opening]] (set: $endings_SHUFFLE to "true") (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> Fuck Lord Balbi. Not literally. Stars, no. Myrick would sooner crawl into a minotaur's urethra than take off his pants for a man with no respect for women. Myrick arches an eyebrow. "Is that any way for a person to describe their spouse?" "I beg your pardon?" Lord Balbi scoffs. "Do you dare to repeat yourself, Lord Gafford?" "Sure!" Myrick picks up the cards in front of him and pretends to be interested in them. "Were I you, Lord Balbi, I'd be a little more considerate about my wife's feelings. You're lucky anyone wants to tolerate your presence at length. Lady Balbi deserves better than you." Lord Balbi grabs Myrick by the lapel of his jacket and jerks him to his feet, causing Myrick to drop his cards. The various rumblings in the room begin to die. Even the string quartet stops playing. "I don't believe I asked for your opinion on my marriage," Lord Balbi growls. "No one asks for my opinion on anything, honestly," Myrick mutters, trying to resist the urge to disappear in a poof of glitter. Lord Balbi and Myrick are about the same height and build, but something about the viscount's temperament makes Myrick feel incredibly small. "Percival, let go of Lord Gafford." Lady Balbi slams her hands on the table and rises to her feet. Worry dances in her gorgeous, stitched brow. "There's no need to cause a fuss. Lord Gafford didn't mean it. You know he has a flair for the dramatic." Lord Balbi loosens his grip on Myrick as he turns his gaze to his wife. "Is something going on between you two?" "Of course not!" Lady Balbi inhales sharply. "Lord Gafford cares nothing for me. We're hardly friends." Ouch. Does she really feel that way? Myrick's no longer certain he can save his friendship with Lady Balbi. It'd probably be in his best interest to stay out of the Balbis' business and apologize to the viscount. On the other hand, Lady Balbi doesn't deserve to be treated like garbage. Doesn't she deserve to know she has someone who wants to support her and be there for her? Myrick's not always great at being a friend, but it doesn't mean he doesn't want to try. What should Myrick do? [[Apologize quietly.]] [[Keep defending Lady Balbi.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='moresuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> Apologizing would be the best way to save Myrick's own hide. That's the number one way to win the human game--survive. Myrick mumbles a hasty apology and slips out of Lord Balbi's grasp. While Lord Balbi calms down, Marquess Fron pulls Myrick to the side and asks him to leave. Apparently causing a fuss during a dinner party for a five-year-old isn't socially acceptable. Before Myrick leaves, he steals a glance at Lady Balbi. He's surprised to find her looking back at him. Disappointment is woven in every line on her lovely, expressive face. Myrick might be down one friend, but at least he doesn't have any broken bones. That's a win for today. ENDING: Broken Friendship [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/1bVCQZJ.jpg" width="50%" />->ENDING: Broken Friendship]] [[Start over?->Opening]] (set: $endings_BROKEN to "true") (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='moresuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> "//That's// not true!" Myrick grabs Lord Balbi's wrist. "Lady Balbi is a friend of mine. And I'm not going to let my friends be treated like shit by fuckwad husbands. Which, if you haven't figured out, is what you are." Fury flashes in the viscount's eyes. He raises his free hand high in the air. Several guests restrain Lord Balbi he strikes Myrick. "Percival!" Lady Balbi brings her hands to her mouth, her eyes wide with shock. "Settle down, please!" "No!" Lord Balbi tries to shake off the people holding him back. "This fop can't be allowed to besmirch our family." Myrick straightens his jacket. "I haven't said anything that isn't true." "//Lord Gafford.//" Lady Balbi huffs. Myrick turns to her. If he's not mistaken, some shade of gratitude glimmers in her raised eyebrows and pursed lips. Has she been miserable in her marriage? Has she been waiting for someone to notice? Oh, if only he had been a little bit of a better friend before. If only he hadn't been too self-centered before. What should Myrick do now? How can he prove that he's on Lady Balbi's side? [[Declare their friendship loudly and willingness to protect her from her dickbag husband.]] [[Challenge Lord Balbi to a duel.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='moresuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> It's time to be honest. As much as Myrick hates exposing even a sliver of his feelings, being honest might be the only way to prove himself to Lady Balbi. Myrick meets Lady Balbi's gaze. His heart pounds as the words fly out of him, each syllable laced with sincerity. "Lady Balbi, I'm so sorry I wasn't a great friend to you. I should have been honest about, well, a lot of things. But even though I fucked up, I still care about you. You deserve better than this crusty bread you call a husband. You deserve friends who are kind and honest, and you deserve a husband who loves you for you and treats you well." Lady Balbi looks away. The simple gesture leaves Myrick confused. Lord Balbi struggles to free himself from the people holding him back. "Let me at this scum-covered flower!" Myrick snorts. "Is that the best insult you got for me?" Before Lord Balbi can fire a retort, Marquess Fron and another noble drag Myrick into the foyer. "My dear friend, I think it's best if you leave," Marquess Fron whispers. "You undestand, don't you?" Ugh. While Myrick spends the night at his house feeling like a combobulated bag of garbage, he's surprised and delighted to receive a letter the next morning from Lady Balbi. In the letter, she reveals her intentions to divorce her husband. She ends her letter asking if Myrick might be interested in joining her for tea when all the dust has settled at an attempt to start a fresh friendship. Perhaps Myrick did well as a human at the party. If nothing else, he's made a great effort to be a better friend. ENDING: Good News [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/lfYTn1b.jpg" width="50%" />->ENDING: Good News]] [[Start over?->Opening]] (set: $endings_NEWS to "true") (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='moresuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> A duel! Yes. That is something Myrick has always wanted to do, even if the prospect terrifies him. But, hey, he has magic. That will help him. And if he bests Lord Balbi, perhaps he can shame him into leaving the the continent. Shame him into leaving Lady Balbi. That's probably a good way for humans to break up their marriage, right? "Why don't we take this outside like gentlemen?" Myrick points to Lord Balbi. "You. Me. Your weapon of choice." "I accept!" Lord Balbi spits out. "Who has a sword on them?" A sharp voice cuts in. "You are //not// dueling on my son's birthday!" Myrick stifles his groan. He knows Marquess Fron doesn't actually mean this in order to ensure everyone's safety or protect his youngest from unsightly behavior. Without a doubt, Marquess Fron just doesn't want there to be bloodshed before all the expensive cakes and wine have been served. "One minute after midnight, then," Lord Balbi snarls. "I will end you, Lord Gafford. You'll never be able to show your face in proper society ever again." Marquess Fron nods, as if he's the arbitrator of duels. Well, as the marquess of Tolis, maybe he is. Myrick doesn't overly understand human hierarchy. He doesn't even know what he's supposed to do as an earl. "Excuse me, but did I ask for this puerile behavior?" Lady Balbi flings the cards in Myrick and Lord Balbi's directions. Her face is so red, it's surprising there isn't any steam leaking out of her ears. "I don't need men to defend me." "I'm just trying to protect you!" Myrick runs his hands through his hair. "Lord Balbi said so much shitty stuff about you, and I couldn't stand it. Even if we aren't friends anymore, I don't want anyone treating you terribly." Lady Balbi stops flinging cards. Her glare softens, but her face remains red. "Lord Gafford has committed an inforgivable verbal assault." Lord Balbi huffs. "I must--" "Oh, stuff some crabs in your pants," Lady Balbi interjects. "You know what? Lord Gafford's right. You always act as if I'm some kind of burden you must put up with." Lord Balbi falls silent. "Were I you, my dear Percival, I would cancel this duel," Lady Balbi says. "It's imperative you find a good lawyer quickly, because I am going to ensure I take everything from you as compensation for all this emotional abuse when our divorce proceedings start." "D-Divorce?" Lord Balbi's eyes grow wide. Myrick brings his hand to his mouth in a poor attempt to mask his glee. //Yes! Way to go, Lady Balbi!!// An ocean of whispers crashes into the room as Lady Balbi asks for her carriage to be brought to the front. Marquess Fron (excitedly) attempts to control the crowd as the guests split in factions, some supporting Lady Balbi and others trying to calm Lord Balbi down. Before she leaves the room, she takes one last look at Myrick and smiles. Perhaps Myrick's friendship with her can eventually be salvaged. Even if it's not, it pleases him to know Lady Balbi will soon be happy. Isn't that the goal for humans? To be happy? ENDING: A Friend Worth Fighting For [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/s7uAjBV.jpg" width="50%" />->ENDING: A Friend Worth Fighting For]] [[Start over?->Opening]] (set: $endings_FRIEND to "true") (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='moresuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

{(if: (passage:)'s name is not "Menu") [ (align: "==>")[[Menu]] ] <script> if(typeof audio === 'undefined') { var audio = {}; audio.menu = new Howl({ src: ['http://45.79.26.102/menu.mp3'], html5: true, loop: true }); audio.emotional = new Howl({ src: ['http://45.79.26.102/emotional.mp3'], html5: true, loop: true }); audio.moresuspense = new Howl({ src: ['http://45.79.26.102/moresuspense.mp3'], html5: true, loop: true }); audio.quirkysuspense = new Howl({ src: ['http://45.79.26.102/quirkysuspense.mp3'], html5: true, loop: true }); audio.regularquirky = new Howl({ src: ['http://45.79.26.102/regularquirky.mp3'], html5: true, loop: true }); } </script> }

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/0ZlePay.jpg" width="100%"> <table cellspacing="25" align="center"><tr><td align="center"> {[[Start Game->Opening]] </td><td align="center"> {(Link:"Save Game")[ (if:(save-game:"MySave"))[ Game Saved Successfully! ](else: )[ Error Saving ] ]} </td><td align="center"> {(if: (saved-games: ) contains "MySave")[ (link: "Load Game")[(Load-game:"MySave")] ] (else:)[Load Game]} </td><td align="center"> [[View Endings->Endings]] </td><td align="center"> [[Return->$lastPassage]]} </td></tr></table> (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='menu'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

(if: (passage:)'s name is not "Endings")[ (if: (passage:)'s name is not "Menu")[ (if: "ENDING:" is in (passage:)'s name)[] (else:)[(set: $lastPassage to (passage:)'s name)] ] ]

Double-click this passage to edit it.

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/morbQsz.png" width=100%" /> { <table cellspacing="12"> <tr><td align="right"> (if: $endings_HOME is "true")[ [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/gfF3zY3.jpg" width="75%" />->ENDING: Home Is Where The Heart Is]] ] (else:)[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/eSABE4y.jpg" width="75%" />] </td> <td align="left"> (if: $endings_AWKWARD is "true")[ [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/n5JdLEP.jpg" width="75%" />->ENDING: Socially Awkward]] ] (else:)[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/DSVdgqj.jpg" width="75%" />] </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="right"> (if: $endings_TEA is "true")[ [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/rOXAjr6.jpg" width="75%" />->ENDING: Tea With A Friend]] ] (else:)[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/SCXcJsw.jpg" width="75%" />] </td><td align="left"> (if: $endings_TALK is "true")[ [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/4PI9O72.jpg" width="75%" />->ENDING: Who Needs To Talk?]] ] (else:)[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/GVsQYPE.jpg" width="75%" />] </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="right"> (if:$endings_ROYAL is "true")[ [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/ku2aPHU.jpg" width="75%" />->ENDING: Royal Treatment]] ] (else:)[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/XehGI2c.jpg" width="75%" />] </td><td align="left"> (if: $endings_UNINTENTIONAL is "true")[ [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/VsiAu61.jpg" width="75%" />->ENDING: An Unintentional Truth]] ] (else:)[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/zGKaeJv.jpg" width="75%" />] </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="right"> (if: $endings_SHUFFLE is "true")[ [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/7DJXUEk.jpg" width="75%" />->ENDING: Shuffle Up And Deal]] ] (else:)[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/9TuBewi.jpg" width="75%" />] </td><td align="left"> (if: $endings_CLEAR is "true")[ [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/dPu6E3l.jpg" width="75%" />->ENDING: Clear Hearts]] ] (else:)[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Jc9WSZS.jpg" width="75%"/>] </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="right"> (if: $endings_BROKEN is "true")[ [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/1bVCQZJ.jpg" width="75%" />->ENDING: Broken Friendship]] ] (else:)[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/f8xdlsH.jpg" width="75%">] </td><td align="left"> (if: $endings_DREAMS is "true")[ [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/necVOY1.jpg" width="75%" />->ENDING: Sweet Dreams]] ] (else:)[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/uuQWRCn.jpg" width="75%">] </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="right"> (if: $endings_NEWS is "true")[ [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/lfYTn1b.jpg" width="75%" />->ENDING: Good News]] ] (else:)[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/EjJgaTN.jpg" width="75%" />] </td><td align="left"> (if: $endings_EGGPLANTS is "true")[ [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/XJOtrce.jpg" width="75%" />->ENDING: A Study In Eggplants]] ] (else:)[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/pmUWjxg.jpg" width="75%" />] </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="right"> (if: $endings_GOOD is "true")[ [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/rWHeuFS.jpg" width="75%" />->ENDING: A Good Use Of Magic]] ] (else:)[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/f5Q57Wi.jpg" width="75%" />] </td><td align="left"> (if: $endings_CAKE is "true")[ [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/rHYSSY2.jpg" width="75%" />->ENDING: Cake!!]] ] (else:)[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/cgSwBgq.jpg" width="75%" />] </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="right"> (if: $endings_FIRE is "true")[ [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/D6Eq3NV.jpg" width="75%" />->ENDING: Irresponsible Magic]] ] (else:)[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/jeLb97D.jpg" width="75%" />] </td><td align="left"> (if: $endings_LOOP is "true")[ [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/d82Vbdv.jpg" width="75%" />->ENDING: Stuck In A Loop]] ] (else:)[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/U8fspHQ.jpg" width="75%" />] </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="right"> (if: $endings_FRIEND is "true")[ [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/s7uAjBV.jpg" width="75%" />->ENDING: A Friend Worth Fighting For]] ] (else:)[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/tqGICye.jpg" width="75%" />] </td><td align="left"> (if: $endings_KNIGHT is "true")[ [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/yIq1S9R.jpg" width="75%" />->ENDING: A Knight To Remember]] ] (else:)[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/0ThJ9vZ.jpg" width="75%" />] </td> </tr> </table>} (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='menu'; if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> What's the point in having magic if one doesn't fucking use it, right? While Lady Balbi places her bet, Myrick brings his cards close to his chest with one hand. With his other hand, he reaches into his pocket and rubs his thumb along his glass conduit. A pair of aces should be good enough to win. When it's time for the players to reveal their cards, the group erupts into cheer. Lady Balbi's kings were no match for the aces. Pleasure rolls through Myrick as he soaks in his win and the congratulations. Much laughter is to be had. Lord Balbi is especially energetic with announcing Lady Balbi's fall from the card throne. Lady Balbi, however, is the only one not smiling. Her vexed expression douses the joy inside Myrick. She refuses to make eye contact with anyone and eventually gets up from the table. Perhaps Myrick should have let Lady Balbi maintain her pride in front of her husband. While he wants to follow Lady Balbi and talk to her, the other nobles prevent Myrick from getting up. They all want to play against him now. Myrick spends the evening playing cards. His social standing among the men increases significantly, which pleases him, but he's not sure if their approval compares to Lady Balbi's happiness. Only time will tell. ENDING: Broken Friendship [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/1bVCQZJ.jpg" width="50%" />->ENDING: Broken Friendship]] [[Start over?->Opening]] (set: $endings_BROKEN to "true") (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='moresuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> Myrick brings his cards to the center of the table, facedown. "Fold. Great match, Lady Balbi. There's no one else I'd rather lose to." A bright smile unfurls across the viscountess's face while the other men around the table groan. Lord Balbi sulks especially loudly as he says, "If Lord Gafford can't best my wife, what hope do any of us have? It's a sad evening for men." Myrick rolls his eyes. If only he could get away with turning Lord Balbi into a frog in front of everyone. Lady Balbi rises from the table. "I believe I will stop playing now if no man here can provide a real challenge for me. If you'll excuse me, I must go powder my nose." Her gaze lingers on Myrick before she leaves the table. This sparks hope inside Myrick. Perhaps she wants him to follow her? Maybe they can repair the rift from between them? [[Follow Lady Balbi.]] [[Stay and play cards.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> After Lady Balbi's gone for a minute, Myrick excuses himself from the card table and wades through the crowd of guests, going in the same direction she went. Eventually, he spies her entering a bedroom on the second floor. Myrick makes sure no one else is watching as he slips into the room. It'd be pretty damn untoward for a man and a woman to be alone in a confined space, according to the humans' weird etiquette rules. As soon as Myrick closes the door, Lady Balbi flops onto the bed and starts unlacing her boots. "Let's do this quickly," she says. "Dinner will be served in forty-five minutes. People will notice if we're gone." Myrick blinks. "Do what quickly?" Lady Balbi stares at him. "Fuck. Don't be so obtuse, Lord Gafford." //Huh?!// What the shit is going on? How did they go from barely making eye contact with each other to...to...Lady Balbi hoisting her skirt above her knees and making Myrick recall how freaking fun it is to remove her silky undergarments? Myrick exhales sharply and tries to muster the right words to say. He can't afford to be clumsy with his mouth. "Don't worry, I understand we're not going to be anything else," Lady Balbi says, staring up at the ceiling. "You're not interested in romance. Fine. I won't pursue romance. I won't even ask you to bed me again after tonight, since you seem to dislike that kind of commitment. Just... Allot me a moment of happiness, won't you?" She talks so softly, needily. It stirs a lot of uncomfortable feelings inside Myrick. This is a pivotal moment in his relationship with Lady Balbi. Myrick wouldn't mind making her happy (and making himself happy in the process, since Lady Balbi can do excellent things with her hands besides shuffle cards). Then again, Myrick followed Lady Balbi in here with the intentions to repair their friendship. It'd probably be better to solve their problems with an honest, verbal conversation, no matter how much easier it'd be for Myrick to let their bodies do the talking. What should Myrick do? [[Bed Lady Balbi.]] [[Ask Lady Balbi why she isn't happy.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='moresuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> Well, to be fair, Myrick doesn't want to force a conversation with Lady Balbi if she actually needs to use the powder room. He's yet to figure out what humans do in powder rooms, since they rarely come out with more powder on their faces, but they always take a damn long time. Myrick stays at the card table and continues playing through the evening with Lord Balbi and the others. Lady Balbi never returns, killing Myrick's hope that the rift between him and Lady Balbi can be fixed tonight. Perhaps another day will provide a new chance. ENDING: Shuffle Up And Deal [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/7DJXUEk.jpg" width="50%" />->ENDING: Shuffle Up And Deal]] [[Start over?->Opening]] (set: $endings_SHUFFLE to "true") (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> Myrick studies Lady Balbi's inviting pose with her legs splayed for him. She is gorgeous, and his hazy mind very much wants to give her everything she physically wants. He ensures the door is locked and joins Lady Balbi on the bed. She is quick to climb on top of him. Their lips crash into each other, desperation coloring their kiss. She is hot and wonderful to touch. It might be a mistake, but at least it will be a fun one. Plus, when is Myrick ever going to get another chance to defile Marquess Fron's property? The next little while passes so achingly splendidly. Myrick and Lady Balbi make it back downstairs right before dinner is served. Thanks to a bit of magic, Myrick ensures not a hair is out of place on him or Lady Balbi. All through dinner, Lady Balbi refuses to make eye contact with Myrick. When Myrick gets home later that night, he feels like he human'd well enough, but he's still not sure if he's on good terms with Lady Balbi. Perhaps that's just how relationships evolve. Humans can be messy, which is part of their charm. Fairies can be equally messy, but their relationships tend to be very black-and-white since their magic relies on clear hearts. Humans have so many gray areas, and Myrick is grateful for gray areas on the days the haze travels from his brain to his heart. ENDING: Who Needs To Talk? [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/4PI9O72.jpg" width="50%" />->ENDING: Who Needs To Talk?]] [[Start over?->Opening]] (set: $endings_TALK to "true") (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='moresuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> Ugh. As much as Myrick hates having serious conversations, it seems unavoidable if he wants to save his friendship with Lady Balbi. Myrick ensures the door is locked and ambles toward the bed. "I think I'm a shit choice for a source of happiness." Lady Balbi shrugs. She opens her arms, inviting Myrick into her embrace. Myrick takes a seat on the edge of the bed, leaving a wide gap between them. "Come on, my dear. Everyone knows I'm an unreliable doorknob. A pretty one, but unreliable all the same. What's the source of your unhappiness that you think //I// look like a good option?" Lady Balbi, apparently getting the hint sex isn't happening, smooths her skirt back over her legs. She picks at the fabric for a long time in silence. "Is it your husband?" Myrick asks quietly. "I couldn't help noticing he was behaving more like an asswad than usual." "Asswad." Lady Balbi snorts. "Your gift with colorful language is to be commended. That sums him up well." Myrick grins. "You need more suggestions? Smegma-breath, horsecock-sucker, cu--" Lady Balbi holds her hand up. "You're not incorrect, Lord Gafford. My marriage is on the rocks these days. My dear Percival once seemed to love my penchant for games and found my disinterest in more 'feminine' hobbies charming." "It's what makes you you," Myrick adds. She flashes him a brief smile. "Thank you. I wish Percival still saw it that way. Alas, I fear we can never go back to the way it used to be. Every moment I'm with him, I have no joy. If I act the way he wants me to act, I'm miserable. If I am myself, I have to endure his harsh words." Myrick takes Lady Balbi's hand gingerly and squeezes it. "Fuck him. Not the good kind of fucking. The one where you put the bad end of a broken bottle in his asshole." Lady Balbi lets Myrick continue holding her hand. "That's cruel punishment for the bottle. It did nothing to deserve such a fate." The pair break into laughter together, and then they sit quietly for a moment. After a little bit, Lady Balbi speaks up. "I wish I could leave Lord Balbi. I have my own assets, but what would I do in society as a divorcee? There is no place for me." How should Myrick respond? [[Open up about leaving your ex-girlfriend and encourage Lady Balbi to leave her husband.]] [[Just keep holding her hand.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='moresuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> Myrick breathes in and out slowly, trying to calm his racing heart. Humans tend to relate to each other through shared experiences. It's a natural part of the way they communicate. Still, the prospect of opening up about his past terrifies him. "I once had a girlfriend," Myrick starts. Memories of the little sparkling green bean he used to spend his fairy days with come to mind. "She expected us to be together forever, you know." Lady Balbi cocks her head to the side. "Really? You were in a relationship? I've never heard of it." Myrick clears his throat. "It was a long time ago. Like, uh, ten years ago." //Give or take a few decades.// Lady Balbi's expression remains puzzled. "Aren't you only 25 or so?" "Er, I am." Myrick lets go of Lady Balbi and runs his fingers through his hair. She doesn't have to know there are a few more centuries tacked on to that number. "Youths can have relationships, too. Very, uh, meaningful ones. Look, my point is that I spent a long time with someone I wasn't happy with." Lady Balbi nods. Myrick slides his hand into his pocket, recalling the day he finally told Acadya he didn't want anything to do with her. That was the day that propelled him into the human world. He grasps his conduit, his lone connection to the fairy world. One day, he'll go back. For now, he's pretty much enjoying his time in the human world. Enjoying his freedom to be himself. Myrick wants Lady Balbi to have that same freedom, too. "I'm never going to marry anyone," Myrick says carefully, meeting Lady Balbi's eyes. "This lifestyle is what makes me happy. I understand how miserable it is to be with someone you don't want to be with. If you want to leave your douche husband, I will be at your side." Lady Balbi's lower lip trembles. Hope glimmers in her eyes. "Really?" "Fuck, yeah." Myrick grins. "You're a good person. You deserve happiness. I know I'm a damn wreck of a friend who still doesn't understand when the fuck I should open up about my disgusting feelings, but I will never let you be alone. Divorce that bull." Lady Balbi flings her arms around Myrick and squeezes him tightly. "All right. I'll do it. Thank you for being my friend." Myrick hugs her back with just as much zest, thrilled to have Lady Balbi's friendship again while also finally feeling like he's not a complete screw-up of a human. ENDING: Clear Hearts [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/dPu6E3l.jpg" width="50%" />->ENDING: Clear Hearts]] [[Start over?->Opening]] (set: $endings_CLEAR to "true") (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='emotional'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> Lady Balbi isn't wrong. No part of this shithole society is kind to a divorced woman, but high society especially seems scandalized by the prospect of people seeking their happy endings. Fairies have similar problems. They're expected to partner up with each other and spend centuries spreading joy across the world with their significant other. Myrick wonders if there is a world where Lady Balbi--and to some extension, himself--could ever be happy deviating from the social norms. Unable to materialize the right words, Myrick keeps holding Lady Balbi's hand until everyone is summoned for dinner. The rest of the evening passes well enough. Lady Balbi sends Myrick a letter of gratitude in the morning. Their friendship seems to be for the better, but he can't help wondering if there is something else he could do for her. ENDING: A Friend Worth Fighting For [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/s7uAjBV.jpg" width="50%" />->ENDING: A Friend Worth Fighting For]] [[Start over?->Opening]] (set: $endings_FRIEND to "true") (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='moresuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> Ughhhh. More humans to meet and socialize with. Tiny ones, at that. Kids are cute, but Myrick isn't very good around them. Even around his good friend Lovell Lynah's kid, who he likes quite a deal, Myrick barely understands how to socialize. Still, it'd probably be good for Myrick's reputation if he could claim that he has met the prince of Whistlerwood. "I'd love to meet Prince Longhollow," Myrick answers. "Marvelous!" Marquess Fron takes Myrick by the arm and starts escorting him to the other side of the house. "You're going to be thrilled to meet the prince. He's such a joy to our nation, truly. It is an honor to have him in my humble home this evening." (if: $mask is "true")[Myrick thinks of the mask he got from Cyn in his pocket. It had been wonderful to see Cyn earlier, and it had been wonderful to see Lovell gaze at her as though she was the most important person in the world. Myrick doesn't know a lot about parenting, but he feels like that's how every parent should look at their kid. Real fucking shame Marquess Fron can hardly put together two nice words about his youngest son on said son's birthday.] (else:)[Blah blah blah blah blah. This sapsucker never stops, does he?] The two noblemen enter a room together. To absolutely no one's surprise, the room filled with priceless art and crystal vases has a string quartet playing and servants serving trays of juice and sweet snacks. Mothers decked in pearls surround an armored knight--the prince's guardian, probably. (if: $tannergift is "true")[A large group of kids surround Tanner. They're quite happy playing with the figurine set Myrick brought. Two kids chase each other around the room.] (else:)[The kids are divided into small groups, playing amongst themselves. Two kids in particular seem engaged in an active game of tag.] Despite Myrick being friendly or at least acquainted with these children's parents, it occurs to him he doesn't really know who anyone is besides Tanner. Myrick glances at Marquess Fron. "Which one is the prince?" "The one playing with my son, of course!" Marquess Fron guides Myrick to the center of the room. "My dear Tanner, allow me to interrupt your play a moment so I can introduce the prince to my friend, Lord Gafford." //I think it's the other way around, muffinbottom.// "Again?" Tanner groans. Marquess Fron shoots him a Sharp Look. Tanner quickly mumbles an apology. Myrick turns his gaze to the child next to Tanner he thinks is the prince. The genuine smile on the kid's face catches Myrick off-guard. "Hello." The kid puts his toy down and bows to the adults. This action makes Myrick wildly uncomfortable. "My name is Dexter Longhollow. It is a pleasure to meet you, Lord Gafford." Myrick fumbles for words. Talking to kids is hard enough, but why is it suddenly a million times harder around a super nice kid? One who is a prince, at that? "What an honor to meet you, uh, Your Majesty?" Shit. Is that the right style for him? Myrick sticks a hand in his pocket, so unbelievably nervous about meeting a human who has yet to experience the joy of paying taxes. Do princes pay taxes? In the corner of Myrick's eye, he notices the two kids chasing each other are about to crash into a table with a large crystal vase. He's already touching his glass conduit. He could stop them with magic, ensuring no one gets hurt and nothing gets broken. He could also let fate run its course. What should Myrick do? [[Let the kids be kids.]] (if: $mask is "true")[[Use magic to stop the kids from crashing into the table.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

(set: $flag_decline to "true") <img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> After some careful consideration, Myrick decides to decline. Partly because he has no idea how he's supposed to play the society game with a kid who probably doesn't know how shitty society even is yet. The rest of Myrick is also just interested in pissing off Marquess Fron. "I appreciate it, but I'd prefer to stay with the adults tonight." Myrick waggles his eyebrows. "I have plenty of opportunities in the future to meet Prince Longhollow." The pride and amusement in Marquess Fron's face slowly vanishes. "Oh? Do tell, my friend. When are you going to meet the prince?" Ah, yes. Myrick has done that thing again he always does, where he says something without thinking too hard about it, forcing him to spin a story on the spot, lest he be forced to do something uncouth, like tell the truth. Of course, Myrick //could// always use magic to make Marquess Fron and the others forget what Myrick just said. In fact, he could use magic to make everyone forget he had even approached the group in the first place. Magic lets Myrick undo social blunders ever so easily. What should Myrick do? [[Lie.]] [[Tell the truth.]] [[Use magic.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

(set: $flag_lie to "true") <img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> If one is going to lie, one might as well really lean into it. It couldn't possibly get Myrick in that much trouble. Myrick fiddles with a button on his jacket and veers his gaze just enough to give an impression that he is being coy (or so he hopes). "I didn't want to boast about it, but I'm a patron for the art museum in Reminga, the same one our dear friend Marquess Davin founded. Where is he tonight, by the way? Anyway, the prince's mother is a patron, too, and as you might know, the museums regularly invites us patrons to attend new exhibits. Through here, I have an acquaintanceship with Lady Alice, and as such, there are various doors open for me to meet with the prince." Of course, Myrick has never met Lady Alice, nor has he ever thrown a coin in the museum's direction. He prefers to purchase art from local creatives in Tolis. A perplexed frown crosses Marquess Fron's face. "Is that so? I had no idea you were a patron. I knew of our esteemed Lady Alice's contributions to the art, but as a fellow patron for the museum myself, I have never seen you at any of the functions." Oh. What. The. Shit. When did this golden gallbladder become a patron for the museum? He would have bragged about it endlessly if he did. Marquess Fron doesn't even fucking hold the door open for someone's grandma without announcing it in his annual newsletter. Okay. Myrick has been caught in a lie. It's too late to confess he was lying, lest he risk his social reputation. He can either keep trying to dig himself out of this, or he can use magic to redo this whole conversation. [[Keep lying.]] [[Use magic.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> Myrick internally lets his soul groan for as long as it needs to before he musters the energy to voice the truth. "I misspoke. I don't know if I'll actually meet the prince again. I just don't feel compelled to interrupt the children for the mere purpose of making myself known to them. The prince is a kid, after all." A barely audible titter ripples through the group. Marquess Fron himself restrains from laughing, but his eyes gleam with all the satisfaction of a spiderdragon that's caught her squishy prey in her super silky web (not that Myrick has ever been said okay and seen the spiderdragon's eyes up close...ok...maybe he has...). "Quick to speak without thinking, as always." Marquess Fron rests a hand on Myrick's shoulder. "I adore this trait in you ever so much. Your subsequent candor, however, is also appreciated. That you recognize your presence before the prince of Whistlerwood is of little note is truly humbling--" Fire burns through Myrick as Asshole Fron keeps going on and on. Will the fuckwad ever shut up? Once someone finally directs the conversation in a new direction, Myrick escapes the group and is left alone with his bruised ego. He starts looking for cake to cheer him up. Coming to this party was a mistake. Marquess Fron is good at reminding Myrick why being honest is sometimes the worst decision anyone, regardless of species, can do. A better person would have understood immediately why Myrick initially lied, right? Maybe? Still, it would have been worse for Myrick's social reputation if he hadn't shown up. Probably. Hard to say. Being a human is so hard sometimes. ENDING: Socially Awkward [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/n5JdLEP.jpg" width="50%" />->ENDING: Socially Awkward]] [[Start over?->Opening]] (set: $endings_AWKWARD to "true") (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> What's the fucking point in being a fairy if Myrick doesn't use his damn magic? He slips his hand into his pocket and rubs his thumb along his conduit. As the invisible cloud of confusion disperses through the room, Myrick steps back. (if: $flag_decline is "true" and $flag_lie is "true" and $flag_lie_again is "true") [ The evening passes with Myrick trapping himself in an endless social loop of his own doing. Nothing really gets accomplished since Myrick continues to avoid his social blunders rather than own up to them. ENDING: Stuck In A Loop [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/d82Vbdv.jpg" width="50%" />->ENDING: Stuck In A Loop]] [[Start over?->Opening]] (set: $endings_LOOP to "true") ] (else:) [ Now he can retry his conversation with Marquess Fron--and hopefully not wind up using his magic again to erase people's memories if he speaks carelessly again. It would be awkward to get caught in a social loop of one's own doing. [[Approach Marquess Fron again as if it's your first time seeing him this evening->Marquess Fron]] ] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

(set: $flag_lie_again to "true") <img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> "I just became a patron," Myrick quickly clarifies, making a mental note to actually start sending money to the museum. "Oh, I see," Marquess Fron murmurs. His face suggests he doesn't believe a word coming out of Myrick's mouth. The gentleman next to Marquess Fron arches an eyebrow. "And your acquaintanceship with Lady Alice?" Myrick laughs. "That can easily be explained." //Please change the subject and save me, Marquess Fron.// Marquess Fron gestures for Myrick to continue. Stars, why can't this doorknob just center the conversation on himself again? Myrick has to get himself out of this carefully. There's some terrible organ inside the human body that makes humans want to uphold their image in front of friends. Not that Myrick actually likes anyone in this conversation, but he's determined to play this human game to the best of his ability. What should Myrick do? [[Lie until the end.]] [[Use magic to get out of this conversation and start over like nothing happened.->Use magic.]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='moresuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> No fucking point in stopping here! Myrick flashes the group his widest, proudest smile. "I certainly hate to brag about the exact circumstances of my acquaintanceship with Lady Alice, but I had the pleasure of meeting our fair royal consort before she became the king's wife." Intrigue falls over the group. Myrick's words point to a scandalous affair. With the men's growing curiosity, pleasure swells through Myrick's chest. He loves this sort of attention. "She is a very beautiful woman," Myrick says, purposely lowering his voice. "It would be impolite if I revealed the full nature of our past. Pardon me, my good friends, but I do believe that is Marquess Davin that's just arrived. I should so like to say hello to my dear pal. It has been such a long time since we've been in the same room." Myrick slips away from the group, leaving behind a tempest of whispers. Those hushed questions continue all evening long. Myrick can't even walk past the servants without them scrutinizing him in awe. Whether the guests believe him or not, Myrick has certainly won in one aspect of this society game--he stole Marquess Fron's thunder at his own party. ENDING: An Unintentional Truth [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/VsiAu61.jpg" width="50%" />->ENDING: An Unintentional Truth]] [[Start over?->Opening]] (set: $endings_UNINTENTIONAL to "true") (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='moresuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> Myrick lets go of his conduit. It sounds terrible to say, but sometimes kids just have to learn the hard way not to get into trouble. The same goes for adults, too, actually. Humans alike are prone to bad decisions and often can't see the correct path to take or fail to pick up items they might need. As the kids bump into the table, the vase tips over onto the floor with a loud crash. Everyone gasps, and the string quartet stops playing. While most of the adults run to check on the broken vase, Myrick notices it's actually the prince who is the first to check on the kids that ran into the table. Neither child seems to be hurt, fortunately. Myrick can't help smiling as he watches the prince care for the startled kids. Prince Longhollow gives each child a pat on the head and reassures them everything will be fine. The future king graces everyone with a big, gentle smile. It gives Myrick a warm bit of hope for the future. Meeting the prince wasn't such a bad idea, even if Myrick is going to have to deal with Marquess Fron bragging about it forever. ENDING: Royal Treatment [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/ku2aPHU.jpg" width="50%" />->ENDING: Royal Treatment]] [[Start over?->Opening]] (set: $endings_ROYAL to "true") (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8XYbt.jpg" width="100%" /> Yeah, Myrick isn't a monster. He's not going to let two kids potentially get hurt, //especially// since he has a precious reminder in his pocket about how great kids are. Myrick rubs his thumb along the slipper. He implores the table to scoot two inches to the left. Just enough to where no one notices while also keeping the table out of the kids' path. When he does this, the prince sneezes. It's curious timing, the sneeze... Before Myrick can think too much about it, his thoughts get interrupted by the sound of snapping fingers. "Sera! Sally!" An incensed woman approaches the runners. "You must settle down!" The kids obey their mother at once. After greeting the noblewomen in the room and meeting the prince's knight (some boring middle-aged man), Marquess Fron and Myrick go back to the main parlor room. The rest of the party goes on without much fuss. Myrick feels good for meeting the prince //and// for helping some kids stay out of trouble. Plus, he has a present from Cyn that he'll always keep. It was a good day as a human. ENDING: A Good Use Of Magic [[<img src="https://i.imgur.com/rWHeuFS.jpg" width="50%" />->ENDING: A Good Use Of Magic]] [[Start over?->Opening]] (set: $endings_GOOD to "true") (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/7owzV0d.jpg" width="100%" /> Sometimes, fate is cruel and has an interesting way of turning a lie into the truth. [[Preview the future in "Dithered Hearts"->Unintentional Excerpt]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='moresuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/l8Wq4dX.jpg" width="100%" /> “Once again, thank you all for coming. Happy endings //will// happen tonight.” The crowd cheered for their regent as she stepped off the platform. Ordinarily, Acadya thrived on applause. Applause meant victory. As the beautiful human Regent Alice Longhollow, she had many victories etched in the lines of her palm. Right now, though, she had an exquisitely atrocious headache. The cheering, the music, everything about the ball had suddenly become awful. Where was Dexter? She couldn’t find her son. The searing pain behind her eye spread to her chest as worry consumed her. The knights escorted Acadya back to her table. Her drinks and cards waited for her, but Dexter wasn’t anywhere to be seen. Hadn’t she just been talking to Dexter before her speech? Where did he go? What had they been talking about? //I’ve found someone who makes my heart feel good.// Hadn’t he said that? Had she just imagined it? She thought she had been impressed with her son’s comment. If he was in touch with his heart, then he could— Another bolt of agony struck her. **Read more about Acadya's plan in the book, //Dithered Hearts//, out July 24, 2019** (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='moresuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/06i5MFW.jpg" width="100%" /> A friend that one can have a great time with just by sharing a cup of tea together is often a friend worth keeping. Fate, however, might have other ideas. [[Preview the future in "Dithered Hearts"->Tea Excerpt]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='emotional'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/WvCMs9I.jpg" width="100%" /> Sometimes, the very best place to be is home. (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='regularquirky'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/l8Wq4dX.jpg" width="100%" /> When her name was called, Lady Balbi disappeared into a flurry of champagne-colored bubbles with her head held high. Soon, it would be Cynthia Lynah’s turn. Rather, it would soon be the turn of the person Cynthia was pretending to be. “This is never going to work,” Cynthia whispered, tightening her grip on Lord Gafford’s arm. The nobleman chuckled. “Everything’s going to be fine as long as you don’t fuck up, my dear.” Nobody could curse so effortlessly while smiling like Lord Richard Gafford. “You don’t look old enough to be the father of a twenty-year-old,” Cynthia said. Most people assumed Lord Gafford to be about thirty. Most people were only, apparently, about 570 years off. He had bright bronze eyes and lustrous dark hair that fell to his waist. Not a single wrinkle could be found on his pale face. “A pinch of magic goes a long way.” Lord Gafford adjusted the band of Cynthia’s crimson mask. “All anyone needs to do is glance at us, and the spell will take effect. This shit is phenomenal.” Stars, it was so hard to believe she actually had a fairy godfather. Her whole life, she merely thought of Lord Gafford as her late father’s eccentric best friend. For him to magically appear last night in the barn, hours after Cynthia’s stepfather had brought his hands to her throat… Not that she knew what a fairy godfather was before last night, but as soon as Lord Gafford promised he was someone who would make her dreams come true, she had been overwhelmed with relief. Maybe she could get her farm back. **Read more about Cyn's journey in the book, //Dithered Hearts//, out July 24, 2019** (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='emotional'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/R4HGk0i.jpg" width="100%" /> Lovell Lynah certainly knows how to use an eggplant. Plus Myrick actually let himself be honest and vulnerable. A+. (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='emotional'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/yLAn8nn.jpg"> The easiest way to pass time and awkward social situations is with a game of cards. (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/Wrlrnw4.jpg" width="100%" /> The ties that bind humans together can be so fragile. It's too easy to accidentally sever these ties. (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='moresuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/QFOnc8d.jpg" width="100%" /> The ties that bind humans together can be so fragile. Sometimes, it's imperative to do everything possible to keep the ties connected. (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='moresuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script><script> audio.menu.stop(); audio.emotional.stop(); audio.moresuspense.stop(); audio.quirkysuspense.stop(); audio.regularquirky.stop(); audio.moresuspense.play(); </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/aGBV51o.jpg" width="100%" /> There's a time and a place to use one's mouth for talking, and there's a time and a place to use one's mouth for other activities. Whether Myrick has chosen the proper time to avoid a discussion remains to be seen. (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='moresuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/1qnGQjr.jpg" width="100%" /> Opening up and being honest can be scary, but it can also be so rewarding. Being in touch with one's feelings is the fastest way to attain a clear heart. Fairies thrive on clear hearts. This is a fact that Myrick will forget again and again through the years until the day a life-changing invitation arrives at his house. [[Preview the events of "Dithered Hearts"->Clear Hearts Excerpt]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='emotional'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/l8Wq4dX.jpg" width="100%" /> //You are invited to the ball of the century, a dream-come-true for all unmarried women between 16 and 21 years of age in Whistlerwood and their families.// What the fuck was this hoity-toity misogynistic shit? Myrick threw the scroll across the room. Good riddance. Like he needed another stuffy human affair to attend. Of course he would go, because if Marquess Fron and Marquess Davin went, then they would never shut their rusty mouths about how their good, totally-normal-noble pal Richard Gafford should have been there. He didn’t even have a daughter. Why was he sent this piece of tree crap? Wait. Myrick reached into his pocket, ran his thumb along his conduit, and stared at the scroll. The invitation floated into the air and dashed back to him. He willed it to unravel in front of him. //You are invited to the ball of the century, a dream-come-true for all unmarried women—// Oh. This was perfect. And he knew just the person who needed a dream to come true. **Read more about Myrick's quest for a happy ending in the book, //Dithered Hearts//, out July 24, 2019** (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='emotional'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/xRIpHav.jpg" width="100%" /> The consequences of abusing one's magic can sometimes sneak up on socially-threatened fairies. (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/tU9FIYN.jpg" width="100%"> This is a moment Myrick will repeat in his head at random intervals for the next seven hundred years. He'll cringe just as deeply each time. (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/NI7qsWW.jpg" width="100%"/> Magic is phenomenal. Among fairies, it's intended for good, although it doesn't alway work that way. Tonight, at least, Myrick used his powers for good. (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/X30XNEt.jpg" width="100%" /> The prince of Whistlerwood is a good, kind person. The fate that lies ahead of him is not. [[Preview the future in "Dithered Hearts"->Royal Excerpt]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/l8Wq4dX.jpg" width="100%" /> Dexter went through the list in his head again, unable to believe how dramatically awkward his personal life had gotten. **Bad:** Some arbitrary bylaw about getting married before his 21st birthday or else his very-married uncle can petition for the throne. **Worse:** Coming out as gay to his mother and being told he needed to put his family’s legacy first. **Even worse:** Being expected to find a uterus-having woman for the sole purpose of producing an heir and keeping this branch of the Longhollows on the throne. **Worst:** Finding someone at the ball he liked enough to give his brooch to and then not remembering anything at all about the person. Why had he forgotten someone who had clearly made an impression on him? He could recall everything else about the ball, from the swarm of women around his cousin Levron to the butterfly-shaped cheesecake bites he couldn’t eat because of his body’s inability to digest dairy. He hadn’t consumed a drop of alcohol last night, nor did he have any lumps on his head to indicate a concussion. What happened? Mother demanded answers. She had yelled at him after the ball when he confessed he couldn’t remember what happened. He had never seen her so angry before. She wanted the butterfly brooch and the person who had it, immediately. Dexter could give her nothing. Could he avoid lunch? What about supper? How many meals could he go without before his mother cornered him? This was all that ridiculous bylaw’s fault. Dexter had spent the last several months poring through every law book possible, seeking some kind of loophole. Why put so much weight on marriage and heirs when a person’s qualifications to lead a nation depended on integrity and fortitude? Why hadn’t the leaders who came before him considered any queer person’s conditions? **Read more about Dexter's tribulations in the book, //Dithered Hearts//, out July 24, 2019** (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='emotional'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/SzFynsx.jpg" width="100%" /> Just because one can start a fire with magic doesn't mean one //should//... (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='moresuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/LgoSZ3W.jpg" width="100%" /> Everyone deserves a rest. (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/ATKNP7Y.jpg" width="100%" /> CAKE!!!!!! (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='quirkysuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/6PSRKR9.jpg" width="100%" /> Encouraged by kind words from a most unlikely source, Frey devotes himself to his studies and boldly avoids his family's attempts at matchmaking. Through the years, Frey focuses on fulfilling his father's dream for his son to become a knight. It's not until he becomes assigned to guard the prince of Longhollow that Frey begins to have dreams of his own. [[Preview the future in "Dithered Hearts"->Knight Excerpt]] (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='emotional'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/l8Wq4dX.jpg" width="100%" /> Frey flopped onto his bed and stared at the cape on the other side of the room. Poor, sweet Dexter had been forced to act like an adult ever since he learned to walk. Frey had watched Dexter grow up with Tanner. Dexter never got to do anything teenagers should have the freedom to do, like go to the beach with his friends or read a book that wasn’t about the law. With Dexter’s uncle pressuring to take the throne and Regent Longhollow’s insistence to see Dexter lead, the kid would never get to enjoy his twenties. He would never get to make playful mistakes or enjoy a long nap under a shady tree without someone interrupting him. Frey had missed his twenties, too, so he could follow the role he had been given as the middle son. Truthfully, the last bit of his twenties hadn’t been too terrible. Around the time he became assigned as Dexter’s bodyguard last year, life had gotten better. He had no idea when he realized his little brother’s best friend had become so attractive or impossibly self-sacrificing, but Frey knew he was in deep. Not a single day passed where Frey didn’t want to give Dexter the life he deserved. A life where he could smile all the time, have fun, and marry when he was ready—if he ever wanted to marry. Why did Dexter refuse to run from a nation falling apart and an unwanted marriage? Frey would personally escort Dexter wherever he wanted to go if the prince decided to flee. If Dexter wanted to cross the ocean, Frey would part it with his sword. **Read more about Frey's plight in the book, //Dithered Hearts//, out July 24, 2019** (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='emotional'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>

<img src="https://i.imgur.com/DOIU6Mm.jpg" width="100%" /> It might not have been the best way to repair his friendship with Lady Balbi, but it was dramatic and gave everyone in high society something to talk about for weeks... ...until Marquess Fron announced the upcoming nuptials between his eldest son and Marquess Davin's eldest daughter. Great, now Myrick has //another// event to worry about. (if: $firstRun is not 'true')[(set: $firstRun to 'true')<script>var firstRun = true;</script>](else:)[<script>var firstRun = false;</script>] <script> var musictype='moresuspense'; // <-- change this to the music type on this passage if(musictype==='menu' && firstRun === false){if(audio.menu.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.menu.play();}} else if(musictype==='emotional' && firstRun === false){if(audio.emotional.playing()===false){audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.emotional.play();}} else if(musictype==='moresuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.moresuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.moresuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='quirkysuspense' && firstRun === false){if(audio.quirkysuspense.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.play();}} else if(musictype==='regularquirky' && firstRun === false){if(audio.regularquirky.playing()===false){audio.emotional.stop();audio.menu.stop();audio.moresuspense.stop();audio.quirkysuspense.stop();audio.regularquirky.play();}} </script>