The Aetherhollow Archive final

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!''Chapter 1 - Death'' //Sovereign laid on the throne floor, alone and cold. Dying. A hand grasped at the tight vest in a sensless attempt to stop the bleeding. More of the crimson liquid poured out, hot and thick, coating the leather gloves. Spiteful little thing. The insurgent could still be heard outside the grand chamber, steel clashing against steel. The gun they used had been loud, echoing in the empty halls of the castle and attracting the imperial guards. They stood no chance. The two bullets pierced straight in the back, one of them narrowly missing the spine and out through the chest in one unwavering line. A minor inconvenience, the wound already starting to heal. The second one though, was still lodged in between the ribs, pulsating with the soft vibration of the aether it had been charged with. Interfereeing. It had been both clever and unexpected, something Sovereign would have appreciated if perhaps demonstrated on someone else. A cough. More blood spilling from the mouth now. 'All for nothing!’ Sovereign thought, breath wheezing through gritted teeth. The aether was seeping through every pore, returning to that dreadful place. Soon, ''It'' will be free and It will consume everything, the very world they sacrificed so much for, the cage they carefully moulded to contain It. Everything ended by some traitorous bastard with no idea what it would unleash. It was not right, but it was in parts poetic to find death as such, shot in the back just like //she// had been. "I told you this would happen, old friend." Her voice was low, barely a whisper. She looked down with such gentleness, all the patience in the world held in those brown eyes of hers. Or was it pity now? "No, It can not get out! ''I'' will not let It!" "You can finally rest now. Come, there is nothing left to be done here." The ghost beconned sweetly, chilling fingers resting above the chest wound. Life was no longer oozing out of it, the blood instead pooling with a steady flow on the inside. There was no time left. With a final breath, Sovereign gathered the all aether within and made a final choice. One that would alter the very foundation of the world.// @@.c;⚙ [[“What? Is the villain dead already?”|Ch1]]@@

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<div align='center' style='font-size: 150%;'>\ __''Personal Profile''__ \ </div>\ Name: $name Surname: $surname Aether: $aether_count ''Physical desription'' Eye color: $eyes Hair: $hair_lenght, $hair_type Body: $body, $height <<if $portrait is 0>>\ \ <<else>>\ [[The portrait is outdated - change apearance.]] <</if>> Pronouns: $pronouns <<if $gender is "none">>\ <<else>> [[Change pronouns]] <</if>> <div align='center' style='font-size: 150%;'>\ ''Personality Traits'' \ </div>\ <<if $c > $s and $c > $m and $c > $p>>\ Core Temperament: ''Choleric'' Motto: //"Let’s Get It Done Now."// You tend to be very savvy, analytical, and logical, independent, and strong-willed. You are extremely practical and straightforward. You have an outgoing, take-charge style and your primary concern is results. <<elseif $s > $c and $s > $m and $s > $p>>\ Core Temperament: ''Sanguine'' Motto: "Let’s Get It Done Together." You tend to be lively, friendly, buoyant, and opinionated. You love adventure and have high risk tolerance. You have an outgoing, talkative style and your primary concern is recognition. <<elseif $m > $s and $m > $c and $m > $p>>\ Core Temperament: ''Melancholic'' Motto: //"Let’s Get It Done Right."// You tend to be questioning, sceptical, and detached. You are very extremely thorough and organised and value close friendships. You have a reserved, analytical style and your primary concern is quality. <<elseif $p > $s and $p > $m and $p > $c>>\ Core Temperament: ''Phlegmatic'' Motto: //"Let’s Get It Done Peacefully."// You tend to be calm, supportive, and empathetic. You try to avoid conflict and always try to mediate between others to restore peace and harmony. You have a reserved, cautious style and your primary concern is stability. <</if>>\ <div class="stat-bar-group">\ <div class="stat-bar-container">\ <div class="stat-bar-overlay-left">Intimidating $intimidating%</div>\ <div class="stat-bar" id="intimidating-stat"></div>\ </div></div>\ <div class="stat-bar-group">\ <div class="stat-bar-container">\ <div class="stat-bar-overlay-left">Friendly $friendly%</div>\ <div class="stat-bar" id="friendly-stat"></div>\ </div></div>\ <div class="stat-bar-group">\ <div class="stat-bar-container">\ <div class="stat-bar-overlay-left">Anxious $anxious%</div>\ <div class="stat-bar" id="anxious-stat"></div>\ </div></div>\ <div class="stat-bar-group">\ <div class="stat-bar-container">\ <div class="stat-bar-overlay-left">Sarcastic $sarcastic%</div>\ <div class="stat-bar" id="sarcastic-stat"></div>\ </div></div>\ <div class="stat-bar-group">\ <div class="stat-bar-container">\ <div class="stat-bar-overlay-left">Aloof $aloof%</div>\ <div class="stat-bar" id="aloof-stat"></div>\ </div></div>\ <div align='center' style='font-size: 150%;'>\ ''Skills'' \ </div>\ <div class="stat-bar-group">\ <div class="stat-bar-container">\ <div class="stat-bar-overlay-left">Combat $combat%</div>\ <div class="stat-bar" id="combat-stat"></div>\ </div></div>\ <div class="stat-bar-group">\ <div class="stat-bar-container">\ <div class="stat-bar-overlay-left">AETHER $aether%</div>\ <div class="stat-bar" id="aether-stat"></div>\ </div></div>\ <div class="stat-bar-group">\ <div class="stat-bar-container">\ <div class="stat-bar-overlay-left">Tinkering $tinkering%</div>\ <div class="stat-bar" id="tinkering-stat"></div>\ </div></div>\ <div class="stat-bar-group">\ <div class="stat-bar-container">\ <div class="stat-bar-overlay-left">Savvy $savy%</div>\ <div class="stat-bar" id="savy-stat"></div>\ </div></div>\ <div class="stat-bar-group">\ <div class="stat-bar-container">\ <div class="stat-bar-overlay-left">Dexterity $dexterity%</div>\ <div class="stat-bar" id="dexterity-stat"></div>\ </div></div>\ <<if $good gte 100>>\ <<set $good to 100>><<set $evil to 0>>\ <</if>>\ <<if $good lte 0>>\ <<set $good to 0>><<set $evil to 100>>\ <</if>>\ <div align='center' style='font-size: 150%;'>\ ''Reputation'' \ </div>\ <div class="stat-bar-group">\ <div class="stat-bar-container">\ <div class="stat-bar-overlay-left">Good $good%</div>\ <div class="stat-bar-overlay-right">Evil $evil%</div>\ <div class="stat-bar" id="good-stat"></div>\ </div></div>\ [[Return to Game.|$return]]

!Relationships ''__Eli Cabello__'' - The Hero <<if $e_rel lte 39 and $e_love is 0>>\ Eli still wants to kill you for what you did to Angelica. <<elseif $e_rel gte 40 and $e_love is 0>>\ Eli is staring to warm up to you again. <<elseif $e_rel gte 50 and $e_love is 0>>\ You are like family again. <<elseif $e_rel gte 50 and $e_love is 1>>\ In love. <<elseif $e_rel gte 90 and $e_love is 1>>\ Soulmates. <<elseif $e_rel is 0 and $e_love is 0>>\ Redacted. <</if>>\ ''__Keyon Dalgliesh__'' - The Advisor <<if $k_rel lte 39 and $k_love is 0>>\ Keyon is warry of you, walking around in Sovereign's body. <<elseif $k_rel gte 40 and $k_love is 0>>\ Keyon is staring to warm up to the person behind those eyes. <<elseif $k_rel gte 50 and $k_love is 0>>\ He sees you like a crherished friend. <<elseif $k_rel gte 50 and $k_love is 1>>\ He's crushing on you and it's killing him. <<elseif $k_rel gte 90 and $k_love is 1>>\ Soulmates. <<elseif $k_rel is 0 and $k_love is 0>>\ Redacted. <</if>>\ ''__Rae Fairburne__'' - The Mercenary <<if $r_rel lte 19 and $r_love is 0>>\ Rae has barely met you a handful of times. <<elseif $r_rel gte 20 and $r_love is 0>>\ You're alright. <<elseif $r_rel gte 40 and $r_love is 0>>\ Rae would call you a friend. <<elseif $r_rel gte 50 and $r_love is 0>>\ Like family. <<elseif $r_rel gte 50 and $r_love is 1>>\ In love. <<elseif $r_rel gte 90 and $r_love is 1>>\ Soulmates. <<elseif $k_rel is 0 and $k_love is 0>>\ Redacted. <</if>>\ ''__Blythe Haywarde__'' - The Inventor <<if $b_rel lte 19 and $b_love is 0>>\ You are her ruler and benefactor, noting more, nothing less. <<elseif $b_rel gte 20 and $b_love is 0>>\ Maybe there is more to you than she first thought. <<elseif $b_rel gte 40 and $b_love is 0>>\ Blythe would call you a friend. <<elseif $b_rel gte 50 and $b_love is 0>>\ Like family. <<elseif $b_rel gte 50 and $b_love is 1>>\ In love. <<elseif $b_rel gte 90 and $b_love is 1>>\ Soulmates. <<elseif $b_rel is 0 and $b_love is 0>>\ Redacted. <</if>>\ ''__Thane Winthrope__'' - The Guard <<if $t_rel is 0 and $t_love is 0>>\ You are his ruler and charge. <<elseif $t_rel lte 19 and $t_love is 0>>\ You are worth protecting. <<elseif $t_rel gte 20 and $t_love is 0>>\ Thane thinks you are nice. <<elseif $t_rel gte 40 and $t_love is 0>>\ Thane would call you a friend. <<elseif $t_rel gte 50 and $t_love is 0>>\ Like family. <<elseif $t_rel gte 50 and $t_love is 1>>\ In love. <<elseif $t_rel gte 90 and $t_love is 1>>\ Soulmates. <</if>>\ [[Return to Game.|$return]]

<<set $name to "==Redacted==">>\ <<set $surname to "==Redacted==">>\ <<set $portrait to 0>>\ \ <<set $eyes to "Redacted">>\ <<set $hair_lenght to "Redacted">>\ <<set $hair_type to "Redacted">>\ <<set $hair_color to "Redacted">>\ <<set $hair_style to "Redacted">>\ <<set $body to "Redacted">>\ <<set $height to "Redacted">>\ <<set $scolor to "Redacted">>\ <<set $e_love to 0>>\ <<set $k_love to 0>>\ <<set $r_love to 0>>\ <<set $b_love to 0>>\ <<set $t_love to 0>>\ \ <<set $e_rel to 0>>\ <<set $k_rel to 0>>\ <<set $r_rel to 0>>\ <<set $b_rel to 0>>\ <<set $t_rel to 0>>\ \ <<set $intimidating to 0>> <<set $friendly to 0>>\ <<set $anxious to 0>>\ <<set $sarcastic to 0>>\ <<set $aloof to 0>>\ \ <<set $combat to 0>>\ <<set $aether to 0>>\ <<set $tinkering to 0>>\ <<set $savy to 0>>\ <<set $dexterity to 0>>\ \ <<set $good to 50>>\ <<set $evil to 50>>\ <<set $team to 0>>\ <<set $aether to 0>>\ \ <<set $c to 0>>\ <<set $s to 0>>\ <<set $m to 0>>\ <<set $p to 0>>\ \ <<set $handbook to 0>>\ \ <<set $pronouns to " ">>\ \ <<set $aether_count to "what even is this?">>\ \ <img src="https://64.media.tumblr.com/f9743c678dceb1be73fa2cc64ae3e152/c9840bf148713412-61/s2048x3072/3fdded7bc06568424b9a49dcd34e7505a845a3c7.jpg" width="700" height="250"> The Aetherhollow Archive is a steampunk romance soaked in a gallon of magic. It is set in Summersmead, the fictional empire from the book you are sucked into. Four years after the Chosen One failed to save their world, you find yourself in the shoes of the presumed, and freshly murdered, villain of the story - ostentatiously called Sovereign. You embark on a journey to unfold the mysteries of this new world and find a way home. But with your killer lurking in the shadows, who can you trust? Genre: Steampunk, Fantasy, Romance, Mystery. Warnings: This story will be rated 18+ for depictions of death, violence, strong language, sexual themes, alcohol consumption, blood, etc. You can hit me up at any time if you think I should add a certain warning or fix errors or generally any questions you may have. It would be greatly appreciated. [[Tumblr Dev blog|https://aetherhollowarchive.tumblr.com/]] <a href="TUMBLR URL HERE" target="_blank"><i class="fab fa-tumblr"></i></a> @@.c;⚙ [[Short game mechanics intro.|Game mechanics]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Onward with the story!|Part I]]@@ <script>$('body').removeClass().addClass('forest')</script>

!Keyon's Handbook to Summersmead <<if $handbook is 0>>\ You do not have this priviledge yet! <<elseif $handbook is 1>>\ ! Everyone is born with a piece of aether. To get more, you must be gifted with it by another. Gifting the aether bridges a connection between the two parties, giving an insight into each other's very souls. One can choose the amount of aether to gift, having a good grasp of the levels present in the body. Giving up all of your aether is possible, but it leaves the person feeling cold and empty, hence the moniker ‘hollows’. Different levels of aether offer different benefits and powers. <</if>> [[Return to Game.|$return]]

It had been an impulse buy, the book catching your eye from between other fantasy works. The cover itself was beautiful, a leatherbound bereft of any kind of title or words, the only engravings a few scattered metallic cogs. But what piqued your interest most was the description. You flip through it, pages crunching softly, and read it once more. The letters stood out against the background - bold black letters over the parchment like paper. <img src="https://64.media.tumblr.com/9e7321fa152d82bbf155eb86df2cce94/d4908b76885baf5e-ff/s500x750/f81304dbca8c2bf2a4fb802c84627b121aca559e.pnj" width="650" height="900"> The premise teased about a dystopian steampunk world where the villain won and reshaped everything to their own liking, the hero brutally defeated. It was curious then to begin the very first chapter with the tyrannical ruler’s demise. What was to come after that? //“Soon, It will be free.”// The words of that first page stuck with you, like a distant echo. Could there be something more to this Sovereign character? That last decision sounded ominous as well and you couldn't help but wonder what events had been set in motion. The short introduction to the book had raised many questions and you couldn't wait to read more about the world and the magic in it. ''“Next stop, Sunshine Boulevard.”'' You close the book and place it back in your bag. Whatever adventure was promised in its pages had to wait until you got home, took a shower and had something to eat. You slip out of the stiff chair and make your way towards the exit just as the bus enters the station. A young couple is blocking the door, caught in an ardent conversation. The doors open and they neither get off nor notice you. @@.c;⚙ [[Push yourself past them.|Ch1.c]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“Excuse me, passing through!”|Ch1.s]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[You’ve foreseen this situation, a hand already in front of you to make space.|Ch1.m]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Look between the couple and the door uncertainty.|Ch1.p]]@@

<<set $c to $c + 1>> The two sheepishly muttered some excuses and parted for you to pass. It was nice, but annoying that you had to bump them with your shoulder to notice their surroundings. Some people were just like that. As you set foot off the bus the pavement is dragged from under you, vision spinning. Your knees shake, hands frantically looking for purchase and coming up empty. You try to just sit down on the ground for a moment, but where is the ground and perhaps more importantly, where is your body?? Then everything is a blur. You try to take a deep breath, steady yourself even though you can't tell if you're on the ground or still standing. You think you might have closed your eyes sometime in the process, numerous phosphenes dancing against a black canvas. Images flash in quick succession like an old broken tape, one overlapping over the other: a barren wasteland, a tall throne of dark metals and velvet red, protests on a murky street. The grinding sound of rusted metal is like chalk on table, but you have no ears to cover, nor can you get the taste of dust out of your mouth. And then there's her - tall and muscular, with the most charming smile you've ever seen. You have no idea who she is, but you're tired and scared and feel like reaching out and telling her about your worries. You //need// her to hear you. The overload ends as you attempt to scream after the woman, tension still bubbling in your lungs. There are other things out there in the dark expanse behind your lids, ones that you know are not really there, colourful strings and taut cords in the very fabric of a world that feel familiar, yet not quite right. One thread in particular stands out, thicker and with a faint white glow. It's different too, not connected to anything on one side, instead unravelling slowly but steadily, burning like a wick running its course. You realise, much to your surprise, that the other end is coming out of your own chest, pulsating erratically to the rhythm of your heart. You reach for it with a thought more than with an actual hand, and are instantly electrified. You let out a cry, a current overflowing you, not painful but sudden and all consuming. The power at your fingertips is intoxicating, a whirlwind of endless possibilities in your head. You can feel those shapes around you now, you understand them, each connected to a real, tangible thing. You could reach out again and bring forth a river in the desert or make a volcano erupt on the other side of the world. You could shift the very planet on its axis, have the sun hit in all the right places. All you needed to do was tug a string here and there. A god. //“Oh, all the things I could alter and ''improve''.”// The voice that echoes is yours, but the words taste foreign on your lips. And then, as fast as it started, it all stops. @@.c;⚙ [[Your thread fizzing out and dies.]]@@

<<set $m to 1>> “Excuse me.” You added and gently made room for yourself. The two barely spare you a second glance, but they move enough for you to pass. It happened more often than you liked to think about, As you set foot off the bus the pavement is dragged from under you, vision spinning. Your knees shake, hands frantically looking for purchase and coming up empty. You try to just sit down on the ground for a moment, but where is the ground and perhaps more importantly, where is your body?? Then everything is a blur. You try to take a deep breath, steady yourself even though you can't tell if you're on the ground or still standing. You think you might have closed your eyes sometime in the process, numerous phosphenes dancing against a black canvas. Images flash in quick succession like an old broken tape, one overlapping over the other: a barren wasteland, a tall throne of dark metals and velvet red, protests on a murky street. The grinding sound of rusted metal is like chalk on table, but you have no ears to cover, nor can you get the taste of dust out of your mouth. And then there's her - tall and muscular, with the most charming smile you've ever seen. You have no idea who she is, but you're tired and scared and feel like reaching out and telling her about your worries. You //need// her to hear you. The overload ends as you attempt to scream after the woman, tension still bubbling in your lungs. There are other things out there in the dark expanse behind your lids, ones that you know are not really there, colourful strings and taut cords in the very fabric of a world that feel familiar, yet not quite right. One thread in particular stands out, thicker and with a faint white glow. It's different too, not connected to anything on one side, instead unravelling slowly but steadily, burning like a wick running its course. You realise, much to your surprise, that the other end is coming out of your own chest, pulsating erratically to the rhythm of your heart. You reach for it with a thought more than with an actual hand, and are instantly electrified. You let out a cry, a current overflowing you, not painful but sudden and all consuming. The power at your fingertips is intoxicating, a whirlwind of endless possibilities in your head. You can feel those shapes around you now, you understand them, each connected to a real, tangible thing. You could reach out again and bring forth a river in the desert or make a volcano erupt on the other side of the world. You could shift the very planet on its axis, have the sun hit in all the right places. All you needed to do was tug a string here and there. A god. //“Oh, all the things I could improve and ''alter''.”// The voice that echoes is yours, but the words taste foreign on your lips. And then, as fast as it started, it all stops. @@.c;⚙ [[Your thread fizzing out and dies.]]@@

<<set $p to 1>> “Sorry!” You say as you squeeze your way past them, the doors almost catching your bag. It was a close call, but you made it. As you set foot off the bus the pavement is dragged from under you, vision spinning. Your knees shake, hands frantically looking for purchase and coming up empty. You try to just sit down on the ground for a moment, but where is the ground and perhaps more importantly, where is your body?? Then everything is a blur. You try to take a deep breath, steady yourself even though you can't tell if you're on the ground or still standing. You think you might have closed your eyes sometime in the process, numerous phosphenes dancing against a black canvas. Images flash in quick succession like an old broken tape, one overlapping over the other: a barren wasteland, a tall throne of dark metals and velvet red, protests on a murky street. The grinding sound of rusted metal is like chalk on table, but you have no ears to cover, nor can you get the taste of dust out of your mouth. And then there's her - tall and muscular, with the most charming smile you've ever seen. You have no idea who she is, but you're tired and scared and feel like reaching out and telling her about your worries. You //need// her to hear you. The overload ends as you attempt to scream after the woman, tension still bubbling in your lungs. There are other things out there in the dark expanse behind your lids, ones that you know are not really there, colourful strings and taut cords in the very fabric of a world that feel familiar, yet not quite right. One thread in particular stands out, thicker and with a faint white glow. It's different too, not connected to anything on one side, instead unravelling slowly but steadily, burning like a wick running its course. You realise, much to your surprise, that the other end is coming out of your own chest, pulsating erratically to the rhythm of your heart. You reach for it with a thought more than with an actual hand, and are instantly electrified. You let out a cry, a current overflowing you, not painful but sudden and all consuming. The power at your fingertips is intoxicating, a whirlwind of endless possibilities in your head. You can feel those shapes around you now, you understand them, each connected to a real, tangible thing. You could reach out again and bring forth a river in the desert or make a volcano erupt on the other side of the world. You could shift the very planet on its axis, have the sun hit in all the right places. All you needed to do was tug a string here and there. A god. //“Oh, all the things I could improve and ''alter''.”// The voice that echoes is yours, but the words taste foreign on your lips. And then, as fast as it started, it all stops. @@.c;⚙ [[Your thread fizzing out and dies.]]@@

<<set $s to 1>> “Oh, sorry.” The two parted and let you pass before returning to their conversation. It happened a lot on buses, but it was not something worth stressing over. As you set foot off the bus the pavement is dragged from under you, vision spinning. Your knees shake, hands frantically looking for purchase and coming up empty. You try to just sit down on the ground for a moment, but where is the ground and perhaps more importantly, where is your body?? Then everything is a blur. You try to take a deep breath, steady yourself even though you can't tell if you're on the ground or still standing. You think you might have closed your eyes sometime in the process, numerous phosphenes dancing against a black canvas. Images flash in quick succession like an old broken tape, one overlapping over the other: a barren wasteland, a tall throne of dark metals and velvet red, protests on a murky street. The grinding sound of rusted metal is like chalk on table, but you have no ears to cover, nor can you get the taste of dust out of your mouth. And then there's her - tall and muscular, with the most charming smile you've ever seen. You have no idea who she is, but you're tired and scared and feel like reaching out and telling her about your worries. You //need// her to hear you. The overload ends as you attempt to scream after the woman, tension still bubbling in your lungs. There are other things out there in the dark expanse behind your lids, ones that you know are not really there, colourful strings and taut cords in the very fabric of a world that feel familiar, yet not quite right. One thread in particular stands out, thicker and with a faint white glow. It's different too, not connected to anything on one side, instead unravelling slowly but steadily, burning like a wick running its course. You realise, much to your surprise, that the other end is coming out of your own chest, pulsating erratically to the rhythm of your heart. You reach for it with a thought more than with an actual hand, and are instantly electrified. You let out a cry, a current overflowing you, not painful but sudden and all consuming. The power at your fingertips is intoxicating, a whirlwind of endless possibilities in your head. You can feel those shapes around you now, you understand them, each connected to a real, tangible thing. You could reach out again and bring forth a river in the desert or make a volcano erupt on the other side of the world. You could shift the very planet on its axis, have the sun hit in all the right places. All you needed to do was tug a string here and there. A god. //“Oh, all the things I could improve and ''alter''.”// The voice that echoes is yours, but the words taste foreign on your lips. And then, as fast as it started, it all stops. @@.c;⚙ [[Your thread fizzing out and dies.]]@@

Air invades your lungs as if you have been stranded underwater and you jolt up with a gasp. The sudden intake makes you double over and cough violently, fingers digging into the cold slab beneath. <<if $c gte $s and $c gte $m and $c gte $p>>\ You don’t take long to gather yourself, already on your feet and talking in your surroundings in seconds.\ <<elseif $s gt $c and $s gt $m and $s gt $p>>\ You think it was going to be an interesting story to retell once you figure out what exactly happened. You swing your feet off the table and gather your surroundings.\ <<elseif $m gt $s and $m gt $c and $m gt $p>>\ You take a few more deep breaths before getting off the weird table and looking around.\ <<elseif $p gt $s and $p gt $m and $p gt $c>>\ You sigh, eyes closed for a moment longer, before getting off the stone table.\ <</if>>\ One thing was clear, you were no longer on Sunshine Boulevard. You run your hands over the clothes you were now in, thick black pants and a dress shirt with ruffles. The top has a small tear around your chest, the fabric damp and leaving a red tint on your fingers. You try not to think too hard on it, there was enough going on already. You turn back to your surroundings, a new sense of dread fueling you. The room your are in is tall and cold, predominantly of intricate metalwork and stone. A set of windows are placed high, reaching close to the ceiling, wrought iron decorating them in hypnotic patterns. The soft light passing through does little to heat the place or to comfort you. As you turn, you see it is completely barren, bar some kind of altar in the middle. There are flowers scattered around, some already on the floor where you got off of it. A chill runs down your back, but are not sure if it’s from the cold or the rapidly increasing rhythm of your heart. Someone had changed your clothes and placed you on that altar?! “It can't be.” The voice is airy, caught between a whisper and a plea, but it still makes you jump. You snap your head towards the sound and search for its owner with your gaze. The man is sprawled on his hands and knees behind the stone structure as if he'd been praying. His eyes are blown wide staring at you while tears are running down his flushed cheeks. Dark curly hair stands in all directions, barely touching past his shoulders. He’s dressed in some period outfit, dark pants and vest and a deep burgundy coat. He might have looked very put-together if not for his messy hair and overall distressed state. “Your Majesty! You're alive, how- No, it does not matter. Only that you are here again.” The man spoke rapidly, floundering over the exact thoughts running in his mind. His accent remained musical, despite the desperation in his tone. He stumbles when he closes the short distance between you, his pale long fingers gathering your hands in his as if picking up newborn sparrows. Vivid greed irises stood in contrast with his bloodshot eyes. @@.c;⚙ [[Demand to know where you are.|Ch1.intimidating]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Politely ask where you are.|Ch1.friendly]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Make a comment about his attire.|Ch1.sarcastic]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Fumble and get out a few words.|Ch1.anxious]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Calmly ask for an explanation.|Ch1.aloof]]@@

<<set $intimidating to 5>> You slap his hands away, brows furrowing at the strange man. You wanted answers, not whatever he was playing at. “I don't know what kind of game this is, but you will tell me where I am, right now!” Your words have an immediate effect. The man's face sobers up instantly and he straightens his back, regaining some more of that respectable image he had about him. “Do you not remember last night?” The strange man’s voice cracks on the last word and he has to clear his throat. “The assassin?” You swore you could feel a vein throb in your forehead, your patience running thin. Nothing made sense, you were in a strange place with an oddly dressed man spewing stuff about assassins. Still, you just had to ask. “Assassin?” The man averted his eyes from you for the first time, head hanging ever so slightly. “I'm sorry, I have failed you, Sovereign. The assailant had help from the inside. I will personally vet all the personnel working in the palace. At once.” //Sovereign?// This was not about that book, right? That was all just fiction and this was real life. You were dealing, potentially, with a madman. “You are not answering my question. Where am I? How did I get here? And who are you?” “Who... am I?” His eyes went wide again, looking you over in more detail, but finding nothing particularly out of place. He opened his mouth and closed it back quickly, lips pressed in a thin line to suppress whatever question popped into his mind. His gaze turned softer, both sadness and relief flashing in his eyes, and he continued. “It was a traumatic experience, I am sure. One we were unaware could even happen, but if anyone were to overcome it, it would have been you, wouldn't it.” “There was something special about the bullets...” You remembered a line from that one page you read, but the words were supposed to remain in your head. Exhaustion was taking its toll and the man was not making things easier. He, in turn, offered a closed lipped smile. “Ah, see, it's already starting to come back to you. A bath and returning to your chambers should also help.” He hobbled a few steps back and picked up an elegant looking cane from the base of the altar. “And a change of clothes perhaps.” @@.c;⚙ [[Insist and explain you are not who he thinks you are.|Ch1.2][$ktruth to 1]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Go along with it, for now - he seems a bit unhinged as it is.|Ch1.2][$ktruth to 0]]@@

<<set $friendly to 5>> You carefully take your hands away from him trying to keep it civil. You needed answers, not to antagonise this man. “Excuse me, could you please tell me where we are?” Your words have an immediate effect. His brows shot up, accentuating the deep lines on his forehead. He blinked, opening and closing his mouth twice, before finally settling. “Do you not remember last night?” The strange man’s voice cracks on the last word and he has to clear his throat. “The assassin?” Oh, this was definitely going to be a fun story to tell, if you made it out alive. Nothing made sense, you were in a strange place with an oddly dressed man spewing stuff about assassins. Still, you just had to ask. “Assassin?” The man averted his eyes from you for the first time, head hanging ever so slightly. “I'm sorry, I have failed you, Sovereign. The assailant had help from the inside. I will personally vet all the personnel working in the palace. At once.” //Sovereign?// This was not about that book, right? That was all just fiction and this was real life. You were dealing, potentially, with a madman. “But that doesn't answer my earlier question. Where are we? And since we're both here, who are you?” “Who... am I?” His eyes went wide again, looking you over in more detail, lingering on you face. He opened his mouth and closed it back quickly, lips pressed in a thin line to suppress whatever question popped into his mind. His gaze turned softer, both sadness and relief flashing in his eyes, and he continued. “It was a traumatic experience, I am sure. One we were unaware could even happen, but if anyone were to overcome it, it would have been you, wouldn't it.” “There was something special about the bullets...” You remembered a line from that one page you read, but the words were supposed to remain in your head. Exhaustion was taking its toll and the man was not making things easier. He, in turn, offered a closed lipped smile. “Ah, see, it's already starting to come back to you. A bath and returning to your chambers should also help.” He hobbled a few steps back and picked up an elegant looking cane from the base of the altar. “And a change of clothes perhaps.” @@.c;⚙ [[Insist and explain you are not who he thinks you are.|Ch1.2][$ktruth to 1]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Go along with it, for now - he seems a bit unhinged as it is.|Ch1.2][$ktruth to 0]]@@

<<set $sarcastic to 5>> You eyed the man and your surroundings and slowly pulled your hands from his, gesturing to his attire. “Is this some kind of renaissance thing? Why am I here?” Your words have an immediate effect. His brows shot up, accentuating the deep lines on his forehead. He blinked, opening and closing his mouth twice, before finally settling. “Do you not remember last night?” The strange man’s voice cracks on the last word and he has to clear his throat. “The assassin?” You rolled your eyes, hands crossing in front of you defensively. It was getting ridiculous. Nothing made sense, you were in a strange place with an oddly dressed man spewing stuff about assassins. Still, you just had to ask. “Assassin?” The man averted his eyes from you for the first time, head hanging ever so slightly. “I'm sorry, I have failed you, Sovereign. The assailant had help from the inside. I will personally vet all the personnel working in the palace. At once.” //Sovereign?// This was not about that book, right? That was all just fiction and this was real life. You were dealing, potentially, with a madman. “But that doesn't answer my earlier question. Who are you and why did you bring me here?” “Who... am I?” His eyes went wide again, looking you over in more detail, lingering on your face. He opened his mouth and closed it back quickly, lips pressed in a thin line to suppress whatever question popped into his mind. His gaze turned softer, both sadness and relief flashing in his eyes, and he continued. “It was a traumatic experience, I am sure. One we were unaware could even happen, but if anyone were to overcome it, it would have been you, wouldn't it.” “There was something special about the bullets...” You remembered a line from that one page you read, but the words were supposed to remain in your head. Exhaustion was taking its toll and the man was not making things easier. He, in turn, offered a closed lipped smile. “Ah, see, it's already starting to come back to you. A bath and returning to your chambers should also help." He hobbled a few steps back and picked up an elegant looking cane from the base of the altar. "And a change of clothes perhaps.” @@.c;⚙ [[Insist and explain you are not who he thinks you are.|Ch1.2][$ktruth to 1]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Go along with it, for now - he seems a bit unhinged as it is.|Ch1.2][$ktruth to 0]]@@

<<set $anxious to 5>> You jerk your hands away as if burned and take a step back. Your voice does not come out as confident as you wished. “What is all of this? Where are we?” Your action seemed to have affected him more, hands lingering after yours for a moment longer before falling to his side. He took a shaky step back as well and finally added with a guarded expression. “Do you not remember last night?” His voice betrays his emotions, cracking on the last word. He has to clear his throat to continue. “The assassin?” This was definitely not how you had planned your day to go, nor do you think you could have even prepared for such absurdity. Nothing made sense, you were in a strange place with an oddly dressed man spewing stuff about assassins. Still, you just had to ask. “Assassin?” The man averted his eyes from you for the first time, head hanging ever so slightly. “I'm sorry, I have failed you, Sovereign. The assailant had help from the inside. I will personally vet all the personnel working in the palace. At once.” //Sovereign?// This was not about that book, right? That was all just fiction and this was real life. You were dealing, potentially, with a madman. You eyed him carefully, from his period inspired clothes to his sad eyes. He didn't //seem// like a bad person, but there was just no way to know for sure. “Who are you?” “Who... am I?” His eyes went wide again, looking you over in more detail, lingering on you face. He opened his mouth and closed it back quickly, lips pressed in a thin line to suppress whatever question popped into his mind. His gaze turned softer, both sadness and relief flashing in his eyes, and he continued. “It was a traumatic experience, I am sure. One we were unaware could even happen, but if anyone were to overcome it, it would have been you, wouldn't it.” “There was something special about the bullets...” You remembered a line from that one page you read, but the words were supposed to remain in your head. Exhaustion was taking its toll and the man was not making things easier. He, in turn, offered a closed lipped smile. “Ah, see, it's already starting to come back to you. A bath and returning to your chambers should also help.” He hobbled a few steps back and picked up an elegant looking cane from the base of the altar. “And a change of clothes perhaps.” @@.c;⚙ [[Insist and explain you are not who he thinks you are.|Ch1.2][$ktruth to 1]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Go along with it, for now - he seems a bit unhinged as it is.|Ch1.2][$ktruth to 0]]@@

<<set $aloof to 5>> You stare at his hands on yours for a moment, one eyebrow raised at the familiarity he approached you with. “Can you just tell me what happened?” You finally said, pulling your hands away. Your words have an immediate effect. His brows shot up, accentuating the deep lines on his forehead. He blinked, opening and closing his mouth twice, before finally settling. “Do you not remember last night?” The strange man’s voice cracks on the last word and he has to clear his throat. “The assassin?” You sigh helplessly, pinching the bridge of your nose. As things were progressing, you were not making it home anytime soon. Nothing made sense, you were in a strange place with an oddly dressed man spewing stuff about assassins. Still, you just had to ask. “Assassin?” The man averted his eyes from you for the first time, head hanging ever so slightly. “I'm sorry, I have failed you, Sovereign. The assailant had help from the inside. I will personally vet all the personnel working in the palace. At once.” //Sovereign?// This was not about that book, right? That was all just fiction and this was real life. You were dealing, potentially, with a madman. “I'm not interested in that! What happened at the bus station? Why am I here and who are you?” “Who... am I?” His eyes went wide again, looking you over in more detail, lingering on your face. He opened his mouth and closed it back quickly, lips pressed in a thin line to suppress whatever question popped into his mind. His gaze turned softer, both sadness and relief flashing in his eyes, and he continued. “It was a traumatic experience, I am sure. One we were unaware could even happen, but if anyone were to overcome it, it would have been you, wouldn't it.” “There was something special about the bullets...” You remembered a line from that one page you read, but the words were supposed to remain in your head. Exhaustion was taking its toll and the man was not making things easier. He, in turn, offered a closed lipped smile. “Ah, see, it's already starting to come back to you. A bath and returning to your chambers should also help.” He hobbled a few steps back and picked up an elegant looking cane from the base of the altar. “And a change of clothes perhaps.” @@.c;⚙ [[Insist and explain you are not who he thinks you are.|Ch1.2][$ktruth to 1]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Go along with it, for now - he seems a bit unhinged as it is.|Ch1.2][$ktruth to 0]]@@

<<if $ktruth is 1>> “Look, I really think you have me confused with someone else. I’m no sovereign or majesty. Frankly, I just want to go home.” He coked his head, finger tapping the metallic handle of his cane three times. “Some kind of memory loss, then. A side effect from the aether healing your body.” “No, you’re not listenin-” “We’ll figure this out, I promise, your Majesty.” He gave a sharp nod, the steel resolve in his eyes somewhat reassuring. He was, perhaps, my best way home. “Fine. Lead the way.” <<elseif $ktruth is 0>>\ Telling him the truth now may not make him as eager to help you out like he currently is. You could also get some more information out of him and even get a better idea about your surroundings. It wasn’t your best idea, but what options did you really have? “Fine, I’ll go with you.” “Excellent! If you would follow me, please.” <</if>>\ The man turns and walks to the other side of the room, smoothing out his vest and hair with his free hand. For better or for worse, you follow after him. The harsh sound of his cane resounds in the stone halls as we walk in silence. The decor hasn’t changed beyond the heavy wooden door we passed through - imposing walls, decorated with lamps, brass pipes and various reliefs. The dark tones of the stone and wood combined with the golden shine of the metals made everything look luxurious, but it was otherwise sparse in decorations. You eye the windows with curiosity, but as in the first room, they are all placed too high, almost at a second floor level. It was highly ineffective, but the streams of light passing through gave a nice touch to the entire ensemble. Someone had put a lot of thought and effort in designing the place and you wondered what purpose such a building served. Two people, siblings most likely and servants from their attire, rounded the corner in foront of you and stopped dead in their tracks, mouths agape and eyes transfixed on you. They were dressed in simpler clothes, but in the same Victorian style; ample skirts and ruffles, paired with bonnets and white aprons. The man nodded their way, but didn’t stop, so neither did you. @@.c;<<cycle "$personality_add" autoselect>> <<option "You don't break your stride, head held high with determination." c>> <<option "You give a small nod yourself, curious to see other people." s>> <<option "You subconsciously slide just a little closer to your companion." e>> <<option "You saunter ahead, gaze still fixed on the detailed walls." p>> <</cycle>>@@ From the corner of your eye you watch as the two drop like flyers to their knees, foreheads pressed to the ground in reverence. “@@.c;<<cycle "$their" autoselect>> <<option "Their" their>> <<option "His" his>> <<option "Her" her>><</cycle>>@@ Majesty is alive and well!” “Praise be Sovereign!” Your companion didn’t seem phased by their action, if anything he looked right in his element - back straight, head held high and handling out instructions instead. “Ah, good, just who I was looking for. Would you two please go on ahead and prepare Sovereign’s bath? In the royal chamber, not the bathhouse.” Only his bloodshot eyes betrayed him, but if the two noticed, they didn't comment on it. “Of course, Lord Dalgliesh.” “It would be our pleasure!” “Perfect, thank you.” The man nodded, and you both continued on your way. From the corner of your eye you watch the servants stay in the same humbling positions, looking as if they have turned to stone. You turn to your guide, who apparently is a lord, for answers. “Is that normal?” You gesture vaguely in their direction when he looks at you but doesn’t answer. “Ah, well, for the past few hours we all thought you were dead. Come morning, the whole empire will resonate with news of your wellbeing.” “I’m that important, huh?” “Of course.” He added without a second thought, but took a moment to elaborate further. “Some were devastated at the news, others not so much, but one thing is fundamentally true: the empire would not be where it is without you. I don’t even want to begin thinking about the political implications of succession, since there is no one next in line. The nobles would have started a civil war to put one of their offsprings on the throne.” You only met the man a few minutes prior and had no idea what his role in all of this was. But from the way he said it, you figure he had already started thinking in detail about it and was preparing for the worst. @@.c;⚙[[You had no issue with taking charge, but this was all still very confusing.|Ch1.3][$c to $c + 5]]@@ @@.c;⚙[[You thought you would make a fun ruler, lots of parties.|Ch1.3][$s to $s + 5]]@@ @@.c;⚙[[The idea of having a whole empire under your care was, at this moment, crippling.|Ch1.3][$m to $m + 5]]@@ @@.c;⚙[[You didn’t think much of it, it was not really your problem to deal with.|Ch1.3][$p to $p + 5]]@@

<<if $personality_add is "c">><<set $c to $c +1>>\ <<elseif $personality_add is "s">><<set $s to $s +1>>\ <<elseif $personality_add is "m">><<set $m to $m +1>>\ <<elseif $personality_add is "p">><<set $c to $p +1>>\ <</if>>\ <<if $their is "their">>\ <<set $they to "they">>\ <<set $theirs to "theirs">>\ <<set $them to "them">>\ <<set $themselves to "themselves">>\ <<set $female to "person">>\ <<set $woman to "person">>\ <<set $women to "people">>\ <<set $pronouns to "they/them">>\ <<elseif $their is "his">>\ <<set $they to "he">>\ <<set $theirs to "his">>\ <<set $them to "him">>\ <<set $themselves to "himself">>\ <<set $female to "male">>\ <<set $woman to "man">>\ <<set $women to "men">>\ <<set $pronouns to "he/him">>\ <<elseif $their is "her">>\ <<set $they to "she">>\ <<set $theirs to "hers">>\ <<set $them to "her">>\ <<set $themselves to "herself">>\ <<set $pronouns to "she/her">>\ <<set $female to "female">>\ <<set $woman to "woman">>\ <<set $women to "women">>\ <</if>>\ <<if $c > $s and $c > $m and $c > $p>>\ You would make a good ruler, you know that. Efficient and confident and not afraid to take risks, you would be dominant over your subjects.\ <<elseif $s > $c and $s > $m and $s > $p>>\ It would be quite entertaining to be the head of an empire. You imagine lavish parties, champagne flowing out of golden flutes, masquerades and, most importantly, court intrigue!\ <<elseif $m > $s and $m > $c and $m > $p>>\ The amount of details to be aware of and planning required not only to manage an empire, but to do it right was both thrilling and daunting. You would be efficient, but at what personal cost?\ <<elseif $p > $s and $p > $m and $p > $c>>\ It honestly sounded so tiring to be in charge of everything all the time. You knew it came with perks, but they were, most often than not, unrewarding compared to the work needed.<</if>> This was all hypothetical, of course, as you still thought it was all some elaborate hoax. Or a social experiment of sorts. You are led beyond the massive stairs to a small side corridor where an elevator awaits. It is grander than the ones you are used to, made entirely of beautiful metalwork. The base is round, decorated with golden engravings, swirling like leaves on a vine. The man takes a latch off and openes the door. Stepping inside you are delighted to see there’s a cushioned seat on half the wall. You take a spot besides him as he pulls a lever on level five, a small smile on his lips at your obvious excitement. The mechanism buzzes to life, a soft hissing sound filling the air. The glass dome of the contraption allows you to see the numerous cogs and gears spinning off of one another and pulling the cabin upwards. There are open spaces between the floors and you watch with interest and awe the various places the elevator slowly passes by. They are mostly just hallways, but with each storey they get grander, huge metal sculptures holding lamps and paintings, opulent furniture and decorations. Somewhere between the first and second floor you smell freshly baked bread and by some miracle your stomach doesn’t rumble. The fifth and final floor has a different feel to it, still regal, but smaller in height than the open plan rooms you’ve seen. It makes it feel more personal. The lord takes only a few more steps and waits for you beside a set of heavy metal doors. When you join him, he turns the knob and lowers his head, waiting for you to go in fist. You barely have time to register anything in the room, besides the four poster bed and how big everything was, because your eyes lock in on the windows. Finally! You rush to the closest one, brimming with renewed hope in your heart, only for it to dive into your stomach. @@.c;⚙ [[The world outside could not be real!|Ch1.4]]@@

The city spread out below the castle like an enormous pyramid made of stone, metals and patches of wood. You can’t make out the world beneath well, but you see suspended railroads connecting various parts of the so called empire, steam engined trains running from one corner to the next. Dark towers rise everywhere, the architecture caught between modern and victorian. You can’t even tell how long it does down for, as the lower your eyes travel, the grayer and dirtier the air becomes. And then there are the //dirigibles// littering the air, the closest one docking on a ramp just at the base of the castle walls. You snap your eyes up to the horizon and are met with an orange wasteland of sand and rock and the occasional shrubs. But the cherry on top had to be the shifting lights that painted the sky - vibrant hues of red and orange, moving in tandem like giant snakes caught in a dance. The voice startles you, despite being somewhat familiar already. “It looks like the nobles are already here to make profit over your death, the vultures! I’ll go deal with that while you take your bath.” “Wait-” Your voice is weak, not entirely sure if you want him to stay or go. Not knowing what to make of this new information. “I’ll be back before you finish and we shall discuss. I promise, Sovereign.” The use of the title felt like another blow to the gut. But he smiled, unaware of your internal turmoil, and took off in a hurry. You are left standing there, back towards the window, unable to look again, unwilling to accept either of the several explanations, spanning from ‘highly possible’ to ‘I am royally fucked!’. The most obvious one was that you fell asleep on the bus and was now having a fever dream of that damned book you picked up. You’d wake up eventually and see that you missed your stop, but there was little consequence to it. A dramatised version of this was that you had some kind of stroke in the bus station and this is the world your brain conjured in your coma. Both fell into the hated ‘it was all dream’ category, but the latter left you in a potential never ending oblivion. A more radical explanation was that you were indeed transported into this weird world, and while you loved steampunk - it was why you chose the book in the first place - you never intended to abandon your entire world for it. @@.c;<<cycle "$family" autoselect>> <<option "You have family waiting for you home, worried sick." family>> <<option "Your friends are probably looking for you already." friends>> <<option "Both your family and friends would have noticed you’re missing by now." fr&fam>> <<option "No one would miss you, but that doesn't mean you wouldn’t miss the comfort of a modern lifestyle." none>> <</cycle>>@@ You take a deep breath to calm your nerves. <<if $c > $s and $c > $m and $c > $p>>\ No, you were not going to be intimidated by this new problem you were facing. You needed to stay strong and unwavering in your search for the truth.\ <<elseif $s > $c and $s > $m and $s > $p>>\ No matter how fun it would be to play monarch for a while, this was just not your place. You needed to see what information you can get off others.\ <<elseif $m > $s and $m > $c and $m > $p>>\ You were going to tackle the issue as you always did, methodically and accurately, leave no stone unturned until you understood what happened.\ <<elseif $p > $s and $p > $m and $p > $c>>\ It was all very troublesome, but it was what it was. You were going to take everything one step at a time and see what new information gets uncovered.\ <</if>>\ Because you decide you would look for a way home. You just had to learn how to do it, and since you were brought there, surely there was a way to send you back. The strange man’s words came back into your mind, the state of the empire and the nobles fighting to get their children on the throne. @@.c;<<cycle "$stay" autoselect>> <<option "Maybe you could stay long enough to fix things, name someone as your ‘heir’." stay>> <<option "No, no. no! This was not your problem in the slightest!" home>> <</cycle>>@@ With a somewhat formed plan set in motion, you look around the room. The walls were, unlike most of the stone ones you’ve seen so far, covered in a rich tapestry. Copper pipes still ran over it, brightening the otherwise dark design. They looked like an intricate subway map and were perhaps also a method of heating rather than just a pretty design. There was the massive four-poster bed occupying most of the left wall, dark and sturdy wood sculpted with mastery. It was completed with a canopy, thin voile flowing down the posters offering a sense of mystery. Two small nightstands were on either side, elongated oil lamps on them. The other side of the room had a velvet padded couch as a central piece, flanked by two equally impressive armchairs and a few ottomans. The coffee table was, like the bed, worked from an expensive looking wood, reinforced with metal on the legs and corners. There was a cabinet in the far corner and you could see various bottles, cups and glasses inside. Right beside you, between the windows, there was a desk, but didn’t dare turn your gaze that way yet. Instead, you spotted another door, smaller than the entrance, but equally as ornate. You assumed it was the bathroom and made your way towards it. Best get it over with and wait for the lord to return. Hopefully he will have some answers to your predicament. @@.c;⚙ [[A bath did sound nice after the day you were having.|Ch1.5]]@@

You push the door open only to find a walk-in closet instead. A vanity is set by the window and a huge folding screen in the corner, on the other side of the room. It doubled as a full length mirror on the part facing you, the large panels reflecting different angles of the room. Every other available wall space was covered in cabinets and drawers in warriors shapes and sizes. The two servants from before were standing in the middle of the room, eagerly smiling. You took a better look at the pair, most likely siblings - they were both tall and spindly, with long jet black hair kept in a thick plate. Their noses and mouths were slightly different, but they had the same shape of vivid blue eyes and they were staring right back at you. “Your Majesty, the bath is ready.” They both stepped aside and gestured towards another door. Great, this place was a cross between a matryoshka and a labyrinth. “Thank you.” You stepped towards the new door, but felt the two servants approaching to join you. “What are you doing?” You asked, hand just reaching the handle. “Helping with your bath, Sovereign.” “We know it’s not usually us assisting you, but Gytha is still in the workshop for repairs.” “Right.” You think better of asking them what or who Gytha was. “I think I’ll manage on my own today.” You were not sure if being alone with your thoughts was a good idea right now, but a few moments of blissful peace to soak off the heaviness in your body was all you could think of. “As you wish, Your Majesty.” “We’ll prepare some outfits for you to choose from.” The man added, already heading for one of the drawers behind him. @@.c;⚙ [[“You better be ready when I’m done.”|Ch1.6][$evil to 55]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[You just nod and move to the next room.|Ch1.6]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“I appreciate it.”|Ch1.6][$good to 55]]@@

[img[https://64.media.tumblr.com/0adf9b52407baae84d8e6949f6d95310/8f1a06866f00975d-14/s640x960/cb2cc0d10739b8942dab76f851ea0803b9d4d505.jpg][Chapter 1]]

<<if $evil is 55>><<set $good to 45>>\ <<elseif $good is 55>><<set $evil to 45>><</if>>\ <<if $evil is 55>>\ The duo nodded vigorously and scattered to grab various clothes from around the room. You pushed the door open and left them to their task. <<elseif $evil is 50>>\ You pushed the door open, vaguely aware of the pair already grabbing clothes from around the room. <<elseif $evil is 45>>\ The two looked at you momentarily fazed, before nodding and hurrying to find you suitable clothes. You pushed the door open and left them to their task. <</if>>\ The actual bathroom was probably bigger than the initial bedroom itself and it was filled with a pleasant flowery scent. It held the toilet and sinks on one side and what looked like a shower on the other. Racks of towels could be seen on either side. In the middle there was a plush chaise longue with a white robe draped over it. On the far wall, in perfect symmetry with the rest of the furniture sat an ostentatious jacuzzi sized bathtub, installed directly into the floor and. Soft tendrils of steam rose above clear water. But what left you absolutely dumbstruck was the ridiculous painting above it. It was ‘’you’’! You, in a very bizarre, very detailed rendition of the Birth of Venus tableau. Instead of gods and nymphs there were automatons handing you silks to cover your very exposed parts, only a see-through veil flowing over your @@.c;<<cycle "$scolor" autoselect>> <<option "fair" fair>> <<option "rosy" rosy>> <<option "tan" tan>> <<option "olive" olive>> <<option "brown" brown>> <<option "dark" dark>> <</cycle>>@@ skin, leaving your @@.c;<<cycle "$chest" autoselect>> <<option "breasts" breasts>> <<option "pecs" pecs>><</cycle>>@@ completely exposed. The fabric travelled down between your legs and did very little to cover your @@.c;<<cycle "$gen" autoselect>> <<option "pussy" pussy>> <<option "penis" penis>> <</cycle>>@@. You stood there, for a full minute, gaze glued to your very bare @@.c;<<cycle "$body" autoselect>> <<option "regular" regular>> <<option "bony" bony>> <<option "lean" lean>> <<option "muscular" muscular>> <<option "curvy" curvy>> <<option "chubby" chubby>> <</cycle>>@@ body. You couldn’t help but think that @@.c;⚙ [[it was you, like you’ve always been.|Ch1.7][$gender to "same"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[it was you, like you’ve always seen yourself.|Ch1.7][$gender to "different"]]@@

<<if $gen is "pussy">>\ <<set $pussypenis to "pussy">>\ <<set $corecock to "core">>\ <<set $slitdick to "slit">>\ <<set $entrancemember to "entrance">>\ <<set $nervestip to "bundle of nerves">>\ <<set $clitballs to "clit">>\ <<elseif $gen is "penis">>\ <<set $pussypenis to "penis">>\ <<set $corecock to "cock">>\ <<set $slitdick to "dick">>\ <<set $entrancemember to "member">>\ <<set $nervestip to "tip">>\ <<set $clitballs to "balls">> <</if>>\ It was unnerving, how accurate it was, all the lines and curves painted to perfection, down to the expression on your own face and the look in your @@.c;<<cycle "$eyes" autoselect>> <<option "grey" grey>> <<option "blue" blue>> <<option "green" green>> <<option "hazel" hazel>> <<option "honey brown" "honey brown">> <<option "dark brown" "dark brown">> <</cycle>>@@ eyes. <<if $gender is "same">>You turn towards the sink mirror, as if to make sure it was still your face.\ <<elseif $gender is "different">>You turn towards the sink mirror, to make sure this was real.<</if>> The more you discover about this place, the weirder it all becomes. Of course they all thought you were someone else. You were this Sovereign they kept talking about. But how was this possible? Every revelation came with more questions and little answers. You felt the hot water in the tub calling to you, limbs suddenly heavy. You made your way towards the shower, discarding the clothes as you went. A bath would have been amazing, but you doubted you could fully enjoy it at that moment. @@.c;<<cycle "$glasses" autoselect>> <<option "You leave your glasses on the chaise longue before stepping under the water." 1>> <<option "You waste no time stepping under the hot water." 0>><</cycle>>@@ It felt nice over your skin, like it was washing away some of the worries and uncertainties. You knew once you went out and spoke with the lord again, they would return. But for now, you just enjoyed a nice overdue shower. There are different assortments of bottles and you pick the one that is closest. The last worry you have right now is what type of shower oil you use. It turns out to be a very fresh and minty blend, perfect to bring back some life into your muscles. Once done, you dry your body quickly and drape the robe around you, the crem silk cooling to the touch. You take one last look at the painting, thinking that Sovereign had to pose for it, possible for hours on end. Your mind travels to the servants, so eager to assist you in a task so mundane as washing yourself. @@.c;⚙ [[You would have enjoyed being pampered like that, on any other day.|Ch1.8][$prude to "no"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[You are by no means a prude, but that would be a bit much even for you.|Ch1.8][$prude to "maybe"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[You pale at the thought of strangers cleaning your body.|Ch1.8][$prude to "yes"]]@@

You step back into the dressing room, water dripping from your @@.c;<<cycle "$hair_type" autoselect>> <<option "straight" straight>> <<option "wavy" wavy>> <<option "curly" curly>> <<option "coily" coily>> <</cycle>>@@ @@.c;<<cycle "$hair_color" autoselect>> <<option "black" black>> <<option "dark brown" "dark brown">> <<option "light brown" "light brown">> <<option "auburn" auburn>> <<option "red" red>> <<option "strawberry blonde" "strawberry blonde">> <<option "light blonde" "light blonde">> <<option "dark blonde" "dark blonde">> <</cycle>>@@ hair. The servants were standing at attention, various outfits prepared and hanging from handles around the room. “Should we start with your hair, Sovereign?” The man asked, gesturing for you to sit at the vanity. Once there, you were grateful that the only view you could see out the window was a clear, normal-looking, blue sky. A towel was carefully wrapped over your @@.c;<<cycle "$hair_lenght" autoselect>> <<option "buzzed short" buzzed>> <<option "ear length" "ear length">> <<option "shoulder length" "shoulder length">> <<option "medium length" "medium">> <<option "waist length" "waist length">> <</cycle>>@@ hair, while the two servants brought out several oils, brushes and accessories from the small cabinets. The woman pulled out a straight razor, golden handle engraved. @@.c;⚙ [[But placed it back, since I have no facial hair.|Ch1.9][$facial to "none"]]@@ @@.c;↪ <<message 'She turned towards me and' 'uniqueID'>> @@.c;⚙ [[shaved me clean.|Ch1.9][$facial to "shaved"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[left me with a nice stubble.|Ch1.9][$facial to "stubble"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[spruced up my moustache.|Ch1.9][$facial to "moustache"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[smoothed out my full beard.|Ch1.9][$facial to "beard"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[primped my van dyke.|Ch1.9][$facial to "van dyke"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[brushed out my full goatee.|Ch1.9][$facial to "goatee"]]@@<</message>>@@

The towel is then unwrapped and the man massages your scalp, his fingers expertly working to relieve the tension. He used some light nourishing oil on his hands, pressing it gently over your $hair_lenght hair as well. For the first time after you left that damned bus, you felt relaxed. “That feels so nice!” “We are both at your service, Your Majesty.” “Hmm.” You hummed, both from his skillful thumbs over your temples, but also from his words. ‘At your service’, all of them, the lord, the servants, the entire castle and perhaps even the entire world itself. A shiver ran over your spine and you @@.c;<<cycle "$ruler_option" autoselect>> <<option "smiled, the thought exhilarating." eager>> <<option "shrugged, not really interested in the power." uninterested>> <<option "swallowed the sour taste in your mouth, the idea frightening." scared>><</cycle>>@@ “How would you like it styled, Your Majesty?” You were brought out of your momentary daze, the woman taking her place behind your chair. <<if $hair_lenght is "buzzed">> @@.c;⚙ [[Line-Up|Ch1.10][$style to "line-up"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Tapered Buzz Cut|Ch1.10][$style to "buzz cut"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Mid Fade|Ch1.10][$style to "mid fade"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Shave it all off|Ch1.10][$style to "shaved"]]@@ <<elseif $hair_lenght is "ear length">>\ @@.c;⚙ [[Tousled back|Ch1.10][$style to "toussled"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Side part|Ch1.10][$style to "side part"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[The Pomp|Ch1.10][$style to "pomp"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Pixie cut|Ch1.10][$style to "pixie cut"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Bob cut|Ch1.10][$style to "bob"]]@@ <<else>>\ @@.c;⚙ [[natural and loose|Ch1.10]["long and loose"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[in a top bun|Ch1.10][$style to "top bun"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[in a low bun|Ch1.10][$style to "low bun"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[in a ponytail|Ch1.10][$style to "ponytail"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[in an elaborate braid|Ch1.10][$style to "braid"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[in thin locs|Ch1.10][$style to "locs"]]@@<</if>>

<<if $ruler_option is "eager">><<set $evil to $evil + 1>>\ <<set $good to $good - 1>>\ <<elseif $$ruler_option is "scared">><<set $evil to $evil - 1>>\ <<set $good to $good + 1>><</if>>\ She worked on my hair, her fingers equally nimble and precise. <<if $style is "locs" and $hair_lenght is "waist length">>The man joined in shortly after to braid the locs on the other side of my head, both making remarkably fast progress.<<else>> She made remarkably fast progress as I watched her work in the mirror.<</if>> The woman took a final look at the end result and smiled proudly. “All done, Your Majesty.” “We prepared a few outfit selections, if you wish to continue. I should also mention that Lord Dalgliesh has returned.” The man waited patiently by the exposed clothes. You sit up and take a quick glance around the various garments, some looking that they could pass in your day and age, others pulled straight out of Victonian steampunk fantasy. @@.c;↪ <<message 'You pick something more subdued.'uniqueID'>> @@.c;⚙ [[A simple white blouse tucked in black pants and paired with leather suspenders and boots.|Ch1.11][$clothes to 1]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[A simple white blouse tucked in a high waisted long skirt and paired with a leather underbust and boots.|Ch1.11][$clothes to 3]]@@ <</message>>@@\ @@.c;↪ <<message 'You go all out on the ruffles!' 'uniqueID'>> @@.c;⚙ [[Sleek dark trousers, paired with a shirt and velvet vest, accessorised with a black necktie and a golden pocket watch. |Ch1.11][$clothes to 2]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[A little black gothic dress with a high neckline and ruffle tie. Deep red underbust that bleeds into a full, knee length skirt and leather pumps.|Ch1.11][$clothes to 4]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Nude blouse underneath a dark leather corset and full length brown skirt with a slit up the thigh Over the knee boots and thigh harness. |Ch1.11][$clothes to 5]]@@ <</message>>@@\

You take the clothes from the hangar and make your way behind the folding screen, determined to manage on your own. You are pleasantly surprised to find a drawer of clean underwear there as well and you quickly pick the normalest looking pair. Puting on the actual clothes had proven more difficult than you expected. <<if $clothes is 4 or $clothes is 5>>\ It had been your fault too, for picking the most intricate pieces. You wave the servants over to help you with all the strings in the back, all the while thinking you will need help to get out of it as well. <<else>>\ But the pieces you picked were not that intricate and in the end you managed on your own. <</if>> “You look wonderful, Your Majesty!” They both clapped discreetly as you stepped around the screen to look in the mirror.<<if $glasses is 1>> You push your glasses up your nose, noticing for the first time they were slightly different from your original pair. The shape was almost identical, but the frame was more intricate, metals merging in a refined looking design. Simple, yet expensive. Overall, they looked good with the outfit. <<else>> It was not your usual choice, so it looked a bit off, but flattering on your figure.<</if>> This Sovereign person knew $their style. @@.c;⚙ [[due to your short stature - below 164.|Ch1.11added][$height to "short"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[due to your average stature - 165-172.|Ch1.11added][$height to "average"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[despite your rather tall stature - 173-179.|Ch1.11added][$height to "rather tall"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[despite your tall stature - 180 - 185.|Ch1.11added][$height to "tall"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[despite your imposing stature - 186-198.|Ch1.11added][$height to "towering"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[despite your towering stature - above 198.|Ch1.11added][$height to "imposing"]]@@

<<if $fake1 is 0 and $ktruth is 0>>\ <<set $ktruth to $ktruth +1>>\ “Look, I’ve meant to say this before, but the creepy altar and all made it a tough call.” You pause to gauge his reaction, but he’s only patiently waiting for you to continue. “I’m not Sovereign.” He looks puzzled for a moment, or perhaps pained, you can’t really tell what emotion exactly is crossing his face. “Perhaps the damage done is worse than I hoped.” He finally whispered, gaze never leaving you as if searching for something he could fix. “I will call the doctor first thing in the morning, see if there’s anything they can do about the… memory issue.” //‘Great, he was a stubborn one.’// You sigh and flip the book open. <<elseif $fake1 is 0 and $ktruth is 1>> <<set $ktruth to $ktruth +1>>\ “Like I said before, I’m not this Sovereign you’ve all mistaken me for.” He looks puzzled for a moment, or perhaps pained, you can’t really tell what emotion exactly is crossing his face. “Perhaps the damage done is worse than I hoped.” He finally whispered, gaze never leaving you as if searching for something he could fix. “I will call the doctor first thing in the morning, see if there’s anything they can do about the… memory issue.” //‘Great, he was a stubborn one.’// You sigh and flip the book open. <<elseif $fake1 is 1>>\ “Ah you know, I don’t really remember how it got here.” He looks worried for a moment, then hums softly, more to himself. “Perhaps the damage done is worse than I'd hoped.” He finally whispered, gaze never leaving you as if searching for something he could fix. “I will call the doctor first thing in the morning, see if there’s anything they can do about the… memory issue.” You wonder, as you flip the book open, how long you could keep up this charade for?<</if>> You gasp at the now thick pages, all filled with name after name, different numbers attributed to each of them. It… it did not look anything like the book you remembered. The thing resembled a catalogue more than a novel. You stop on a random page, bile rising in your throat as you spot a particular name. Your own. <div align='center' style='font-size: 100%;'>\ !!<<cycle "$name" autoselect>> <<option "Lucian" Lucian>> <<option "Cordelia" Cordelia>> <<option "Prudence" Prudence>> <<option "Jules" Jules>> <<option "Monroe" Monroe>> <<option "Elisha" Elisha>> <<option "Myrtle" Myrtle>> <<option "Balthasar" Balthasar>> <</cycle>> <<cycle "$surname" autoselect>> <<option "Turner" Turner>> <<option "Popkiss" Popkiss>> <<option "Wheelwright" Wheelwright>> <<option "Lovegrove" Lovegrove>> <<option "Heartfilia" Heartfilia>> <<option "Atkins" Atkins>> <<option "Midgeley" Midgeley>> <<option "Featherstonehaugh" Featherstonehaugh>> <</cycle>> </div>\ @@.c;⚙ [[The letters blurred, your name is actually…|Enter name]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Next|Ch1.13]]@@

<<textbox "$name" "Name">> <<textbox "$surname" "Surname">> @@.c;⚙ [[Next|Ch1.13]]@@

His hand brushes against yours as he pulls the book towards him to get a better look. He trails a long finger over the embossed letters, greyed out in comparison to the others, the number at the end a lonely zero. You quickly check the other names and all had something between a zero and a ten, the lowest of the group being greyed out like your own. “Rusts, I didn't realise! This should not be possible. But you must have consumed all your aether to heal yourself. Or maybe even bring yourself back.” He breathed out the words in a rush as his eyes snapped back at you. Before you knew it, a hand was lightly pressed to your chest, a pale cyan hue glowing from it. And then it hit you again, that odd sensation of power filling your veins. It was not quite as potent as what you felt when you were dropped in this strange world, but it was damned close. The room went ablaze, every little detail standing out. You //felt// the heat in those golden pipes, could smell the oil in the bedside lamps. You knew the bathroom was now empty and you felt the current coming behind //that// panel in the wall. And then there was //him//, his presence all around you, filling all your senses. He was made up of freshly pressed shirts and the smell of old book pages. The soft scratch of quill on paper fluttered in your ears, ink forming elegant languid loops. Bold, smoky tea steaming in a delicate cup, leaving a metallic taste on your own tongue. A sense of duty and endless responsibilities weighing down on your shoulders. And above all else, //devotion//. You didn’t get to look past that point, the man pulling away from you violently, stumbling to hold himself upright with his cane. <<set $aether_count to "something odd is happening">>\ @@.c;⚙ [[“What did you do to me?!”|Ch1.13z][$kchat1 to 1]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“What happened?”|Ch1.13z][$kchat1 to 2]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“Thanks for the warning.”|Ch1.13z][$kchat1 to 3]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“Did I do something?”|Ch1.13z][$kchat1 to 4]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Just stare at him dumbfounded.|Ch1.13z][$kchat1 to 5]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Feel a blush creeping up your neck.|Ch1.13z][$kchat1 to 6]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“Well that was interesting.”|Ch1.13z][$kchat1 to 7]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Grin, a mischievous glint in your eyes.|Ch1.13z][$kchat1 to 8]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Look at him in marvel.|Ch1.13z][$kchat1 to 9]]@@

<<set $b_rel to $b_rel + 5>> You pushed the doors open with determination. No “lord” was going to tell you what to do, especially since you had so many questions. It was the best course of action, you reasoned with yourself as you pushed the metals doors open. You were just going to check out the place a bit, maybe not even leave the fifth floor. You assumed, from the fantasy related knowledge you had of royal castles, that most of this part of the wing you were in belonged to //Sovereign//. Looking both ways in the hallway you didn’t notice any guards. Good, the lord probably didn’t suspect you would wander so soon after his departure. You try hard not to marvel again at the sheer massiveness of the building as you make your way along the hallway. You were grateful you didn’t bump into any more servants or nobles, not sure how authentic you looked in the actual Sovereign’s clothes. You checked a few rooms, what looked like a study and perhaps a reading room from all the bookcases and lounge chairs by the window, as well as a few smaller, less grand bedrooms. But nothing piqued your interest quite like the narrow spiralling staircase hidden in a corner of the hall. It was made entirely of dark wood, designed like a tube which barely fit one person, its walls a milieu of small intricate patterns. A narrow entrypoint gave way to tight, twisting steps. <<if $height is "imposing">>You let out a long sigh, already dreading squeezing yourself through the damn thing.<</if>> But curiosity got the better of you in the end, and you ventured into the upper level. The stairs led, as you soon found out, to a nondescript wooden door. You paused momentarily, questioning the consequences of advancing, but you’ve made it this far already. You pressed the handle as gingerly as possible and pushed forward. The room before you was a true maximist’s wet dream. It was pure madness, to the point you were unsure what colour the walls actually were. From gilded decorations and shiny crystals to planning boards and sketches and the odd hanging plant here and there, green leafs crawling into the cacophony of colours. The ceiling was mostly glass, bathing the room in the soft red-orange glow of the aurora outside, so different from anything you’ve seen back in your world. //My world’//, the words echo in your head. Were you accepting this reality already? You shake your head and turn your attention back to the strange room. Despite the obvious clutter, the place seemed oddly clean, no speck of dust visible on any of the vast amount of objects. It also smelled faintly of either disinfectant or gasoline. You hoped for the former. You took a few steps between neatly organised boxes spilling with various scrolls, one umbrella thrown into the mix. There were a few empty spots you could reach here and there, but otherwise there seemed to be a clear path into the room. Your eyes jumped from one sparkly thing to the next, finding more interesting tidbits in the sea of chaos. You took a turn around a tall stack of books and were surprised to find a woman scribbling away at a wide desk, too focused to notice you. With her back towards you, you could only notice the rich black sink of her hand as she furiously moved the pen and her long dark hair that cascaded around her in thin braids. Your first instinct was to backtrack out of the room, but as luck would have it, the old wooden floor creaked under your heel. The woman spun her head, her expression first curious, but then something else flashed across her face, surprise or terror, you couldn’t tell. “$name?!” The name, //your name// in some ways, spilled from her plump lips in a whisper, her wide eyes darting from your face to your torso, where the bullet wound had been. “You’re alive!” “Surprised?” You tried to deflect the question back at her, hoping she was not someone close to the late Sovereign, but already knowing she was. She didn’t use the title, after all. “I- I saw the bod-, I mean, I helped Keyon move…” The words trailed off, her eyes honey brown watering with each one. You were started when she dropped her pen and launched herself at you, frail arms wrapping around your $body body with more strength than she displayed. She sniffled, face hidden into your shirt. @@.c;⚙ [[You push her away.|Blythe1.1][$blythe1 to "intimidating"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[You hug her back, she seems to need it.|Blythe1.1][$blythe1 to "friendly"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[You break the tension with a joke.|Blythe1.1][$blythe1 to "sarcastic"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[You’re unsure what to do with your arms.|Blythe1.1][$blythe1 to "anxious"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[You pat her awkwardly on the back.|Blythe1.1][$blythe1 to "aloof"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[You’re grateful she can’t see she blush on your face.|Blythe1.1][$blythe1 to "shy"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[You quite like the feeling of her in your arms.|Blythe1.1][$blythe1 to "playful"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Pull her even closer, relishing in the feeling of your bodies pressed together.|Blythe1.1][$blythe1 to "misc"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[You’re a bit puzzled, but manage to wrap an arm around her.|Blythe1.1][$blythe1 to "ditzy"]]@@

<<set $e_rel to $e_rel + 5>> <<if $meet is 4>>\ Yes, going out now would be quite irresponsible. You knew nothing about the customs of this weird place and wouldn’t even know if you did something wrong before they might strung you up and burn you to the steak, if that was a thing, you didn’t know. <<else>>\ Yes, going out has been terribly irresponsible of you, but in hindsight it could have ended far worse. You could have made some criminally offensive faux pas and gotten yourself burned at the stake. If that was a thing in this strange world, you didn’t know. <</if>>\ You also somehow doubted the lordling would have vouched for you right now that he knew you were not his beloved Sovereign. He claimed you were important to the empire, but that was when he thought the real ruler of the land had survived, not been replaced with someone from a different plane of existence. You took a deep breath and turned your attention back to the room, bathed in the glow of the aurorae and chandelier. There could be clues here as well that you could uncover. First stop was the nightstands, but they yielded little results, mostly filled with supplies for the oil lamp, some candles and matches and a few jars of what you assumed could be moisturisers. <<cycle "$curious" autoselect>>\ <<option "You resisted the urge to open and smell them." 1>>\ <<option "You didn’t want to even begin to imagine what the real Sovereign used them for." 0>>\ <</cycle>>\ A customary check under the pillows and bed showed nothing but how pristine the room was kept, despite the murky clouds you noticed from the trains and dirigibles outside. You made your way to the desk, doing your best to ignore the windows and the surreal world beyond it, a faint gush of wind bringing with it a smell akin to cigar smoke. You opened the first drawer and your eyes immediately set on what you first assumed was another book. Once in your hands, you realised it was more like a collection of old yellowed papers, stacked together in a worn leather case and kept together by just a fine silky ribbon. The entire thing looked ancient, some of the writing already illegible. “Couldn’t stay dead, usurper?” You almost dropped the bundle of papers, the voice unexpected and mocking. You turned your head swiftly to your left only to see an intruder perched on the windowsill. He had tan skin and short black hair, a fine stubble peppering his face. An off-white shirt, half buttoned, was tucked haphazardly into dark brown pants, paired with suspenders. Various silver necklaces hung low and dangled as the person slid off the window in one fluid motion. “Well, isn’t this a strange feeling?” The trespasser mused, circling until he was facing you, your back to the desk. Kind looking downturned eyes looked at you with anything but gentleness. “On one hand, the world would have been rid of you. But on the other, after all this time…” The words dragged, a small pause enunciating each one, before he whispered the last part, low and threatening, like a promise he was making to you or himself, you couldn't be entirely sure. “I should be the one to kill you.” One thought entered your mind immediately - this person, whoever he was, had not been the assassin, if you could take the words as truth. But he was no friend of Sovereign’s either. Tired, worried seeping into your aching bones, you replied without thinking. @@.c;⚙ [[“I don't care who you are, you will get out of my room!”|Eli1.1][$eli1 to "intimidating"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“Do we know each other?”|Eli1.1][$eli1 to "friendly"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“And you aren't supposed to be here,yet there you stand. Whoever you are.”|Eli1.1][$eli1 to "sarcastic"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“I don't think you're supposed to be in here, are you?”|Eli1.1][$eli1 to "anxious"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“Who are you?”|Eli1.1][$eli1 to "aloof"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“It’s, um, stranger to have an unknown person in your room after such an event.”|Eli1.1][$eli1 to "shy"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“That’s one way to make an introduction.”|Eli1.1][$eli1 to "playful"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“You should get to know me first, I may change your mind.”|Eli1.1][$eli1 to "misc"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“I’m sorry, do I know you?|Eli1.1][$eli1 to "ditzy"]]@@

<<set $t_rel to $t_rel + 5>> It was the best course of action, you reasoned with yourself as you pushed the metals doors open. You had a vague idea in what direction to go, the landing strip visible from your window seeming to be next to a road. It was possible it led to the lower levels. It was not like you were //escaping// or anything, this was supposed to be your house, or castle, whatever. You were just going to take a peek outside. Looking both ways in the hallway you didn’t notice any guards. Good, the lord probably didn’t suspect you would go wander so soon after his departure. You try hard not to marvel again at the sheer massiveness of the building as you make your way down again, passing the strange altar room you woke up in. A few servants greet you, praising your recovery and you <<if $ruler_option is "eager">>gave small, dignified nods back to them. <<elseif $ruler_option is "scared">>startle each time, their attention unwanted. <<else>>manage not to cringe too hard. <</if>>You hoped you looked natural strolling through the hallway in the actual Sovereign’s clothes. The exit had been harder to find than expected. You opened several doors, sure it would lead to the roar you saw from your room, but each of them had turned out to be a damned balcony. You even considered climbing out of one, but had to remind yourself this was not a breakout. You were close to quitting your search when you stumbled on a small garden. It was nothing extravagant, just a few plants here and there, the green of the leaves not as vibrant as you recalled from your world. //‘My world’//, the words echo in your head. Were you accepting this reality already? You shake your head and look around. It was not much, the small enclosure was surrounded by a tall gilded wall and partially covered by a glass canopy, sooth already caught on the transparent planes, between the wrung metal that held it up. A lonely bench sat in a corner, the shining gold in stark contrast to the faded greens, but it was what you noticed behind it that caught your eye. A gate. It was expertly blended into the wall and concealed between the foliage, but you could make out the cut in the pattern of the thick wall - steel and copper panels, the swirling engravings dusted with gold. This new vision you had was not entirely different, you just noticed certain things, highlighted in your mind’s eye. Like the hinges and the lock, so clearly hidden, yet so obvious to you. You stalk closer to it, and pressed the handle, surprised when it gave way and opened seamlessly. Your heart sank. The view was not that different from the one you saw before, dirigibles and suspended trains, more and more chimneys as the altitude decreased. But somehow it felt more real now than before, like maybe you just hadn’t seen right. You were not sure where you could even go from there. The city below sprawled on layers upon layers of metal and fumes and noise, so much noise down there. You almost took a step back when a voice interrupted you. “I can’t let you leave, Your Majesty.” You spin on your heels faster than you thought you were capable of, your soul almost leaving your body at the sound of the stern voice. The man behind you jumped out in the relatively pittoresque garden. He was tall and massive, dressed in all black leathers and complemented with a heavy cloak. You spied the hilt of a sword hung to the thick belt at his waist. His pale eyes, you couldn’t tell if blue or grey, pinned you to the spot, but he looked otherwise bored. Ah, well there was the guard. Had he been following you all along? @@.c;⚙ [[No one can stop me from leaving.|Thane1.1][$thane1 to "intimidating"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Ask him to come with you.|Thane1.1][$thane1 to "friendly"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Complain about important ‘errands’ you obviously don’t have.|Thane1.1][$thane1 to "sarcastic"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Apologise clumsily.|Thane1.1][$thane1 to "anxious"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[You glanced between the man and the door.|Thane1.1][$thane1 to "aloof"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[You froze, unable to move your eyes from him.|Thane1.1][$thane1 to "shy"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Challenge him playfully.|Thane1.1][$thane1 to "playful"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Ask what he’s going to do to stop you.|Thane1.1][$thane1 to "misc"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Genuinely ask if you are a prisoner.|Thane1.1][$thane1 to "ditzy"]]@@

<<set $r_rel to $r_rel + 5>> You didn’t particularly want to wander around the castle and if you were being honest you didn’t think it was the smartest move. You hesitate at the door, reconsidering for a moment, but your stomach rumbles in protest. It was settled then, you needed sustenance! It was the best course of action, you reasoned with yourself as you pushed the metals doors open. You had a vague idea where the kitchen should be, if your smell hadn’t deceived you, between that first and second floor, so you decided to make your way to a lower level. Looking both ways in the hallway you didn’t notice any guards. Good, the lord probably didn’t suspect you would go wandering off so soon after his departure. You try hard not to marvel again at the sheer massiveness of the building as you find yourself back in the elevator, pulling the lever to the second level. A few servants greet you when you step into the large hallway, praising your recovery and you <<if $ruler_option is "eager">>gave small, dignified nods back to them. <<elseif $ruler_option is "scared">>startle each time, their attention unwanted. <<else>>manage not to cringe too hard. <</if>>You hoped you looked natural strolling through the hallway in the actual Sovereign’s clothes. Making it to the second floor had been easy enough, and no one interfered with your stroll, except to greet you. You just hoped it was leading to some food in your belly, and soon. One corridor to the left, then another to the right, the plush carpet muffling your steps over the grand stone stairs. You opened several larger doors on the hallways you found yourself in, but all turned to be studies or sitting rooms. You took time to examine the first few, the lavish decor with gilded accents catching your attention. You wondered if the late Sovereign used these rooms or if they were for other lords, tried to imagine $them and that lord having a meeting with the nobles. But soon frustration started to settle in. Making your way down a set of stairs, you started combing through the rooms of the first floor. While they seemed less decorated and more diverse in their purposes, mostly dusty storage rooms and broom closets, they were still not what you were looking for. You were close to quitting your search and backtrack to your chamber when a voice started you. “I’ve never seen someone so lost in their own home before. Granted, it’s a whole ass castle.” You spun around only to find a petite woman, arms crossed and face contorted into a scowl, but she looked more bored than angry. Black khol accentuated her equally dark eyes, a striking contrast to her pale ivory skin. Her hair, only a few shades lighter, was plated closely to scalp in a braid that ended just below her shoulders. She was dressed, you supposed, more casually than the other people you’ve seen in this strange place, with dark pants and a loose shirt that looked entirely too big for her frame, albeit still ruffled and more fancy than regular clothing back in your world. Your eyes stopped on her left hand, brass, copper, and bronze intertwining to form her digits and palm and the sliver of a wrist you could see under the helm of her shirt. A metal finger tapped on her upper arm, the motion so fluid you wondered just how advanced was the technology in this world. //’This world.’// echoed in your mind. Were you already accepting that you were in some kind of parallel universe? You shake your head and focus back on the woman’s face, trying to gauge out who she is and what her relationship with the real Sovereign could have been. She nodded, seemingly to someone behind you, but when you turned your head you saw no one there. @@.c;⚙ [[“What I do is none of your business.”|Rae1.1][$rae1 to "intimidating"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“It would help a lot if you could point me towards the kitchen.”|Rae1.1][$rae1 to "friendly"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“Seriously, this place should come with a map.”|Rae1.1][$rae1 to "sarcastic"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“Oh, I was doing nothing wrong, was I?”|Rae1.1][$rae1 to "anxious"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“It would seem I am a bit lost, yes.”|Rae1.1][$rae1 to "aloof"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“I, um, was only taking a stroll.”|Rae1.1][$rae1 to "shy"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“Just taking a stroll before bed, but I’d love the company.”|Rae1.1][$rae1 to "playful"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“I could always use such charming company in this place.”|Rae1.1][$rae1 to "misc"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“Do you perhaps know where the kitchen is?”|Rae1.1][$rae1 to "ditzy"]]@@

<<if $kchat1 is 1>>\ <<set $intimidating to $intimidating + 2>>\ You fold your arms, waiting for the man to give you a straight answer. The room was still aglow, as if looking at it through a filter. You were so done with all this nonsense. Unfortunately, the man before you was in no mood for your questions. <<elseif $kchat1 is 2>>\ <<set $friendly to $friendly + 2>>\ You took a step forward to help steady the lord, but he seemed to recoil further from your touch. The room was still aglow, as if looking at it through a filter. It would have been pretty if only you understood this new world a little better. Unfortunately, the man before you was in no mood for your questions. <<elseif $kchat1 is 3>>\ <<set $sarcastic to $sarcastic + 2>>\ You snapped at him, the sarcastic tone just your way of coping with all the craziness around you. The room was still aglow, as if looking at it through a filter and you were getting tired of understanding so little. Unfortunately, the man before you was in no mood for your questions. <<elseif $kchat1 is 4>>\ <<set $anxious to $anxious + 2>>\ This world was getting more bizarre by the second and your anxiety was through the roof since you knew close to nothing about this place. The room was still in aglow, as if looking at it through a filter, but the lord before you was in no mood for answers. <<elseif $kchat1 is 5>>\ <<set $aloof to $aloof + 2>>\ All you could do was stare, at man’s odd reaction, at the room buzzing with light and overwhelming you with information. You wanted to know more, but didn’t even know where to start anymore. Unfortunately, the man before you was in no mood for your questions. <<elseif $kchat1 is 6>>\ <<set $shy to $friendly + 1>>\ You can still sense him around you, that crisp feeling of old paper under your fingertips, the warm breeze caressing your face. It had felt both intimate and invasive in a way you couldn’t really explain and he looked in no mood to do so. <<elseif $kchat1 is 7>>\ <<set $playful to $playful + 1>>\ Despite his obvious distress at the situation your lips curled in a little smile. You look at him and you could still feel the fabric of his elegant shirt between your fingers. It was an odd feeling, seeing as you’d never touched it, but exhilarating nonetheless. He, on the other hand, did not look so pleased. <<elseif $kchat1 is 8>>\ <<set $mischievous to $mischievous + 1>>\ The grin on your lips was instantaneous, the taste on your lips still lingering. //Devotion//, such a specific thing to feel, and to know, somehow, that it was directed at you. It had been sweet and addictive even if you couldn’t explain it and he seemed in no mood to do so. <<elseif $kchat1 is 9>>\ <<set $ditzy to $ditzy + 1>>\ The room was aglow, but he was all you could look at. You didn’t understand anything, but you were stuck on the smell of ink, could almost hear his pen scribbling away on the smooth paper, and see the smudges on his hand. Unfortunately, the man before you seemed in no mood for answers. <</if>> <<if $ktruth is 0>> \ “You’re not Sovereign.” There was something vicious behind the otherwise simple words, voice low and dripping with a venom you couldn’t have predicted. His eyes darkened, the vivid green turning into a stormy emerald. <<else>> “You! You were telling the truth!” There was a deep sadness in his voice, his shoulders slumping as he grasped the meaning of his own words. “You are not $them.” <</if>>\ He steps away awkwardly and falls back in the armchair. The plush material seemed to swallow him whole when he buried his face in his hands, elbows resting on his legs. It didn’t help that you were hyper aware of his shallow breaths as well. He stood still like that for only a few seconds, but they felt like an eternity to you, who was battling with a new choice: stay or run. “Sovereign is truly dead then.” He finally spoke, the utter defeat in his voice palpable. It made you shiver uncontrollably and you said the first thing that came to mind. “I’m sorry.” “It is not your fault.” You knew it wasn’t, if anything you were a victim in all of this too. But it was comforting to know he didn’t hold it against you despite it. His eyes met yours, a shudder racking his body and eyes getting all misty again. “I will need a moment, if you’ll excuse me.” He got up suddenly not waiting for any kind of reply. In a few quick strides he was at the door, already pressing the handle. “Wait, what do I do with-” “I’ll assign a guard to your door for now, but I doubt the assassin will return tonight. We’ll discuss the rest in the morning.” He added quickly and disappeared. It was not what you were going to ask! You held a bedpost for support, the room suddenly spinning. It made things worse. The wood felt hollow under your fingertips, but the small metal band around it was vibrant. It was gold, expertly bent into a perfect ringlet. You pace the room for a while, the restlessness growing, but the power inside of you getting more dormant with each step. A quick glance outside told you it was nearing dusk, but it was still day outside. You could go explore for a bit. After all, you were the supposed supreme ruler of the land apparently. You doubted anyone would stop you. Then again, the person you were impersonating had been assassinated, so perhaps it was not the brightest idea, given also the limited information you had on, well, everything. In the end you decide... @@.c;⚙ [[to look for the exit, just in case you need an escape plan later.|Meet Thane][$meet to 1]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[you really want some food, it has been an eventful day.|Meet Rae][$meet to 2]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[to explore the castle, maybe gather some intel on your own.|Meet Blythe][$meet to 4]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[staying in your room is the safest option.|Meet Eli][$meet to 4]]@@

<<if $thane1 is "intimidating">>\ <<set $intimidating to $intimidating + 2>>\ “You can’t stop me.” You try to remain calm, keeping your voice even. You are after all the supreme ruler of these lands and he is supposed to be your guard. It was partially a bluff, but you had to try. “I wouldn't try, Sovereign.” “But I am still not allowed to leave.” You let the corner of your mouth curve a bit, a defiant little grin to show him he was cornered. He shifted from one leg to the other, but showed no other signs of distress. When he spoke, his tone was all business. <<elseif $thane1 is "friendly">>\ <<set $friendly to $friendly + 2>>\ <<set $t_rel to $t_rel + 3>>\ “Even if you accompany me?” You smiled at him genuinely. Having someone trained in protecting you would make exploring the city below a lot more comforting. The man before you raised a brow and studied your face for a while. He opened and closed his mouth once, before finally responding. “It would be better with me there…” “But?” <<elseif $thane1 is "sarcastic">>\ <<set $sarcastic to $sarcastic + 2>>\ “And here I had so many errands to run…” Your tone dipped with sarcasm as you pushed the gate close, but it seemed entirely lost to the man before you. He gave a curt nod as if it were a genuine thing Sovereign did. “You can send one of the servants to do it. Or even that mercenary girl.” “Anything as long as I don’t go myself, right?” He answered dully, as if the whole exchange had happened hundreds of times before. <<elseif $thane1 is "anxious">>\ <<set $anxious to $anxious + 2>>\ “Ah, I’m sorry. I was just-” He frowns, taking a step closer to look at you and you pale. Would someone like Sovereign ever apologise for leaving the house??? Oh, you were panicking even more now. “I just needed some air, after last night.” His shoulders tense immediately, hand resting on his sword, ready for any unseen threat. “I understand.” “Enough for us to go down those steps for a little bit?” The man’s gaze softened, but his stance remained guarded. He shook his head. <<elseif $thane1 is "aloof">>\ <<set $aloof to $aloof + 2>>\ Your eyes dart between your guard and the exit. There was not much choice in either direction, you assumed. The man watched you curiously, body betraying no intentions or thoughts he may have. “Should I close the gate?” “It would be best.” “Can we not go for even a short walk?” He sighed and shook his head. <<elseif $thane1 is "shy">>\ <<set $t_love to $t_love + 3>>\ <<set $shy to $shy + 1>>\ He was possibly one of the most handsome men you’ve seen. That perfectly sculptured face, peppered with a small stubble, that chiselled jaw and straight nose. And those eyes, or perhaps just the way he was looking at you, analysing every detail of you. “Are you alright, Sovereign?” He took a step forward, hand on the hilt of his sword, taking a moment to check the surroundings as well. “I-un yes, of course.” You rip your eyes off him as if a spell is broken. You can still feel that steel gaze on you and hear him shift a few steps closer, his boots heavy on the frail grass. His voice was softer when he next spoke. <<elseif $thane1 is "playful">>\ <<set $t_love to $t_love + 3>>\ <<set $playful to $playful + 1>>\ “Oh, are you going to detain me, soldier?” You smile playfully and take a step closer. He mimics your move, taking one back. His eyes go wide for a moment, before hardening into that steel gaze of his. He was truly handsome. “Detain you, Sovereign? Of course not.” “Then maybe you could accompany me instead.” You make one more step and this time he doesn’t move, but his brows are furrowed, trying hard to understand your game. <<elseif $thane1 is "misc">>\ <<set $t_love to $t_love + 3>>\ <<set $misc to $misc + 1>>\ “And what exactly are you going to do to stop me?” You let your eyes wander over his frame shamelessly, from his sharp jaw, to his broad shoulders and chest and below. He squirms slightly under your gaze, but does not let his eyes off you. “Nothing, Sovereign.” His voice was even, words carefully chosen. You doubted the real Sovereign ever teased the staff like this, but you were having fun. “I don’t know. That sounded very close to treason. I might need you to prove your loyalty.” His eyes widened ever so slightly, shoulders straightening. He was obviously not getting the hint. “What-” “Relax, I was only teasing.” You wave a hand not wanting to distress the guard any longer. “A little payback for not letting me leave the premises.” His gaze hardens, his next words coming off a little stiff. <<elseif $thane1 is "ditzy">>\ <<set $t_love to $t_love + 3>>\ <<set $ditzy to $ditzy + 1>>\ “Are you supposed to keep me here?” You ask honestly curious. You are not sure if it was your tone or the question itself, but the man seemed startled by the question. “Keep you- No.” His wide eyes turned into an inquisitive stare, scrutinising every detail of your face. “Not exactly.” “But you can’t let me leave either?” You fumble with your sleeve, peering at him through your lashes. His gaze softened after a moment, but still looked wearily. <</if>> “It’s not safe out there. Keyon’s orders.” His tone was all businesslike, the words slipping out easily like he’d uttered them a thousand times. <<if $ruler_option is "eager">>\ “Do you follow Keyon’s orders over mine?” The words come out more aggressive than you intend them to. Just who was this Keyon to give orders to you? You were supposed to be Sovereign, the absolute ruler of this damned place! <<elseif $ruler_option is "scared">>\ “Do you follow Keyon’s orders over mine?” You could do little to hide the hope in your voice, the hope that someone else would share the burden of making decisions in this strange land you were now the ruler of. <<else>>\ “Do you follow Keyon’s orders over mine?” You ask nonchalantly. You were more curious about how things worked in this place, was it like a monarchy? Or did Sovereign answer to any kind of council or parliament? <</if>> The guard - your guard - furrows his brows as he regards you, but his expression is otherwise blank. You can’t tell what was going through his head, if you’ve made a mistake in questioning his allegiance. A chill ran through your body, the thought that entered your mind terrifying in that very moment. Could you be standing before your very killer? “No, Sovereign.” He finally said with the barest sigh. There was a pause, as if he was weighing his next words carefully. “I’m sure lord Dalgliesh is only concerned for Your Majesty’s safety. After the events of last night.” Ah, so the lord name was Keyon Dalgliesh, currently the only person who knew your secret. There was no hint of malice in the man’s rumbling voice, but there was something there. A distaste for the former ruler perhaps. As a guard, you assumed he had been alone with Sovereign plenty of times before, like he was right now with you - every one of them a perfect chance to strike. He had the opportunity, but did he have the means and motive to do it? “Please, allow me to escort you back to your rooms.” You took a step back, the idea of being cooped up in an unfamiliar room, with a guard at your door, until some “lord” decides what to do with you was unnerving, to say the least. “Can we stay outside a little longer?” “Of course, Your Majesty.” There was the barest hint of exasperation, but you felt like it was leaning more towards ‘disappointed parent’ than ‘vicious murderer’. <<if $ruler_option is "eager">>It irked you a bit either way. <<else>>You supposed it was better this way. <</if>> You took a seat on the gilded bench, eyes drifting towards the changing hues of the sky as the sun was nearing the end of its descent. You thought the view might be comforting, something beautiful and familiar to ground you in the present. But the brilliant lights of the aurora, red and orange ribbons falling down like curtains, spiralling over the blues and pinks of the sunset was so foreign it made the experience all the more alienating. A dirigible made its way into view, tainting the otherwise scenic image, black clouds emanating from the different pipes coming out of it. You left nauseous and shifted your gaze until it finally landed on the guard, so still you’d almost forgotten he’d been there. You focussed on him instead, the castle, the aurora, the dirigible, all of it fading into the background. @@.c;⚙ [[Demand he sits down.|Thane1.2][$thane12 to "intimidating"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“You can take a seat as well, you know?”|Thane1.2][$thane12 to "friendly"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“Do you part-time as a garden statue?”|Thane1.2][$thane12 to "sarcastic"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“You, um, you’re making me uncomfortable standing like that.”|Thane1.2][$thane12 to "anxious"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Just tell him to sit.|Thane1.2][$thane12 to "aloof"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Steal glances his way, unsure of how to ask him to sit beside you.|Thane1.2][$thane12 to "shy"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[You pat the spot next to you as the only invitation.|Thane1.2][$thane12 to "playful"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“It’s not very polite to stand like that over me.”|Thane1.2][$thane12 to "misc"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Offer a seat, smiling.|Thane1.2][$thane12 to "ditzy"]]@@

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[[She/ her|Pr change][$gender to "woman"]] [[He/ him|Pr change][$gender to "man"]] [[They/ them|Pr change][$gender to "person"]]

<<if $gender is "woman">>\ <<set $female to "female">>\ <<set $woman to "woman">>\ <<set $women to "women">>\ <<set $they to "she">>\ <<set $their to "her">>\ <<set $them to "her">>\ <<set $theirs to "hers">>\ <<set $pronouns to "she/her">>\ <<elseif $gender is "man">> <<set $female to "male">>\ <<set $woman to "man">>\ <<set $women to "men">>\ <<set $they to "he">>\ <<set $their to "his">>\ <<set $them to "him">>\ <<set $theirs to "his">>\ <<set $pronouns to "he/him">>\ <<elseif $gender is "person">> <<set $female to "person">>\ <<set $woman to "person">>\ <<set $women to "people">>\ <<set $they to "they">>\ <<set $their to "their">>\ <<set $them to "them">>\ <<set $theirs to "theirs">> <<set $pronouns to "they/them">>\<</if>>\ <<if $gender is "woman">>\ Your pronouns are now she/her. <<elseif $gender is "man">>\ Your pronouns are now he/him. <<elseif $gender is "person">>\ Your pronouns are now they/them. <</if>> [[Return to Game.|$return]]

<<if $thane12 is "intimidating">>\ <<set $intimidating to $intimidating + 2>>\ His presence was impressive, but it made you feel uncomfortable, like a giant watching you from above. “Oh, just sit down already! You’re looming ever me.” The man, to his credit, took the order well. He moved almost as soon as the words left your mouth, positioning himself on the other end on the bench. <<elseif $thane12 is "friendly">>\ <<set $friendly to $friendly + 2>>\ <<set $t_rel to $t_rel + 3>>\ His presence was impressive, but you doubted it was comfortable for him to be standing all day. It didn’t hurt to be kind. “You can take a seat as well, you know?” His reaction made you momentarily reconsider, brows furrowing as if you’d insulted his family. He watched you for a few heartbeats before deciding to sit on the far edge of the bench. <<elseif $thane12 is "sarcastic">>\ <<set $sarcastic to $sarcastic + 2>>\ His presence was impressive, if not a bit ridiculous, almost unmoving, posture straight and hand readily positioned on the hilt of his sword. The words left your mouth before thinking them through, as they usually do in situations like this. “Do you part-time as a garden statue?” He seemed confused for a moment, eyes widening like saucers. You motioned for him to take a seat beside you, but he took his time in moving. There was another joke there somewhere about someone as big as him acting so slowly. <<elseif $thane12 is "anxious">>\ <<set $anxious to $anxious + 2>>\ You didn’t particularly mind the silence, but it was one of those instances where you felt something should be said, especially as he was looming over you. You wished he would sit down, but was it “proper” to ask this of him? “You, um, you’re making me uncomfortable standing like that.” His head snapped towards you so fast you thought it must have hurt. Yes, definitely not the right approach. He eventually sat at the very edge of the bench, brows still furrowed. <<elseif $thane12 is "aloof">>\ <<set $aloof to $aloof + 2>>\ You eyed him up and down, the rigid posture, heavy cloak and sword and the fact that he’d been probably standing for a while registering in your mind. “Sit down.” It had not been an order, but he sure took it as such, dutifully nodding and taking a seat at the far edge of the bench. <<elseif $thane12 is "shy">>\ <<set $t_love to $t_love + 3>>\ <<set $shy to $shy + 1>>\ He had such a classic beauty, your guard. From his tall, muscular frame and wide shoulders to the small details of faint dimples beneath the stubble. You imagine he could have easily been a big name Hollywood actor in your modern world. The more you looked at him, the more flustered you became, feeling like you were somehow doing something wrong. You wanted to ask him to sit down, it was impolite to keep him standing, but you were unsure of how to actually formulate the words. “Is everything alright, Sovereign?” He broke the silence instead and you refused to wonder if he’d notice you staring at him all along. “Ah, yes, of course.” No, do not miss this opportunity! You cleared your throat, shifting in your spot as if it helped your resolve. “Actually… I just wanted to ask if you wanted to sit down as well.” Your voice had lost volume as the words came out until they were barely a whisper. The man looked at you as if you sprouted a second head. He took a step forward, then stopped, watching you like a wild animal ready to bounce at the first sight of trouble. It was kind of cute. <<elseif $thane12 is "playful">>\ <<set $t_love to $t_love + 3>>\ <<set $playful to $playful + 1>>\ He had such a classic beauty, your guard. From his tall, muscular frame and wide shoulders to the small details of faint dimples beneath the stubble. You imagine he could have easily been a big name Hollywood actor in your modern world. You fixed him with your gaze until he finally noticed and turned his head towards you. “Is everything alright-” He asked, sounding just a little exasperated and turning his head towards you. The words died in his throat at the sight of you, patting the spot beside you as the only silent invitation. A seductive little smile played on your lips, gaze still burning him. He in turn started looking less like a respected guard and more like a deer in headlights. It was entirely endearing, the tips of his ears already turning a soft shade of pink. He took a step forward, ready to bounce at the first loud sound, but eventually sat gingerly on the very edge of the bench. It was rather cute. “It wasn’t that hard, was it?” You couldn’t help but tease, yet he refused to meet your gaze. <<elseif $thane12 is "misc">>\ <<set $t_love to $t_love + 3>>\ <<set $misc to $misc + 1>>\ He had such a classic beauty, your guard. From his tall, muscular frame and wide shoulders to the small details of faint dimples beneath the stubble. You imagine he could have easily been a big name Hollywood actor in your modern world. You fixed him with your gaze until he finally noticed and turned his head towards you. The more you looked at him, the more you wanted to toy with him a little bit. “It’s not very polite to stand over me like that.” You watched him from between your lashes, angling your body slightly towards him and beckoning him to take a seat next to you. If your gesture affected him in the slightest, he didn’t show it on his face. If anything, he looked more wary of your hidden motives than enticed to come nearer. He took a step forward eventually, stopping as if to see if you’d change your mind in the spawn of a minute, then finally sat down on the furthest part of the bench. It was rather infuriating. <<elseif $thane12 is "ditzy">>\ <<set $t_love to $t_love + 3>>\ <<set $ditzy to $ditzy + 1>>\ He had such a classic beauty, your guard. From his tall, muscular frame and wide shoulders to the small details of faint dimples beneath the stubble. You imagine he could have easily been a big name Hollywood actor in your modern world. You fixed him with your gaze until he finally noticed and turned his head towards you. “You should take a seat too.” You say, genuinely worried he might do it on your accord. Standing all day wasn’t easy, nor was it healthy. “Why?” His voice was the softest you’ve heard him speak in the short amount of time, the doubt and confusion painfully obvious in the monosyllable. “I thought you might be tired.” His stoic expression cracked and for a few moments he looked absolutely perplexed, eyes blown wide as he just stared at you, lips pressed tightly. He took a step forward, then stopped, watching you like a wild animal ready to bounce at the first sight of trouble. It was kind of cute. <</if>>\ He was close, very close now. His eyes were a very pale shade of blue, with a darker rim and little specks of cool grey. Light stubble on his lightly tanned skin. You wonder if your new senses accentuated any of his features, it was possible since you understood nothing of them. <<if $thane12 is "intimidating" or $thane12 is "aloof">> His watchful gaze carefully examined the surroundings for the hundredth time, most likely on the lookout for hidden threats, before he finally noticed your own watchful eyes. <<else>>\ He regarded you with that same intensity, same wonder that was in the lord’s eyes, as if they were both seeing through the cracks, but couldn’t quite accept you were not their Sovereign.<</if>>\ You wanted to ask his name, but were unsure of how to do it, unsure if you should already know this detail. He interpreted your scrutiny for something else, his body going even more taunt than it was before. “Apologies, Sovereign, if I offended you with anything. There was not much time for Key-, lord Dalgliesh to explain my new duties, only that I am to protect you.” “Oh, you’re new on the job?” That was good, it meant he was not as close to the late Sovereign as you thought and the less he knew your deceased doppelganger, the less suspicious he’d find you when you don’t act accordingly. “Soren is in the medical wing, but most of your personal guards died last night. May the Creator receive their bodies and the Almighty rest their souls!” He placed a gloved hand over his chest, head bowing, then raising his eyes to the sky. Of course, that fateful night. <<if $good lte 50 and $ruler_option is "eager">>You felt a surge of pride from knowing so many died to protect you, even if it was, perhaps, a different version of you. It was nice to know this ruler you were impersonating had elicited such a sense of loyalty from $their subjects. <<else>>You felt a pang of sadness, wondering how many other people died that night, despite not knowing their names or faces. Did they die protecting Sovereign? Were they this man’s friends? <</if>> “What should I call you then?” You got tired of calling him ‘this man’ and ‘the guard’ in your head, and it was likely Sovereign had not known either. His eyes widened for a fraction of a second, so fast that you wondered if you even saw it right. “It’s Winthrope, Your Majesty. Thane Winthrope.” He answered in a levelled tone, expression stony and devoid of any indications to what might be running through his head. “A pleasure to meet you, Thane.” You smiled, finally having a name to associate with his face. He watched you curiously, lips pressed into a thin line. “What is it?” “You’re not what I expected, Your Majesty.” He shook his head as if to disperse the thought. But he was right, dancing so close to the truth. Should you tell him? @@.c;⚙ [[No, it was too risky.|Thane1.3][$ttruth to 0]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[It couldn’t hurt to try...|Thane1.3][$ttruth to 1]]@@

<<if $ttruth is 0>>\ One person was enough for now, and you couldn’t really know if you could trust the lord either. But the best plan for now was to gather as much information from Keyon as you could and see from there. After all, there was still an assassin lurking around. “Well, you know what they say, never judge a book by its cover.” You deflected the best you could. There was no reason for him to assume the real Sovereign had been any different than you were. He nodded in a silent agreement. “Besides, the events of last night must still hang heavy over you.” “You have no idea…” <<elseif $ttruth is 1>>\ The lord already knew, and seemed to want to help, but could you really trust him? Was it not prudent to have a back up plan in case he decided to get rid of you, a copy, a fake of his beloved ruler? “What if I told you I’m not quite who you think I am?” You asked, eyeing him carefully, gauging for any reaction that would give his thoughts away. “You are Sovereign.” He said matter of factly, the name-title sounding so incredibly mundane on his lips, and at the same time, overly rehearsed. “Not the same one.” You insisted, hoping he would not see you as insane. “Last night was stressful, it’s bound to change a person.” He nodded as if he understood it all too well, but he was so far from the reality of it. “Right...” You couldn’t help the smile creeping on your lips. You doubted near death experiences often transported people into an alternate version of themselves. But maybe that was just the case and no one ever believed them. <</if>>\ The sun finally set beyond the wall, and even if you couldn’t see the horizon, the sky was already turning dark, the red streaks of the aurorae shining brighter by the minute. “We should head back inside, Sovereign.” The walk back to your chambers was silent, only your footsteps echoing in the large halls. They were heavily decorated, but still too large to keep the sound contained. You dipped your head towards the few servants you met on the way, too tired to take notice of anything in particular. The events of the day were finally starting to weigh on you. “I’ll be nearby if you need me.” Thane said dutifully and opened the door for you. You nod, already feeling tiredness setting into your bones and enter your room. You were settling into this world a bit too fast, were you not? But what else could you do? @@.c;⚙ [[Look around the room.|Meet Eli]]@@

!!!General game mechanics You don't NEED to know or read any of this, it's more just if you're curious. Most of them are pretty obvious anyway, but here's a breakdown of the options (the general ones at lest). I’ve split the reactions between 4 Core Temperamens and 5 General Personality traits. You’ll never see the two on the same choice list, so you won’t have to pick between being melancholic or anxious. When you see only 4 choice options those will be your temperament options and I’m thinkin whichever will be the highest will be locked in starting with part 2 of the book. These will be your MC’s gut responses and split second decisions. Always in this order: ⚙Choleric - in charge, not afraid to assert their authority. ⚙Sanguine - happy go lucky, will throw parties everyday. ⚙Melancholic - likes to be prepared, responsibilities are hell. ⚙Phlegmatic - not my problem, everything will be fiiiine. The 5 personality traits are more dialogue related and will not be locked in at any moment. These will have a small effect on other characters who might get suspicious of a Sovereign who’s acting out of character, and may give or not friendship/approval points. But I generally wanted to give the freedom to act differently with different people. Always in this order: ⚙Intimidating ⚙Friendly ⚙Anxious ⚙Sarcastic ⚙Aloof/ Stoic You’ll sometimes see the personality options followed by the romance ones. Always in this order: ⚙Shy - heart fluttering, blushing mess type. ⚙Playful - flirty, but not over the top. ⚙Mischievous - the teasing sort, very bold, very seductive, sometimnes more than a little mean, with a hint of evil. ⚙Ditzy - the unintentional flirt, being extra cute without meaning to and gaining relationship points. I will not lock these in at any point, but the higher stat will most likely generate the way the RO will perceive your MC's flirting style, either generally shy, playful, etc. !!!Skills In chapter 2, you will get to select what your MC’s main combat/ problem solving method is. This will be locked in as your main skill, but you can also build up a secondary one, or keep honing the main one. My plan is to have 3 levels of skill for the choices and their results. So let’s say you have Strength as the main skill and Dexterity second. If you choose a Strength option to solve something, you’ll be able to do it easily. If you choose the Dexterity option, you’ll struggle a little and maybe get a little bruised in the process. If you choose the Savy option you’ll fail, spectacularly. But that doesn’t mean it’s //always// a bad option 😛 The options will be between: ⚙Combat ⚙Aether ⚙Tinkering ⚙Savvy ⚙Dexterity !!!Reputation It's pretty self explanatory - Good vs Evil, but it's not necessarily a right vs wrong situation. There will be very little actual 'wrong' choices, you play the game as you want. @@.c;⚙ [[Onward with the story!|Part I]]@@

<<if $rae1 is "intimidating">>\ <<set $intimidating to $intimidating + 2>>\ <<set $r_rel to $r_rel + 3>>\ “What I do is none of your business.” The words came out defensive and strong. On one hand you were surprised someone actually addressed you, instead of just greeting you and scurrying away. On the other, she had some nerve to question you, the ruler, in $their own castle. She put her hands up in mock surrender, a grin on her face. “No need to be so defensive, Your Majesty. I was only coming to offer my services, after all, you do pay me handsomely.” She put her hands down and crossed them instead, waiting for your reply. <<elseif $rae1 is "sarcastic">>\ <<set $sarcastic to $sarcastic + 2>>\ <<set $r_rel to $r_rel + 3>>\ “Seriously, this place should come with a map.” You laughed at the silliness of the situation. It was strange that you owned a castle to begin with, but it must be stranger still that you seemed to not know where anything is. The woman chucked as well, the raspines in her voice making it sound halfway like small coughs. “You’re in luck I found you then, Your Majesty. I can be your guide tonight, all included in my usual fee, of course. A bonus, for your continuous generosity.” She crossed her arms, a smile still on her thin lips, and waited for your reply. You considered for a moment, before deciding you were not going to find the damn kitchen on your own. <<elseif $rae1 is "friendly">>\ <<set $friendly to $friendly + 2>>\ “It would help a lot if you could point me towards the kitchen.” You went for a friendlier approach, hoping the stranger would guide you to some food, finally. But the woman’s bored demeanour changed ever so slightly, her lips pressing tightly together as if forcing herself not to speak her mind, not yet. Her eyes focused on your face, examining every detail of your face. <<if $anxious > $friendly and $anxious > $intimidating and $anxious > $sarcastic and $anxious > $aloof>> You feel your whole body stiffening as a wave of nausea washes over you. For a moment you think she’ll figure it out, figure you out for the impostor that you are.<</if>> But there are no differences, no inconsistencies in your appearance that could tell you apart from your recently deceased counterpart. The woman relaxes, though you suspect not fully. “I can take you there, of course. I will even include it in my usual fee, as a ‘thank you’ for your continuous generosity.” <<elseif $rae1 is "anxious">>\ <<set $anxious to $anxious + 2>>\ “Oh, I was doing nothing wrong, was I?” You realised your eros as your words left your lips, but it was too late. It was supposed to be your castle, in your empire. Who was there to tell you you were doing anything wrong? The woman’s bored demeanour changed ever so slightly, her lips pressing tightly together as if forcing herself not to speak her mind, not yet. Her eyes focused on your face, examining every detail of your face. <<if $anxious > $friendly and $anxious > $intimidating and $anxious > $sarcastic and $anxious > $aloof>> You feel your whole body stiffening as a wave of nausea washes over you. For a moment you think she’ll figure it out, figure you out for the impostor that you are.<</if>> But there are no differences, no inconsistencies in your appearance that could tell you apart from your recently deceased counterpart. The woman relaxes, though you suspect not fully. “I can take you there, of course. I will even include it in my usual fee, as a ‘thank you’ for your continuous generosity.” <<elseif $rae1 is "aloof">>\ <<set $aloof to $aloof + 2>>\ “It would seem I am a bit lost, yes.” You said simply, almost mimicking her lack of interest. But the woman’s bored demeanour changed ever so slightly, her lips pressing tightly together as if forcing herself not to speak her mind, not yet. Her eyes focused on your face, examining every detail of your face. <<if $anxious > $friendly and $anxious > $intimidating and $anxious > $sarcastic and $anxious > $aloof>> You feel your whole body stiffening as a wave of nausea washes over you. For a moment you think she’ll figure it out, figure you out for the impostor that you are.<</if>> But there are no differences, no inconsistencies in your appearance that could tell you apart from your recently deceased counterpart. The woman relaxes, though you suspect not fully. “I can take you there, of course. I will even include it in my usual fee, as a ‘thank you’ for your continuous generosity.” <<elseif $rae1 is "shy">>\ <<set $r_love to $r_love + 3>>\ <<set $shy to $shy + 1>>\ “I, um, was only taking a stroll.” Your eyes darted from her to anywhere else. She was striking, in a deadly kind of way. Her dark eyes seemed to pierce into your very soul and you both wanted and not to be the focus of their gaze. The woman’s bored demeanour changed visibly, one of her brows lifting almost comically. Her sharp eyes focused on your face, examining every detail of your face, lingering on the blush on your cheeks. <<if $anxious > $friendly and $anxious > $intimidating and $anxious > $sarcastic and $anxious > $aloof>> You feel your whole body stiffening as a wave of nausea washes over you. For a moment you think she’ll figure it out, figure you out for the impostor that you are.<</if>> But there are no differences, no inconsistencies in your appearance that could tell you apart from your recently deceased counterpart. The woman relaxes, though you suspect not fully. “I can be your guide for the evening. I will even include it in my usual fee, as a ‘thank you’ for your continuous generosity.” <<elseif $rae1 is "playful">>\ <<set $r_love to $r_love + 3>>\ <<set $playful to $playful + 1>>\ “Just taking a stroll before bed, but I’d love the company.” You bantered playfully, half friendly, half serious. She was striking, in that deadly kind of way. Her dark eyes seemed to pierce into your very soul and were curious to know what they saw. Her bored demeanour changed visibly, one of her brows lifting almost comically. Her sharp eyes focused on your face, examining every detail of your face, lingering on the blush on your cheeks. <<if $anxious > $friendly and $anxious > $intimidating and $anxious > $sarcastic and $anxious > $aloof>> You feel your whole body stiffening as a wave of nausea washes over you. For a moment you think she’ll figure it out, figure you out for the impostor that you are.<</if>> But there are no differences, no inconsistencies in your appearance that could tell you apart from your recently deceased counterpart. The woman relaxes, though you suspect not fully. <<elseif $rae1 is "misc">>\ <<set $r_love to $r_love + 3>>\ <<set $misc to $misc + 1>>\ “I could always use such charming company in this place.” You batted your eyelids playfully, a charming smirk on your lips. She was striking, in that deadly kind of way. A pretty knife could still cut you, you loved to dance on the edge of danger.. The woman chucked, the raspines in her voice making it sound halfway like small coughs. “You’re in luck I found you then, Your Majesty. I can be your guide tonight, all included in my usual fee, of course. A bonus, for your continuous generosity.” She crossed her arms, a smile still on her thin lips, and waited for your reply. You considered for a moment, before deciding you were not going to find the damn kitchen on your own. <<elseif $rae1 is "ditzy">>\ <<set $r_love to $r_love + 3>>\ <<set $ditzy to $ditzy + 1>>\ “Do you perhaps know where the kitchen is?” You stared at the woman expectantly, looking her over while waiting for the directions. She was quite striking, small and delicate, but with a fierce gaze that seemed to pierce into your very soul. Her bored demeanour changed visibly, one of her brows lifting almost comically. Her sharp eyes focused on your face, examining every detail of your face, lingering on the blush on your cheeks. <<if $anxious > $friendly and $anxious > $intimidating and $anxious > $sarcastic and $anxious > $aloof>> You feel your whole body stiffening as a wave of nausea washes over you. For a moment you think she’ll figure it out, figure you out for the impostor that you are.<</if>> But there are no differences, no inconsistencies in your appearance that could tell you apart from your recently deceased counterpart. The woman relaxes, though you suspect not fully. “I can be your guide for the evening. I will even include it in my usual fee, as a ‘thank you’ for your continuous generosity.” <</if>> “Well, to the kitchen then. I was craving some food.” You finally said, wanting to get on with your little expedition. “And you were getting it yourself?” She shook her head in disbelief, but moved besides you to lead the way. “One assassination attempt and the whole palace is a mess…” She muttered more to herself than you while nodding her head back the way you came from and down a corridor you did notice before, but didn’t think too much of. Turns out the kitchen had been under your nose. You doubted you would have found it on your own, since you imagined some big wooden doors and people bustling in and out with food. Your guide seemed to agree with you on at least one point. “This place is oddly empty for this hour.” She hummed, but there seemed to be a wariness to her too in the way she moved and scanned the room. A predator stalking new hunting grounds. The room itself was like walking into a different building altogether - gone were the elegant paintings and statues, the expensive carpets and furniture. Instead, the walls were of red exposed brick and a thin brown rug covered most of the floor. Familiar pipes still streaked across the entire room, but they were a dark silver instead of coppery gold - painted over, you realised. Two simple round metal chandeliers with dozens of candles were providing most of the illumination, besides the dwindling reddish light coming from the windows. A long wooden working table was positioned in the centre, devoid of any embellishments in its design, but a red napron streaking its middle and scattered pots and plates. The cabinets on the walls were the only ones more ornate, dark wood encrusted with light metals - aluminium and tin, you thought, the information surprising you. For a few heartbeats, you swore you could tell where the silverware was, point out the steel knives in a drawer to the left and tin cups in the cupboard above. You _knew_ some of the pots were plated in nickel. “Let’s see what we have here.” Your guide said, striding to the table to examine the various scattered crockery. There were four covered pots in the centre, a faint wisp of steam still emanating from them. She pulled the lid one by one, telling you what was in each. “There’s roasted beef with potatoes, bean and tomato stew, cherry tart or cinnamon rice patties. Which shall it be, Your Majesty?” @@.c;⚙ [[Roasted beef|Rae1food][$food to 1]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Bean stew|Rae1food][$food to 2]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Cherry tart|Rae1food][$food to 3]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Cinnamon patties|Rae1food][$food to 4]]@@

The woman brought the pot closer, setting the lid off and giving you a better view of the food. <<if $food is 1>>You felt your mouth watering a bit at the smell, stomach threatening to rumble. The meat was roasted to perfection, tender and savoury, surrounded by golden-brown potatoes. <<elseif $food is 2>>The hearty and comforting dish was a mouth-watering mix of red tomato soup and golden beans, with all the right spices and just a dash of greens. Your stomach threatened to rumble at the sight. <<elseif $food is 3>>You felt your mouth watering a bit at the sweet smell of cherries, stomach threatening to rumble. The tart was baked to perfection, the golden crust looking slightly glazed, but soft. <<elseif $food is 4>>You felt your mouth watering a bit at the sweet smell of cinnamon, stomach threatening to rumble. They reminded you of home and you couldn't wait to dig your teeth in the sweets.<</if>>\ Your guide-turned-server reached for a plate and stopped, turning to gaze at you for a moment as if she just remembered something. She looked around the room, before setting her eyes on a barrel in the corner and went to it, her steps determined. She moved the cask with more ease than you expected for her slight frame and brought it near the table in what you realised is a makeshift chair. “Your Majesty.” She gestured towards it, her tone too levelled to be an insult, but you couldn’t be sure. You took a seat nonetheless and watched her take the needed cutlery and set your plate nicely before you. She then hopped on the table, not quite in your personal space, but still within arm’s reach and took her own plate. “Not gonna lie, when I was assigned to be a mercenary for Sovereign, this is now what I envisioned.” “What were you expecting?” You ask… @@.c;⚙[[to get more information out of her.|Rae1.2][$rae12 to "intimidating"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[curious to see what she had to say.|Rae1.2][$rae12 to "friendly"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[with an amused tone.|Rae1.2][$rae12 to "sarcastic"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[trying to see what the expectations were for you.|Rae1.2][$rae12 to "anxious"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[calmly.|Rae1.2][$rae12 to "aloof"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[shyly, eyes darting between your food and her.|Rae1.2][$rae12 to "shy"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[playfully, curious to learn more about the woman|Rae1.2][$rae12 to "playful"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[with a smirk, daring the woman with a suggestive glance.|Rae1.2][$rae12 to "misc"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[genuinely interested to see what she had to say.|Rae1.2][$rae12 to "ditzy"]]@@

<<if $rae1 is "intimidating">>\ <<set $intimidating to $intimidating + 2>>\ <<set $r_rel to $r_rel + 3>>\ You knew nothing about the woman, besides the fact that apparently you were paying her. Or at least Sovereign was. But what exactly did a mercenary do in this world? Was it for protection or some more direct approaches? “What were you expecting?” You asked simply, trying not to sound like you lacked too much information on the entire topic. She in turn, placed her plate down, her metal arm coming to grip the edge of the table, her gaze falling on you. <<elseif $rae1 is "friendly">>\ <<set $friendly to $friendly + 2>>\ You knew nothing about the woman, besides the fact that apparently you were paying her. Or at least Sovereign was. If you were going to make it in this place, a good first step would be to get acquainted with the people. “What were you expecting?” You ask simply, genuinely curious to hear her thoughts on the matter. She in turn, placed her plate down, her metal arm coming to grip the edge of the table, her gaze falling on you. <<elseif $rae1 is "sarcastic">>\ <<set $sarcastic to $sarcastic + 2>>\ <<set $r_rel to $r_rel + 3>>\ You knew nothing about the woman, besides the fact that apparently you were paying her. Or at least Sovereign was. The idea of a coldblooded mercenary acting as your maid amused you. “What were you expecting?” You ask, barely keeping the smile from your voice. “Were nightly snacks with the ruler really not included?” She in turn, placed her plate down, her metal arm coming to grip the edge of the table, her gaze falling on you. Her lips twitched into a smile, but she quickly relaxed them. <<elseif $rae1 is "anxious">>\ <<set $anxious to $anxious + 2>>\ You knew nothing about the woman, besides the fact that apparently you were paying her. Or at least Sovereign was. The implications of it were running rampant in your head, so you braved the question out of you. “What were you expecting?” You ask simply, half curious, half terrified of the answer. She in turn, placed her plate down, her metal arm coming to grip the edge of the table, her gaze falling on you. <<elseif $rae1 is "aloof">>\ <<set $aloof to $aloof + 2>>\ You knew nothing about the woman, besides the fact that apparently you were paying her. Or at least Sovereign was. A good place to learn more about the matter would be just to ask her. So you did. “What were you expecting?” The words were monotone, and contrasted little to her own demeanour. She placed her plate down, her metal arm coming to grip the edge of the table, her gaze falling on you. <<elseif $rae1 is "shy">>\ <<set $r_love to $r_love + 3>>\ <<set $shy to $shy + 1>>\ There was something about this woman that just made you flustered, maybe it was the closeness to her, her piercing eyes that seemed to have seen so much. <<elseif $rae1 is "playful">>\ <<set $r_love to $r_love + 3>>\ <<set $playful to $playful + 1>>\ There was something about this woman that just made you flustered, maybe it was the closeness to her, her piercing eyes that seemed to have seen so much. <<elseif $rae1 is "misc">>\ <<set $r_love to $r_love + 3>>\ <<set $misc to $misc + 1>>\ There was something about this woman that intrigued you, pushed you to see what was hiding under that cold demeanour. <<elseif $rae1 is "ditzy">>\ <<set $r_love to $r_love + 3>>\ <<set $ditzy to $ditzy + 1>>\ There was something about this woman that just made you want to learn more about her, what toughened her so much and what made her choose the life of a mercenary. If she even chose it herself. You stuck to a more simple question for now. “What were you expecting?” <</if>>\ “Murder, mostly.” She deadpanned with a small nod. “I thought half the nobles would drop dead within the week. The ones that are opposing the bill at least.” “Ah yes, the bill.” You recalled the lord mentioning both a bill and a ball, but you’d best leave that to him to detail later. The woman continued, only acknowledging you with another nod. “Instead I’m sent to investigate random hellholes and drug dens and now even act as your maid. Which isn’t in our contract, you know? I’ll let your pet know to add this to my fee.” “My pet?” “Advisor, pet, it’s all semantics when it comes to him.” She rolled her eyes, waving a rice patty as she spoke before digging her teeth in it. “You might as well put a collar on him and call him a ‘good boy’. I’m sure lord Dalgliesh wouldn’t mind if it came from you.” The gears in your head turned, picking the woman’s words apart. Had there been something more between Sovereign and the lord? He seemed to truly care for $them, even from the little you’ve seen so far of the man. Even if there had not been anything romantical happening, and even if he had nothing to do with the initial assassination… what was to say he wouldn’t kill you now? A pretender walking in his dead lover’s or friend’s skin. Your thoughts spiralled, vaguely aware of the looks the mercenary was giving you, no shame at all as she stared intently at your face. Could she have killed Sovereign? She hadn’t seemed as surprised to see you alive as everyone else, but maybe the word had spread. Or maybe she had been on her way to finish the job she failed last night. “Everything alright, Sovereign?” She tensed, metallic hand gripping the table just a bit tighter as she waited for your answer. “Yes, everything is fine.” “I didn’t mean to insult our dear friend.” She quickly added, shoulders lowering at your dismissal, the last sentence muttered under her breath. “You’re usually quick to complain about the poor soul’s unhealthy obsession.” You didn't know what to make of the information she gave. The situation was strange, however you tried to paint it in your head. You couldn’t be sure that the lord's loyalties would be with you and you knew almost nothing about this woman. You could take a risk and explain to her what happened, that you were not the Sovereign she knew. You could try to buy her loyalty if anything went amiss. @@.c;⚙ [[Risk telling her the truth.|Rae1.3][$rtruth to 1]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[It’s not worth the risk.|Rae1.3][$rtruth to 0]]@@

<<if $rtruth is 1>>\ “What if I told you I’m not Sovereign?” You chanced and waited for her reaction. Her stony expression didn’t flinch, cold, calculating eyes moving slowly over every detail of your face. But you already knew there would be little she could find. <<if $rae1 is "intimidating" or $rae1 is "sarcastic" or $rae1 is "misc">>\ “Mentally? Spiritually?” She asks in the end, cocking her head in disbelief. “The first assassination attempt in Gods know how long-” <<else>>\ “I’d be inclined to believe you.” She said simply. “The first assassination attempt in Gods know how long-”<</if>> “But it’s not about the assassination last night.” You cut her off and paused to look for the right words. “Well, it is, in a way, but not for the reason you’re thinking.” “I won’t pretend I understand or care too much about it. It’s all the same to me, as long as you’re still keeping the end of your bargain.” You wonder for a moment if you should insist, but her empty stare makes you ultimately decide against it. “Of course.” “Then there’s nothing you ever need to worry about from me. I’ll do as many stupid chores and errands you send me on, no matter what new name you decide to take upon.” The smile didn’t quite reach her eyes as she jumped off the table to make her way to one of the windows. The sun was finally setting, the entire sky a reddish colour. There was more she wasn’t telling you, perhaps things that you were already supposed to know. \ <<elseif $rtruth is 2>>\ ”It’s been a long day.” You say, not entirely sure what to fill the silence with. “I suppose I’m not feeling quite like myself.” A sly smile spread on the woman’s lips, but she seemed to hold on whatever comment crossed her mind. She cleared her throat instead, face relaxing into her usual cold mask. “I’m sure you know already, seeing as you’re literally the only one who can buy my contract from that blasted pirate, but I am happy you are alive, Your Majesty.” “Glad to be alive.” You hoped the words sounded more enthusiastic than they did in your head. If she noticed anything odd, she didn’t comment on it, instead jumping off the table and making her way to one of the windows. The sun was finally setting, the entire sky a reddish colour. <</if>>\ “Thank you for showing me the kitchen.” You got up as well and turned towards the door. “Always, my pleasure, Sovereign. I’ll add it to my tab.” You’ll really need to find out what that’s all about, you think as you walk towards the door. As you grabbed the handle, her raspy voice filled the room again. “And speaking about pleasure, do let me know if you want to blow up some steam again. Last time was one of the nicer surprises that came with this job.” You turn around confused, fist because apparently Sovereign had a thing going on with her and then because of the way she phrased it - a job. Were you overthinking it? Did she just meant it just as an opportunity for them to meet that the agreement between them brought? You were regretting ever leaving your room with so little information about this stranger you were impersonating. Taking your silence as indecisiveness, she made a few quick steps towards you, a smirk tugging at her lips. “Maybe a little distraction from all the chaos?” @@.c;⚙ [[A little distraction hurt nobody.|Rae1.4][$rnsfw to 1]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[You’d like to, but this is wrong.|Rae1.4][$rnsfw to 2]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Did she want to spar?That can’t be good.|Rae1.4][$rnsfw to 3]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[It was not the right time for something like this.|Rae1.4][$rnsfw to 4]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[You’re not interested in her that way.|Rae1.4][$rnsfw to 5]]@@

<<if $rnsfw is 1>>\ The walk to your room was silent, only your footsteps echoing in the large halls, the woman trailing behind you. It was easy to get back to your chambers from the kitchen - back into the main hall, then up onto the elevator. You dipped your head towards the few servants you met on the way, too tired to take notice of anything in particular. <<if $shy > $playful and $shy > $misc and $shy > $ditzy>>\ It didn’t help that you felt your cheeks heating and palms sweating. Were you really doing this, sleeping with this woman you barely met? Not to mention while impersonating someone she knew! Her hand brushed yours as she stepped forward to open the door to your room, the smug little glint in her eyes muddling your thoughts. <<elseif $playful > $shy and $playful > $misc and $playful > $ditzy>>\ It didn’t help that your thoughts were running a mile a minute, a small part of your conscience telling you that this was wrong in some moral way. But was it really? Her hand brushed yours as she stepped forward to open the door to your room, the smug little glint in her eyes making you involuntarily bite your lips in anticipation. <<elseif $misc > $shy and $misc > $playful and $mics > $ditzy>>\ It didn’t help that you could barely contain your excitement. There was something morally wrong in the whole thing, you were acutely aware of it. But it only made it all the more enticing, a taboo waiting to be broken. Her hand brushed yours as she stepped forward to open the door to your room, the smug little glint in her eyes making you involuntarily bite your lips in anticipation. <<elseif $ditzy > $shy and $ditzy > $misc and $ditzy > $playful>>\ It didn’t help that your thoughts were running a mile a minute, wondering if maybe you understood the whole thing wrong. Was it sparing or was it sex? You were not sure which one would be more damaging. Her hand brushed yours as she stepped forward to open the door to your room, the smug little glint in her eyes muddling your thoughts. <<else>>\ It didn’t help that the events of the day were finally starting to weigh on you, tiredness setting into your bones as you entered your room. Did you even understand her proposal correctly? She meant sex, right? You hoped you didn’t end up in some training room to spar with her. <</if>>\ <<if $height is "short">>\ As soon as she closed the door behind you, you were spun around and pressed to it, your short height making it easy for her to crush her lips against yours. <<elseif $height is "average">>\ As soon as she closed the door behind you, you were spun around and pressed to it, your similar height making it easy for her to crush her lips against yours. <<elseif $height is "rather tall" or $height is "tall">>\ As soon as she closed the door behind you, you were spun around and pressed to it, the height difference making her pull you down to crush her lips against yours. <<elseif $height is "towering" or $height is "imposing">>\ As soon as she closed the door behind you, you were spun around and pressed to it, the height difference making her jump on you, legs wrapped around your waist as her lips crushed against yours.<</if>>\ Her kiss was fast and demanding, filled with passion and an anger that only spurred you further. Agile hands moved from your neck to your chest, lingering just a moment before <<if $clothes is 2>>pushing your vest down your arms and unbuttoning your shirt. <<elseif $clothes is 4>>removing your ruffle tie and undoing your underbust, the strings on the back of your dress following in quick succession. <<elseif $clothes is 5>>undoing your corset and working on the buttons of your blouse. <<elseif $clothes is 1>>pushing your suspenders aside and unbuttoning your blouse. <<elseif $clothes is 3>>undoing your underbust and unbuttoning your blouse.<</if>> She brushed her calloused fingers down your skin, tracing your collarbone, $chest and fisting her fingers into the <<if $clothes is 1 or $clothes is 2>>fabric of your pants. <<elseif $clothes is 3 or $clothes is 5>>fabric of your skirt. <<else>>loose fabric around your waist.<</if>> Your own hands traced her lean figure, hands digging into the upper thighs, pulling her closer still. Your mind was racing, heart pounding in your ears as she bit into your lower lip, then kissed it gently, trailing her mouth along your jaw and neck. “Bed, now.” She demanded, her rumbling voice smooth as butter in your year, and parted from your lips, pulling you with her further into the room. She removed her loose shirt in one quick motion, her skin bare underneath, before she shifted focus back to you. The rest of your clothes were pushed and pulled away from your body in a flurry of fabric and limbs, shivers running down your spine each time skin touched skin. She took half a step back when your legs touched the bed frame, eyes filled with lust as she took your form in, devious smirk still on her lips. You let her push you down, hitting the plush mattress with a little bounce, your knees still hanging from the edge. Lifting yourself on your elbows, you watched the petite woman kneel between your legs. She pushed them apart, a warm, flesh hand on your right thigh, a cold, metallic one on your left. She nipped and kissed her way to your waiting $corecock. Dark eyes still on you, she traced her tongue over your <<if $gen is "pussy">>slit from base to top, dipping it in just enough to leave you tightening around nothing. <<else>>throbbing member from base to top, wrapping her lips around the tip and releasing it with a pop.<</if>>\ Your head fell back as she continued her ministrations, sucking and licking your $clitmember with almost harsh motions, never slowing down since you entered the room. @@.c;⚙ [[Let her please you.|Rae1.5][$rae15 to 1]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[You want to taste her too.|Rae1.5][$rae15 to 2]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[You close your eyes, losing yourself in the feeling. (Fade to black)|Rae1.5][$rae15 to 0]]@@ <<elseif $rnsfw is 2>>\ You take another long look at the woman. Her lithe figure, cold determined gaze and that smooth rumbling voice are igniting a fire in you. But it was wrong, no matter how much you tried to justify it in your mind. You were not the person she thought you were, even if she claimed she didn’t care. //You// didn’t even know her name. You bid her goodbye again and slipped out the door before she got the chance to scrutinise your behaviour any further. You made your way out into the main hall, then up onto the elevator. You dipped your head towards the few servants you met on the way, too tired to take notice of anything in particular. The events of the day were finally starting to weigh on you, tiredness setting into your bones as you entered your room. You were settling into this world a bit too fast, were you not? But what else could you do? @@.c;⚙ [[Look around the room.|Meet Eli]]@@ <<elseif $rnsfw is 3>>\ “I’m not sure if I’m in the right headspace to spar right now.” “‘Spar’, right. If that’s what you want to call it.” She chuckles, her low rumbling voice running smooth like butter. You bid her goodbye again and slipped out the door before she got the chance to scrutinise your behaviour any further. You made your way out into the main hall, then up onto the elevator. You dipped your head towards the few servants you met on the way, too tired to take notice of anything in particular. The events of the day were finally starting to weigh on you, tiredness setting into your bones as you entered your room. You were settling into this world a bit too fast, were you not? But what else could you do? @@.c;⚙ [[Look around the room.|Meet Eli]]@@ <<elseif $rnsfw is 4>>\ You were aware, at least you thought so, that it was a stressful time for you, with being transported into some weird steampunk book with no clue on what was happening. The last thing you needed right now were ‘entanglements’. You bid her goodbye again and slipped out the door before she got the chance to scrutinise your behaviour any further. You made your way out into the main hall, then up onto the elevator. You dipped your head towards the few servants you met on the way, too tired to take notice of anything in particular. The events of the day were finally starting to weigh on you, tiredness setting into your bones as you entered your room. You were settling into this world a bit too fast, were you not? But what else could you do? @@.c;⚙ [[Look around the room.|Meet Eli]]@@ <<elseif $rnsfw is 5>>\ You take another long look at the woman. Her lithe figure, cold determined gaze and that smooth rumbling voice were far from your usual taste in lovers. You had no doubt that some would find the whole package more than appealing, but to each their own. You bid her goodbye again and slipped out the door before she got the chance to scrutinise your behaviour any further. You made your way out into the main hall, then up onto the elevator. You dipped your head towards the few servants you met on the way, too tired to take notice of anything in particular. The events of the day were finally starting to weigh on you, tiredness setting into your bones as you entered your room. You were settling into this world a bit too fast, were you not? But what else could you do? @@.c;⚙ [[Look around the room.|Meet Eli]]@@ <</if>>\

<<set $portrait to 1>>\ ‘Time to face the music.’ You think with a sigh and enter the bedroom again. The lord was seated on one of the dark velvet armchairs, sipping from a delicate looking teacup. He placed it back on the plate and turned to face you with a huge grin. It almost made his pale, gaunt face look radiant for a moment as his eyes landed on you. “You’ll be happy to hear I managed to scare off the nobles, although I doubt it will be for long. They will have questions at the ball tomorrow.” “Ball?” You walk tentatively towards the seating arrangement, until something else catches your eye on the nightstands. You try to make the action look casual, but his piercing green eyes trail your every movement. “Yes, we still need to gather the support of a few, before the bastards get that damned bill to pass. We cannot afford to cancel, not if we want all our efforts to have been in vain.” His answer is somehow more informative than you expect, while also raising more questions. You put them aside for now, as you trail a finger on the book, the leather cover with the metallic cogs. As you picked up what you were now starting to believe is a cursed object, you became aware that the lord - was it Dalgliesh? - was walking towards you. “What need did you have of this, Your Majesty?” @@.c;⚙ [[Tell the truth.|Ch1.12][$fake1 to 0]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Play dumb.|Ch1.12][$fake1 to 1]]@@

<<if $rae15 is 0>>\ A shiver runs over your entire body, head finally falling against the silky covers and thighs tightening around the woman between them. It’s a mix of euphoria and tiredness, the dark canopy above your starting to blur out of existence. For a long while, it’s just you and her, skin against skin against metal, hot breasts and needy moans engulfing your perceptions. You lay in bed after some of the daze wears off and your heartbeat calms down, the cool pillow and sheets feeling amazing on your sensitive, heated skin. You watch her stretch, her entire body on display in the dim red light, then crouch to pick up her clothes. She was lean, her muscles glistening with every move. @@.c;⚙ [[Invite her to stay the night.|Rae1.6][$rae16 to 1]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Let her leave.|Rae1.6][$rae16 to 0]]@@ <<elseif $rae15 is 1>>\ <<if $gen is "pussy">>When her tongue finally plunges into you, your back arches in surprise, a wave of heat taking over your body and soft moans escaping your parted lips. The woman lets out an approving groan, the vibrations travelling straight up your very core. “Sweater than I remembered.” Was the only comment she gave as she momentarily parted her mouth from your dripping cunt, only to replace it with two fingers. She pumped her flesh hand mercilessly into you, her metal fingers digging into your thigh. The image of her, pupils blown wide with lust, chin drenched and hair dishevelled from her braid, was the last thing you see as you let yourself fully fall against the silken covers, eyes shutting tight. <<elseif $gen is "penis">>When she finally slid her mouth down your length, taking in as much as she could, tongue pressed on the underside of your dick, your back arches in surprise, a wave of heat taking over your body and soft moans escaping your parted lips. The woman lets out an approving groan, the vibrations travelling straight up your very core. “Sweater than I remembered.” Was the only comment she gave as she momentarily parted her from your stiff member, only to wrap her fingers around it. She pumped her flesh hand mercilessly, her metal one digging into your thigh. The image of her, pupils blown wide with lust, chin drenched and hair dishevelled from her braid, was the last thing you see as you let yourself fully fall against the silken covers, eyes shutting tight. <</if>>\ @@.c;<<cycle "$fake2" autoselect>> <<option "You reach out for her, fingers wrapping around her unravelling braid, and pull her even closer." 0>> <<option "Your fingers grip the sheets in a vice-like grip, trying to ground yourself in the moment." 1>><</cycle>>@@ She huffs, and you first feel her hot breath, before her mouth encases your $clitballs. She sucks and lapps with passion, small grunts coming from between your legs. The room feels stuffy, swirling, as the pressure keeps building up from her unrelenting hand and mouth. It stretches, pulled taunt, your muscles constricting in blissful suspense. She does a little twist of the tongue, pressing in just the right spot, again and again, <<if $gen is "pussy">>a third finger pushed between your folds, curving expertly. <<elseif $gen is "penis">>fingers tightening their already rigorous grip. <</if>>\ Release came with a hot fury, wrecking your body from core to the very tips of your feet. You shook slightly, as the woman lapped at the discharge, a deep humm leaving her lips. You lay in bed after some of the daze wears off and your heartbeat calms down, the cool pillow and sheets feeling amazing on your sensitive, heated skin. You watch her stretch, her entire body on display in the dim red light, then crouch to pick up her clothes. She was lean, her muscles glistening with every move. @@.c;⚙ [[Invite her to stay the night.|Rae1.6][$rae16 to 1]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Let her leave.|Rae1.6][$rae16 to 0]]@@ <<elseif $rae15 is 2>>\ <<if $gen is "pussy">>When her tongue finally plunges into you, your back arches in surprise, a wave of heat taking over your body and soft moans escaping your parted lips. The woman lets out an approving groan, the vibrations travelling straight up your very core. “Sweater than I remembered.” Was the only comment she gave as she momentarily parted her mouth from your dripping cunt, only to replace it with two fingers. She pumped her flesh hand mercilessly into you, her metal fingers digging into your thigh. The image of her, pupils blown wide with lust, chin drenched and hair dishevelled from her braid, was the last thing you see as you let yourself fully fall against the silken covers, eyes shutting tight. <<elseif $gen is "penis">>When she finally slid her mouth down your length, taking in as much as she could, tongue pressed on the underside of your dick, your back arches in surprise, a wave of heat taking over your body and soft moans escaping your parted lips. The woman lets out an approving groan, the vibrations travelling straight up your very core. “Sweater than I remembered.” Was the only comment she gave as she momentarily parted her from your stiff member, only to wrap her fingers around it. She pumped her flesh hand mercilessly, her metal one digging into your thigh.<</if>>\ “I want a taste, too.” Your voice is hoarse, ladder with lust. She slowed down, eyeing you oddly for a moment, before her smirk widening. “Curious.” She hummed. “But not unwelcome. Move up higher.” You scoot up, resting your head on the soft pillow and watch the woman climb up the bed, one leg between yours, then straddling your hips. She looked back at you, eyes lingering on your exposed skin. <<if $height is "short">>\ She bends down, lips barely touching the shell of your ear and voice is low, dripping with need. “You should come on top.” She plops on the bed next to you, greedy hands already on you, manoeuvring your hips above her face. You lean over, parting her legs to expose her wet pussy, a neatly groomed line of dark hair streaking across her pale skin. <<elseif $height is "average" or $height is "rather tall" or $height is "tall" or $height is "towering">>\ She manoeuvres herself above you, her wet pussy just above your face, a neatly groomed line of dark hair streaking across her pale skin. <<elseif $height is "imposing">>\ She bends down, lips barely brushing the shell of your ear as she pulls some more pillows behind you. You chuckle, helping her position herself above you, the height difference a bit awkward. Her wet pussy was spread before you, a neatly groomed line of dark hair streaking across her pale skin.<</if>>\ She’s first to latch herself onto you again, her mouth encasing your $clitballs. You gasp at the feeling, before dipping your own tongue between her folds. A small grunt reverberated through her body and she sucked and lapped with renewed passion. She does a little twist of the tongue, pressing in just the right spot, again and again, <<if $gen is "pussy">>a third finger pushed between your folds, curving expertly. <<elseif $gen is "penis">>fingers tightening their already rigorous grip.<</if>>\ The room feels stuffy, swirling, as the pressure keeps building up from her unrelenting hand and mouth. It stretches, pulled taunt, your muscles constricting in blissful suspense. You replace your mouth with two fingers of your own, then add another when they slip in seamlessly, enjoying the way the woman shivered and arched against you, small perky breasts pressing into your stomach. Release came with a hot fury, wrecking your body from core to the very tips of your feet. You shook slightly, as the woman lapped at the discharge, a deep humm leaving her lips. She came, too, moments later, her cunt clenching tightly against your fingers and coating them in her sweet juices. You lay in bed after some of the daze wears off and your heartbeat calms down, the cool pillow and sheets feeling amazing on your sensitive, heated skin. You watch her untangle herself from you completely, her entire body on display in the dim red light, muscles glistening with every move. She rolls out of bed quickly, bending down to pick up her clothes. @@.c;⚙ [[Invite her to stay the night.|Rae1.6][$rae16 to 1]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Let her leave.|Rae1.6][$rae16 to 0]]@@ <</if>>\

You have @@.c;<<listbox "$scolor" autoselect>> <<option "fair" fair>> <<option "rosy" rosy>> <<option "tan" tan>> <<option "olive" olive>> <<option "brown" brown>> <<option "dark" dark>> <</listbox>>@@ skin and a @@.c;<<listbox "$body" autoselect>> <<option "regular" regular>> <<option "bony" bony>> <<option "lean" lean>> <<option "muscular" muscular>> <<option "curvy" curvy>> <<option "chubby" chubby>> <</listbox>>@@ body. You are considered @@.c;<<listbox "$height" autoselect>> <<option "short" short>> <<option "average height" average>> <<option "rather tall" rather tall>> <<option "tall" tall>> <<option "imposing" imposing>> <<option "towering" towering>> <</listbox>>@@. You have @@.c;<<listbox "$chest" autoselect>> <<option "breasts" breasts>> <<option "pecs" pecs>> <</listbox>>@@ and a @@.c;<<listbox "$gen" autoselect>> <<option "pussy" pussy>> <<option "penis" penis>> <</listbox>>@@. Your eye color is @@.c;<<listbox "$eyes" autoselect>> <<option "grey" grey>> <<option "blue" blue>> <<option "green" green>> <<option "hazel" hazel>> <<option "honey brown" "honey brown">> <<option "dark brown" "dark brown">> <</listbox>>@@. You have @@.c;<<listbox "$hair_type" autoselect>> <<option "straight" straight>> <<option "wavy" wavy>> <<option "curly" curly>> <<option "coily" coily>> <</listbox>>@@, @@.c;<<listbox "$hair_color" autoselect>> <<option "black" black>> <<option "dark brown" "dark brown">> <<option "light brown" "light brown">> <<option "auburn" auburn>> <<option "red" red>> <<option "strawberry blonde" "strawberry blonde">> <<option "light blonde" "light blonde">> <<option "dark blonde" "dark blonde">> <</listbox>>@@, @@.c;<<listbox "$hair_lenght" autoselect>> <<option "buzzed short" buzzed>> <<option "ear length" "ear length">> <<option "shoulder length" "shoulder length">> <<option "medium length" "medium">> <<option "waist length" "waist length">> <</listbox>>@@ hair. Facial hair? @@.c;<<listbox "$facial" autoselect>> <<option "none" none>> <<option "shaved" shaved>> <<option "stubble" stubble>> <<option "moustache" moustache>> <<option "beard" beard>> <<option "van dyke" van dyke>> <<option "goatee" goatee>> <</listbox>>@@ Do you wear glasses? @@.c;<<listbox "$glasses" autoselect>> <<option "No" 0>> <<option "Yes" 1>> <</listbox>>@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Looks good!]]@@

<<if $rae16 is 1>>\ “You can stay the night.” Your words almost slur, either from tiredness or ecstasy, you can’t tell for sure. You watch her with half lidded eyes as she pulls her panda up hastily and chuckles. “You going back on your word? Hope you’re not going soft on me, $name.” She teases, shirt now over her head. Even in your state, one foot already in the land of sleep, you register the error you made in assuming she’d even want to stay. You wonder momentarily what was her relationship with the actual Sovereign, what understandings they had? Between the sleep deprived and blissed out questions in your mind, it comes back to you that you, the fake Sovereign, don’t even know her name. <<else>>\ You take your time to examine her, even through half lidded eyes and muddy thoughts. She pulls her pants up hastily, looking like she can’t wait to bolt out the room. You can’t help asking yourself if it’s because of you, but remorse did little now. You also wonder what was her relationship with the actual Sovereign, what understandings they had? Between the sleep deprived and blissed out questions in your mind, it comes back to you that you, the fake Sovereign, don’t even know her name. <</if>> “This was fun, as always.” She sweeps her good hand over her hair, smoothing out the worst of the errand strands. She passes a glance over your form, spread out on the bed, as if admitting her work of art one last time before striding to the door. “Sweet dreams, $name.” Her low, rumbling voice echoes through the room as you fully close your eyes, lulling you into a dreamless sleep. The last thing you remember is rolling your naked body into the sheet on top of the bed and the soft click of the door as it closed behind her. Whatever comes next, you’ll deal with it tomorrow. @@.c;⚙ [[Chapter 2]]@@

<<if $blythe1 is "intimidating">> <<set $intimidating to $intimidating + 2>>\ You didn’t want to make a scene, but the crying and hugging was making you rather uncomfortable, especially since you didn’t know the woman and she thought you were someone else entirely. You grabbed her gently by the shoulders and pushed her away from you. <<elseif $blythe1 is "friendly">>\ <<set $friendly to $friendly + 2>>\ <<set $b_rel to $b_rel + 3>>\ You let your own arms circle around her, bringing her in a friendly embrace. You didn't know the woman, but she seemed to have cared for the person you were walking around as. If you could give any kind of comfort to this grieving girl, who were you to deny her? <<elseif $blythe1 is "sarcastic">>\ <<set $sarcastic to $sarcastic + 2>>\ “It’s not like I died or something.” You try to deflect, but she only starts crying harder, her lithe arms tightening around you in an impressive show of strength. <<elseif $blythe1 is "anxious">> <<set $anxious to $anxious + 2>>\ You flail your arms for a while, unsure if to hug back this stranger, despite her obvious distress. She was still an unknown to you, no matter how close she might have been to the dead $woman walking that you were playing as. In the end, you placed them on her shoulders, not quite a hug, but better than nothing. <<elseif $blythe1 is "aloof">>\ <<set $aloof to $aloof + 2>>\ <<set $b_rel to $b_rel + 3>>\ You didn’t quite know how to handle it, the whole situation being sprung on you out of the blue. So you stood there, frozen for what felt like a good few minutes while she clung to you like a lost puppy. In the end, you patted her on the back, hoping it would be enough to calm her tears. <<elseif $blythe1 is "shy">>\ <<set $b_love to $b_love + 3>>\ <<set $shy to $shy + 1>>\ You’re startled for a moment, her warm body pressed tightly against you, small fists gripping at the back of your <<if $clothes is 1 or $clothes is 3 or $clothes is 5>>blouse. <<elseif $clothes is 2>>vest. <<elseif $clothes is 4>>dress.<</if>> Heat rushed to your cheeks as you debated where to place your hands, hovering over her shoulders before setting gently on her upper back. <<elseif $blythe1 is "playful">>\ <<set $b_love to $b_love + 3>>\ <<set $playful to $playful + 1>>\ You’re startled for a moment, her warm body pressed tightly against you, small fists gripping at the back of your <<if $clothes is 1 or $clothes is 3 or $clothes is 5>>blouse. <<elseif $clothes is 2>>vest. <<elseif $clothes is 4>>dress.<</if>> But it’s a nice feeling having her so close, you realise as you place your arms in what you hope it’s a comforting hug. <<elseif $blythe1 is "misc">>\ <<set $b_love to $b_love + 3>>\ <<set $misc to $misc + 1>>\ You’re startled for a moment, her warm body pressed tightly against you, small fists gripping at the back of your <<if $clothes is 1 or $clothes is 3 or $clothes is 5>>blouse. <<elseif $clothes is 2>>vest. <<elseif $clothes is 4>>dress.<</if>> There was something very enchanting in the desperation of her hug. You wrapped your arms around her and pressed her even closer to you, enjoying the way her body moulded onto yours. <<elseif $blythe1 is "ditzy">>\ <<set $b_love to $b_love + 3>>\ <<set $ditzy to $ditzy + 1>>\ <<set $b_rel to $b_rel + 3>>\ You’re startled for a moment, her warm body pressed tightly against you, small fists gripping at the back of your <<if $clothes is 1 or $clothes is 3 or $clothes is 5>>blouse. <<elseif $clothes is 2>>vest. <<elseif $clothes is 4>>dress.<</if>> You are a bit unsure about hugging this stranger, but decided to place your arm around her, stroking her back in a calming manner. <</if>>\ “I don’t know how-” She said between hiccups when she took a step back, big doe like eyes logging at you from behind her round glasses. “But thank the Metalfather you’re here!” She broke into a shy smile, tears still glistening on her round cheeks. You were suddenly dreading this encounter. From all the people you could have met on your little exploration, you seemed to have stumbled on one that was actually close to the late Sovereign. She spoke to you with a familiarity you doubted you could mimic, seeing as you knew nothing about her and what her expectations were of you. “Yes, I’m as good as I can be, after such an event.” You spewed the most generic thing you could think about, hoping to extract yourself from the conversation as fast as possible. In turn, the woman nodded vigorously, hands now fisted into the frilly white apron she had over her puffy knee-length dress. “The empire would have been in complete disarray without you.” She pushed her glasses up her nose, looking bashful for a moment. “And with Keyon in such a state…” Her words hung in the air, making you feel like an intruder once more. You should have waited for the stupid lordling to give you more information about the place and the people you were supposed to already know and have standing relationships with. This woman could have been best friends with Sovereign, but to you she was a complete stranger. A heavy silence pressed over the room, her eyes cast down in thoughts, your flitting from her to the room, looking for the first excuse you could find to scurry back to your room. The excuse decided to find you, in the form of a small grey ball of fur that launched itself at you, claws out and ready. You yelped in surprise, catching the animal by the contraption it was attached to - something between a glider and actual functional looking wings. It took the woman a few moments longer to notice the beast hissing and pawing at you, finally springing into action. “Mitzi, bad kitty!” She scooped the cat in her arms all the while not leaving her eyes off you, the little furball hissing one last time. @@.c;⚙ [[“Take that creature away from my sight!”|Blythe1.2][$blythe12 to "intimidating"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“I think we got off on the wrong foot.”|Blythe1.2][$blythe12 to "friendly"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Hiss back!|Blythe1.2][$blythe12 to "sarcastic"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“What- what is that?”|Blythe1.2][$blythe12 to "anxious"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Stare at the creature dumbfounded.|Blythe1.2][$blythe12 to "aloof"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“Thank you.”|Blythe1.2][$blythe12 to "shy"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“It’s quite alright.”|Blythe1.2][$blythe12 to "playful"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“Well, your presence is worth a few scratches.”|Blythe1.2][$blythe12 to "misc"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“Ah, it’s alright. No harm done.”|Blythe1.2][$blythe12 to "ditzy"]]@@

<<if $blythe12 is "intimidating">>\ <<set $intimidating to $intimidating + 2>>\ “Take that creature away from my sight!” You batted your hand at it, as the cat was still swatting a clawed paw your way. It gave you an even more ferocious look as the woman nestled it to her chest. <<elseif $blythe12 is "friendly">>\ <<set $friendly to $friendly + 2>>\ <<set $b_rel to $b_rel + 3>>\ “I think we got off on the wrong foot.” You said cheerfully. You couldn’t blame the little guy, it was an animal and you must have spooked it. As if on cue, the cat seemed to relax slightly, eyeing you with curiosity instead. <<elseif $blythe12 is "sarcastic">>\ <<set $sarcastic to $sarcastic + 2>>\ “Hiiss!” It was not one of your proudest moments, but it seemed appropriate somehow given that you were attacked. The cat was perplexed, cocking its head first, then giving you a dirty look. <<elseif $blythe12 is "anxious">>\ <<set $anxious to $anxious + 2>>\ “What- what is that?” You stated at the seemingly ordinary house cat, the harness and retractable wings made of copper and a dark fabric. “Oh, you remember Mitzi, surely.” She gently petted the cat, scratching its chin and distractign the animal from its prey. “Right, Mitzi.” <<elseif $blythe12 is "aloof">>\ <<set $aloof to $aloof + 2>>\ <<set $b_rel to $b_rel + 3>>\ You couldn’t take your eyes off the animal - a seemingly ordinary house cat, with fluffy grey coat. What was odd about it, was the leather harness attached to it, from which copper and black wings spread out. It was… inventive, to say the least. <<elseif $blythe12 is "shy">>\ <<set $b_love to $b_love + 3>>\ <<set $shy to $shy + 1>>\ “Thank you.” You say, admiring the way her delicate fingers stroked the cat’s fur. She seemed like such a gentle soul, bubbly and compassionate, even from the little interaction you had so far. <<elseif $blythe12 is "playful">>\ <<set $b_love to $b_love + 3>>\ <<set $playful to $playful + 1>>\ “It’s quite alright.” You say, admiring the way she looked at the cat in her arms, compassion shining through her gentle brown eyes. <<elseif $blythe12 is "misc">>\ <<set $b_love to $b_love + 3>>\ <<set $misc to $misc + 1>>\ “Well, your presence is worth a few scratches.” You say, taking advantage of the moment to admire her form - curvy and cute, most of her covered in ruffles, but the underbust cinching in her delicate waist. <<elseif $blythe12 is "ditzy">>\ <<set $b_love to $b_love + 3>>\ <<set $ditzy to $ditzy + 1>>\ <<set $b_rel to $b_rel + 3>>\ “Ah, it’s alright. No harm done.” You say as you take a better look at her. She’s distracted for a moment, scratching the kitty’s chin with long delicate fingers, the love she had for the little furball obvious on her face. <</if>>\ “It’s so strange though, she’s usually defensive only with strangers.” The woman eyes you up and down quickly and finally sets her warm gaze on your face, taking in every detail. You notice for the first time the puffiness of her eyes, not quite as bloodshot as the lord’s, but it was still clear she had been crying over something. Her gaze shifted to your hand, a thin straight scratch adorning your skin where the murder kitten landed a blow. “You’re not healing.” The statement, you thought, was not accusatory on its own, just a fact she remarked while looking at you. She was not backing away in horror, because there was no logical way she could come to the conclusion that Sovereign was a completely different person from another dimension. If that was even what was happening. No, she was waiting for you to fill in the gaps in her understanding of the situation, and you ponder if you should try telling her the actual truth. @@.c;⚙ [[Tell her.|Blythe1.3][$btruth to 1]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Telling her is a bad idea.|Blythe1.3][$btruth to 0]]@@

<<if $btruth is 1>>\ “What if I told you I’m not Sovereign?” “But… You look the same.” She cocked her head to the side, a few long locs cascading over her shoulder. “Who do you think you are then?” “I’m $name.” “$name $surname?” When you nod, she goes on. “The person you were before ascending?” You didn’t even fully grasp what that meant, but you assumed the sentiment was somewhat mutual on her side. “No, an entirely different person altogether. I -” You stopped yourself for a moment, wondering how crazy she’d think you are. But you already started explaining, might as well get it over with. “I’m not from this world.” She scrunched her nose, browns furrowing. It took her a few heartbeats to answer, the silence deafening. “I want to believe you, I really do. But you look the same and have the same name… Maybe it’s the stress getting to you.” “Yeah, maybe.” You may have thought you were losing your mind too, but that lord saw something in you that was clearly different from their version of Sovereign. <<elseif $btruth is 0>>\ “Yes well, last night took a toll on me. Lord Dalgliesh and I will have to look into it more in the morning.” It had not been such a blank statement as you thought it would be. The woman scrunched her nose, browns furrowing, eyes not leaving the little wound on your hand. She did not believe you, but there was little you could do. “Yes, best to have //Keyon// check. Might be something wrong with your aether.” “We shall see.” You made a quick note that the lord’s first name was Keyon, the very same she mentioned mere moments ago. You hoped you didn’t blow up your cover too bad. <</if>>\ “I suggest a good night’s sleep. Everything will be better in the morning, $name.” You nod, already half turned towards the exit when she continued. “There’s also the ball tomorrow. Best rest up before that whole spectacle.” She waved her free hand, the other still cradling the cat. “Sleep well, $name.” “You too.” You can’t recall a time in your life where you rushed out of a room faster, all the while trying to look calm. Once the door was closed behind you, you dashed down the crumpled staircase and back into your chamber. That was enough exploring for the day. @@.c;⚙ [[Look around the room.|Meet Eli]]@@

<<if $eli1 is "intimidating">>\ <<set $intimidating to $intimidating + 2>>\ You saw red at that moment. The audacity of this person to just break into your room like that, in the middle of the night. <<elseif $eli1 is "friendly">>\ <<set $friendly to $friendly + 2>>\ You didn’t think much of the question initially, just trying to diffuse the odd tension in his voice. In hindsight, the answer should have been clear, but you had been having an awfully exhausting and confusing day. <<elseif $eli1 is "sarcastic">>\ <<set $sarcastic to $sarcastic + 2>>\ <<set $e_rel to $e_rel + 3>>\ You just couldn't get a break, could you? It had been one thing after another ever since you got off that damned bus and a part of you just couldn’t take it anymore. You were exhausted. <<elseif $eli1 is "anxious">>\ <<set $anxious to $anxious + 2>>\ You weren’t sure if it was just the panic of having an intruder, just after an assassination attempt, or just the general exhaustion at the end of an eventful day. But you did realise how utterly stupid the question was after you asked it. <<elseif $eli1 is "aloof">>\ <<set $aloof to $aloof + 2>>\ <<set $e_rel to $e_rel + 3>>\ You looked the intruder straight into the eyes, noting the various flashes of emotion passing through them, slowly realising your lapse of judgement. You blamed it on exhaustion, doubting anyone else would be faring any better in your shoes. <<elseif $eli1 is "shy">>\ <<set $e_love to $e_love + 3>>\ <<set $shy to $shy + 1>>\ You flushed at the proximity, an earthy smell, tobacco and vanilla, engulfing you. He was an intruder, sure, but you couldn’t help but wonder what those brown eyes would look like if he knew you were someone else. <<elseif $eli1 is "playful">>\ <<set $e_love to $e_love + 3>>\ <<set $playful to $playful + 1>>\ <<set $e_rel to $e_rel + 3>>\ You enjoyed the theatrics of it, going above and beyond to break into your room on the fifth floor. It also didn’t help that this intruder was quite easy on the eye, your gaze trailing the curves and edges of his neck, down to a defined chest, small black curls poking between the opened shirt. <<elseif $eli1 is "misc">>\ <<set $e_love to $e_love + 3>>\ <<set $misc to $misc + 1>>\ <<set $e_rel to $e_rel + 3>>\ There was something about the mystery of it, the possibility of danger, that just turned you on. It didn’t help that this intruder was quite easy on the eye, your gaze trailing the curves and edges of his neck, down to a defined chest, small black curls poking between the opened shirt. <<elseif $eli1 is "ditzy">>\ <<set $e_love to $e_love + 3>>\ <<set $ditzy to $ditzy + 1>>\ In your defence, you were exhausted and didn’t quite realise what you had asked. You had also been distracted by the sweet, earthy smell - tobacco and vanilla you note, inhaling it again. <</if>>\ "You…don't know who I am?" The look on his face was feral, a cold shiver running down your spine. "Is this some kind of joke to you, $name? Another one of your twisted games? “Or has the mighty //Sovereign// finally lost $their mind?" The title-name was spit out with so much venom you would have backed up if there was no desk behind you. You were taken aback by the sheer force of his anger. He was not shouting, probably not wanting to alert the guards, but the burning hatred behind each word stung nonetheless. You were lost momentarily in the intensity of those brown eyes, blown wide and pouring with emotion. “A game it is then. Oh, you know me so well. Fine then, let’s say we are meeting for the first time right now. A poor impression on my part, sneaking into your chambers like a thief in the dead of night. Right after a failed assassination attempt no less.” He tsked, shaking his head. “I could kill you right now.” He flipped a knife expertly between swift fingers, lifting it partway to your throat. But the blade never touched the skin, his hand lowering and face leaning in instead. He was so close, you could see the golden flecks in his brown eyes, twinkling with mischief. “Or perhaps I am your secret lover, here to check on your wellbeing.” His voice came out low next, a fake, over the top seductive whisper. The knife was replaced with a warm hand, calloused fingers gripping your neck not too gently. “Oh, I could not wait a second longer not knowing of your fate, my beloved $name.” @@.c;⚙ [[Push him away with all your force.|Eli1.2][$eli12 to "intimidating"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Wrap your hand around his and gently push him away.|Eli1.2][$eli12 to "friendly"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Play along while also mocking him.|Eli1.2][$eli12 to "sarcastic"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Skitter away uncomfortably.|Eli1.2][$eli12 to "anxious"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Stare at him unimpressed.|Eli1.2][$eli12 to "aloof"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Gasp, a breath caught in your throat.|Eli1.2][$eli12 to "shy"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Play along with the theatrics.|Eli1.2][$eli12 to "playful"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Push things further.|Eli1.2][$eli12 to "misc"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[Assure him you are alright after the assassination.|Eli1.2][$eli12 to "ditzy"]]@@

<<if $eli12 is "intimidating">>\ <<set $intimidating to $intimidating + 2>>\ “Get off me!” You placed your hands firmly on his toned chest and pushed him away from you. He stumbled, the frenzied look in his eyes momentarily replaced with bewilderment. He broke out into laughter, giving off an even more deranged vibe. “Didn’t think you’d take it so seriously, my nemesis.” <<elseif $eli12 is "friendly">>\ <<set $friendly to $friendly + 2>>\ “Please take your hand off me.” You placed your own hand over his and tugged and was pleasantly surprised when it came off easier than expected. The frenzied look in his eyes momentarily replaced with bewilderment. He broke out into laughter, giving off an even more deranged vibe. “My, you’re acting awfully civil tonight, nemesis.” <<elseif $eli12 is "sarcastic">>\ <<set $sarcastic to $sarcastic + 2>>\ <<set $e_rel to $e_rel + 3>>\ “It seems even faking my death couldn't keep you away, lover.” You replied theatrically, looking at him defiantly. He let go of your neck, the frenzied look in his eyes momentarily replaced with bewilderment. He broke out into laughter, giving off an even more deranged vibe. “What would I be without my nemesis, hmm?” <<elseif $eli12 is "anxious">>\ <<set $anxious to $anxious + 2>>\ “Um, I think I should go.” You tugged at his hard nervously, surprised when it came off without resistance. You moved slowly along the desk, towards the door, while he broke out into laughter, giving off an even more deranged vibe. “Didn’t think I’d see the day you run from a confrontation, nemesis.” <<elseif $eli12 is "aloof">>\ <<set $aloof to $aloof + 2>>\ <<set $e_rel to $e_rel + 3>>\ You stare at him blankly, definitely, as if asking if this was all he had. If he wanted to hurt you, he would have done so already. He let go of you after a while, breaking out into laughter, giving off an even more deranged vibe. “Stone cold as ever, my nemesis.” <<elseif $eli12 is "shy">>\ <<set $e_love to $e_love + 3>>\ <<set $shy to $shy + 1>>\ You couldn't help the small gasp escaping your lips. The pressure of his fingers wrapped tightly around your neck, his hot breath fanning over your face, it all made you incredibly flustered. He let go before you knew it, breaking out into laughter, giving off an even more deranged vibe, before leaning in to whisper into your ear. “I didn't think I’d live to see you flustered, my sweet nemesis.” You shiver again, this time for an entirely different reason. <<elseif $eli12 is "playful">>\ <<set $e_love to $e_love + 3>>\ <<set $e_rel to $e_rel + 3>>\ <<set $playful to $playful + 1>>\ “Is this what we’d be doing, if we were secret lovers in the dead of night.” You whispered, his fingers wrapped tightly around your neck sending a wave of heath over your entire body. Something flickered in those brown eyes, but he let go of you before you could tell what, then broke out into laughter, giving off an even more deranged vibe, before leaning in to whisper into your ear. “You’ve always liked playing games, my sweet nemesis.” You wondered what kind of relationship this person had with Sovereign. It sure seemed interesting. <<elseif $eli12 is "misc">>\ <<set $e_rel to $e_rel + 3>>\ <<set $e_love to $e_love + 3>>\ <<set $misc to $misc + 1>>\ “And I couldn’t wait to feel your skin against mine, darling.” You purred, your own hand racing to touch his toned chest, pushing the opened shirt aside. His skin was burning hot beneath. He let go of your neck before you knew it, breaking out into laughter, giving off an even more deranged vibe, before leaning in to whisper into your ear. “One of these days I’ll kill you, my sweet nemesis.” The implication was not today, you thought, amused. <<elseif $eli12 is "ditzy">>\ <<set $e_love to $e_love + 3>>\ <<set $ditzy to $ditzy + 1>>\ “As you can see, I am indeed very alive and well. But thanks for checking in.” You placed a hand over his, not pulling it away, but making sure he didn’t wrap his fingers tighter. The frenzied look in his eyes momentarily replaced with bewilderment. He broke out into laughter, giving off an even more deranged vibe, before leaning in to whisper into your ear. “You act as I really care, my sweet nemesis.” But if he didn't, why did he even ask? <</if>>\ The intruder, slightly troubled as he appeared, didn’t move to attack you again. Instead he started walking around the room with familiarity, brushing his fingers on surfaces and picking up a small crystal from a shelf you didn’t even notice. “Why did you do it then, stage the whole thing?” He asked, still not quite looking at you, gaze turned to random knick knacks around the room. “I didn’t. There really was an assassin. <<if $meet is 1>>A lot of people died.<</if>>” You toyed a bit with the facts you did know, hoping they would be enough to stop this little midnight interrogation. “But this assassin didn’t get to you, so why was the rumour spread?” You were tempted to ask why he even cared, but refrained from doing so. You do wonder if maybe this would be a good subway into the fact that Sovereign did die and you were not the same person. Whatever beef this person had, it was not with you. You could, maybe, even become allies. @@.c;⚙ [[Come clean about your identity.|Eli1.3]]@@ <<if $ttruth is 1>>\ @@.c;⚙ [[You can’t just keep telling people your secret!|Eli1.3]]@@ <<else>>\ @@.c;⚙ [[You needed to learn more about this person first.|Eli1.3]]@@ <</if>>\

You didn’t manage to finish the sentence. <<if $meet is 1>>Thane <<else>>A mountain of a man clad in black<</if>> burst through the door and launched himself after the intruder. A heavy sword was swung inches away from you, right where the stranger had been a moment ago. They both moved incredibly fast, but you felt the odd power inside your chest come to life again, your senses overloaded. They were fast, but you knew which way the blade would swing, you saw the flip of a knife and the moment it was thrown. It plunged into the soldier’s shoulder, but he didn’t seem to even notice it. “Ah well, I see they gave you a new hound.” The stranger turned his gaze to the imposing guard, his body taunt, ready to jump back into action at the smallest movement. “I wonder how long you will last, boy.” He then jumped out the window. “Rusts!” <<if $meet is 1>>Thane <<else>>The guard<</if>> cursed under his breath, running to check the window, before quickly coming to your side. “Are you alright, Sovereign?” His face was calm, but there was just a hint of worry in his voice. @@.c;⚙ [[“Could have been better.”|Thane1.4][$thane14 to "intimidating"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“You should get that checked.”|Thane1.4][$thane14 to "friendly"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“Better than you, obviously.”|Thane1.4][$thane14 to "sarcastic"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“Is the intruder gone?”|Thane1.4][$thane14 to "anxious"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“I think so, yes.”|Thane1.4][$thane14 to "aloof"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“I’m, umm, you have a dagger in you!”|Thane1.4][$thane14 to "shy"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“You should worry about yourself.”|Thane1.4][$thane14 to "playful"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“My knight in shining armour!”|Thane1.4][$thane14 to "misc"]]@@ @@.c;⚙ [[“I’m fine, but you’re bleeding!”|Thane1.4][$thane14 to "ditzy"]]@@

<<if $thane14 is "intimidating">>\ <<set $intimidating to $intimidating + 2>>\ “Could have been better.” You dusted yourself off as if the whole thing had been just a minor inconvenience. He in turn did a little once over, assessing any harm done to you. <<elseif $thane14 is "friendly">>\ <<set $friendly to $friendly + 2>>\ <<set $t_rel to $t_rel + 3>>\ “You should get that checked.” You said, more worried about the dagger still poking out of his shoulder. He ignored your remark, assessing if there was any harm done to you instead. <<elseif $thane14 is "sarcastic">>\ <<set $sarcastic to $sarcastic + 2>>\ “Better than you, obviously.” You pointed at the dagger poking out of his shoulder. He ignored your remark, assessing if there was any harm done to you instead. <<elseif $thane14 is "anxious">>\ <<set $anxious to $anxious + 2>>\ “Is the intruder gone?” You asked, barely able to hide the tremble in your voice. He momentarily ignored your question, doing a little once over first, assessing any harm done to you. <<elseif $thane14 is "aloof">>\ <<set $aloof to $aloof + 2>>\ “I’m fine, but you’re bleeding!” You gestured towards his shoulder, bright red blood pooling, albeit slowly, down the leather armour. He ignored your remark, assessing if there was any harm done to you instead. <<elseif $thane14 is "shy">>\ <<set $t_love to $t_love + 1>>\ <<set $shy to $shy + 1>>\ “I’m, umm, you have a dagger in you!” You stammered, hating the fact that he was hurt because of you. He ignored your remark, assessing if there was any harm done to you instead. <<elseif $thane14 is "playful">>\ <<set $t_love to $t_love + 1>>\ <<set $playful to $playful + 1>>\ “You should worry about yourself.” You said, barely able to hide the worry in your voice. He ignored your remark, assessing if there was any harm done to you instead. <<elseif $thane14 is "misc">>\ <<set $t_love to $t_love + 1>>\ <<set $misc to $misc + 1>>\ “My knight in shining armour!” You placed a hand on his upper arm, his muscles contracting even under the thick leather armour. He ignored your remark, assessing if there was any harm done to you instead. <<elseif $thane14 is "ditzy">>\ <<set $t_love to $t_love + 1>>\ <<set $ditzy to $ditzy + 1>>\ “I’m fine, but you’re bleeding!” You shouted, panicked by the bright red blood slowly leaking out of his shoulder. He ignored your remark, assessing if there was any harm done to you instead.<</if>> Once he was satisfied that you were uninjured, he made another sweep of the room, double checking the latches on the windows, his gloved hand resting on each for a couple of seconds. When done, he came back to you dutifully, as if giving a report. “That riff-raff is gone. I’ll be outside your door until morning in case they come back.” “With that stuck in your shoulder?” You point at the He pulls the small dagger out with ease, not a hint of pain on his face. He pressed a corner of his heavy clack to the wound and turned his steel gaze on you. “It will heal in a few hours” You wanted to protest that there was no way it could heal that fast, but you assumed he knew better. The power surging in your veins was testament that there was more to this world than you initially thought. “Do you want me to get someone for you? Lord Dalgliesh or Lady Haywarde?” “No, no, don’t disturb him.” You didn’t know what the relationship Sovereign had with the lord, he clearly needed some time to adjust to everything - his ruler dying, then coming back to life… only to find they were a different person. The lady, you had no idea and no energy to deal with. “It can wait until morning.” “As you wish, Your Majesty.” He saluted and left the room, leaving you alone once more, just you and your confused thoughts swirling in your brain, looking for logic and reason in any of the events that happened during the day. You stayed in place for a few heartbeats, trying to process everything that’s happened so far. You had some kind of panic attack while getting off the bus, and were transported, somehow, to a dystopian steampunk empire that coincided with the book you serendipitously picked up from an antique shop. You woke up on an altar, in the body of the ruler of this land, who by pure chance, was your identical twin. Then to top it all off, an intruder broke into your ‘royal’ chamber. Yes, this was going to be an adventure. You just hoped you’ll make it out alive at the end of it all. You dragged your tired legs to the bed, slipping off your shoes and whatever item of clothing came off easier. You were curious what the discussion with the lord will shed light on, but that was a problem for tomorrow. As was the ball he mentioned. Tonight, all you wanted to do was sleep. And hopefully when you woke up you’d be in your own bed, back home. @@.c;⚙ [[Chapter 2]]@@

You have $scolor skin and a $body body. You are considered $height. You have $chest and a $gen. Your eye color $eyes<<if $glasses is 1>> and you wear glasses<</if>>. You have $hair_type, $hair_color hair, kept $hair_lenght. How do you usually style it? <<if $hair_lenght is "buzzed">>\ @@.c;<<listbox "$style" autoselect>> <<option "line-up" line-up>> <<option "tapered buzz cut" buzz cut>> <<option "mid fade" mid fade>> <<option "bald shave" shaved>><</listbox>>@@ <<elseif $hair_lenght is "ear length">>\ @@.c;<<listbox "$style" autoselect>> <<option "toussled" toussled>> <<option "side part" side part>> <<option "pomp" pomp>> <<option "pixie cut" pixie cut>> <<option "bob" bob>><</listbox>>@@ <<else>>\ @@.c;<<listbox "$style" autoselect>> <<option "long and loose" long and loose>> <<option "top bun" top bun>> <<option "low bun" low bun>> <<option "ponytail" ponytail>> <<option "elaborate braid" braid>> <<option "locs" locs>> <</listbox>>@@<</if>>\ <<if $facial is "none">>You have no facial hair. <<elseif $facial is "shaved">>You usually shave your facial hair. <<else>>You keep your facial hair in a $facial.<</if>>\ [[Return to Game.|$return]]

You've reached the end of the WIP. Thank you for playing so far. Chapter 2 will be released as soon as I finish it. :) In the meantime you can: [[Check out the Tumblr Dev blog|https://aetherhollowarchive.tumblr.com]] <nav> <<link "Play again">><<run UI.restart();>><</link>> </nav>

The Aetherhollow Archive is a steampunk romance soaked in a gallon of magic. It is set in Summersmead, the fictional empire from the book you are sucked into.

Four years after the Chosen One failed to save their world, you find yourself in the shoes of the presumed, and freshly murdered, villain of the story - ostentatiously called Sovereign. You embark on a journey to unfold the mysteries of this new world and find a way home.

But with your killer lurking in the shadows, who can you trust?

Genre: Steampunk, Fantasy, Romance, Mystery.

Warnings: This story will be rated 18+ for depictions of death, violence, strong language, sexual themes, alcohol consumption, blood, etc.

You can hit me up at any time if you think I should add a certain warning or fix errors or generally any questions you may have. It would be greatly appreciated.

Tumblr Dev blog

⚙ Short game mechanics intro.

⚙ Onward with the story!