*hide_reuse When you awake again, you can tell it's much later. Light streams into your room almost incessantly. It's quiet from the other side of your door, so you take advantage of it by slipping into the bathroom to freshen up. So, you missed your first official breakfast of the competition. That doesn't mean you can't still change up your look for the day. Are you going to do anything different? *label bathroom *fake_choice #Absolutely. I'm putting on something that shows off my tattoos. *set havetattoos "yes" You think breakfast is the perfect place to show off the tattoos you have. You were sure some of them were visible the day before, but a real conversation could be started about them over breakfast if you have them really visible. *page_break *goto bathroom #Sure. I'll put my piercings in. *set havepiercings "yes" You think breakfast is the perfect place to show off the piercings you have. You slip them in and grin into the mirror. *page_break *goto bathroom *selectable_if (havehair = "yes") #Yeah, I'm going to do something different to my hair. You look at your current hairstyle and think you're up for a change. How do you change your hair? *fake_choice #I'm going to make it curly. *set player_hairstyle "curly" *goto bathroom #I'm going to make it coily. *set player_hairstyle "coily" *goto bathroom #I'm going to straighten it. *set player_hairstyle "straight" *goto bathroom #I'm going to wet it up for a kinky hairstyle. *set player_hairstyle "kinky" *goto bathroom #I'm going to put it In an afro. *set player_hairstyle "afro" *goto bathroom #I'm going to put it in braids. *set player_hairstyle "braids" *goto bathroom #I'm going to make it wavy. *set player_hairstyle "wavy" *goto bathroom #Nah, I'm just here to brush my teeth and leave. *goto breakfast *label breakfast After you finish up in the bathroom, you hear a knock at your door. "Ross? Ryr?" You call out, moving to open the door before the person on the other side could reply. *if (royal_personality = "flirty") "Not quite, Sweetness," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} replies with a rather amused smile on ${royal_his_her_their} face. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s holding a tray full of food and drink and you try to put the pieces together. *fake_choice #"I decided to sleep in and you brought me breakfast to be nice." "You're such a smart cookie," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} teases, handing the tray over to you. "You're the only person that didn't show up for breakfast. I was sent to brief you about the first challenge, as well as send you a tray of food to eat." You step back into your room and head over to your desk to get started on said breakfast. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} follows after you, shutting your bedroom door. The $!{royal_first_name} settles on top of your unmade bed, pulling out ${royal_his_her_their} phone to read something as you start to eat. "So, first challenge. my dad said a whole bunch of boring formal stuff, but all you need to know is that it's trivia-based," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} begins. "Things like our first ruler, what the line of succession is, blah, blah, blah." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} throws ${royal_his_her_their} phone on top of your bed and lets out a long sigh. "I'm already bored. Good thing I just have to watch you guys answer questions," the $!{royal_title} says. Having finished your breakfast sometime between $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s sigh and the end of ${royal_his_her_their} sentence, you turn to ${royal_him_her_them} with a question of your own. *label challengequestions *fake_choice #"Where's the best place to study for this challenge?" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} drums ${royal_his_her_their} fingers against ${royal_his_her_their} cheek in thought. "If you went to college anywhere in Odessa, this will pretty easy for you, especially if you studied history," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} says. "But if you didn't, just lock yourself in the library for a few days." *page_break *goto challengequestions #"So, how's the winner determined?" "You face off with one contestant at a time. The winner of that pairing moves on to the winner of the other pairings…so on and so forth," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} answers. "Oh! You get points for each correct answer. First to five." *page_break *goto challengequestions #"Well, who was the first ruler and what is the line of succession?" *set royal %+10 "The first ruler was—" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} immediately freezes before grinning. "Nice try, Sweetness." *page_break *goto challengequestions #"When does the first challenge begin?" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} rolls over to check on ${royal_his_her_their} phone before answering you. "In three days. Wouldn't want to leave Odessa waiting." *page_break *goto challengequestions #"Well, I'm done eating..." "Is that so?" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} sits up with a grin. "I'll leave you alone, for now. See you around." *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp #"You really, really want to hook up with me, huh?" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} smirks. "I'm not totally opposed to that, but I typically don't bring my hookups breakfast." The $!{royal_title} hands you a tray full of breakfast food and drinks before entering your room and plopping down on top of your unmade bed. "Besides, I'm here to tell you about the first challenge, which was done at breakfast while you decided to get some beauty sleep," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} says, pulling out ${royal_his_her_their} phone as you started on your meal. "So, first challenge," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} begins. "My dad said a whole bunch of boring formal stuff, but all you need to know is that it's trivia-based. Things like our first ruler, what the line of succession is, blah, blah, blah." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} throws ${royal_his_her_their} phone on top of your bed and lets out a long sigh. "I'm already bored. Good thing I just have to watch you guys answer questions," the $!{royal_title} says. Having finished your breakfast sometime between $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s sigh and the end of ${royal_his_her_their} sentence, you turn to ${royal_him_her_them} with a question of your own. *goto challengequestions #I don't care why $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} is here with food. I just know I want to eat. I take the food over to my bed, not caring if the $!{royal_title} follows or not. "Oh!" You set your food down at your desk and immediately begin to eat, paying no mind to $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}, who does eventually follow you inside. "Well, you saved me a breakfast explanation, at least," $!{royal_title} jokes, making ${royal_himself_herself_themselves} comfortable on top of your bed. "But I'm also here to talk to you about the first challenge." "Mhm," you reply around a mouthful of food. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} takes that as a sign to continue. *page_break "So, first challenge," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} begins. "My dad said a whole bunch of boring formal stuff, but all you need to know is that it's trivia-based. Things like our first ruler, what the line of succession is, blah, blah, blah." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} throws ${royal_his_her_their} phone on top of your bed and lets out a long sigh. "I'm already bored. Good thing I just have to watch you guys answer questions," the $!{royal_title} says. Having finished your breakfast sometime between $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s sigh and the end of ${royal_his_her_their} sentence, you turn to ${royal_him_her_them} with a question of your own. *goto challengequestions #"Uh, I hope you don't want to share." *set royal %+5 $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} laughs a bit and shakes ${royal_his_her_their} head a bit. "Not a fan of sharing, actually. Besides, I had breakfast already. With everybody else." "Great. I don't like to share either," you reply, taking the tray from $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} and moving over to your desk to start on your meal. The $!{royal_title} enters as you start your meal, plopping down on top of your unmade bed. "I'm actually here to tell you about the first challenge," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} says, taking out ${royal_his_her_their} phone before continuing. "So, my dad said a whole bunch of boring formal stuff, but all you need to know is that it's trivia-based. Things like our first ruler, what the line of succession is, blah, blah, blah." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} throws ${royal_his_her_their} phone on top of your bed and lets out a long sigh. "I'm already bored. Good thing I just have to watch you guys answer questions," the $!{royal_title} says. Having finished your breakfast sometime between $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s sigh and the end of ${royal_his_her_their} sentence, you turn to ${royal_him_her_them} with a question of your own. *goto challengequestions #"Thanks." *set aloof +1 *set bold %-5 "Of course," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} with a wide smile. "There's a mix of things on the tray. Not sure what you like." You nod, seeing everything from fresh fruit and bacon to avocado toast and hard boiled eggs. "So, can I come in? We talked about the first challenge of the competition at breakfast, but I don't mind getting somebody else to explain it to you. I wouldn't want my very attractive face to distract you from breakfast," the $!{royal_title} says with an even wider smile. *fake_choice #"Sure." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} can say whatever. I just want to eat. "Great." You take the tray from $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} and head over to your desk to eat. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} follows you, opting to sit on top of your unmade bed to talk. "So. The first challenge," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} begins. "My dad said a whole bunch of boring formal stuff, but all you need to know is that it's trivia-based. Things like our first ruler, what the line of succession is, blah, blah, blah." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} throws ${royal_his_her_their} phone on top of your bed and lets out a long sigh. "I'm already bored. Good thing I just have to watch you guys answer questions," the $!{royal_title} says. Having finished your breakfast sometime between $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s sigh and the end of ${royal_his_her_their} sentence, you turn to ${royal_him_her_them} with a question of your own. *goto challengequestions #"I'd rather eat alone," I reply, though it's not because I don't want to see ${royal_his_her_their} face. I truly just want to eat alone. *set royal %-5 $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} nods, smile still on ${royal_his_her_their} face. "I'll get somebody to send you an email ASAP. Enjoy your breakfast." The $!{royal_title} leaves shortly after that, allowing you to eat your food alone. Just as you finish up your meal, you hear your phone buzz nearby. When you check it, you see it's an email from Lyon with 'Challenge 1' as the subject line. *page_break [i] $!{player_first_name}, [/i] [i] Hi! It's Lyon. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} sent me an email saying to send you an email…talk about a morning surprise! I nearly thought it was a scam and deleted it. Then, of course, my boss came in saying 'why the hell haven't I sent the message yet?', which kinda ruined the high… [/i] [i] Whoops. Look at me rambling, via email no less! Let me get down to business. [/i] [i] The first challenge, named "Master Minds", will test your smarts in regards to Odessan history. You never know when you will encounter nobility or high ranking officials from neighboring or far away countries. Making sure you know the very basics of the country you are representing could be the difference between political life or death. [/i] [i] The challenge will take place in three days and you're welcome to use anything within the Palace walls at your disposal to study. [/i] [i] Any other questions will be answered the day of. [/i] [i] Good luck! [/i] [i] Lyon [/i] *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp #"Please come in!" Like I would ever pass up the opportunity to be alone with $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}. *set royal %+15 $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} grins, easily stepping inside of your room with ease. You head towards your desk, while $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} makes ${royal_himself_herself_themselves} comfortable on top of your bed. "So. The first challenge," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} begins. "My dad said a whole bunch of boring formal stuff, but all you need to know is that it's trivia-based. Things like our first ruler, what the line of succession is, blah, blah, blah." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} throws ${royal_his_her_their} phone on top of your bed and lets out a long sigh. "I'm already bored. Good thing I just have to watch you guys answer questions," the $!{royal_title} says. Having finished your breakfast sometime between $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s sigh and the end of ${royal_his_her_their} sentence, you turn to ${royal_him_her_them} with a question of your own. *goto challengequestions #"Oh, um, just send somebody to tell me. If you don't mind." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} is right. I don't think I can stomach breakfast and ${royal_his_her_their} very attractive face this early. *set shy +1 *set royal %+10 $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} then turns into a smirk, signaling that ${royal_he_she_they} obviously took note of your stumbling. "Will do, Sweetness. Don't miss me too much." With a playful salute, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} leaves your room, leaving you alone. *page_break Just as you finish up your meal, you hear your phone buzz nearby. When you check it, you see it's an email from Lyon with 'Challenge 1' as the subject line. *page_break [i] $!{player_first_name}, [/i] [i] Hi! It's Lyon. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} sent me an email saying to send you an email…talk about a morning surprise! I nearly thought it was a scam and deleted it. Then, of course, my boss came in saying 'why the hell haven't I sent the message yet?', which kinda ruined the high… [/i] [i] Whoops. Look at me rambling, via email no less! Let me get down to business. [/i] [i] The first challenge, named "Master Minds", will test your smarts in regards to Odessan history. You never know when you will encounter nobility or high ranking officials from neighboring or far away countries. Making sure you know the very basics of the country you are representing could be the difference between political life or death. [/i] [i] The challenge will take place in three days and you're welcome to use anything within the Palace walls at your disposal to study. [/i] [i] Any other questions will be answered the day of. [/i] [i] Good luck! [/i] [i] Lyon [/i] *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp #"No. Go away." Good thing there's coffee on this tray. *set rude +1 *set royal %+5 "Thanks, I—" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} freezes after your words seem to register. "Wait, what?" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} deadpans. You raise an eyebrow and repeat yourself. "No. Go away. Unless you're going to bring me another three coffees, because I'm going to need them for today." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} blinks before breaking out in a huge smile. "I'll see what I can do about that coffee, but I will get somebody to send you information about the first challenge. That's more important anyway." By the time $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} has finished ${royal_his_her_their} sentence, you've already crossed the room, started eating your breakfast and, of course, downed most of your coffee. "Less talking, more going," you reply, waving the Royal away. Soon enough, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} is gone, but you could've sworn the smile was still on ${royal_his_her_their} face. "Who the hell is happy about getting kicked out?" You wonder aloud, but you're sure that was not the first time the flirty individual has been kicked out of somewhere. *page_break Just as you finish up your meal, you hear your phone buzz nearby. When you check it, you see it's an email from Lyon with 'Challenge 1' as the subject line. *page_break [i] $!{player_first_name}, [/i] [i] Hi! It's Lyon. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} sent me an email saying to send you an email…talk about a morning surprise! I nearly thought it was a scam and deleted it. Then, of course, my boss came in saying 'why the hell haven't I sent the message yet?', which kinda ruined the high… [/i] [i] Whoops. Look at me rambling, via email no less! Let me get down to business. [/i] [i] The first challenge, named "Master Minds", will test your smarts in regards to Odessan history. You never know when you will encounter nobility or high ranking officials from neighboring or far away countries. Making sure you know the very basics of the country you are representing could be the difference between political life or death. [/i] [i] The challenge will take place in three days and you're welcome to use anything within the Palace walls at your disposal to study. [/i] [i] Any other questions will be answered the day of. [/i] [i] Good luck! [/i] [i] Lyon [/i] *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp #"Come in. I'm sure you would've found some way to come in anyway." *set sarcastic +1 *set royal %+10 "Great. Wait, what?" You take the tray from $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} and head over to your desk to eat. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} follows you, opting to sit on top of your unmade bed to talk. "I do know how to take no for an answer, by the way," the $!{royal_title} huffs out. "Puppy dog eyes don't work on me," you add before beginning your meal. Though your back is turned, you can just imagine the way ${royal_his_her_their} eyes quickly return to normal. "Anyways, the first challenge," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} begins. "My dad said a whole bunch of boring formal stuff, but all you need to know is that it's trivia-based. Things like our first ruler, what the line of succession is, blah, blah, blah." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} throws ${royal_his_her_their} phone on top of your bed and lets out a long sigh. "I'm already bored. Good thing I just have to watch you guys answer questions," the $!{royal_title} says. Having finished your breakfast sometime between $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s sigh and the end of ${royal_his_her_their} sentence, you turn to ${royal_him_her_them} with a question of your own. *goto challengequestions #I don't say anything, but I take the tray with a smile. *set shy +1 *set bold %-10 *set snarky %-10 *set royal %+10 "Of course," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} with a wide smile. "There's a mix of things on the tray. Not sure what you like." You nod, seeing everything from fresh fruit and bacon to avocado toast and hard boiled eggs. "So, can I come in? We talked about the first challenge of the competition at breakfast, but I don't mind getting somebody else to explain it to you. I wouldn't want my very attractive face to distract you from breakfast," the $!{royal_title} says with an even wider smile. *fake_choice #"Sure." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} can say whatever. I just want to eat. "Great." You take the tray from $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} and head over to your desk to eat. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} follows you, opting to sit on top of your unmade bed to talk. "So. The first challenge," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} begins. "My dad said a whole bunch of boring formal stuff, but all you need to know is that it's trivia-based. Things like our first ruler, what the line of succession is, blah, blah, blah." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} throws ${royal_his_her_their} phone on top of your bed and lets out a long sigh. "I'm already bored. Good thing I just have to watch you guys answer questions," the $!{royal_title} says. Having finished your breakfast sometime between $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s sigh and the end of ${royal_his_her_their} sentence, you turn to ${royal_him_her_them} with a question of your own. *goto challengequestions #"I'd rather eat alone," I reply, though it's not because I don't want to see ${royal_his_her_their} face. I truly just want to eat alone. *set royal %-5 $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} nods, smile still on ${royal_his_her_their} face. "I'll get somebody to send you an email ASAP. Enjoy your breakfast." The $!{royal_title} leaves shortly after that, allowing you to eat your food alone. Just as you finish up your meal, you hear your phone buzz nearby. When you check it, you see it's an email from Lyon with 'Challenge 1' as the subject line. *page_break [i] $!{player_first_name}, [/i] [i] Hi! It's Lyon. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} sent me an email saying to send you an email…talk about a morning surprise! I nearly thought it was a scam and deleted it. Then, of course, my boss came in saying 'why the hell haven't I sent the message yet?', which kinda ruined the high… [/i] [i] Whoops. Look at me rambling, via email no less! Let me get down to business. [/i] [i] The first challenge, named "Master Minds", will test your smarts in regards to Odessan history. You never know when you will encounter nobility or high ranking officials from neighboring or far away countries. Making sure you know the very basics of the country you are representing could be the difference between political life or death. [/i] [i] The challenge will take place in three days and you're welcome to use anything within the Palace walls at your disposal to study. [/i] [i] Any other questions will be answered the day of. [/i] [i] Good luck! [/i] [i] Lyon [/i] *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp #"Please come in!" Like I would ever pass up the opportunity to be alone with $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}. *set royal %+15 $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} grins, easily stepping inside of your room with ease. You head towards your desk, while $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} makes ${royal_himself_herself_themselves} comfortable on top of your bed. "So. The first challenge," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} begins. "My dad said a whole bunch of boring formal stuff, but all you need to know is that it's trivia-based. Things like our first ruler, what the line of succession is, blah, blah, blah." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} throws ${royal_his_her_their} phone on top of your bed and lets out a long sigh. "I'm already bored. Good thing I just have to watch you guys answer questions," the $!{royal_title} says. Having finished your breakfast sometime between $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s sigh and the end of ${royal_his_her_their} sentence, you turn to ${royal_him_her_them} with a question of your own. *goto challengequestions #"Oh, um, just send somebody to tell me. If you don't mind." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} is right. I don't think I can stomach breakfast and ${royal_his_her_their} very attractive face this early. *set shy +1 *set royal %+10 $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} then turns into a smirk, signaling that ${royal_he_she_they} obviously took note of your stumbling. "Will do, Sweetness. Don't miss me too much." With a playful salute, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} leaves your room, leaving you alone. *page_break Just as you finish up your meal, you hear your phone buzz nearby. When you check it, you see it's an email from Lyon with 'Challenge 1' as the subject line. *page_break [i] $!{player_first_name}, [/i] [i] Hi! It's Lyon. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} sent me an email saying to send you an email…talk about a morning surprise! I nearly thought it was a scam and deleted it. Then, of course, my boss came in saying 'why the hell haven't I sent the message yet?', which kinda ruined the high… [/i] [i] Whoops. Look at me rambling, via email no less! Let me get down to business. [/i] [i] The first challenge, named "Master Minds", will test your smarts in regards to Odessan history. You never know when you will encounter nobility or high ranking officials from neighboring or far away countries. Making sure you know the very basics of the country you are representing could be the difference between political life or death. [/i] [i] The challenge will take place in three days and you're welcome to use anything within the Palace walls at your disposal to study. [/i] [i] Any other questions will be answered the day of. [/i] [i] Good luck! [/i] [i] Lyon [/i] *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp #"No. Go away." Good thing there's coffee on this tray. *set rude +1 *set royal %+5 "Thanks, I—" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} freezes after your words seem to register. "Wait, what?" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} deadpans. You raise an eyebrow and repeat yourself. "No. Go away. Unless you're going to bring me another three coffees, because I'm going to need them for today." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} blinks before breaking out in a huge smile. "I'll see what I can do about that coffee, but I will get somebody to send you information about the first challenge. That's more important anyway." By the time $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} has finished ${royal_his_her_their} sentence, you've already crossed the room, started eating your breakfast and, of course, downed most of your coffee. "Less talking, more going," you reply, waving the Royal away. Soon enough, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} is gone, but you could've sworn the smile was still on ${royal_his_her_their} face. "Who the hell is happy about getting kicked out?" You wonder aloud, but you're sure that was not the first time the flirty individual has been kicked out of somewhere. *page_break Just as you finish up your meal, you hear your phone buzz nearby. When you check it, you see it's an email from Lyon with 'Challenge 1' as the subject line. *page_break [i] $!{player_first_name}, [/i] [i] Hi! It's Lyon. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} sent me an email saying to send you an email…talk about a morning surprise! I nearly thought it was a scam and deleted it. Then, of course, my boss came in saying 'why the hell haven't I sent the message yet?', which kinda ruined the high… [/i] [i] Whoops. Look at me rambling, via email no less! Let me get down to business. [/i] [i] The first challenge, named "Master Minds", will test your smarts in regards to Odessan history. You never know when you will encounter nobility or high ranking officials from neighboring or far away countries. Making sure you know the very basics of the country you are representing could be the difference between political life or death. [/i] [i] The challenge will take place in three days and you're welcome to use anything within the Palace walls at your disposal to study. [/i] [i] Any other questions will be answered the day of. [/i] [i] Good luck! [/i] [i] Lyon [/i] *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp #"Come in. I'm sure you would've found some way to come in anyway." *set sarcastic +1 *set royal %+10 "Great. Wait, what?" You take the tray from $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} and head over to your desk to eat. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} follows you, opting to sit on top of your unmade bed to talk. "I do know how to take no for an answer, by the way," the $!{royal_title} huffs out. "Puppy dog eyes don't work on me," you add before beginning your meal. Though your back is turned, you can just imagine the way ${royal_his_her_their} eyes quickly return to normal. "Anyways, the first challenge," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} begins. "My dad said a whole bunch of boring formal stuff, but all you need to know is that it's trivia-based. Things like our first ruler, what the line of succession is, blah, blah, blah." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} throws ${royal_his_her_their} phone on top of your bed and lets out a long sigh. "I'm already bored. Good thing I just have to watch you guys answer questions," the $!{royal_title} says. Having finished your breakfast sometime between $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s sigh and the end of ${royal_his_her_their} sentence, you turn to ${royal_him_her_them} with a question of your own. *goto challengequestions *if (royal_personality = "rude") What greets you on the other side is the face of $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}, who looks as if $!{royal_he_she_they} had just sucked on a lemon. "God, no. I'm not Knucklehead and Chucklehead," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} scoffs, rolling ${royal_his_her_their} eyes. "But I am a servant today, apparently." You barely have time to grab the tray full of food the $!{royal_title} thrusts your way. From a quick glance, you see there's a few breakfast staples, including a glass of juice. *fake_choice #"You brought me food? I must still be dreaming." *set sarcastic +1 *set royal %+5 "Interesting how your dreams resemble my nightmares," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} says with a scowl on ${royal_his_her_their} face. "Whatever. That's not why I'm here." You barely move out of the way in time before $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} barges into your room. clearly not liking the size of it, the way ${royal_his_her_their} nose turns up towards the heavens. *label rudeend "I'm almost sorry they have you in this squalor," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} mutters, before turning back to you. "Anyway, besides playing servant for a day, I'm here to brief you since you didn't come to breakfast this morning." As you take a seat at your desk to start on said breakfast, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} opts to remain standing. "The first challenge is a test of smarts," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} begins, slowly moving back and forth during ${royal_his_her_their} explanation. "A good ruler knows all about foreign countries, both allies and enemies. A great ruler knows about their own country tenfold. Of course, this challenge will only scrape the bare minimum of what one should know but…" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} shakes ${royal_his_her_their} head with a sigh. "You'll have three days to study the basics of Odessan history. Then, you'll be paired with another contestant and the challenge with proceed like a quiz show. The winner of the entire challenge gets to spend the entire day with me." A wince follows ${royal_his_her_their} words. *page_break "Well, I've got better things to do," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} declares, leaving you without so much of a goodbye. You guess that's for the best since you're done with breakfast anyway. Plus it's pretty on brand for ${royal_him_her_them}. *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp #"Alright...what's the catch?" *set royal %+5 "Excuse me?" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} asks. "You're, well, doing something nice, so I just assumed you need me to do something," you continue, eyebrow raised at the sight of the heaping tray of steaming hot food in front of you. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} rolls ${royal_his_her_their} eyes and pushes ${royal_his_her_their} way into your room. "Well, I need you to have never made a profile on Odessa Dates, but we all can't get what we want," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} mutters, barging past you to enter your room. You roll your eyes. The competition would've happened either way, but you decide not to bring that up at the moment, given the way the $!{royal_title} was looking around your room like it was a dump. *goto rudeend #"Wow! I...thank you, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}!" *set charming +1 *set royal %+10 "Whatever," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} mutters as you quickly take in everything on the tray. When you look up, you swear you see ${royal_his_her_their} cheeks warm a bit, but that was surely a trick of the light. As you turn around and settle at your desk to eat, the $!{royal_title} steps into your room, giving it a quick look around. "I'm almost sorry they have you in this squalor," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} mutters, before turning back to you. "Anyway, besides playing servant for a day, I'm here to brief you since you didn't come to breakfast this morning." "Squalor?" You ask suddenly, before drinking a bit of juice. "This is quite generous." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} frowns, most likely at the interruption, but doesn't pay your words any mind. *page_break "The first challenge is a test of smarts," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} begins, slowly moving back and forth during ${royal_his_her_their} explanation. "A good ruler knows all about foreign countries, both allies and enemies. A great ruler knows about their own country tenfold. Of course, this challenge will only scrape the bare minimum of what one should know but…" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} shakes ${royal_his_her_their} head with a sigh. "You'll have three days to study the basics of Odessan history. Then, you'll be paired with another contestant and the challenge will proceed like a quiz show. The winner of the entire challenge gets to spend the entire day with me." A wince follows ${royal_his_her_their} words. *fake_choice #"Surely spending an entire day with me won't be that terrible," I say, pretty confident, I'll win. *set charming +1 *set morale %+10 *set bold %+10 *set royal %+5 "You and I have different ideas of terrible, then," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} grumbles, crossing ${royal_his_her_their} arms. You're not so easily deterred. You jump up from your desk and turn towards ${royal_him_her_them}, breakfast mostly finished anyway, and grin. "Picture it. We walk. You talk, complain, whatever you want, and maybe we get ice cream somewhere," you say. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} scoffs. "How's that any different than what I can already do by myself?" "Well, maybe you'll actually end up enjoying yourself, rather than just going through the motions," you answer. The $!{royal_title} hesitates before speaking again. It's an interesting sight to see from the normally outspoken ${royal_man_woman_person}. "I've got better things to do now. Bye," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} rushes out, leaving you in the blink of an eye. *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp #"Wow, doing what?" I'm not sure I'll win, but I still want to know. *set morale %-5 "I'm not sure yet," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} replies. "Something similar to a date, I'm sure." You nod and the two of you fall into a rather comfortable silence. Right until the $!{royal_title} declares, "Well, I've got better things to do!" and leaves without another word. You guess that's for the best since you're done with breakfast anyway. Plus it's pretty on brand for ${royal_him_her_them}. *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp #"Make sure you pick out a nice outfit for our day together, babe." There's no way I'll lose this challenge. *set flirty +1 *set morale %+10 *set bold %+10 *set royal %+5 "As if I ever pick out a bad outfit," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} replies, smoothing a hand over ${royal_his_her_their} own for today. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s wearing a cream colored sleeveless tank top and light pink trousers, with matching boots. "So, agree that I'll win?" You ask, smirking at the $!{royal_title}, who scoffs at your reaction. "I…no! Ugh. Whatever. I've got better things to do," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} declares, leaving you without so much of a goodbye. You guess that's for the best since you're done with breakfast anyway. Plus it's pretty on brand for ${royal_him_her_them}. *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp #"Whomever wins sure will be lucky," I sigh. Remembering facts and details is not my strong suit. *set morale %-5 *set smarts %-5 *set royal %+10 "Lucky?" You cringe, not realizing that you said anything out loud. "Oh! Ah…well…" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} pinches at the bridge of ${royal_his_her_their} nose. "At least wait for the first challenge to begin before you start doubting yourself. Otherwise, all of this commotion will have been a waste." Was that…advice? Something other than an insult? The sentence sound weird coming from $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s lips and you wait for the insult to come, but it doesn't. "Well, I've got better things to do," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} declares suddenly, leaving you without so much of a goodbye. You guess that's for the best since you're done with breakfast anyway, but ${royal_his_her_their} advice does warm your insides slightly. *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp #"Relax. Your day together with the winner will be short if you keep acting like you always do." Who wants to be around the $!{royal_title} acting like that all day? *set rude +1 *set bold %+10 *set royal %+10 "Acting like what, exactly?" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} asks. The $!{royal_title} seems to be genuinely asking, which is almost amusing. "Like you're better than everybody. Don't act coy," you reply. "But am I not?" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} replies with a little sniff. "This isn't the $!{player_first_name} Dating Games, after all." You smirk. "It's not the $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} Dating Games either, though." The $!{royal_title} rolls ${royal_his_her_their} eyes before abruptly claiming that ${royal_he_she_they} had something better to do. It's for the best, you figure, since a conversation revolving around ${royal_his_her_their} behavior would certainly go nowhere. *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp #"I see..." I'm not sure how I'll fare on this challenge, honestly. *set royal %+5 *set morale %-5 You two fall into silence, which is soon broken by $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}. "Well, as interesting as this conversation has been, I've got better things to do," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} declares, leaving you without so much of a goodbye. You guess that's for best since you're done with breakfast anyway. *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp #"Some flowers would've been nice." I can barely hold back my smirk. *set sarcastic +1 *set royal %+10 "Oh yes. Let me go back to the gardens and get those for you," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} replies with a roll of ${royal_his_her_their} eyes. "You should be lucky. I told Father that we should just let you sort out breakfast and lunch yourself." You gasp exaggeratedly and if your hands weren't full, you definitely would've held a hand up to your heart. "Some host you are," you say, turning your back on $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} as you head towards your room's desk. The $!{royal_title} tentatively follows you inside, *page_break *goto rudeend #"Oh..." *set shy +1 *set royal %+10 "Yes, it's breakfast," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} adds, after realizing you weren't going to say anything further. "I'm also here to explain the competition to you, since you declined to join us this morning." As you take a seat at your desk to start on said breakfast, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} enters your room to talk further. "The first challenge is a test of smarts," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} begins, slowly moving back and forth during ${royal_his_her_their} explanation. "A good ruler knows all about foreign countries, both allies and enemies. A great ruler knows about their own country tenfold. Of course, this challenge will only scrape the bare minimum of what one should know but…" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} shakes ${royal_his_her_their} head with a sigh. "You'll have three days to study the basics of Odessan history. Then, you'll be paired with another contestant and the challenge with proceed like a quiz show. The winner of the entire challenge gets to spend the entire day with me." A wince follows ${royal_his_her_their} words. *page_break "Well, I've got better things to do," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} declares, leaving you without so much of a goodbye. You guess that's for the best since you're done with breakfast anyway. Plus it's pretty on brand for ${royal_him_her_them}. *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp #"My condolences. I know it must kill you to be nice." *set rude +1 *set royal %-5 The corner of $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s twitches and it doesn't go upward. "You have no idea," the $!{royal_title} says. "Nice to you, especially." You roll your eyes and shove the tray of breakfast back into ${royal_his_her_their} arms, much to ${royal_his_her_their} surprise. "I'm certainly not going to take food from somebody who is insulting me for no reason. Goodbye." Before $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} could say anything else, you slam the door in ${royal_his_her_their} face. There's several beats of silence after the door is shut. *fake_choice #Good. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} had no reason to be rude to me so early in the morning! After a few minutes, you slowly open the door. The $!{royal_title} is nowhere in sight, but ${royal_he_she_they} did leave you the breakfast you shoved back at ${royal_him_her_them}. You pick it up and re-enter your room, just as your phone begins to buzz. Once you're settled at your desk with the food, you take out your phone notice an email notification from Lyon. *page_break [i] $!{player_first_name}, [/i] [i] Hi! It's Lyon. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} sent me an email saying to send you an email about the details for the first challenge…talk about a morning surprise! I nearly thought it was a scam and deleted it. Then, of course, my boss came in saying 'why the hell haven't I sent the message yet?', which kinda ruined the high… [/i] [i] Also, the $!{royal_title} was supposed to give you a rundown over breakfast. Lover's quarrel? I need to know the details… [/i] [i] Whoops. Look at me rambling, via email no less! Let me get down to business. [/i] [i] The first challenge, named "Master Minds", will test your smarts in regards to Odessan history. You never know when you will encounter nobility or high ranking officials from neighboring or far away countries. Making sure you know the very basics of the country you are representing could be the difference between political life or death. [/i] [i] The challenge will take place in three days and you're welcome to use anything within the Palace walls at your disposal to study. [/i] [i] Any other questions will be answered the day of. [/i] [i] Good luck! [/i] [i] Lyon [/i] *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp #Oh my God. I gotta open this door and apologize before I'm hung or thrown in a dungeon. Or however punishment works in the Palace. "$!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}, I'm so—" You blink once you realize you're speaking to an empty hallway. A completely empty hallway, save for your breakfast tray right at your feet. You look from left to right a few times, before you pick up the tray and back up into your room. You make a mental note to properly apologize to the $!{royal_title} later, before shifting your focus to your breakfast. You're enjoying it in a nice, little silence, until your phone buzzes while your mouth is around a piece of toast. A quick check of your phone reveals that the cause of the buzzing is an email notification from Lyon. *page_break [i] $!{player_first_name}, [/i] [i] Hi! It's Lyon. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} sent me an email saying to send you an email about the details for the first challenge…talk about a morning surprise! I nearly thought it was a scam and deleted it. Then, of course, my boss came in saying 'why the hell haven't I sent the message yet?', which kinda ruined the high… [/i] [i] Also, the $!{royal_title} was supposed to give you a rundown over breakfast. Lover's quarrel? I need to know the details… [/i] [i] Whoops. Look at me rambling, via email no less! Let me get down to business. [/i] [i] The first challenge, named "Master Minds", will test your smarts in regards to Odessan history. You never know when you will encounter nobility or high ranking officials from neighboring or far away countries. Making sure you know the very basics of the country you are representing could be the difference between political life or death. [/i] [i] The challenge will take place in three days and you're welcome to use anything within the Palace walls at your disposal to study. [/i] [i] Any other questions will be answered the day of. [/i] [i] Good luck! [/i] [i] Lyon [/i] *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp #I roll my eyes and turn around to head back to the bathroom, before I let out a loud groan and open the door. I hope ${royal_he_she_they} left the breakfast behind. To your delight, the food has been left behind. You pick it up and re-enter your room, just as your phone begins to buzz. Once you're settled at your desk with the food, you take out your phone and notice an email notification from Lyon. *page_break [i] $!{player_first_name}, [/i] [i] Hi! It's Lyon. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} sent me an email saying to send you an email about the details for the first challenge…talk about a morning surprise! I nearly thought it was a scam and deleted it. Then, of course, my boss came in saying 'why the hell haven't I sent the message yet?', which kinda ruined the high… [/i] [i] Also, the $!{royal_title} was supposed to give you a rundown over breakfast. Lover's quarrel? I need to know the details… [/i] [i] Whoops. Look at me rambling, via email no less! Let me get down to business. [/i] [i] The first challenge, named "Master Minds", will test your smarts in regards to Odessan history. You never know when you will encounter nobility or high ranking officials from neighboring or far away countries. Making sure you know the very basics of the country you are representing could be the difference between political life or death. [/i] [i] The challenge will take place in three days and you're welcome to use anything within the Palace walls at your disposal to study. [/i] [i] Any other questions will be answered the day of. [/i] [i] Good luck! [/i] [i] Lyon [/i] *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp #"$!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}? You still there?" I ask. No point in opening the door if so. Silence is your answer. You wait a few more moments for good measure, before you cross the room and open your door. There at your feet is the tray of breakfast you shoved back into ${royal_his_her_their} arms. "Is there something wrong with it?" You wonder aloud, picking the tray up from the ground. You realize it's a silly question once you sit down and start eating. Surely nobody would try and tamper with you food this early in the competition… You eat in silence until you're interrupted by your phone buzzing. As you finish up your food, you see that it's an email from Lyon. *page_break [i] $!{player_first_name}, [/i] [i] Hi! It's Lyon. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} sent me an email saying to send you an email about the details for the first challenge…talk about a morning surprise! I nearly thought it was a scam and deleted it. Then, of course, my boss came in saying 'why the hell haven't I sent the message yet?', which kinda ruined the high… [/i] [i] Also, the $!{royal_title} was supposed to give you a rundown over breakfast. Lover's quarrel? I need to know the details… [/i] [i] Whoops. Look at me rambling, via email no less! Let me get down to business. [/i] [i] The first challenge, named "Master Minds", will test your smarts in regards to Odessan history. You never know when you will encounter nobility or high ranking officials from neighboring or far away countries. Making sure you know the very basics of the country you are representing could be the difference between political life or death. [/i] [i] The challenge will take place in three days and you're welcome to use anything within the Palace walls at your disposal to study. [/i] [i] Any other questions will be answered the day of. [/i] [i] Good luck! [/i] [i] Lyon [/i] *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp #"Sorry. Could you leave the food behind though?" I yell. Am I really that sorry? No. But I am hungry. Silence greets you, which is a bit annoying in your opinion. You wait a few more moments for good measure, before you cross the room and open your door. There at your feet is the tray of breakfast you shoved back into ${royal_his_her_their} arms. "Wonderful," you say to yourself and quickly scoop up the tray, afraid it could disappear if you hesitate too long. Soon enough, you're sat back on top of your bed, eating in a comfortable silence. The silence continues until the room fills with buzzing from your phone. As you finish up your food, you see that it's an email from Lyon. *page_break [i] $!{player_first_name}, [/i] [i] Hi! It's Lyon. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} sent me an email saying to send you an email about the details for the first challenge…talk about a morning surprise! I nearly thought it was a scam and deleted it. Then, of course, my boss came in saying 'why the hell haven't I sent the message yet?', which kinda ruined the high… [/i] [i] Also, the $!{royal_title} was supposed to give you a rundown over breakfast. Lover's quarrel? I need to know the details… [/i] [i] Whoops. Look at me rambling, via email no less! Let me get down to business. [/i] [i] The first challenge, named "Master Minds", will test your smarts in regards to Odessan history. You never know when you will encounter nobility or high ranking officials from neighboring or far away countries. Making sure you know the very basics of the country you are representing could be the difference between political life or death. [/i] [i] The challenge will take place in three days and you're welcome to use anything within the Palace walls at your disposal to study. [/i] [i] Any other questions will be answered the day of. [/i] [i] Good luck! [/i] [i] Lyon [/i] *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp *if (royal_personality = "sarcastic") "Oh yeah. Totally," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} replies with an eyeroll. "I really am talented. Able to eat breakfast and come and see you earlier all at the same time. But where are my manners?" The $!{royal_title} motions towards the tray in ${royal_his_her_their} hands. "I brought a little of this, a little of that from breakfast. Plus I'm supposed to explain to you how the first challenge will go," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} says, looking over your shoulder into your room. "Also, it seems like you're pretty lonely, so I might as well join you." *fake_choice #I raise an eyebrow. "Who said I was lonely?" *set royal %+5 "I'm only teasing," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} answers. "But this hall is a bit secluded from the busier parts of the Palace. It might happen." You look ${royal_him_her_them} up and down for a moment before slowly moving aside. "Alright. Come in." *page_break *label sarcasticexplain "So, this first challenge is really for the nerds, in my opinion. It's called "Master Minds". Basically a glorified Odessan history game show." You nod at $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s words as you start on your piece of toast. "You'll have about three or so days to do research about key events and people in Odessa's history. The first ruler. How many Town and City Heads we have. So on and so forth," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} continues. "Then, it'll be bracket style. You're paired with another contestant until we get to the final round. The winner of that gets to spend an entire day with me." You nod, a mouth full of food still, but you have a head full of thoughts. How do you think you'll fare during this challenge? *fake_choice #Great. Knowledge comes easy to me. *set smarts %+15 *set morale %+10 #I could do well, or not. We'll just have to see. *set smarts %+5 *set morale %+5 #Easy-peasy. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} should go ahead and get ready for our date. *set morale %+10 *set smarts %+10 #Terrible. Smarts are not my thing. *set smarts %-15 *set morale %-10 #I'll probably do well since I plan on cheating. *set cunning %+10 *set morale %+10 "It seems like you're done." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s voice interrupts your thoughts. "Yeah. I am," you say, to which the $!{royal_title} lets out a grin. "Great. I was worried my vision was starting to go." The grin grows. *fake_choice #The wider ${royal_his_her_their} grin grows, the faster my heart beats. *set royal %+15 "Well, since my vision isn't going. I will," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} eventually says, standing up from your desk. "I hope to actually see you at a future breakfast or dinner. We keep meeting like this, I think some of the other contestants might get jealous." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} flashes you one last smile before leaving your room. It's a smile you're afraid will be imprinted in your mind for days to come. *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp #"As long as you can still see me, you'll be alright," I tease. *set flirty +1 *set royal %+10 $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} smirks. "Is that so?" "Trust me," you reply with a wink. "Trust is asking for a lot. But color me intrigued, $!{player_first_name}." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} gets up from your desk after that and you mirror ${royal_him_her_them} by getting up from your bed. "Well. I guess I should leave you to today's activities. I'm sure everybody will be in the library studying, but there's plenty of other places to find information…though don't dig too hard and piss off Father." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} barely holds back a eyeroll at the thought of ${royal_his_her_their} parent. "Or piss him off if you want. Who knows what that man is hiding?" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} shakes ${royal_his_her_their} head and is soon all smiles again. "See you soon," the $!{royal_title} says before leaving you alone once more. *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp #"You should really get that checked out if you're concerned." God, why did I say that... *set royal %+10 Confusion crosses $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s face, which makes you groan internally even more. "$!{player_first_name}, I'm sure you're aware that I have access to the best medical care in the country, right?" You nod slowly, wondering if there was some way for a hole to appear right underneath your feet and whisk you away from this conversation. "Great. But I appreciate the concern though," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} finishes with a smile. "Now, I'll leave you to it. The tour guides always say that you never know what you'll find down a particular corridor…" *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp #"So did somebody put you up to breakfast?" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} isn't being this nice for reason. *set royal %+15 *set rude +1 "Excuse me?" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} asks, right eyebrow quirked up in confusion. You motion to your mostly empty tray in your lap. You decided to sit on top of your bed to eat your breakfast, while the $!{royal_title} opted to take a seat at your desk. "I mean at this point, this competition should be the $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} and $!{player_first_name} Dating Games. A lot of things have happened to me that I'm sure haven't happened to other contestants," you explain. "It's very suspicious." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s other eyebrow raises for a minute before they both lower at the same time. Then, you hear laughter. Coming from ${royal_him_her_them}. "$!{player_first_name}, you're unbelievable." Alright. That's a bit annoying. "I never thought bringing eggs and toast meant anything else but 'please eat and don't die on our grounds', but I guess people do things differently in $!{player_hometown}." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} gets up from your desk and takes the tray from your lap. You expected ${royal_him_her_them} to be upset, but there's still a smile on ${royal_his_her_their} face. "Well, I guess I know what I'll be doing today. Figuring out whomever is secretly making me be nice to you. Wouldn't want to ruin your time here at the Odessan Palace—" "Alright, alright," you grumble. "All these niceties are just a bit much. Something isn't right." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s smile waivers, but you're pretty sure it's in favor of another laugh instead of a frown. "Put all that wondering to use for the challenge, $!{player_first_name}. I think you'll have a more enjoyable time." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} does let out that laugh before leaving you alone. *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp #"Nope, your vision is just fine. Now you can leave me alone." *set royal %-5 *set rude +1 "Oh! Well, of course, $!{player_first_name}," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} replies, quickly standing up from your desk seat. "Goodbye. Let somebody know if you need anything." The $!{royal_title} leaves in a rush and you welcome the silence before you ponder what you should do for the day. *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp #"Thanks for breakfast. That's very nice of you." *set charming +1 *set royal %+10 "Oh, please. The Palace workers have been doing this since before I could walk." *if (background = "guard") $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} smirks in your direction. "But you know all about that, $!{player_guardtitle}. Guard." The $!{royal_title} shrugs and picks up the mostly empty tray. "If you need any help with anything, feel free to talk to Ross, Ryr or anybody else you see. Most are friendly and helpful." After one last smile, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} leaves your room, allowing you to take a few moments to yourself before you decide what you want to do today. *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp #"I'm not lonely, but I am hungry. Come in or not, but leave the food either way." *set royal %+5 $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} slips inside of your room with the tray of food and places it on top of your bed, before moving over to sit at your desk. "Please feast while I talk, $!{player_first_name}." *page_break *goto sarcasticexplain #"Lonely?" Sheesh, is it that obvious...? *set royal %+5 "I'm only teasing…unless you're actually lonely," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} replies, to which you immediately look away from ${royal_him_her_them}. "It's silly. I haven't even been in the competition that long," you mumble, hesitantly sliding your eyes back towards $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}. You're surprised to see that ${royal_his_her_their} eyes are soft. "I'm sorry you feel lonely. Really, I am," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} begins. "I'd offer you more material things but sometimes that only exacerbates the problem." $!{royal_his_her_their} eyes flicker from the tray and back. "Well, I have to come inside and explain the first challenge to you. That's at least time with somebody you know. I know it might not be exactly what you want but—" "Come in," you interrupt, stepping aside to allow the $!{royal_title} in. *page_break *goto sarcasticexplain #"If you want to be alone with me, just say that," I tease. *set royal %+10 *set flirty +1 $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} smirks and gives you a quick look over. "That." It takes a beat or two before you get ${royal_his_her_their} words. "Alright, comedian. Come on in," you say, stepping back into your room to allow the $!{royal_title} to come in. *page_break *goto sarcasticexplain #"Well, since you're already here..." *set royal %-5 "I'm only teasing about the lonely part," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} clarifies. "But thanks for letting me in." *page_break *goto sarcasticexplain #I scoff. "Even if I was lonely, I'd be quite annoyed now." *set royal %+10 *set rude +1 "Wait, you don't enjoy the company of my sparkling personality?" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} asks, the corners of ${royal_his_her_their} mouth sloping downward. "Especially right now," you insist. "So I would love to know why are you holding a tray of food before I shut the door in your face." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} lets out a long, quite exaggerated before speaking again. "Well, as I'm sure you already know, you missed breakfast. I was told to bring you breakfast and explain the first challenge to you," the $!{royal_title} says. "Now, I feel like you're just going to slam the door in my face anyway but—" *fake_choice #That's exactly right. I slam the door and walk back to my bed to relax. Of course, getting rid of $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} couldn't be simple. "Just as I thought. Well, I'll leave the breakfast here for you just in case you want it!" the $!{royal_title} exclaims from behind the closed door. You wait a few more moments for good measure, before you cross the room and open your door. There was the tray, as just as ${royal_he_she_they} said. "Wonderful," you say to yourself and quickly scoop up the tray, afraid it could disappear if you hesitate too long. Soon enough, you're sat back on top of your bed, eating in a comfortable silence. The silence continues until the room fills with buzzing from your phone. As you finish up your food, you see that it's an email from Lyon. *page_break [i] $!{player_first_name}, [/i] [i] Hi! It's Lyon. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} sent me an email saying to send you an email about the details for the first challenge…talk about a morning surprise! I nearly thought it was a scam and deleted it. Then, of course, my boss came in saying 'why the hell haven't I sent the message yet?', which kinda ruined the high… [/i] [i] Also, the $!{royal_title} was supposed to give you a rundown over breakfast. Lover's quarrel? I need to know the details… [/i] [i] Whoops. Look at me rambling, via email no less! Let me get down to business. [/i] [i] The first challenge, named "Master Minds", will test your smarts in regards to Odessan history. You never know when you will encounter nobility or high ranking officials from neighboring or far away countries. Making sure you know the very basics of the country you are representing could be the difference between political life or death. [/i] [i] The challenge will take place in three days and you're welcome to use anything within the Palace walls at your disposal to study. [/i] [i] Any other questions will be answered the day of. [/i] [i] Good luck! [/i] [i] Lyon [/i] *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp #As much as I want to, I don't. "Just come in already," I interrupt. "Thanks. Love you. Mean it." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} slides past you in the door frame to enter your room proper. After a few moments deliberation, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} sits your tray down on top of your bed, before taking a seat at your desk. "Please feast while I talk, $!{player_first_name}." *page_break *goto sarcasticexplain #"I'd rather you leave the food and go." *set royal %-5 *set aloof +1 $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} nods. "Of course. I'll get Lyon to send you an email with all the details. Enjoy your breakfast." The $!{royal_title} leaves shortly after that, allowing you to eat your food alone. Just as you finish up your meal, you hear your phone buzz nearby. When you check it, you see it's an email from Lyon with 'Challenge 1' as the subject line. *page_break [i] $!{player_first_name}, [/i] [i] Hi! It's Lyon. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} sent me an email saying to send you an email…talk about a morning surprise! I nearly thought it was a scam and deleted it. Then, of course, my boss came in saying 'why the hell haven't I sent the message yet?', which kinda ruined the high… [/i] [i] Whoops. Look at me rambling, via email no less! Let me get down to business. [/i] [i] The first challenge, named "Master Minds", will test your smarts in regards to Odessan history. You never know when you will encounter nobility or high ranking officials from neighboring or far away countries. Making sure you know the very basics of the country you are representing could be the difference between political life or death. [/i] [i] The challenge will take place in three days and you're welcome to use anything within the Palace walls at your disposal to study. [/i] [i] Any other questions will be answered the day of. [/i] [i] Good luck! [/i] [i] Lyon [/i] *page_break *goto_scene threedaysbeforecomp *if (royal_personality = "shy") "No. Sorry." It's actually $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}, holding a tray full of breakfast foods ranging from orange juice to toast. "If you want me to go get them, I can, but it's me, $!{royal_first_name}," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} says, not meeting your eyes as ${royal_he_she_they} spoke. "Um, so, I brought breakfast…since you missed it…" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} holds out the tray for you to take, which you take. "Okay, well, bye, that's all I wanted to do," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} rushes out in one breath before abruptly turning to leave. *fake_choice #"Wait! You can stay if you'd like, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}!" I exclaim, nearly dropping the food in my haste. *set royal %+15 "W-What?" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} is halfway down the hallway, but not too far down to turn back around. "Yes. You came all this way. Please stay, at least for a little bit," you continue, trying not to look as frantic as you felt. "Plus, I do need to know the details of the first challenge." The last part of your sentence makes the $!{royal_title}'s eyes widen. "Right. Of course. I did forget about that." Slowly but surely, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} retraces ${royal_his_her_their} steps back to where ${royal_he_she_they} first stood. You step aside and walk over to your desk to make yourself comfortable, while $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} opts to remain by the door. *page_break *label shyexplains "I'm sure you know all about those quiz shows. That's the basis of the first challenge," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} begins. "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 like that until one of you guys win." A flush suddenly appears on ${royal_his_her_their} face, which you take notice of, but don't say anything about. "Um, the winner gets to spend an entire day with me…from sun up to sun down." Before you could react any certain way, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} eyes the door again. "Well, $!{player_first_name}, I really must be off. I'm sure Father expected me back a little while ago and I don't want to make him angry." You're barely able to let out a goodbye before the $!{royal_title} is gone. Though your time together was short, you're still glad $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} decided to come back instead of leaving. It's a thought that warms your insides as you finish up your breakfast. *page_break *goto_scene threedaysbeforecomp #"Okay, bye..." It's way too low for $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} to hear it, but if would've been nice if ${royal_he_she_they} stayed. *set royal %+10 *set bold %-10 You let out a sigh and ease the door shut with your foot. You opt to take your breakfast at your desk, wondering just why $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} was in such a rush to leave. *if (royal >= 60) As you start on a piece of fruit, you hear a knock at the door. You quickly throw it back and swallow, before you go to open it up. You're surprised to see $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} in front of you, looking slightly nervous, but eager. "Hi again, $!{player_first_name}," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} begins. "I…well, besides the breakfast and everything, I was also supposed to talk to you about the first challenge. So, I was wondering if I could do that now?" You nod and let the $!{royal_title} inside. "Sit anywhere you'd like," you say, which is a bit funny to say to someone who owns every inch of the place. "I'll stand, but thank you," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} replies. "Now, let me get started…" *page_break *goto shyexplains *if (royal < 60) You eat in silence until you hear the buzzing of your phone. Upon taking it out and reading it, you see it's an email from Lyon. *page_break [i] $!{player_first_name}, [/i] [i] Hi! It's Lyon. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} sent me an email saying to send you an email…talk about a morning surprise! I nearly thought it was a scam and deleted it. Then, of course, my boss came in saying 'why the hell haven't I sent the message yet?', which kinda ruined the high… [/i] [i] To tell you the truth, I was quite surprised to get an email like this. Telling you about the challenge was supposed to be $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s job after you didn't come to breakfast but… [/i] [i] Whoops. Look at me rambling, via email no less! Let me get down to business. [/i] [i] The first challenge, named "Master Minds", will test your smarts in regards to Odessan history. You never know when you will encounter nobility or high ranking officials from neighboring or far away countries. Making sure you know the very basics of the country you are representing could be the difference between political life or death. [/i] [i] The challenge will take place in three days and you're welcome to use anything within the Palace walls at your disposal to study. [/i] [i] Any other questions will be answered the day of. [/i] [i] Good luck! [/i] [i] Lyon [/i] *page_break *goto_scene threedaysbeforecomp #"$!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}, what about the first challenge?" I call out. The question stops $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} in ${royal_his_her_their} tracks. "Oh! Well, you do need to know about that, I suppose." Slowly but surely, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} retraces ${royal_his_her_their} steps back to where ${royal_he_she_they} first stood. You step aside and walk over to your desk to make yourself comfortable with your breakfast, while $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} opts to remain by the door. *page_break *goto shyexplains #I want to call ${royal_him_her_them} back, but I figure what's the use and go back inside of my room. *set aloof +1 *set royal %+10 You let out a sigh and ease the door shut with your foot. You opt to take your breakfast at your desk, wondering just why $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} was in such a rush to leave. You eat in silence until you hear the buzzing of your phone. Upon taking it out and reading it, you see it's an email from Lyon. *page_break [i] $!{player_first_name}, [/i] [i] Hi! It's Lyon. You're probably wondering why I'm emailing you. That's because $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} sent me an email saying to send you an email! [/i] [i] Talk about a morning surprise! I nearly thought it was a scam and deleted it. Then, of course, my boss came in saying 'why the hell haven't I sent the message yet?', which kinda ruined the high… [/i] [i] To tell you the truth, I was quite surprised to get an email like this. Telling you about the challenge was supposed to be $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s job after you didn't come to breakfast but… [/i] [i] Whoops. Look at me rambling, via email no less! Let me get down to business. [/i] [i] The first challenge, named "Master Minds", will test your smarts in regards to Odessan history. You never know when you will encounter nobility or high ranking officials from neighboring or far away countries. Making sure you know the very basics of the country you are representing could be the difference between political life or death. [/i] [i] The challenge will take place in three days and you're welcome to use anything within the Palace walls at your disposal to study. [/i] [i] Any other questions will be answered the day of. [/i] [i] Good luck! [/i] [i] Lyon [/i] *page_break *goto_scene threedaysbeforecomp #"You're leaving before I can say thank you?" I exclaim, darting my head out into the hallway. *set charming +1 The question stops $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} in ${royal_his_her_their} tracks. "Thank you?" You grin and nod. "Yes. Thank you, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}. This is very nice, especially since I didn't go to breakfast. I appreciate it." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} flushes and shrugs. "It's nothing really, but…oh!" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} suddenly turns around and walks back up to your door. "I, well, I've got to explain the first challenge to you. So, could I come in?" You nod and let the $!{royal_title} inside. "Sit anywhere you'd like," you say, which is a bit funny to say to someone who owns every inch of the place. "I'll stand, but thank you," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} replies. "Now, let me get started…" *page_break *goto shyexplains #"Thank you, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}!" I yell. There will be plenty of time to spend with ${royal_him_her_them} in the future. *set royal %+5 You don't hear a response back, but you're fine with that. Bringing breakfast was more than you expected after sleeping in. You opt to take your breakfast at your desk and eat in silence until you hear the buzzing of your phone. Upon taking it out, you see that you got an email from Lyon. *page_break [i] $!{player_first_name}, [/i] [i] Hi! It's Lyon. You're probably wondering why I'm emailing you. That's because $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} sent me an email saying to send you an email! [/i] [i] Talk about a morning surprise! I nearly thought it was a scam and deleted it. Then, of course, my boss came in saying 'why the hell haven't I sent the message yet?', which kinda ruined the high… [/i] [i] To tell you the truth, I was quite surprised to get an email like this. Telling you about the challenge was supposed to be $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s job after you didn't come to breakfast but…${royal_he_she_they} also told me to tell you thanks? Not sure what for.[/i] [i] Whoops. Look at me rambling, via email no less! Let me get down to business. [/i] [i] The first challenge, named "Master Minds", will test your smarts in regards to Odessan history. You never know when you will encounter nobility or high ranking officials from neighboring or far away countries. Making sure you know the very basics of the country you are representing could be the difference between political life or death. [/i] [i] The challenge will take place in three days and you're welcome to use anything within the Palace walls at your disposal to study. [/i] [i] Any other questions will be answered the day of. [/i] [i] Good luck! [/i] [i] Lyon [/i] *page_break *goto_scene threedaysbeforecomp *if (royal_personality = "charming") "Oh no, $!{player_first_name}. It's me, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}. I come bearing gifts! Er, breakfast rather." You look down at the tray in ${royal_his_her_their} hands and see there's a variety of foods and drinks on display. "You skipped breakfast this morning. I didn't want to you roam around the Palace starving, so I brought you some leftovers. I got a bit of everything for all dietary needs and restrictions," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} explains with a bit of pride in ${royal_his_her_their} voice. *fake_choice #"Wow, you really pulled out all the stops for me." *set sarcastic +1 *set royal %+15 "Really? I can't help but to think that I could do more for you." You scoff, making a quick glance over your shoulder. "I would love for you to visit my old apartment. You'd be begging to come back here within seconds. Where I am now is probably the size of the entire thing." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} chuckles and hands the tray over to you, which you accept. "Well, if you need anything else, $!{player_first_name}, don't hesitate to ask. I'll get Lyon to debrief you on the details of the first challenge. I'm sure you don't want me interrupting your morning dining." *fake_choice #I scoff again. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} couldn't be any more wrong. "No, please join me." "Oh? Alright, if you insist." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} easily slips inside of your room after you back away from the door frame. You head over to your desk to begin your meal, while the $!{royal_title} makes a quick inspection of the room. "There should've been snacks in here. I'll make sure somebody comes around with some before the end of the day," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} says, finally allowing ${royal_himself_herself_themselves} to relax in a corner near your bathroom. "So, this first challenge?" You ask. as you bite into a very hot piece of toast. *page_break *label charmingexplain "Alright. Think of your favorite quiz show, or game show, if you have one. If not, just bear with me. The first challenge will test your smarts exclusively." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} points to ${royal_his_her_their} head for emphasis. "You have three days to use anything in the Palace at your disposal to study. You will be tested on random Odessa topics, like Towns, history, so on and so forth. Then, you and the other contestants will face off together in a knock out round." Then, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} smiles. "The winner of the entire thing will get to be alone with me for the entire day. A day long date, if you will," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} finishes. Your eyes widen a bit at that. Would you be able to choose the date? Will cameras follow you around the entire day? You guess you'll cross that bridge when you get to it. If you get to it. "I see you're nearly finished." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s voice suddenly breaks you out of your thoughts. Everything that ${royal_he_she_they} brought was very tasty, if you had to be honest. "Indeed," you reply. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} smiles and crosses the room to grab the empty tray. "I'll take this and get out of your hair. Feel free to ask around if you need anything." With that, the $!{royal_title} leaves, and you're alone, once again. *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp #I nod. I absolutely would rather eat alone than with ${royal_him_her_them}. "Goodbye, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} nods, that ever present smile on ${royal_his_her_their} face. "Of course. I'll get Lyon to send you an email with all the details. Enjoy your breakfast." The $!{royal_title} leaves shortly after that, allowing you to eat your food alone. Just as you finish up your meal, you hear your phone buzz nearby. When you check it, you see it's an email from Lyon with 'Challenge 1' as the subject line. *page_break [i] $!{player_first_name}, [/i] [i] Hi! It's Lyon. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} sent me an email saying to send you an email…talk about a morning surprise! I nearly thought it was a scam and deleted it. Then, of course, my boss came in saying 'why the hell haven't I sent the message yet?', which kinda ruined the high… [/i] [i] Whoops. Look at me rambling, via email no less! Let me get down to business. [/i] [i] The first challenge, named "Master Minds", will test your smarts in regards to Odessan history. You never know when you will encounter nobility or high ranking officials from neighboring or far away countries. Making sure you know the very basics of the country you are representing could be the difference between political life or death. [/i] [i] The challenge will take place in three days and you're welcome to use anything within the Palace walls at your disposal to study. [/i] [i] Any other questions will be answered the day of. [/i] [i] Good luck! [/i] [i] Lyon [/i] *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp #"Ooh, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}, I'm starting to think that you really like me." *set flirty +1 *set royal %+15 "Oh yeah? What gave you that impression?" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} asks with glittering eyes. "You're way too happy in the morning to not like me," you chuckle, playfully slapping ${royal_his_her_their} shoulder with your hand. "But thank you for breakfast." You carefully take the tray from the $!{royal_title}, easily walking back into your room. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} takes you grabbing the tray as a sign that ${royal_he_she_they} could also enter. "Seeing you makes me happy in ways I…just can't explain right now," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} admits. *fake_choice #I nearly drop my tray at those words. "E-Excuse me?" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s eyes widen in alarm as you struggle with the tray. "Pardon me, $!{player_first_name}. I didn't mean to surprise you," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} says. "It's just good to see new people around the Palace, even if it is for a competition. My comment wasn't meant to be a come on." You let out a breath you hadn't realized you'd been holding. "Right. Of course." You sit your tray down at your desk, while $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} gets comfortable in a far corner of the room. "Before I embarrass myself yet again, I'll explain the first challenge to you." *page_break *goto charmingexplain #"Probably because I look so good," I reply. Gotta keep our banter light. Serious talk freaks me out. *set flirty +1 $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} smiles, but doesn't continue the conversation further. "How about I explain the first challenge to you before I embarrass myself again?" You chuckle and get comfortable at your desk, while $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} remains in a far corner of your room. "Go ahead," you say, before biting into a steaming piece of toast. *page_break *goto charmingexplain #"Really? I'm glad you're so happy, then!" I grin over at $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}. *set charming +1 $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s whole face lights up. "That means a lot, $!{player_first_name}. Truly. I—" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} hesitates, which causes you to turn around and look at ${royal_him_her_them}. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} sees you looking at ${royal_him_her_them} and looks away with a sheepish smile. "Never mind. How about I explain the first challenge to you before I embarrass myself again?" You're slightly surprised at ${royal_his_her_their} reaction, but you nod. "Go ahead," you say, before biting into a steaming piece of toast. *page_break *goto charmingexplain #"Seeing a sexy ${royal_man_woman_person} in the morning does that to you," I tease. *set flirty +1 "Ha. Well…" You smirk to yourself as you settle down at your desk with your breakfast, while $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} attempts to get ${royal_his_her_their} thoughts in order. "H-How about I explain the first challenge to you before I embarrass myself further?" You chuckle and give $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}, who remains in a far corner of your room, a nod. "Go ahead," you say, before biting into a steaming piece of toast. *page_break *goto charmingexplain #"Oh?" I turn away so $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} can't see how embarrassed I am in the face. *set shy +1 "Yes," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} insists but ${royal_his_her_their} eyes widen. "Oh. I just mean it's good to see new people around the Palace! I wasn't…oh God, that seemed like a come on, didn't it?" You try and stammer out something but your hesitancy only adds to ${royal_his_her_their} embarrassment. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} groans a bit to ${royal_himself_herself_themselves}, ${royal_his_her_their} fingers massaging ${royal_his_her_their} temples. "Please accept my sincere apologizes. I'll get Lyon to send you the information you need for the first challenge. Excuse me." Before you could say anything, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} dashes out of the room, face still flushed. Now alone, you decide to begin your breakfast. It was almost a bit amusing to see the normally proper and put together $!{royal_title} act like that. Just as you finish up your meal, you hear your phone buzz nearby. When you check it, you see it's an email from Lyon with 'Challenge 1' as the subject line. *page_break [i] $!{player_first_name}, [/i] [i] Hi! It's Lyon. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} sent me an email saying to send you an email…talk about a morning surprise! I nearly thought it was a scam and deleted it. Then, of course, my boss came in saying 'why the hell haven't I sent the message yet?', which kinda ruined the high… [/i] [i] Whoops. Look at me rambling, via email no less! Let me get down to business. [/i] [i] The first challenge, named "Master Minds", will test your smarts in regards to Odessan history. You never know when you will encounter nobility or high ranking officials from neighboring or far away countries. Making sure you know the very basics of the country you are representing could be the difference between political life or death. [/i] [i] The challenge will take place in three days and you're welcome to use anything within the Palace walls at your disposal to study. [/i] [i] Any other questions will be answered the day of. [/i] [i] Good luck! [/i] [i] Lyon [/i] *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp #"So, just how good is all this breakfast?" I ask, pointedly ignoring $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s sentence. *set rude +1 *set royal %-10 "A-Amazing," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} stammers out. "Good. Great. The best." You give it a look over before you sit it down on top of your desk and sit down shortly after. "Alright," you say and start to dig in. You're eating in silence until $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} clears ${royal_his_her_their} throat from behind you. "I suppose I should tell you about the challenge now," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} says to which you nod. *page_break *goto charmingexplain #"This food doesn't look expensive enough," I say with a sniff. *set rude +1 *set royal %-10 $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s eyes widen at your words and you watch ${royal_his_her_their} mouth open and close, just like a fish feeding. Then, as if a switch flipped, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} grins over at you. "I assure you, $!{player_first_name}, it's very good and very expensive. But, I'd be happy to take it back if you don't want it." You sniff again and prepare to talk about the food further but your stomach decides to speak instead. It growls quite loudly. Well. At least $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} does you the common courtesy of not laughing or even smirking. You say nothing as you take the tray into your hands and back into your room. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} follows with an annoying little smile on ${royal_his_her_their} face. "Oh. Besides food, I'm here to explain the first challenge to you. It was explained over breakfast, but seeing as you missed that, I'd be happy to give you a briefing now," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} explains as you settle down at your desk. You give ${royal_him_her_them} the barest of nods before you turn to start breakfast, which is incredibly good just as $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} claimed. *page_break *goto charmingexplain #"Oh yum! Thank you!" I bow for added emphasis. *set charming +1 *set polished %+10 *set royal %+5 $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} looks embarrassed as you come up. "Oh, please. You don't need to be so formal when it's just us two." A smile crosses ${royal_his_her_their} face though. "But it is much appreciated." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} turns to walk away before halting in ${royal_his_her_their} tracks. "Oh! If I may, I also wish to explain the first challenge to you. We discussed it over breakfast." You nod and allow $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} to come into your room. While you sit down at your desk to start breakfast, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} stays by the door, presumably to give you some privacy. "Go ahead," you tell ${royal_him_her_them}. *page_break *goto charmingexplain #"Thanks..." *set aloof +1 *set royal %+15 "Anytime," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} replies, making sure to steady the tray in your hands before letting go completely. You two watch each other for a moment and just as the silence gets too awkward, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} breaks eye contact, glancing down the hallway. "Well, I'll leave you to it. I'm sure you don't want me interrupting your breakfast." *fake_choice #I swallow thickly and avert my eyes as well. "Come in," I say eventually. "Just as I figured. I'll see you—wait, I'm sorry?" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} appears to be shocked that you agreed to the company. "You heard me," you mumble, abruptly turning around to look for somewhere in your room to have your breakfast. You decide on your desk as you hear $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} come inside behind you. "I figured you'd say no, actually, hence the surprise," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} continues, which makes you groan to yourself. "I'm starting to regret my decision," you add, shooting $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} a look that spurs ${royal_him_her_them} to quickly move on. "Right. Okay. Let me explain the first challenge to you…" *page_break "Think of your favorite quiz show, or game show, if you have one. If not, just bear with me. The first challenge will test your smarts exclusively." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} points to ${royal_his_her_their} head for emphasis. "You have three days to use anything in the Palace at your disposal to study. You will be tested on random Odessa topics, like Towns, history, so on and so forth. Then, you and the other contestants will face off together in a knock out round." Then, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} smiles. "The winner of the entire thing will get to be alone with me for the entire day. A day long date, if you will," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} finishes. Your eyes widen a bit at that. Would you be able to choose the date? Will cameras follow you around the entire day? You guess you'll cross that bridge when you get to it. If you get to it. "I see you're nearly finished." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s voice suddenly breaks you out of your thoughts. Everything that ${royal_he_she_they} brought was very tasty, if you had to be honest. "Indeed," you reply. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} smiles and crosses the room to grab the empty tray. "I'll take this and get out of your hair. Feel free to ask around if you need anything." With that, the $!{royal_title} leaves, and you're alone, once again. *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp #I nod. I absolutely would rather eat alone than with ${royal_him_her_them}. "Yes. Goodbye." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} nods, that ever present smile on ${royal_his_her_their} face. "Of course. I'll get Lyon to send you an email with all the details. Enjoy your breakfast." The $!{royal_title} leaves shortly after that, allowing you to eat your food alone. Just as you finish up your meal, you hear your phone buzz nearby. When you check it, you see it's an email from Lyon with 'Challenge 1' as the subject line. *page_break [i] $!{player_first_name}, [/i] [i] Hi! It's Lyon. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} sent me an email saying to send you an email…talk about a morning surprise! I nearly thought it was a scam and deleted it. Then, of course, my boss came in saying 'why the hell haven't I sent the message yet?', which kinda ruined the high… [/i] [i] Whoops. Look at me rambling, via email no less! Let me get down to business. [/i] [i] The first challenge, named "Master Minds", will test your smarts in regards to Odessan history. You never know when you will encounter nobility or high ranking officials from neighboring or far away countries. Making sure you know the very basics of the country you are representing could be the difference between political life or death. [/i] [i] The challenge will take place in three days and you're welcome to use anything within the Palace walls at your disposal to study. [/i] [i] Any other questions will be answered the day of. [/i] [i] Good luck! [/i] [i] Lyon [/i] *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp *if (royal_personality = "aloof") "No. Breakfast." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} pushes the tray into your hands without another word. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} then stuffs ${royal_his_her_their} hands into ${royal_his_her_their} pants pockets and looks away. *fake_choice #"What are you, a jungle ${royal_man_woman_person}?" *set sarcastic +1 *set bold %+10 *set royal %+10 "No," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} answers bluntly, revealing that the joke apparently flew right over ${royal_his_her_their} head. "Well, I'm sorry. Usually people say more than two words in the morning to me, even if they are bringing me food," you reply, eying the variety of goodies on your tray. "I'm not like other people," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} shoots back, still talking to the hallway instead of you. "Ooh, six words. Progress is being made!" You exclaim and probably would've clapped for good measure, had you not been holding the tray. "Anyway, why are you here? Oh, and talk to me instead of the hallway." *if (royal < 65) "The hallway will do nicely, actually," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} replies, glaring harder for good measure. "Whatever," you say, turning your back on ${royal_him_her_them}. "I'm going to eat my breakfast now. You're the one that's gonna look weird if anybody walks by…not me." You walk further into your room, opting to eat your breakfast at your desk rather than your unmade bed. Just as you begin to bite into a piece of toast, you hear $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} shuffle inside and make ${royal_himself_herself_themselves} comfortable right inside your door. "About time," you mumble around your toast and even though you couldn't see it, you're super $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} rolls ${royal_his_her_their} eyes. "Anyway. The real reason I'm here, besides feeding you, is to tell you about the upcoming competition," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} says. "Now, listen carefully…" *page_break *goto aloofexplains *if (royal >= 65) $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} grits ${royal_his_her_their} teeth but does turn back to you. "To explain the first challenge to you. As for breakfast, before you ask about that too, Father told me to bring it. Happy?" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} answers and you shrug. "Eh, just get on with the explanation," you say, turning your back on ${royal_him_her_them} to head into your room. Seeing as your bed was still unmade, you decide to take your breakfast at your desk. You're pretty sure $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} grumbles something in response, but before you know it, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} joins you inside. Well, as far as one could get inside before being completely outside, that is. "Okay, listen carefully…" *page_break *goto aloofexplains *label aloofexplains "I hope you're smart. Otherwise, the first challenge will be, well, a challenge. It's called "Master Minds" and it will test your smarts when it comes to Odessan history." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} rolls his eyes. "I'm pretty sure Father is the only person to know everything there is to know about our history, but I digress." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} looks at you fully now. "Well, I'm leaving now. Bother Lyon if you have any more questions." Before any sound could escape your lips, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} is gone. *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp #"Thank you..." *set shy +1 $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} grunts in reply. You watch ${royal_him_her_them} for a few more moments, before you turn around and make a beeline for your desk. You figure you might as well eat before it gets too cold. You glance back at $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} who is still looking away from you. "Um, did you want something else?" You ask. Maybe $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} wanted to join you? Maybe ${royal_he_she_they} didn't even want to be there? It was so hard to get a good read on ${royal_him_her_them}. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} sighs and shakes ${royal_his_her_their} head. "No. Lyon will brief you. Goodbye." A slammed door ends your conversation, leaving you to dine alone. You take a moment to get your barrings again before you finally start on breakfast, which is quite delicious, if you had to admit it. Your eating is only halted by the buzzing of your phone. A quick check of your phone reveals that the cause of the buzzing is an email notification from Lyon. *page_break [i] $!{player_first_name}, [/i] [i] Hi! It's Lyon. $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} sent me an email saying to send you an email about the details for the first challenge…talk about a morning surprise! I nearly thought it was a scam and deleted it. Then, of course, my boss came in saying 'why the hell haven't I sent the message yet?', which kinda ruined the high… [/i] [i] Also, the $!{royal_title} was supposed to give you a rundown over breakfast. Lover's quarrel? I need to know the details… [/i] [i] Whoops. Look at me rambling, via email no less! Let me get down to business. [/i] [i] The first challenge, named "Master Minds", will test your smarts in regards to Odessan history. You never know when you will encounter nobility or high ranking officials from neighboring or far away countries. Making sure you know the very basics of the country you are representing could be the difference between political life or death. [/i] [i] The challenge will take place in three days and you're welcome to use anything within the Palace walls at your disposal to study. [/i] [i] Any other questions will be answered the day of. [/i] [i] Good luck! [/i] [i] Lyon [/i] *page_break *goto_scene chapter3_threedaysbeforecomp #"You brought me breakfast? Thank you, $!{player_first_name}!" *set charming +1 *set royal %+15 "Well, you didn't come to breakfast, so what else was I supposed to do?" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} asks with furrowed eyebrows. "Let you starve?" You smile and carefully walk the tray over to your desk, before turning back to $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}. "Again, thank you. Feel free to sit with me for a minute before duty calls again," you say, giving ${royal_him_her_them} one last smile before you sit down to start your breakfast. As you eat your toast, you hear $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} shuffle inside your room, but stop no further than a few inches away from the door. "I'm also here to brief you on the first challenge," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} says after a whlie. You give ${royal_him_her_them} a thumbs up, a sign that ${royal_he_she_they} could continue. *page_break *goto aloofexplains #"Well, good morning to you too." *set sarcastic +1 "My good mornings don't usually involve bringing food to people that I'm not sleeping with," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} replies. *fake_choice #"Well, we can go a round or two if you want. The bed is still unmade," I smirk. *set flirty +1 *set royal %+5 $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} flushes and becomes increasingly interested in something down the hallway. "Guess that's a no," you reply, letting out an exaggerated sigh as you walk over to your desk to start breakfast. "Might as well come in instead of staring at the dust in the hallway." $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} eventually obliges, halting right inside your room. "Believe it or not, I'm actually here to tell you about the first challenge, $!{player_first_name}. May I do that?" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} asks you. You shrug, mouth around a hot piece of toast. You figure $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} was going to do whatever ${royal_he_she_they} wanted to do anyway. "I'm going to start talking now," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} adds, only proving your point. *page_break *goto aloofexplains #"It's way too early for your attitude," I mutter. *set rude +1 *set royal %+5 "It's way too early for a lot of things," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} shoots back, continuing to stare down the hallway. You roll your eyes and back into your room. "Is it way too early for you to tell me why you're even knocking on my door in the first place?" You ask as you settling down at your desk to start breakfast. Your back is turned, but you're sure $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} is scowling. "I'm here to brief you about the first challenge. Father told me to bring you breakfast since you missed it. Happy?" You shrug, mouth too preoccupied with chewing a hot piece of toast to properly answer. You figure $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} was going to do whatever ${royal_he_she_they} wanted to do anyway. "I'm going to start talking now," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} adds, only proving your point. *page_break *goto aloofexplains #"So, how about you get to the point so you can leave since you don't like being around me so much?" I ask with a roll of my eyes. *set sarcastic +1 *set royal %+10 "Gladly!" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} exclaims into the hallway, which causes your eyebrow to raise. "Well, that certainly doesn't look weird at all," you say as you back up into your room. You decide to take breakfast at your desk, seeing as your bed was still unmade. Reluctantly, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} slips inside of your room as well, only to stop just a few feet from the door. You idly wonder what was the point of even coming in, but $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s words break you from your thoughts. "The point is that I'm here to explain the first challenge to you. Now, listen carefully…" *page_break *goto aloofexplains #"Thanks for bringing the food anyway," I say with a smile. *set charming +1 *set royal +15 "Any idiot could've done it," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} replies with a strange expression on ${royal_his_her_their} face. You chuckle. "You're far from an idiot, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}." The $!{royal_title} turns to look at you, odd expression still on ${royal_his_her_their} face. It seemed to be a mixture of confusion and something else…maybe happiness? The look is gone before you could investigate it fully. "Anyways, I'm actually here for another reason. To explain the first challenge to you. Can I come in?" You nod, stepping aside so $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} could enter. The $!{royal_title} stops just short of the entryway, which you find a bit amusing, as you move to your desk to start your breakfast. Once you're comfortable and eating, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} begins to speak. *page_break *goto aloofexplains #"Uh-huh." I'm way too hungry to care about what $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} has to say. "Actually, we're getting away from the whole point of this," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} says, rubbing at ${royal_his_her_their} temples. "I'm here to explain the first challenge to you, not be your servant ${royal_man_woman_person}." "Yeah, yeah," you reply, moving over to your desk as fast as the tray would allow. "Just start talking whenever." "I…alright," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} deadpans. *page_break *goto aloofexplains #"I see small talk is not your strong suit." *set aloof +1 *set royal %+5 "Not at all." It takes everything in your power not to roll your eyes at $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}. "Okay. At least tell me why you're here," you say. "I'm here to brief you on the first challenge. It was done at breakfast while you were…sleeping?" $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} looks around at your slightly messy room, including the bed you hadn't made up yet. "Yes, sleeping," you confirm. "But, fine." You step back into your room, still holding the tray, while $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} steps inside, but halts just inside of the door. "What's the point of coming all this way if you don't actually get in my room?" You ask over your shoulder, as you walk to your desk. A little shuffling later, you hear $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} move further inside, but still much further than most people would be. "Happy? I'm going to start explaining now…" *page_break *goto aloofexplains #"What's your problem?" *set rude +1 *set royal %+10 $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} bristles at the question. "There's no problem yet, but there can be one if we keep talking," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} replies, tearing ${royal_his_her_their} eyes away from the hallway to look into yours. "A hello would've been nice," you say, "Imagine if I did the same thing to you?" Back goes $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s attention to the hallway. "I'm not here for hypotheticals. I'm here to explain the first challenge to you, something you missed because you slept in." "Whatever," you say, turning your back on ${royal_him_her_them}. "I'm going to eat my breakfast now. Do whatever." *page_break $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} does eventually enter your room, but is so close to your door, ${royal_he_she_they} might as well be outside. "Okay, listen carefully," $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} says as you start on your breakfast. *page_break *goto aloofexplains