*disable_reuse *label password Thanks so much for reading the demo. Make sure you stay tuned to the Choice of Games Forum for more information on the next update! See you soon! Godspeed and God bless Odessa! To proceed further, you must have a password, which I have only given out to a select few. Please do not DM me or members of the testing team for the password. You will be ignored and multiple requests for the password will get you reported. Enter the password to proceed. *choice #Enter password. *input_text password *if password = "theodgamestesters" *set password true *goto continuehere *elseif password = false *gosub yunolisten *label yunolisten Too bad, you didn't listen. *gosub password *label continuehere First to enter the room is Doodles. Her blonde hair is arranged into a messy top bun that would've looked unkempt if anybody else attempted it, yet she wears it well. Her makeup is much more subdued than yesterday, but still a bit much for a simple breakfast. It's hard to see what she wears for sleeping clothes, as a pink, fluffy robe covers her entire frame. Behind her is an exasperated looking Guard. She quickly takes a seat, wasting no time in ordering a vanilla iced coffee and a vegetable omelet before turning her attention to the table. "I wonder what drama awaits us today…" Melanie grimaces. "Hopefully nothing. We're preparing for the first challenge. Surely things should be calm in the beginning." Doodles tsks and reaches for a jug containing a mimosa mix, clearly not wanting to wait for her coffee to arrive. "You have a lot to learn about reality TV, babe." *page_break Just as Doodles' coffee and food arrives, Cass strolls in, looking like ${cass_he_she_they} just rolled out of bed. "Morning folks!" Cass gives everybody in attendance a half-hearted salute before waving to the cameras stationed around the room. "Oh! Good morning to the people at home who don't have to deal with this bullshit!" Cass settles near Bex and doesn't even bother looking through the menu. "D, ya look amazing in the robe. Loud, but amazing," Cass compliments, scooting ${cass_his_her_their} chair back a bit to balance on its back legs, just like yesterday. Doodles raises an eyebrow and doesn't even acknowledge the compliment, opting to pour another mimosa. "Ouch, tough crowd," Cass says, looking over at you instead. "Maybe you'll talk, $!{player_first_name}. What should I eat for breakfast today?" *fake_choice #"How about shit?" I smirk afterwards. *set sarcastic +1 *set snarky %+10 *set cass %+10 "Ha, ha. Very funny." Cass rolls ${cass_his_her_their} eyes and lowers ${cass_his_her_their} chair in order to reach for a menu. "Am I the only morning person here?" "Not at all." Everybody turns towards Ridge, who rolls into the room wearing an Odessa Wheelers t-shirt with matching sweatpants. "I just finished a workout. Feel free to join me next time, Cass," he offers with a wide smile. "If I'm not up before the sun, I'm late." Cass cringes, probably not too eager to do something so strenuous so early. "Hmm, I don't know about exercise, but I'll be sure to hit you up so I won't have to roam the halls alone at least," Cass replies with a smile. "Menu's on the table." Ridge thanks ${cass_him_her_them} and finds a seat near Bex, but pretty far away from everybody else. #"You know how to read. Just pick up a menu," I yawn. *set rude +1 *set snarky %+10 *set cass %+5 "You're no fun, $!{player_first_name}." Cass does eventually pick up a menu, scanning it over. While doing so, Ridge enters the room looking rather energized. "Morning, all!" He exclaims, coming to a stop near Bex, but a bit far away from the rest of the contestants. "Hope you all slept well." Doodles takes a long sip of her coffee, waving her fingers in Ridge's direction. "Perfect, dear. Thanks for asking!" #I look around awkwardly, hyper-aware of the cameras now. *set shy +1 *set bold %-10 *set cass %+5 Cass opens ${royal_his_her_their} mouth to continue further, but freezes after noticing your apprehension. "Alright, eggs and bacon it is." The conversation around the table lulls a bit, until Ridge arrives wearing an Odessa Wheelers t-shirt with matching sweatpants. "Morning, everyone! Hope you all slept well!" Bex massages their temples as Ridge moves to sit near them. "As well as one can be when summoned here against their will," they reply, which prompts a laugh from Ridge. "There's worse places to be." #"Check out the menu. You should find something in there you like. I certainly did!" *set charming +1 *set cass %+15 *set snarky %-10 "Good to know, babe. Thanks for the tip," Cass replies, yanking a menu away from Bex's area, much to their dismay. "Ooh…stuffed French toast…" Before too long, Ridge enters the room, greeting those he passed by on the way to his seat, which was near Bex. "Hi $!{player_first_name}. Feel free to find me after breakfast if you want to talk to me. I had to head out early after Arrival Day, but I'd be happy to talk later on," Ridge says, giving you a wide smile as he reaches for a menu himself. *fake_choice #"Hmm, I'll think about it." *set aloof +1 *set ridge %+5 "Awesome." Ridge then looks down at the menu, mentally trying to decide what he wanted to eat. #"Great! I'll definitely hit you up." *set ridge %+10 *set charming +1 "Nice to hear!" Ridge smiles even wider, before his stomach seems to distract him and he begins to focus intensely on the menu in front of him. #"I can think of nothing I would rather do less." *set ridge %-15 *set rude +1 "Well, if you change your mind, I'll be around," Ridge replies, with seemingly no hard feelings. Soon enough, he's focusing on the menu in front of him. #I nod. It would definitely be good to talk to Ridge later. *set ridge %+10 "Nice." Ridge smiles a bit wider before he turns his attention to his menu, mentally trying to decide what to order. #"Oh, well...maybe if I have time..." *set shy +1 *set bold %-10 *set ridge %+5 "No pressure, $!{player_first_name}. I'm always open to chat whenever!" Ridge's smile grows and it almost coaxes one out of you. He was just so…warm. Eventually, he turns away from you to focus on the menu in front of him. #"Hell if I know." Cass looks down at the menu and frowns. "Hell if I know isn't on the menu…but I'll see if the lovely Palace staff can find that for me." Cass winks, obviously joking about your answer. "Thanks for the help…sort of." Before too long, Ridge enters the room, greeting those he passed by on the way to his seat, which was near Bex. "Hi $!{player_first_name}. Feel free to find me after breakfast if you want to talk to me. I had to head out early after Arrival Day, but I'd be happy to talk later on," Ridge says, giving you a wide smile as he reaches for a menu himself. *fake_choice #"Hmm, I'll think about it." *set aloof +1 *set ridge %+5 "Awesome." Ridge then looks down at the menu, mentally trying to decide what he wanted to eat. #"Great! I'll definitely hit you up." *set ridge %+10 *set charming +1 "Nice to hear!" Ridge smiles even wider, before his stomach seems to distract him and he begins to focus intensely on the menu in front of him. #"I can think of nothing I would rather do less." *set ridge %-15 *set rude +1 "Well, if you change your mind, I'll be around," Ridge replies, with seemingly no hard feelings. Soon enough, he's focusing on the menu in front of him. #I nod. It would definitely be good to talk to Ridge later. *set ridge %+10 "Nice." Ridge smiles a bit wider before he turns his attention to his menu, mentally trying to decide what to order. #"Oh, well...maybe if I have time..." *set shy +1 *set bold %-10 *set ridge %+5 "No pressure, $!{player_first_name}. I'm always open to chat whenever!" Ridge's smile grows and it almost coaxes one out of you. He was just so…warm. Eventually, he turns away from you to focus on the menu in front of him. *page_break It's a long time before the Stylus and Robin enter the room. Breakfast is nearly over. The two enter as a pair, but quickly separate between the remaining open seating around the table. Robin's ebony hair is in a very neat top bun, a direct contrast to Doodles' bun. Her form is covered up in all white furry coat, with seemingly nothing underneath. She also has on a pair of matching white pants, though what style they are is rather hard to make out. The clicking that follows her on the way to her seat indicates that she's likely wearing heels though. Stylus, on the other hand, wears a blue dress shirt and brown slacks. The sleeves are rolled up to reveal his forearms, which are bare save for a watch on his right wrist. The two don't say anything to anybody else in the room, but you do think it's interesting that they enter together. Do you bring it up? *fake_choice #No way. They probably ran into each other on the way here. Not a big deal. Plenty of people enter doors together all the time. You decide not to say anything and neither does anybody else. *page_break *goto royalarrive #Sure, I love being messy. *set robin %-5 *set stylus %-5 *set laurel %+5 *set cunning %+5 *set snarky %+5 You wait until the two of them sit down to decide what they want for breakfast before you start to talk. "Looks like you two are chummy," you begin, looking over at Robin for starters. She raises an eyebrow, abandoning the menu for now. "I'd hardly call walking together friendly, but sure, $!{player_first_name}," she replies. Stylus scoffs. "So walking is illegal now?" He adds. You throw your hands up in the air. "I'm just saying I could've sworn we were all placed throughout the palace so we would rarely run into each other," you say. "But whatever, since you're not friends and all." No sooner do your hands lower, does the rest of the room begin to whisper among themselves. Messy mission accomplished. *page_break *goto royalarrive #I want to, but everybody would probably ignore me... *set bold %-5 You bite down on your lip, thinking the action over. Sure, it would be nice to see if there was anything more to the walk, but it would definitely backfire if you had to be in charge of it. You ultimately decide not to say anything and neither does anybody else. *page_break *goto royalarrive #No thanks. I'd rather keep on enjoying breakfast. *set bold %-5 *set formal %-5 It's been mostly calm since breakfast began. Why ruin that? You decide not to say anything and neither does anybody else. *page_break *goto royalarrive #I don't want to, but I'd be happy to make somebody else do it. *set robin %-5 *set stylus %-5 *set laurel %+5 *set cunning %+5 As much as you'd love to make things messier, you don't think you'll be able to pull a call out off, not without help, at least. You look around to see who you could coax into talking. Before you could find somebody to talk to, Laurel stands up in a rush, holding a glass in his hand. "A toast!" He exclaims, raising his glass higher. "To everybody that showed up relatively on time…and alone!" Doodles immediately raises her glass, winking at her friend. "Cheers!" Stylus immediately stands up, rattling some dishes on the table as he does so. "Just what the hell is that supposed to mean?" He demands. *page_break Laurel raises a hand to his chest and lets out a soft gasp. "It's just an innocent toast! But really, Stylus, did you think nobody would notice or care about you and Robin entering together?" "I don't care," Bex replies, swirling around a glass of water loaded with ice cubes in their hand. Laurel cuts his eyes in Bex's direction. "Thank you, mood ruiner. Anyways…" Robin just shakes her head, almost fondly. "Laurel, we're just in an alliance. Every show has one. Is that so hard to believe?" She asks, raising her eyebrow at the boy. "I mean, they always dissolve before the end, but you do you, Robin," Laurel says, sliding back down into his seat. The conversation eventually moves on and when he gets a chance, Laurel leans over to whisper in your ear. "Well, we sort of got an answer…I guess." *page_break *goto royalarrive *label royalarrive *if (royal_personality = "charming") "Good morning everyone!" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} enters the room with a wide smile. Melanie and Laurel stumble to their feet, trying to bow toward ${royal_him_her_them} but $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} waves them down with a smile. "Please, continue to enjoy breakfast," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} insists, taking the last empty seat after crossing the room. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} briefly turns towards a nearby Guard and whispers into their ear, presumably ${royal_his_her_their} breakfast order. Once the Guard leaves, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} turns to the group. "Welcome to Cooper Hall, named after one of our first press secretaries. Of course, back then title was a bit different," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} says. "I recognize that this environment might be a bit different for a lot of you, but I hope you enjoy it all the same." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} pauses just for a moment as ${royal_his_her_their} food arrives. "I'm sure you have many questions about the first challenge. Feel free to ask them as I dine," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} finishes before cutting into ${royal_his_her_their} food. *page_break *label charmingquestions *fake_choice #I've got nothing to ask. *goto charmingend #"What are you eating?" *set royal %+5 Stylus snorts. "And what does that have to do with the challenge?" He asks. Laurel rolls his eyes, taking a sip from his drink. "It's something called being curious and nice. Can't wait for you to try it," he replies with an eye roll. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} chuckles a bit and looks at you. "A veggie omelet, $!{player_first_name}," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} answers. "I don't usually eat meat in the mornings." *page_break *goto charmingquestions #"Do we win something at the end of the challenge?" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} nods, setting down ${royal_his_her_their} utensils. "Yes. If you win the first challenge, you win an entire day together with me as a prize. No cameras as well," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} answers, earning gasps from most of the table. As for your own reaction… *fake_choice #I gasp too. A whole day with $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}? Sign me up! #I gasp, but not out of excitement. How intimidating... *set shy +1 #I don't gasp, but I'm excited about the prize. #I groan. What a stupid prize. *set rude +1 #I don't have any visible reaction. *set aloof +1 #I smirk to myself. A whole day alone, eh? *set flirty +1 $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} seems amused at the reactions in the room. "Well, I'm not sure I would be as excited if the tables were turned, but I do appreciate it," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} says before continuing ${royal_his_her_their} meal. *page_break *goto charmingquestions #"How will we know who we face off against?" "It'll be all random at first,"$!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} begins, "Then, as people are eliminated, you'll be paired with another winner. Similar to one of those game tournament bracket things." "Oh! Like a video game tournament!" Laurel exclaims suddenly, earning a nod and a smile from $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}. "The very same. I don't think I even own a console, but you're correct, Laurel." Said male looks like he's about to faint or explode or both. "R-Right, Your Highness," he replies, clearly over the moon $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} acknowledged him. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} pauses quickly to take a sip of juice before continuing. "First, second and third place winners will get 15, 10 and 5 points, respectfully. After that, fourth place will get four, fifth place will get get three, so on and so forth. Hopefully that answers everything, but if not, your coach can give you further clarification." *page_break *goto charmingquestions #"What's the best way to study for this?" "Definitely make sure that you're aware of a lot of Odessan history. The library should be able to help you," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} answers with a smile. *page_break *goto charmingquestions #"Is this going to be televised?" "Yes. You guys are all camera ready, so don't worry," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} assures. *page_break *goto charmingquestions *label charmingend "Well, if nobody else has any questions, I must leave. I've got a few things to attend to before the day is over. Please look around the Palace. There's plenty to explore," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} says, sliding ${royal_his_her_their} plate away from ${royal_his_her_their} body before rising and exiting the room without another word. "Well, guess that's over," Cass eventually says, breaking the silence. "Now, who's ready to get this show started?" *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp *if (royal_personality = "sarcastic") Conversations around the room continue until the arrival of $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}, who comes in so quietly, you almost don't notice. "What's all the chatter about?" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} asks while plopping down at ${royal_his_her_their} seat. Melanie, Doodles and Laurel all jump at the sound of ${royal_his_her_their} voice, while the rest of the table has varying reactions from amusement to annoyance. "You, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}," Stylus manages to answer. He's surprised. "Duh…right. Glad you guys got to enjoy all the delicious food before I could." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} briefly turns towards a nearby guard and does some sort of signal with ${royal_his_her_their} eyebrows before turning back to the group. "So…I'm sure you have many questions about the first challenge. That's why I'm here. Definitely that and not because Dad couldn't be bothered to come down here due to ally conflicts or whatever." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} rolls ${royal_his_her_their} eyes and smiles towards the group. "Well, I'm all ears." *page_break *label sarcasticquestions *fake_choice #Actually, I've got nothing to ask. *goto sarcasticend #"Do we win something at the end of the challenge?" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} nods. "Of course! What kind of host Tiggy, my family and I be if we didn't?" Several beats of silence follows ${royal_his_her_their} words. "So what do we win?" Laurel asks, eyebrow raised just a fraction. "Oh! Just a whole day together with me. Nothing too crazy." "Nothing too crazy?" He laughs. "We have differing ideas of crazy then, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}. But thanks for answering." *page_break *goto rudequestions #"How will we know who we face off against?" "It'll be all random at first,"$!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} begins. "But when people start getting eliminated—" $!{royal_title} ${royal_first_name} stops abruptly when a Guard places a plate full of breakfast foods in front of ${royal_him_her_them}. "What would I do without you…" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} seems to struggle with the individual's name, though they take it in stride. "Albert, Your Highness." "Albert. Of course!" $!{royal_title} !{royal_first_name} exclaims. "Albert, my savior. Please tell everybody gathered here what happens next while I dine." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} begins to eat, but soon stops after hearing a lack of talking from Albert. "My apologizes, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}. I was told to just deliver your food." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s eyes widen. "How rude of me. Let me finish explaining then!" *page_break "So, when people start getting eliminated, the pairings will be random. After the first challenge is over, you'll be given points based on where you landed." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} pauses quickly to take a sip of juice before continuing. "Uh…what was next? Oh! First, second and third place winners will get 15, 10 and 5 points, respectfully. After that, fourth place will get four, fifth place will get get three, so on and so forth. Hope that answers everything because I would sure love to eat." *page_break *goto sarcasticquestions #"What's the best way to study for this?" "I mean, I'd study, if you're not up to date on history or royal customs," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} begins before shrugging. "Or you can just say screw it and wing it. That's what I did for all my lessons." *page_break *goto sarcasticquestions #"Is this going to be televised?" "Yep, all of it, up until the finals!" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} replies, rather eagerly. "Hope you like cameras." *page_break *goto sarcasticquestions *label sarcasticend *comment left off here "Great questions everyone," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} says, downing a bit of ${royal_his_her_their} eggs with juice. "However, I'd love to eat in peace, so…I'm afraid you'll have to leave. This room, at least." Bex wastes no time getting up from their chair and leaving the room without so much of a goodbye. Ridge follows suit, giving $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} a wave before leaving as well. The $!{royal_title} continues to eat as people slowly leave. Before you realize it, you, Cass and $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} are the only people left. Shortly after $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} stands up from ${royal_his_her_their} chair, a guard comes behind ${royal_him_her_them} and whispers into ${royal_his_her_their} ear. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} groans, making no effort to hide ${royal_his_her_their} rolling eyes. "Of course he wants to speak with me now after sending me here to do his stupid bidding," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} mutters. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} doesn't even bother to say goodbye to anybody else in the room, leaving just as quickly as ${royal_he_she_they} came. "Well, guess that's over," Cass says, leaning back in his chair once again. "Guess we're on our own now." *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp *if (royal_personality = "rude") Conversations around the room slowly begin to fade the longer you all wait for the arrival of $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} and King Frederick. The silence is almost stifling, but eventually $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} does come in. $!{royal_his_her_their} face shows off ${royal_his_her_their} ever present frown, which only deepens as ${royal_his_her_their} eyes scan the room. "Glad somebody's enjoying the day," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} says, waiting for a nearby guard to pull out the chair at the head of the table before sitting down. "My usual," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} adds towards the guard, before they scurry away. More silence follows before somebody attempts to talk. "Good morning, $!{royal_title}—" Doodles begins but $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} stops her by holding up ${royal_his_her_their} hand. "I'd prefer it if nobody talks until I've ate." Her eyes widen but she nods in response and sits back in her seat. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} almost smiles but instead leans back in ${royal_his_her_their} seat and begins scanning the room. This whole situation reminds you of being back in school during silent lunch, if you're being honest. You do a scan of the room yourself and see pretty much everybody following ${royal_his_her_their} request though Bex is glaring in ${royal_his_her_their} direction. *page_break Fifteen minutes later, the entire table learns what $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s usual is: a cream cheese bagel, four sausage links, over easy eggs and a cup of tea. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} takes a long sip of tea before addressing the table. "That exercise we just went though is an example of a custom we have here in Odessa. When dining in Cooper Hall, you're typically not allowed to talk until after a member of the Royal Family has began to eat." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} sits down ${royal_his_her_their} tea cup and sighs. "You're not supposed to eat until a royal has ate either, but seeing as I took too long to get over here, I'll excuse it this time," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} continues. "Any reason we're getting a history lesson?" Bex asks, glare not relenting. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} looks down at ${royal_his_her_their} plate and begins to cut into the sausage. "Obviously because I just enjoy lecturing, Bex," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} replies, popping a piece of the meat into ${royal_his_her_their} mouth. "Wait, this is challenge related, isn't it?" Melanie asks, nearly bouncing out of her seat. "I mean, why else would we be all in the same room so early?" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} chews silently before setting down ${royal_his_her_their} silverware and picking up ${royal_his_her_their} tea cup once again. "Ah, so there is a brain in this room. Good to know." After another long sip, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} speaks once more. "The first challenge involves smarts. In particular, smarts about our history's country, customs and what not. You have about three days to learn everything you can, then, you'll be paired with another competitor for a trivia like face-off." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} frowns suddenly, using ${royal_his_her_their} free hand to rub at ${royal_his_her_their} temple. "Father was supposed to be here to explain this all, but if you have any questions, ask them now." *page_break *label rudequestions "I have a question…" *fake_choice #Actually, I've asked everything I wanted to. *goto rudeend #"What do we win?" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s fingers continue to massage ${royal_his_her_their} temples. "A day with me." Doodles and Melanie gasp in unison, while the rest of the reactions vary from amusement to discomfort. "Yes, from sun up to sun down," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} continues. "Let's move on." *page_break *goto rudequestions #"How will we know who we face off against?" "Initially, the pairings will be at random. Then, as people start getting eliminated, we'll start pairing up based on ranking. After the first challenge is over, you'll be given points based on where you landed," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} explains. "First, second and third place winners will get 15, 10 and 5 points, respectfully. After that, fourth place will get four, fifth place will get get three, and these scores can go into the negatives, by the way." Cass whistles lowly. "Here I thought we could stay the whole time." *page_break *goto rudequestions #"What's the best way to study for this?" "If you're fairly knowledgeable about history or royal customs, you should be fine without studying. I would suggest checking out one of our many libraries for a refresher, though." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} takes a quick sip of tea before sighing. "Pick any library you'd like, except Father's personal one. Trust me, you'll know where it is if you ever get near it." *page_break *goto rudequestions #"Is this going to be televised?" "Whole thing is, $!{player_first_name}," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} replies, without too much bite for once. *page_break *goto rudequestions *label rudeend "Well, I hope you're done asking questions, because I'm done answering them," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} says, standing up from ${royal_his_her_their} chair. Shortly after $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} stands up from ${royal_his_her_their} chair, a guard comes behind ${royal_him_her_them} and whispers into ${royal_his_her_their} ear. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} groans, making no effort to hide ${royal_his_her_their} rolling eyes. "Of course he wants to speak with me now after sending me here to do his stupid bidding," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} mutters. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} doesn't even bother to say goodbye to anybody else in the room, leaving just as quickly as ${royal_he_she_they} came. "Well, guess that's over," Cass says, leaning back in his chair once again. "Now, who's ready to get this show started?" *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp *if (royal_personality = "flirty") Conversations around the room continue until the arrival of $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}, who comes inside the room wearing nothing but a robe that was surely on the same rack as Doodles'. "All these people to see little 'ol me in the morning? I'm so pleased!" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} exclaims while plopping down at ${royal_his_her_their} seat. The $!{royal_title} almost props up ${royal_his_her_their} feet on the table, but quickly thinks the better of it, given ${royal_his_her_their} bare leg situation. "Hiya to the camera crew as well!" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} greets with a wink in their direction. A few of them wave back, while others opt to bow. "So…I'm sure you have many questions about the first challenge. That's why I'm here. That and, well, I had nobody to distract me this morning." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} pouts playfully before shrugging. "Whatever. I'm going to order a ton of food and answer whatever you ask me because Dad told me to." *page_break *label flirtyquestions *fake_choice #I've got nothing to ask. *goto flirtyend #"Do we win something at the end of the challenge?" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} nods. "Of course! A date with me." Several beats of silence follows ${royal_his_her_their} words. The silence is so long, it confuses ${royal_him_her_them}. "Alright…that was supposed to be the part where you guys cheer and fall out of your seats," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} says with a raised eyebrow. You decide to… *fake_choice #...shrug and say, "Well, I just thought it'd be a better prize." *set rude +1 *set royal %+10 "There's none better, Sweetness," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} insists with a wink. "Sweetness?" Stylus blurts out. He looks equal parts of confused and disgusted. "Yes," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} replies, winking again. "Do I…do I even want to know?" Ridge asks. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} chuckles and gives you the briefest eye flicker before turning ${royal_his_her_their} attention back to the rest of the table. "Moving on…" *page_break *goto flirtyquestions #...start clapping and cheering to poke a bit of fun at $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}. *set sarcastic +1 *set royal %+5 "See, Sweetness gets it!" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} exclaims, giving you a large smile. A few other contestants follow your lead, but most of them just continue to eat breakfast. "Well, at least a few of you guys appreciate the amazing gift," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} eventually says. "I was getting worried there." *page_break *goto flirtyquestions #...say nothing and instead look around the table in apprehension. *set shy +1 *set royal %+5 After another period of silence, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} sighs and throws an arm over ${royal_his_her_their} eyes. "My ego is bruised beyond belief, I think. Feel free to ask me anything else while it heals…" *page_break *goto flirtyquestions #...cheer and fall out of the seat, just like $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} wanted. *set sarcastic +1 *set royal %+10 Your tumble to the ground is less graceful and more spontaneous, but the action does garner some gasps from around the table while $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} lets out a loud laugh. "Sweetness, I…" A shadow covers your vision and to your surprise, it's $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} ${royal_himself_herself_themselves} throwing a hand down to help you up. "You're crazy. You know that right?" *fake_choice #I scoff. "I was only doing what you asked, but alright." I smile immediately afterwards to make sure my joking tone comes across correctly. *set sarcastic +1 *set royal %+10 "That you were." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} pulls you up to your feet and holds both your hands and gaze a bit longer than necessary. Eventually, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} drops your hand and turns back to the table as you take your seat again. "See everyone? That is the proper reaction to finding out that I am all yours for an entire day!" *page_break *goto flirtyquestions #I pout playfully. "Is that any way to treat your Sweetness?" *set flirty +1 *set royal %+10 "Oh, I can treat you very well if you'd like," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} insists, easily pulling you back to your feet. "Er…what's with all this Sweetness talk?" Melanie asks, causing $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} to smirk. "Nothing. Just a nickname. Nothing wrong with that, is there?" *page_break *goto flirtyquestions #"You're crazier. Who gets upset that nobody flirted with them at nine in the morning?" I accuse. *set rude +1 *set royal %+5 "Me. I have to have my compliment quota filled by 10:30 each day or it ruins the rest of it," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} says, slowly pulling you to your feet. "Can't believe you weren't aware!" You roll your eyes and take a seat again. *page_break *goto flirtyquestions #"Whatever." I take ${royal_his_her_their} hand without another word. *set royal %+5 *set aloof +1 $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} chuckles and shakes ${royal_his_her_their} head. "Whatever, says the person who just fell on the ground because I talked about it. Hilarious, Sweetness." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} returns to ${royal_his_her_their} seat with a smile on ${royal_his_her_their} face. *page_break *goto flirtyquestions #"I...well..." After a few moments of fumbling, I decide to just take ${royal_his_her_their} hand. *set shy +1 *set royal %+5 $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} smiles and makes sure you're steady on your feet before letting go. "If only more people were like you, Sweetness…" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} shakes ${royal_his_her_their} head fondly before returning to ${royal_his_her_their} seat. *page_break *goto flirtyquesions #"Ha, sorry..." "No worries, Sweetness," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} assures with a smile, making sure you're alright before returning to ${royal_his_her_their} seat. *page_break *goto flirtyquestions #...smirk. "Sure, if I can wake up by your side some time soon." *set flirty +1 $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} watches you thoughtfully before smirking back. "I might can pencil you in…" Before you can reply, Doodles sighs dramatically. "Well, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}, unless you two want more than one partner, you might want to table this discussion for now in case anybody else has any questions!" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} drums ${royal_his_her_their} fingers against ${royal_his_her_their} face with a thoughtful look on ${royal_his_her_their} face. "That can be arranged. Both the tabling and the partner adding." *page_break *goto flirtyquestions #...clap politely. Nothing more, nothing less. *set charming +1 "Sweetness has the right idea," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} says in response to your clapping. "I like bigger gestures, but it is the thought that counts." *page_break *goto flirtyquestions #"How will we know who we face off against?" "It'll be all random at first,"$!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} begins. "But when people start getting eliminated—" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} pauses suddenly as if trying to remember how the challenge works. Eventually, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} takes out ${royal_his_her_their} phone and taps a few times before continuing to read. "When people start getting eliminated, the pairings will be random. After the first challenge is over, you'll be given points based on where you landed. First, second and third place winners will get 15, 10 and five points. Then, blah, blah, blah, who cares, just be smart." *page_break *goto flirtyquestions #"What's the best way to study for this?" "Study Odessan history or find somebody hot to help you out. Personally, I'm a fan of private tutoring so…" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} smirks and lets those words linger in the air. *page_break *goto flirtyquestions #"Is this going to be televised?" "Yes, of course," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} answers. "For better or worse." *page_break *goto flirtyquestions *label flirtyend "Wonderful talk everyone," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} says, finally giving in to ${royal_his_her_their} desire to prop up ${royal_his_her_their} feet. A nearby Guard exasperated at the action and moves to pull a chair closer to ${royal_his_her_their} feet, so the $!{royal_title} is not totally flashing everybody at the table. Well, flash is a bit generous. A pair of very short biker shorts are underneath said robe, but it might as well be flashing. "Alright. You guys are welcome to stay here and watch me eat, or leave. Up to you. Good luck studying, or whatever you want to do before the first challenge," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} says with a smile before getting to eat ${royal_his_her_their} breakfast in earnest. *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp *if (royal_personality = "shy") "Good morning everyone." The greeting comes so quietly, you almost miss it. You don't realize who it is until you see everybody at the table, sans Bex, stand up in a rush. *if (polished >= 5) You quickly follow suit, priding yourself in being able to do so on the spot. *if (polished < 5) *set royal %+5 You attempt to follow the crowd but nearly stumble over your chair. *if ((royal_gender = "female") or {royal_gender = "male")) $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s eyes widen and as ${royal_he_she_they} steps forward to try and catch you. Ross and Ryr manage to beat ${royal_him_her_them} to you though and get you upright again. *if (royal_gender = "they") $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s eyes widen and as ${royal_he_she_they} step forward to try and catch you. Ross and Ryr manage to beat them to you though and get you upright again. "You alright, $!{player_first_name}?" *fake_choice #"Yeah, just peachy!" I'm trying not to die from embarrassment, but that's a whole different story. *set sarcastic +1 "If that changes, let somebody know." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} then turns {royal_his_her_their} attention to the rest of the room. *page_break *goto shybreakfast #"Oh...yes! Thank you for asking." I smile reassuringly at $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}. *set charming +1 The $!{royal_title} looks away, almost embarrassed by your words. "I'm just asking what anybody else would," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} says, giving you one last glance before turning ${royal_his_her_their} attention to the entire room. *page_break *goto shybreakfast #"I mean I almost busted my ass, but sure." Definitely not what I wanted to say, but too late now. "At least you didn't bust your, er, behind," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} replies, rubbing a hand behind ${royal_his_her_their} neck. You wave off ${royal_his_her_their} words and nestle back into your seat. "Please continue, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}, before I find some other way to embarrass myself," you groan. "Oh…well…" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} looks at you a short while longer before turning to the rest of the room. *page_break *goto shybreakfast #I just grunt in reply. *set aloof +1 "Um…" You pay $!{royal_him_her_them} no mind and look anywhere else but in ${royal_his_her_their} direction. Eventually, albeit awkwardly, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} moves on. *page_break *goto shybreakfast #I nod speechlessly because I might burst out into tears otherwise. "That's good to hear," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} replies with a brief smile. "Now, let me get started…" *page_break *goto shybreakfast #"Yes," I say. "Don't worry though, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}, there will be plenty of other times to try and hold me." *set flirty +1 "A-Ah—" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} flushes and begins to rub a hand behind ${royal_his_her_their} neck. "How about you leave the flirting to me, $!{player_first_name}?" Cass jokes, "I'm much better at it, honestly." You roll your eyes at ${cass_him_her_them} but before you could reply, Bex yawns. "Or we could move on…" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} smiles briefly. "I think we'd all like that." *page_break *goto shybreakfast *label shybreakfast *if ((royal_gender = "female") or {royal_gender = "male")) After $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} motions for everybody to sit back down, saying nothing of Bex's decision not to stand, ${royal_he_she_they} takes a seat at the head of the table and clears ${royal_his_her_their} throat. *if (royal_gender = "they") After $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} motions for everybody to sit back down, saying nothing of Bex's decision not to stand, ${royal_he_she_they} take a seat at the head of the table and clears ${royal_his_her_their} throat. "Um…well…I hope breakfast was alright," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} begins, resting ${royal_his_her_their} hands in ${royal_his_her_their} lap. "Father was going to join us, but he was called away on business. So, well, it's just me…" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} swallows thickly, seemingly nervous by the attention of the entire table. 'I…well, I was going to bring papers to explain the first challenge but it totally slipped my mind. Sorry about that. I'm so dumb…" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} lets out a long sigh. *if (smarts => 60) Your eyes dart down a bit and notice $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s fingers picking at the tablecloth. You watch ${royal_his_her_their} fingers move for a minute before they stop suddenly. You look up and realize that $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} is looking directly at you. Almost immediately after, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} hops up from the table and puts as much distance from you and the table as ${royal_he_she_they} can. "Anyway…the first challenge. I'm sure you know all about those quiz shows. If I'm correct, I believe Doodles has been on quite a few of them," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} says, much to her delight. "Loads, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}!" Doodles exclaims in a sing-songy voice. "I won one or two of them!" "Right. You shouldn't have a problem then…or really anybody that's good at trivia and things like that. You have about three days to learn everything you can about Odessa's history. Then, you'll be paired with another competitor and face off until we have a final winner." Everybody soon erupts into chatter about the challenge. Doodles is already telling anybody near her that she's "totally winning", while Laurel is moaning about school trauma. Melanie looks pretty pleased and is chatting to Bex about what to expect, who looks a bit intrigued for once. Well, now you know the first challenge of the Games. How are you feeling? What are you thinking? *fake_choice #I'm rolling my eyes at Doodles' eagerness. I'm definitely winning the challenge. *set bold %+10 *set snarky %+10 *set morale %+5 #I'm moaning along with Laurel about school. It wasn't my strong suit and I'm not ready to look at books again. *set morale %-5 *set smarts %-10 #I'm indifferent. I was hoping for a more athletic challenge. *set brawn %+10 #I'm indifferent. I was hoping for an etiquette challenge. *set polished %+10 #I'm indifferent. I don't want to do any challenges, but oh well. *set formal %_10 #I"m excited. I can't wait to use my smarts for this! *set morale %+15 *set smarts %+10 "Wait, wait, wait!" Stylus stands up from the table in a rush and looks over at the very startled royal. "What do we win? I know we get points for each challenge, right?" "Points?" Ridge asks with a raised eyebrow. "Did I miss a secret meeting?" The smile spreading across his face means he's only kidding, but you're pretty curious about the points system as well. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} lightly slaps ${royal_his_her_their} forehead with ${royal_his_her_their} palm and sighs. "No. I forgot to explain that as well." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} takes a seat at the head of the table once again and begins to speak. *page_break "For each challenge, points will be awarded to the first, second and third place winners: 15, 10 and 5, respectfully. From fourth place on, you'll get points based on where you ended up. For instance, fourth place will get four, fifth place will get get three, and yes, these scores can go into the negatives." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} pauses for a bit of dramatic effect, which catches you off guard a bit. "Don't stay in the negatives for too long, though. That's when eliminations begin." Unlike the announcement of the first challenge, hearing the word eliminations dampens the excitement of most of the group. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} apparently feels the shift in the room and begins to quickly speak again. "Um, don't worry too much about that unless you end up in the negatives. Hope I haven't freaked anybody out too much." Most of the table shakes their heads, except for Bex, who seemingly has something to say at the tip of their tongue. "The prize of this game still hasn't been mentioned," they point out, which gets the room buzzing again. A flush suddenly appears on ${royal_his_her_their} face. "Um, the winner gets to spend an entire day with me…from sun up to sun down." *page_break Just like that, as if the word eliminations was never uttered, the room buzzes with activity again. Even Bex is surprised. "Wow, if that's the first round's prize, I can only imagine what the later rounds will let us do," Laurel says with seemingly glittering eyes. Before you could react any certain way, a guard comes behind $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} and whispers into ${royal_his_her_their} ear. The $!{royal_title} clears ${royal_his_her_their} throat, effectively ending the chatter. "I've got to go, but good luck on whatever you wish to do before the first challenge. Godspeed." A chorus of goodbyes and claps follow $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} out. Now, it's game time. *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp *if (royal_personality = "aloof") "Good morning." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} strides into the room wearing an all black ensemble and some sort of heels, given the way ${royal_his_her_their} feet clack on the tiled floor. Everybody at the table, sans Bex, stand up in a rush. *if (polished >= 5) *set royal %+5 You quickly follow suit, priding yourself in being able to do so on the spot. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} gives you a quick glance over before taking ${royal_his_her_their} seat without a word. *if (polished < 5) *set royal %-5 *set morale %-5 You attempt to follow the crowd but nearly stumble over your chair. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s eyes widen ever so slightly. "I appreciate the standing. You can sit. But if you are still learning the ways of the court, don't worry about standing for now." You swallow thickly and sink down into your own seat, as $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} does the same. "Oatmeal. The way I like it," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} tells a nearby Palace worker, who quickly scurries away to fullfil the order. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} stuffs a napkin into the top of ${royal_his_her_their} shirt and arranges the silverware on the table for a quick moment, before looking around at everybody gathered. "The first challenge focuses on smarts. It'll be a quiz show. That's all." Melanie almost immediately shoots her hand up in the air. "$!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}, could we, well, get more information than that?" She asks. The $!{royal_title} sighs, pinching at the bridge of ${royal_his_her_their} nose. "Yes. Right. It's too early in the morning." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} releases ${royal_his_her_their} bridge and takes out ${royal_his_her_their} phone from ${royal_his_her_their} pocket. "You have about three days to learn everything you can about Odessa's history. Then, a quiz game show will commence. You'll be paired with another competitor and face off until we have a final winner. Now, that's truly all." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s oatmeal arrives just as ${royal_his_her_their} sentence ends. Apparently, the $!{royal_title} likes ${royal_his_her_their} oatmeal with apples, cinnamon and strawberries on top. As $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} eats, you ponder your thoughts about the first challenge of the Games. How are you feeling? What are you thinking? *fake_choice #I'm definitely winning the challenge. Smarts are my strong suit. *set bold %+10 *set snarky %+10 *set morale %+5 *set smarts %+10 #I'm moaning internally. Studying and learning wasn't my strong suit and I'm not ready to look at books again. *set morale %-5 *set smarts %-10 #I'm indifferent. I was hoping for a more athletic challenge. *set brawn %+10 #I'm indifferent. I was hoping for an etiquette challenge. *set polished %+10 #I'm indifferent. I don't want to do any challenges, but oh well. *set formal %-10 "Wait!" Laurel exclaims, earning a raised eyebrow from $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}, who was seconds away from putting ${royal_his_her_their} spoon in ${royal_his_her_their} mouth again. "I hope this is worth my oatmeal interruption." Laurel breaks out a bit of a sweat, but continues. "Yes. Maybe? I hope so. Anyway…what do we win? Is there a point system?" *page_break "The prize is a day with me. As for the point system, points will be awarded to the first, second and third place winners: 15, 10 and five, respectfully. From fourth place on, you'll get points based on where you ended up. For instance, fourth place will get four, fifth place will get get three, so on and so forth." Laurel clearly has more questions on his mind but given the cutting look the $!{royal_title} is giving him, he decides against saying anything. "Remind me not to get in between $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} and ${royal_his_her_their} oatmeal," Doodles whispers to herself. *page_break Eventually, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} allows everybody to leave the room. After all, you got the basics of the first challenge, albeit bare bones. *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp