[b] [i] NOW PLAYING AS: $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name} [/i] [/b] *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "aloof") and (player_clothing_style = "rumi")) “You could at least smile, $!{defaultroyal_first_name},” Mozelle says to me as my mother fusses around with the collar of my button down shirt. I scoff at that. “Easy for you to say. You’re not the one at the center of all the attention for this competition,” I reply, stepping away from my mother so she would stop fidgeting with everything on me. I glance at my reflection in a nearby hall mirror, not seeing much difference from before my mother decided to mess with my clothes. “$!{player_first_name} is lovely, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. You’ll like ${player_him_her_them},” my mother says with a soft smile. I sigh and nod, just to appease her. My mother always saw the best in people and situations and I envied her for it. Perhaps I was too much like Father, always seeing ulterior motives behind every action. “Alright, enough talking. $!{player_first_name} and Dad are heading back to the Great Hall. We should hurry,” Mozelle says, speed walking so that she could get ahead of Mother and I. We quickly follow after her and as we walk, my mind drifts to my supposed near perfect match. I was skeptical that this competition would even work. Father has always tried to meddle in my love life, no matter how much he claimed to the contrary in the media, but never to this extent. A computer program with the ability to find my spouse? I barely knew anything about this ${player_man_woman_person}, or any of the other contestants, yet I would eventually have to marry one of them? This was just a waste of time. *page_break We reach the Great Hall just a few moments before Father and $!{player_first_name} do, so there’s no time for him to exaggeratedly reveal $!{player_first_name} to me, which I preferred. Let me smile, nod and head back to my room. $!{player_first_name} pauses, ${player_his_her_their} cape fluttering behind them for a few more moments before it finally stills. I immediately notice the Rumi influences in the way that $!{player_first_name} dresses. Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 "You as well," I reply, giving $!{player_first_name} a brief smile. $!{player_he_she_they} doesn't look bad and is at least a nice seeming person. Still, I keep my distance, praying that somebody bails me out. "Well, now that the two of you have met, how about showing ${player_him_her_them} the gardens, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}?" Mother asks with a bright smile. Okay, not like that. "What a great, totally planned for idea!" Mozelle exclaims with a matching bright smile. "Ah, right. Totally forgot that," Father says, raising an eyebrow towards Mother and Mozelle. All they do is continue to sport grins. "Sounds good to me," $!{player_first_name} says, smiling a bit. "I'd love to see them." All that leaves is my response which is a soft sigh and nod. "Sure. Follow me, $!{player_first_name}." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 For the first time in quite a while, I find myself flushing. Not just a cutesy little flush, but a full blown reddening of the cheeks. What a cheeky ${player_man_woman_person}. "U-um, thank you," I finally answer, finding that a smile has worked itself on my face. "No, thank you. Pictures do not do you justice $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}," $!{player_first_name} says with a wink. When I glance over at Mother, she is both amused and over the moon at our meeting. She's smiling and I'm pretty sure if her eyes could sparkle, they would be. "Oh, this is absolutely lovely. How about you take $!{player_first_name} on a tour of the gardens?" Mother suggests. "The garden is lovely this time of year." I swallow thickly, glancing over at ${player_him_her_them}. Of course Mother couldn't let me just meet and leave. $!{player_first_name} for all ${player_his_her_their} credit, still smiles and doesn't look nervous or upset by this idea. "Gardens? I'd love to see them and be alone with you," $!{player_first_name} says, playing around a loose string on ${player_his_her_their} clothing. I at least manage not to blush again as we head off. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 "Hi, $!{player_first_name}," I reply, trying to meet ${player_his_her_their} eyes, but I just couldn't. My eyes glance over ${player_his_her_their} outfit again, wracking my brain for something else to say to keep the conversation going. Either out of her own patience or annoyance, Mozelle grins at the two of us and wraps her arms around each of our shoulders. "How about you two keep this lively conversation going in the gardens?" She suggests, which causes $!{player_first_name} to flush a bit. "Sure, if $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name} doesn't mind. I would love to go." My heart flutters ever so slightly when I glance over and meet $!{player_first_name}'s eyes. "N-no. No, I'll take you there," I say, carefully removing Mozelle's arm from around my shoulder. $!{player_first_name} immediately steps away as well, straightening ${player_his_her_their} cape before facing me. "After you, $!{defaultroyal_title}." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 I'm a bit surprised by the aloofness of their greeting. I expected $!{player_first_name} to have a bit more to ${player_his_her_their} introduction, but I appreciated the desire to not drag this meeting on any longer than necessary. "You look very nice, $!{player_first_name}," I continue and $!{player_first_name} nods a brief smile appearing on ${player_his_her_their} face. "Thank you," $!{player_first_name} says, fiddling around with ${player_his_her_their} fingers. Hm, is this how I appear to others? "$!{player_first_name}, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you two go to the gardens? When they're open to the public, they tend to be insanely crowded and very popular," Father suggests. $!{player_first_name} nods. "Sounds nice." I echo ${player_his_her_their} agreement with the garden idea without much resistance. If this is how $!{player_first_name} usually acts, then I can definitely tolerate being around ${player_him_her_them} for a while. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "You're telling me," I find myself replying before I could help it. $!{player_first_name} chuckles, fingering at ${player_his_her_their} cape. "Could be worse. Before I left my job we were preparing for a huge client to come in. This is much better than trying to impress some big shot CEOs," $!{player_first_name} replies. I laugh a bit and cross my arms, really taking in ${player_his_her_their} appearance. $!{player_first_name} seems insanely comfortable not only in clothing straight from Rumi's closet but just around me in general. That was refreshing. "Well, now that the two of you have met, how about you spend some time together in the garden?" Mother suggests with a smile. "Off to the gardens so $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name} can serenade me? I'm in for a treat, then," $!{player_first_name} teases, causing me to flush a bit. "Ah, I can't sing. Sorry to disappoint," I say. $!{player_first_name} pouts playfully. "Some $!{defaultroyal_title} you are! Guess I can forgive you if these gardens are really as nice as Queen Ramona says. Lead the way." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "shy") and (player_clothing_style = "rumi")) “You’re biting at your lips again.” I sigh, letting my bottom lip go. I hadn’t even realized that I was so worked up over this meeting. Mozelle sighs and looks me up and down. “Why are you so nervous? You’re only about to potentially meet your future spouse in a few minutes,” she says, which is definitely not helping. “I-I’m not nervous!” I exclaim, though my stutter wasn’t very convincing. This type of stuff was more Mozelle’s style, meeting people and the like. I’m sure she’s about to set a world record for the most selfies taken with fans of the Crown. I was much more content behind the scenes, making an appearance as necessary. Like this one. “Everything will be fine, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. $!{player_first_name} is quite lovely. No weird feelings about ${player_him_her_them} at all. You’re nervous for no reason,” my mother assures beside me. “Maybe you’re right,” I say with a soft sigh. “Alright. But I won’t talk to ${player_him_her_them} long.” That response satisfies my mother and sister, so the three of us begin our walk back into the Great Hall. *page_break We reach the Great Hall just a few moments before Father and $!{player_first_name} do, so there’s no time for him to exaggeratedly reveal $!{player_first_name} to me, which I preferred. I always thought that was so embarrassing for all parties involved when it happened anyway. $!{player_first_name} pauses when ${player_he_she_they} see me, ${player_his_her_their} cape fluttering behind them for a few more moments before it finally stills. I immediately notice the Rumi influences in the way that $!{player_first_name} dresses. Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 "Y-you as well," I reply, giving $!{player_first_name} a brief smile. $!{player_he_she_they} doesn't look bad and is at least a nice seeming person. "Well, now that the two of you have met, how about showing ${player_him_her_them} the gardens, $!{defaulroyal_first_name}?" Mother asks with a bright smile. My eyes widen and I turn back towards Mother. "Are you sure-" "What a great, totally planned for idea!" Mozelle exclaims with a matching bright smile. Speaking over me. Again. "Ah, right. Totally forgot that," Father says, raising an eyebrow towards Mother and Mozelle. All they do is continue to sport grins. "Sounds good to me," $!{player_first_name} says, smiling a bit. "I'd love to see them." All that leaves is my response which is a soft sigh and nod. "Okay. Follow me, $!{player_first_name}," I say softly. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 Unsurprising to no one, I begin to flush. Not that I say too much to being with, but my own greeting dies on my lips as I try to process the obvious come on. Luckily, Mozelle catches on and bails me out, though not the way I was expecting. "$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you and $!{player_first_name} go to the gardens? Get to know one another? See how many times $!{player_first_name} can hit on you?" Mozelle asks, smiling over at ${player_him_her_them}. "Good idea, Mozelle. How about it, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}? "The gardens are lovely this time of year." I swallow thickly, glancing over at ${player_him_her_them}. Of course Mother or Mozelle couldn't let me just meet and leave. $!{player_first_name} for all ${player_his_her_their} credit, still smiles and doesn't look nervous or upset by this idea. "Gardens? I'd love to see them and be alone with you," $!{player_first_name} says, playing around a loose string on ${player_his_her_their} clothing. I chuckle nervously but nod towards my mother and sister. "Alright. Let's go. T-they're not too far," I say, offering a smile towards $!{player_first_name}. I didn't have a choice in taking ${player_him_her_them} to the garden, but I could at least be nice about it. "Oh I can't wait," $!{player_first_name} says, batting ${player_his_her_their} eyes towards me. At least I manage to hold off another flush as we leave the hall. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 "Hi, $!{player_first_name}," I reply, averting my own eyes. My mind runs blank as I try to think of something else to say. I like ${player_his_her_their} outfit, but I couldn't even get a compliment out. The silence stretches on for a short while until Mozelle, either out of her own patience or annoyance, decides to break it. "How about you two keep this lively conversation going in the gardens?" She suggests, which causes $!{player_first_name} to flush a bit. My heart flutters ever so slightly when I glance over and meet $!{player_first_name}'s eyes. We said a combined six words to each other. Surely ${player_he_she_they} would say no. $!{player_first_name}, much to my surprise, agrees. "S-sure, if $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name} doesn't mind. I'd hate to make you do something you don't want to do." I flush lightly. I've done plenty of things that I didn't want to do, but this definitely ranked near bottom on that list. "N-no. No, I'll take you there," I say, smiling over at $!{player_first_name}. "I don't mind." $!{player_first_name} adjusts ${player_his_her_their} cape before ${player_he_she_they} answer. "Great. After you, $!{defaultroyal_title}." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 I'm a bit surprised by the aloofness of their greeting. I expected $!{player_first_name} to have a bit more to ${player_his_her_their} introduction, but I appreciated the desire to not drag this meeting on any longer than necessary. $!{player_first_name} fiddles around with ${player_his_her_their} fingers while waiting for a response from me. "Hi $!{player_first_name}." I pause, figuring that I should respond with something else like a compliment or a welcome to the palace, but I couldn't decide what to say. $!{player_first_name} looks down at ${player_his_her_their} shoes, which causes me to look away. Father coughs a bit, causing us to look up at him with wide eyes. "$!{player_first_name}, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you two go to the gardens? When they're open to the public, they tend to be insanely crowded and very popular," Father suggests. "Maybe you guys can get to know each other more there." It wasn't a bad idea. If $!{player_first_name} and I were not going to look and talk to each other, at least we could do it among some flowers and butterflies. $!{player_first_name} agrees too. "Sounds nice," $!{player_first_name} says and I echo ${player_his_her_their} statement. Neither one of us moves though until Father motions us towards the exit. "Ha. Sorry," we say in unison, which causes Mozelle and Mother to chuckle a bit. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "Right," I say which causes $!{player_first_name} to chuckle. "Could be worse. Before I left my job we were preparing for a huge client to come in. This is much better than trying to impress some big shot CEOs," $!{player_first_name} replies. I nod noncommittally at $!{player_first_name}'s words. As if I could relate to a job like that. I didn't want to seem rude though, so I rack my brain for something else to say. "You look nice," I continue eventually, which causes $!{player_first_name} to grin. "Like you'd tell me if I didn't look nice," $!{player_first_name} jokes, which does make me chuckle a bit. "Touché." Mother smiles over at the two of us, hands resting behind her back. "Well, now that the two of you have met, how about you spend some time together in the garden?" Mother suggests with a smile. "Are the gardens where you take all the 99 percent matches?" $!{player_first_name} teases, causing me to flush a bit. Before I could reply, $!{player_first_name} continues. "Guess I can forgive you if these gardens are really as nice as Queen Ramona says. Lead the way." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "jerk") and (player_clothing_style = "rumi")) “Mother, Sis, you two are aware that this is a waste of time, right?” I say, fixing the crown on my head. I didn’t have to wear this and in fact, my parents told me not to, but I couldn’t resist. It was always so funny meeting people who had no idea how Court worked. They always seemed like they were walking on eggshells around anybody with a lick of royal blood inside of them. “Yet you still have to do it anyway,” Mozelle, unfortunately, reminds me. She was definitely getting a good kick out of me being involved in this whole debacle. “Yet you’ll always be number two to me,” I shoot back with a smirk. Mozelle rolls her eyes at me and I know that if our mother wasn’t present, she likely would’ve flicked me off or cursed me out. “Yet we’re going to be late,” Mother reminds us, slipping her arms through each of ours. “Now, if you could lead the way, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” I sigh, but begin walking back towards the Great Hall knowing that the faster I got there, the faster I could get this over with. *page_break We reach the Great Hall just a few moments before Father and $!{player_first_name} do, so there’s no time for him to exaggeratedly reveal $!{player_first_name} to me, which I preferred. I always thought that was so embarrassing for all parties involved when it happened anyway. $!{player_first_name} pauses when ${player_he_she_they} see me, ${player_his_her_their} cape fluttering behind them for a few more moments before it finally stills. I immediately notice the Rumi influences in the way that $!{player_first_name} dresses. Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 I snort, looking $!{player_first_name} up and down. "Please spare me the niceties," I say, watching ${player_his_her_their} eyes widen. "Excuse me?" $!{player_first_name} asks. I sigh, crossing my arms as I really look at ${player_his_her_their} outfit. "Look, I get that Rumi is the best dresser in Odessa, but you don't have to take the first thing that they offer you. You're allowed to think for yourself," I say. $!{player_first_name} crosses ${player_his_her_their} arms and I can just see the mental debate going on in ${player_his_her_their} head. $!{player_first_name} does eventually speak again. "Despite your obvious rudeness, I am still glad to meet you. On our walk back over here, King Frederick suggested we go to the gardens and talk more. Maybe you can think of a better insult on our walk there?" Now it's my turn for my eyes to widen because well, even I had to admit that was pretty good. My mother, ever the peacemaker walks a bit closer to the two of us. "Forgive $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I'm sure ${defaultroyal_he_she_they} will apologize on your way to the gardens," she says, slightly narrowing her eyes at me, before smiling over at $!{player_first_name}. "Sounds great to me," $!{player_first_name} says, uncrossing ${player_his_her_their} arms as ${player_he_she_they} wait for me to apologize. Well, $!{player_first_name} could keep waiting. I haven't sincerely apologized for anything in years. "I'll think about it on our walk over there." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 "Hm, wish I could say the same. Rumi has loads of mirrors their shop. Did you forget to look in one?" I ask, sniffing at $!{player_first_name}'s outfit. The cape was a nice touch, I must admit, but the rest of it definitely needed to go. $!{player_first_name} laughs at my response, which catches me completely off guard. "Oh, so you like to play hard to get. Cute," $!{player_first_name} responds. "Look, King Frederick said that you and I should go visit one of the palace gardens together and get to know one another. You want to go now or later? Either way, my outfit isn't changing." I sigh, shooting a look over at Father before I look back at $!{player_first_name}. "I'd rather go never, but since Mother and Father won't allow that, I can tolerate a walk with you, I guess," I reply, already heading towards the exit without waiting for ${player_him_her_them}. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 Great, somebody shy. "Hi, er, $!{player_first_name}, right?" I ask. $!{player_he_she_they} nods, fiddling at ${player_his_her_their} clothes. Oh, $!{player_first_name}'s really shy. "Okay, well, I'm leaving," I say, turning around on my heel and heading towards an exit. Father catches up to me in five large steps and grabs my arm to stop me. "What do you think you're doing?" He whispers to me, noticing the crown on top of my head. "I told you not to wear that," Father adds much lower. "Leaving. $!{player_first_name} isn't talking and it isn't my job to get ${player_him_her_them} to talk to me," I whisper back, stepping out of his grip, but I still stay close. "Sorry, $!{parent_title}, but it kind of is your job. I get you have this whole jerk persona going on, but you need to take $!{player_first_name} to the gardens. Like it or not, that is what you will be doing," Father replies. "Or else." He grabs my arm again, just for emphasis and I immediately rip it out of his grip. "Okay, just stop touching me," I mumble, rubbing at my arm before I push past him and head back over to Mother, Mozelle and $!{player_first_name}. "Ah, Father just reminded me about giving you a tour of the gardens," I say, forcing a smile to my face. Whether it was sincere or not, I had no way of knowing, as $!{player_first_name} barely reacts to the news. Eventually, $!{player_first_name} nods and manages a shaky smile of ${player_his_her_their} own. "S-sounds nice. Can't wait to see the gardens." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 "$!{player_man_woman_person} of few words. I like that," I say. "Wish I could say the same about your outfit." $!{player_first_name} sighs and glances down at ${player_his_her_their} outfit before looking at me. "If I wanted to be insulted, I would've just stayed in Lox. Let's just go to the gardens and get this over with," $!{player_first_name} says, which makes me raise my eyebrows. "Who said we're going to the gardens?" I ask and turn to look at my family. "I did," Father says. "Do you have a problem with that?" Well, of course I did. I couldn't tell Father that though, and even if I did, it wouldn't even matter since I'd still have to do it anyway. "No. Can't wait to go. Yay flowers," I reply before I cross my arms. "Ready when you are, $!{player_first_name}. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "Personally, I wish we'd never met at all," I reply before yawning. $!{player_first_name} raises an eyebrow. "Bold of you to assume that I'm over the moon about this, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}," $!{player_first_name} says. "Oh, you don't even want to know half of the things I'm assuming about you right now. None of them are good," I shoot back, now looking at $!{player_first_name}. I wasn't used to a response like that from a stranger, only from Mozelle. $!{player_first_name} grins. "Personally, I'm flattered. You very clearly dislike me, yet you're allowing the very thought of me to consume your mind." I bristle at $!{player_first_name}'s words. "Just who do you think you are?" I ask, stepping a bit closer to ${player_him_her_them}. "Well, I'm $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name} from $!{player_hometown}. I have ${player_skin_color} skin, ${player_eye_color} eyes and…" Mother, eager to get us to stop bickering, walks in between us and places a hand on both of our shoulders. "Instead of arguing back and forth, how about you two go for a walk in the gardens? We'll follow if you'd like, just to make sure you two don't argue." "Arguing around azaleas and lilies, temping," $!{player_first_name} says, tapping on ${player_his_her_their} cheek in faux thought. Yep, this is the most insufferable person I have ever met. "I for one could use some fresh air. Follow if you want, $!{player_first_name}, but I'm leaving," I say, stepping out of Mother's touch. $!{player_first_name} does the same and starts walking behind me. "Oh no, I'm coming. You can't get rid of me that easily." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "charming") and (player_clothing_style = "rumi")) “Well, how do I look?” I smile widely towards my mother and Mozelle. I spent hours preparing for this meeting with $!{player_first_name}. Neither Father nor the Odessa Dates development team would tell me anything about ${player_him_her_them} and it was eating me up inside. After bugging an intern there for at least something small about ${player_him_her_them}, I got a hometown, $!{player_hometown}. “Aren’t those flowers native to $!{player_hometown}?” Mozelle asks and she plays around with my lapel. I quickly step away and make sure none of the petals are crushed. “Yes. Thought it would make a nice first impression,” I say, fidgeting with for a few more moments before dropping my hands at my sides. “Well, if ${player_he_she_they} can’t see the effort, they can definitely smell it,” Mozelle adds, crinkling up her nose. “Ease up on the body spray next time!” Mother laughs, smoothing a hand over my suit jacket. “You look and smell nice, love. I’m sure $!{player_first_name} will be glad to meet you,” she says, giving me a kiss on the cheek. I blush slightly, giving her a one-armed hug before separating. “Alright, alright. Enough Mother. Let’s go to the Great Hall before I inevitably spill something on myself or fall and rip something open.” *page_break $!{player_first_name} pauses when ${player_he_she_they} see me, ${player_his_her_their} cape fluttering behind them for a few more moments before it finally stills. I immediately notice the Rumi influences in the way that $!{player_first_name} dresses. Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 "You as well, $!{player_first_name}," I reply, giving $!{player_first_name} a wide smile. $!{player_he_she_they} doesn't look bad and is at least a nice seeming person. "I hope the journey here wasn't too rough." $!{player_first_name} shakes ${player_his_her_their} head. "Not at all. Cape Odessa is absolutely lovely." I'm glad that ${player_first_name} seems to be settling in fine. After all, if Father's website actually did its' job, $!{player_first_name} would be co-ruling it with me. It was important that ${player_first_name} liked most if not all of ${player_his_her_their} new surroundings. Mother and Father seem pleased that the two of us were getting along so fine. "Now that you two have met, how about showing ${player_him_her_them} the gardens, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}?" Mother asks with a bright smile. I nod, completely fine with that. "Allow me to, ${player_first_name}. I know the history of most of the flowers there and how we came to get them in our garden." I offer my elbow to ${player_him_her_them}, which ${player_he_she_they} eagerly takes. Whether that was because of actual excitement, or for the opportunity to continue following royal customs, I had no way of knowing. "Lead the way, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}!" *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 I flush lightly, resting a hand behind my head. "Oh, you flatter me, $!{player_first_name}," I say. I was always glad to get a compliment, whether that was from somebody I was interested in or just the average citizen, but they always made me a bit embarrassed. "Well, you know what they say about flattery…how it'll get you everywhere and all of that," $!{player_first_name} replies with a grin. I glance over at the rest of my family, who are all grinning or smiling themselves. A great sign. "$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you and $!{player_first_name} walk around the gardens. It's the only close place I believe we haven't show ${player_him_her_them}," Mother says. "Sure, if that's alright with $!{player_first_name}," I say, turning to ${player_him_her_them} for confirmation. "Being alone in a garden with you? That's more than alright with me, babe," $!{player_first_name} replies, which coaxes another flush out of me. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 "Hi, $!{player_first_name}. It's wonderful to meet you," I reply, giving ${player_him_her_them} a smile though ${player_he_she_they} couldn't see it. I watch ${player_him_her_them} fiddle around with ${player_his_her_their} clothing. It wasn't the typical style that I would wear, but $!{player_first_name} did wear it quite well. "You look very nice, $!{player_first_name}. Rumi did a wonderful job on you," I say. $!{player_first_name} doesn't look up, but does at least smile a bit this time. I take that as a win. The silence between us stretches on for a short while until Mozelle, either out of her own patience or annoyance, decides to break it. "How about you two head to the gardens? It's a perfect place to be alone," She suggests, which causes $!{player_first_name} to flush a bit. I offer $!{player_first_name} my hand. "Totally voluntary. If you wish not to go, we can do something else," I say. $!{player_first_name}, much to my surprise, agrees. "S-sure, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Just lead the way." When $!{player_first_name} places ${player_his_her_their} hand in mine, my mind goes completely blank. It was a simple gesture, sure, but still one that made my heartbeat skip a beat or two. "It's not too far away," I tell ${player_him_her_them} as we head towards the room's exit. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 "Welcome to Dia and the palace, $!{player_first_name}," I say with a small smile. "I hope you've liked everything so far." "I have," ${player_he_she_they} replies. "Nice city." Though $!{player_first_name} doesn't really say much, I manage to eventually have a decent conversation with ${player_him_her_them} about the journey to Dia, staying in Cape Odessa and much more. Soon enough, Father breaks our conversation up with a proposal to go to the gardens and give $!{player_first_name} a tour there. "Sounds nice," $!{player_first_name} says, giving me a small smile, which I'm super happy about. "Follow me then. Feel free to walk beside me. I don't mind," I reply, hoping that perhaps that would allow $!{player_first_name} to eventually begin to open up to me. Also because I thought it was a bit uncomfortable to follow all the customs so closely in a private setting such as this one. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "On the contrary. I believe everything happens for a reason. Maybe you're my perfect match or maybe you're not. Either way, I'm still glad to have met you," I say, smiling brightly. $!{player_first_name} blinks rapidly before beginning to chuckle slowly. "No need to charm me, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I'm going to compete, so save that for the competition," $!{player_first_name} says. I hold up my hands, a bit confused. "Pardon me, I don't mean to make you feel uncomfortable," I say. Not sure what $!{player_first_name} means by me being charming, but I figure it's better to just apologize. "Ha, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}, I'm not uncomfortable. You can relax around me. You know…talk, less…er, royally?" $!{player_first_name} smiles and stuffs ${player_his_her_their} hands into ${player_his_her_their} pockets. "How about we talk more about this in the gardens?" I offer. I figure that my family wouldn't have had time to take ${player_him_her_them} there before coming to meet me. Plus, I could show off my flower expertise. "Sure. Our first lover's quarrel in a romantic garden. Sounds great to me," $!{player_first_name} replies before winking. I chuckle and just shake my head, nodding towards my family as a goodbye before we head out of the Great Hall. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "flirty") and (player_clothing_style = "rumi")) “Haven’t you primped enough?” Mozelle says to me as I look at continued to mess with the sleeves of my shirt. I roll my eyes and pinched at her nose, laughing when she swats my hand away. “Oh please. I could never. Not especially when I’m probably about to meet my spouse,” I say. I won’t lie. When Father told me about this plan, I was pretty upset, mainly because he thought I needed help finding somebody. Ask anybody in Odessa, but I didn’t exactly have a problem finding a mate. I had a bit of a reputation, after all. Mother laughs softly, pinching at my cheek. “Oh $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Let’s go. We don’t want to be late.” *page_break We reach the Great Hall just a few moments before Father and $!{player_first_name} do, so there’s no time for him to exaggeratedly reveal $!{player_first_name} to me. I’m a bit disappointed that I can’t exaggeratedly introduce myself to ${player_him_her_them}, but they’ll be plenty of other opportunities to act like a ham. $!{player_first_name} pauses when ${player_he_she_they} see me, ${player_his_her_their} cape fluttering behind them for a few more moments before it finally stills. I immediately notice the Rumi influences in the way that $!{player_first_name} dresses. Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 I smirk, reaching out for $!{player_first_name}'s hand before I fall to my knee. "Oh, I know all about pleasure," I say, pressing a kiss to the top of $!{player_first_name}'s hand. "Very nice to meet you, Sweetness." "S-Sweetness?" $!{player_first_name} asks in disbelief, as I rise from my knee. I nod with a grin. "Yes. Sweetness. Win or lose, I think Sweetness fits you incredibly well," I explain, letting go of ${player_his_her_their} hand. "Ah, well…thanks?" I smile brightly, really taking in $!{player_first_name}'s appearance, who ticks all of the things I typically find attractive about a person. Then again, though, that isn't too hard for most people. Mother seemed pleased that the two of us were getting along so well, while Father looked completely done with my flirting, as usual. "Now that you two have met, how about showing ${player_him_her_them} the gardens, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}?" Mother suggests with a bright smile. I grin. "I'm always down for alone time with anybody, especially when they're super attractive." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 "Oh, I know," I reply with a smirk. "It's always to hear it again, though. Nice to meet you, $!{player_first_name}." We spend a few moments regarding one another. I like $!{player_first_name}'s outfit, but I can't help but imagine how ${player_he_she_they} would look without a single thing on. Eventually Mother breaks the silence by suggesting that we head off somewhere else. "$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you and $!{player_first_name} walk around the gardens. It's the only close place I believe we haven't shown ${player_him_her_them}," Mother says. "I would love to. There are loads of secret spots where the two of us can be alone…get to know one another. In private," I say, looking back over at ${player_first_name}, who is clearly interested in leaving as well. "If you like me now, you'll love me in private," $!{player_first_name} says, throwing a smirk in my direction. "I bet I will, Sweetness," I reply, motioning towards one of the many exits out of the hall. "Don't wait up for us!" I exclaim to my family before we leave. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 "Hi, $!{player_first_name}," I say, giving ${player_him_her_them} a good look up and down. $!{player_first_name} glances up at me for a brief moment before looking back down again, clearly embarrassed at the way I was looking at ${player_him_her_them}. "You look great, Sweetness. I must admit, I've never been this attracted to anyone so quickly," I continue. $!{player_first_name} doesn't look up, but does at least smile a bit this time. Clearly, not the most talkative person, but seems relatively harmless at least. The silence between us stretches on for a short while until Mozelle, either out of her own impatience or annoyance, decides to break it. "How about you two head to the gardens? It's a perfect place to be alone," She suggests, which causes $!{player_first_name} to flush a bit. "O-oh, alone?" $!{player_first_name} asks, fiddling around with ${player_his_her_their} fingers. "Yes, Sweetness, alone. I'll be a perfect respectful $!{defaultroyal_title}, I promise. I'll only flirt maybe two more times," I say with a wink. $!{player_first_name}, much to my surprise, agrees. "S-sure, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Just lead the way." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 "$!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}," I parrot, giving ${player_him_her_them} a wide smile. $!{player_his_her_their} expression doesn't change but I let the lack of response roll of my back. I've hit on quieter. "So $!{player_hometown}, huh? Nice place," I say. "I've had a lot of fun nights with people from there…" As I trail off in thought about one of my former hookups, $!{player_first_name} shifts uncomfortably from foot to foot. The movement reminds me that $!{player_first_name} is there and I smile sheepishly. "Sorry. Er…" I trail off again, wondering just what to say to ${player_him_her_them}. I wasn't used to one-sided talking like this. Eventually, Father proposes that the two of us go to the gardens and talk more there. For once, one of his ideas isn't that bad, though I would likely be doing most of the talking. "Fine with me," $!{player_first_name} agrees with a small smile. "That's the spirit, Sweetness," I say with a wink. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "What circumstances would those have been? In public? In a dimly lit club?" I ask, fiddling with the sleeve of my shirt as I give $!{player_first_name} a good look up and down. "Eyes up here, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaulroyal_first_name}," $!{player_first_name} says, interrupting the very nice mental image I had of ${player_him_her_them} underneath my covers. "Eye contact only." I pout playfully, looking into ${player_his_her_their} eyes as ${player_he_she_they} wanted me to. "Eye contact? You're no fun, Sweetness." $!{player_first_name} crosses ${player_his_her_their} arms and raises an eyebrow. "Sweetness? What is that supposed to be?" I smirk and lightly tap my fingers against my jaw. "Oh, you know. A nickname? An alternate name for somebody?" $!{player_first_name} leans forward, a smirk on ${player_his_her_their} face as well. "I just thought the heir to the Odessa throne could come up with a better nickname for me than Sweetness. Some good those tutors were that our taxes helped pay for." I, for once, don't have a comeback. Not only was $!{player_first_name} nice to look at, ${player_his_her_their} comebacks were pretty great. "How about I show you the gardens? It's the only place I'm sure you haven't been to yet," I offer, once I've mostly recovered. The walk there could give me a good opportunity to come up with some one-liners myself. "Too afraid I'll outwit you in front of your family?" $!{player_first_name} teases. "That's fine. I'd love to see the gardens." I turn back to look at Mother, Father and Mozelle and all three of them are in various states of amusement. Well they're no help. "Fine, Sweetness. Since you agreed so nicely…" *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "sarcastic") and (player_clothing_style = "rumi")) “Happy, Mother?” I ask, slowly spinning around for her approval. Mozelle and Mother smile excitedly, clasping both of their hands together at the same time. “You look lovely, Name. Really. I’m glad you went with this jacket rather than the other one,” Mother says, kissing my cheek as she messed with my shirt collar yet again. “Careful Mother. If you keep messing with ${defaultroyal_his_her_their} clothes, you might accidentally give off the illusion that $!{defaultroyal_first_name}'s interested,” Mozelle teases. I huff, allowing Mother to continue fretting over my clothing. Better I allow her to do it rather than making up excuses. She’d only fret more. “Wait, who told you I wasn’t interested? Was it the lack of a smile or the lack of excitement?” I ask, causing Mozelle to laugh. “Ever the charmer. Let’s go,” she says and Mother nods. While Mozelle walks far ahead from Mother and I, Mother takes the opportunity to talk to me in a much lower voice. “$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, please. I know you’re unhappy about this whole thing, but Frederick really just wants to make you happy. At least try to seem interested?” Mother asks softly. I sigh, stomach twisting uncomfortably. Father always demanded a lot from me, but my Mother barely did. Always the peacekeeper. I nod, watching Mozelle excitedly open up the door leading to the Great Hall. “I’ll try,” I answer finally, giving my mother a small smile. *page_break We enter the Great Hall just a few moments before Father and $!{player_first_name} do, so there’s no time for him to exaggeratedly reveal $!{player_first_name} to me. I’m incredibly glad for that. $!{player_first_name} pauses when ${player_he_she_they} see me, ${player_his_her_their} cape fluttering behind them for a few more moments before it finally stills. I immediately notice the Rumi influences in the way that $!{player_first_name} dresses. Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 "Is it really a pleasure?" I ask, raising an eyebrow. Surely $!{player_first_name} was just laying it on thick. "Yes, truly," $!{player_first_name} says with a smile. "Everything in Dia that I've been to or seen so far has been lovely." $!{player_first_name} has to be kidding. $!{player_first_name}'s only been to Dia's fanciest hotel, Rumi's immaculate store and of course, the palace. Just a handful of the nicest places in the capital. But, if ${player_he_she_they} wants to lay it on thick, so can I. "Well, you look nice. Straight out of Rumi's closet, I see," I say with a smile matching ${player_his_hers_theirs}. Mother seemed pleased that the two of us were getting along so well, or as well as I was appearing to be. "Now that you two have met, how about showing ${player_him_her_them} the gardens, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}?" Mother suggests with a bright smile. "The gardens? Sure. There's nothing I'd rather do more," I reply, narrowing my eyes towards Mother, who only smiles wider. "I'd love to see them," $!{player_first_name} adds with a wide smile of their own. Well, at least that makes one of us. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 I smirk, taking a long look at $!{player_first_name}. "I bet you say that to every heir you have to meet," I tease. "Maybe I do, but I have a strict don't kiss and tell policy," $!{player_first_name} replies with a wink. "But maybe I could break that for you." We spend a few moments regarding one another, though mine is more out of curiosity. I'm 100 percent sure that $!{player_first_name} is imagining how I look naked. Eventually Mother breaks our silence by suggesting that we head off somewhere else. "$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you and $!{player_first_name} walk around the gardens. It's the only close place I believe we haven't shown ${player_him_her_them}," Mother says. "Nothing would give me greater pleasure, Mother," I reply, giving her a mock salute before I turn back to $!{player_first_name}. "Just follow me, $!{player_first_name}. I'd love to show you all the flowers that were planted in a garden well before my birth." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 "Hi, $!{player_first_name}," I say, giving ${player_him_her_them} a good look up and down. $!{player_first_name} glances up at me for a brief moment before looking back down again, clearly embarrassed at the way I was looking at ${player_him_her_them}. "I see you're a chatterbox," I continue with an amused smile. "My, oh my. This will be an interesting competition." $!{player_first_name} doesn't look up, but does at least smile a bit this time. The silence between us stretches on for a short while until Mozelle, either out of her own impatience or annoyance, decides to break it. "How about you two head to the gardens? It's a perfect place to be alone," She suggests, which causes $!{player_first_name} to flush a bit. "O-oh, alone?" $!{player_first_name} asks, fiddling around with ${player_his_her_their} fingers. "Yes, alone. Unless you're afraid I'll bite," I chuckle. $!{player_first_name}, much to my surprise, agrees. "S-sure, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Just lead the way." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 "Wow, let me get a word in, $!{player_first_name}," I joke, giving ${player_him_her_them} a wide smile that doesn't change the expression on $!{player_his_her_their} face. Well, this will be an extremely short meeting. "So $!{player_hometown}, huh? Nice place," I say. "Very, erm…vital to Odessa's success." I cringe almost immediately after I say those words. I was getting more and more like Father every day. Luckily, Mother bails this awkward interaction out with a suggestion. "$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you take $!{player_first_name} to the gardens? Perhaps you two can find something to talk about there?" "If we can't talk in front of people, I don't know how in the world we will talk when we're alone, but I don't mind leaving to at least get some fresh air," I sigh, barely giving $!{player_first_name} a glance. $!{player_first_name} just shrugs at the suggestion. "Fine with me." "$!{player_he_she_they} speak," I gasp, pretending to fall to the ground in shock. $!{player_first_name} is unamused, unsurprisingly. "Ready, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}? The day isn't getting any longer." I flush ever so slightly, adjusting my clothing. "Ah. Yes. Follow me." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "Yeah, you're telling me. Here I was, thinking I could just wait for the next person to fall into my royal lap, when all of a sudden Father's got other plans," I say, narrowing my eyes towards Father's direction. I give him props for not rolling his eyes in front of $!{player_first_name}, at least. "Wait, so you're not over the moon like the media says you are?" $!{player_first_name} asks, feigning as if in deep thought. I burst out laughing. I am the furthest from over the moon right now. Maybe mulling on Mars is the more appropriate term. "For lack of time, let's just say no," I answer with a grin. I must admit, it's pretty refreshing to banter back and forth with somebody who could actually keep up. Mother gives the two of us a smile, but I notice that she's subtly motioning towards one of the exits that leads to the gardens. Hm. I suppose I could tolerate a bit of time alone with ${player_him_her_them}. "How about we tour the gardens, $!{player_first_name}? I can show you flowers that were planted long before I was even thought of," I offer. $!{player_first_name} is silent for a moment, but I already know the answer will be yes. "Hm, I had a feeling that I would eventually be alone with you, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Then I suppose you'll fall for me as the sun goes down and we can avoid this whole competition, yeah?" $!{player_first_name} asks. "Bold of you to assume that I believe in love at first sight, $!{player_first_name}." $!{player_first_name} playfully pouts at my words. "Oh c'mon. Let's go to the gardens before you break my heart even more." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "aloof") and (player_clothing_style = "revealing")) “You could at least smile, $!{defaultroyal_first_name},” Mozelle says to me as my mother fusses around with the collar of my button down shirt. I scoff at that. “Easy for you to say. You’re not the one at the center of all the attention for this competition,” I reply, stepping away from my mother so she would stop fidgeting with everything on me. I glance at my reflection in a nearby hall mirror, not seeing much difference from before my mother decided to mess with my clothes. “$!{player_first_name} is lovely, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. You’ll like ${player_him_her_them},” my mother says with a soft smile. I sigh and nod, just to appease her. My mother always saw the best in people and situations and I envied her for it. Perhaps I was too much like Father, always seeing ulterior motives behind every action. “Alright, enough talking. $!{player_first_name} and Dad are heading back to the Great Hall. We should hurry,” Mozelle says, speed walking so that she could get ahead of Mother and I. We quickly follow after her and as we walk, my mind drifts to my supposed near perfect match. I was skeptical that this competition would even work. Father has always tried to meddle in my love life, no matter how much he claimed to the contrary in the media, but never to this extent. A computer program with the ability to find my spouse? I barely knew anything about this ${player_man_woman_person}, or any of the other contestants, yet I would eventually have to marry one of them? This was just a waste of time. *page_break We reach the Great Hall just a few moments before Father and $!{player_first_name} do, so there’s no time for him to exaggeratedly reveal $!{player_first_name} to me, which I preferred. Let me smile, nod and head back to my room. $!{player_first_name} pauses, ${player_his_her_their} fingers immediately adjusting the waist of ${player_his_her_their} bottoms. I immediately notice how revealing and tight $!{player_first_name}'s clothes are and I nearly blush. Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 "You as well," I reply, giving $!{player_first_name} a brief smile. $!{player_he_she_they} doesn't look bad and is at least a nice seeming person. Still, I keep my distance, praying that somebody bails me out. "Well, now that the two of you have met, how about showing ${player_him_her_them} the gardens, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}?" Mother asks with a bright smile. Okay, not like that. "What a great, totally planned for idea!" Mozelle exclaims with a matching bright smile. "Ah, right. Totally forgot that," Father says, raising an eyebrow towards Mother and Mozelle. All they do is continue to sport grins. "Sounds good to me," $!{player_first_name} says, smiling a bit. "I'd love to see them." All that leaves is my response which is a soft sigh and nod. "Sure. Follow me, $!{player_first_name}." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 For the first time in quite a while, I find myself flushing. Not just a cutesy little flush, but a full blown reddening of the cheeks. What a cheeky ${player_man_woman_person}. "U-um, thank you," I finally answer, finding that a smile has worked itself on my face. "No, thank you. Pictures do not do you justice $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}," $!{player_first_name} says with a wink. When I glance over at Mother, she is both amused and over the moon at our meeting. She's smiling and I'm pretty sure if her eyes could sparkle, they would be. "Oh, this is absolutely lovely. How about you take $!{player_first_name} on a tour of the gardens?" Mother suggests. "The garden is lovely this time of year." I swallow thickly, glancing over at ${player_him_her_them}. Of course Mother couldn't let me just meet and leave. $!{player_first_name} for all ${player_his_her_their} credit, still smiles and doesn't look nervous or upset by this idea. "Gardens? I'd love to see them and be alone with you," $!{player_first_name} says, playing around a loose string on ${player_his_her_their} clothing. I at least manage not to blush again as we head off. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 "Hi, $!{player_first_name}," I reply, trying to meet ${player_his_her_their} eyes, but I just couldn't. My eyes glance over ${player_his_her_their} outfit again, wracking my brain for something else to say to keep the conversation going. Either out of her own impatience or annoyance, Mozelle grins at the two of us and wraps her arms around each of our shoulders. "How about you two keep this lively conversation going in the gardens?" She suggests, which causes $!{player_first_name} to flush a bit. "Sure, if $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name} doesn't mind. I would love to go." My heart flutters ever so slightly when I glance over and meet $!{player_first_name}'s eyes. "N-no. No, I'll take you there," I say, carefully removing Mozelle's arm from around my shoulder. $!{player_first_name} immediately steps away as well, straightening ${player_his_her_their} cape before facing me. "After you, $!{defaultroyal_title}." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 I'm a bit surprised by the aloofness of their greeting. I expected $!{player_first_name} to have a bit more to ${player_his_her_their} introduction, but I appreciated the desire to not drag this meeting on any longer than necessary. "You look very nice, $!{player_first_name}," I continue and $!{player_first_name} nods a brief smile appearing on ${player_his_her_their} face. "Thank you," $!{player_first_name} says, fiddling around with ${player_his_her_their} fingers. Hm, is this how I appear to others? "$!{player_first_name}, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you two go to the gardens? When they're open to the public, they tend to be insanely crowded and very popular," Father suggests. $!{player_first_name} nods. "Sounds nice." I echo ${player_his_her_their} agreement with the garden idea without much resistance. If this is how $!{player_first_name} usually acts, then I can definitely tolerate being around ${player_him_her_them} for a while. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "You're telling me," I find myself replying before I could help it. $!{player_first_name} chuckles, fingering at ${player_his_her_their} bottoms yet again. "Could be worse. Before I left my job we were preparing for a huge client to come in. This is much better than trying to impress some big shot CEOs," $!{player_first_name} replies. I laugh a bit and cross my arms, really taking in ${player_his_her_their} appearance. $!{player_first_name} really rocks ${player_his_her_their} outfit, despite how little it leaves to the imagination. When our conversation comes to a comfortable end, Mother steps forward a bit, which tears our attention away from each other. "Well, now that the two of you have met and talked, how about you spend some time together in the garden?" Mother suggests with a smile. "Off to the gardens so $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name} can serenade me? I'm in for a treat, then," $!{player_first_name} teases, causing me to flush a bit. "Ah, I can't sing. Sorry to disappoint," I say. $!{player_first_name} pouts playfully. "Some $!{defaultroyal_title} you are! Guess I can forgive you if these gardens are really as nice as Queen Ramona says. Lead the way." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "shy") and (player_clothing_style = "revealing")) “You’re biting at your lips again.” I sigh, letting my bottom lip go. I hadn’t even realized that I was so worked up over this meeting. Mozelle sighs and looks me up and down. “Why are you so nervous? You’re only about to potentially meet your future spouse in a few minutes,” she says, which is definitely not helping. “I-I’m not nervous!” I exclaim, though my stutter wasn’t very convincing. This type of stuff was more Mozelle’s style, meeting people and the like. I’m sure she’s about to set a world record for the most selfies taken with fans of the Crown. I was much more content behind the scenes, making an appearance as necessary. Like this one. “Everything will be fine, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. $!{player_first_name} is quite lovely. No weird feelings about ${player_him_her_them} at all. You’re nervous for no reason,” my mother assures beside me. “Maybe you’re right,” I say with a soft sigh. “Alright. But I won’t talk to ${player_him_her_them} long.” That response satisfies my mother and sister, so the three of us begin our walk back into the Great Hall. *page_break We reach the Great Hall just a few moments before Father and $!{player_first_name} do, so there’s no time for him to exaggeratedly reveal $!{player_first_name} to me, which I preferred. I always thought that was so embarrassing for all parties involved when it happened anyway. $!{player_first_name} pauses, ${player_his_her_their} fingers immediately adjusting the waist of ${player_his_her_their} bottoms. I immediately notice how revealing and tight $!{player_first_name}'s clothes are and I nearly blush. Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 "Y-you as well," I reply, giving $!{player_first_name} a brief smile. $!{player_he_she_they} doesn't look bad and is at least a nice seeming person. "Well, now that the two of you have met, how about showing ${player_him_her_them} the gardens, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}?" Mother asks with a bright smile. My eyes widen and I turn back towards Mother. "Are you sure-" "What a great, totally planned for idea!" Mozelle exclaims with a matching bright smile. Speaking over me. Again. "Ah, right. Totally forgot that," Father says, raising an eyebrow towards Mother and Mozelle. All they do is continue to sport grins. "Sounds good to me," $!{player_first_name} says, smiling a bit. "I'd love to see them." All that leaves is my response which is a soft sigh and nod. "Okay. Follow me, $!{player_first_name}," I say softly. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 Unsurprising to no one, I begin to flush. Not that I say too much to being with, but my own greeting dies on my lips as I try to process the obvious come on. Luckily, Mozelle catches on and bails me out, though not the way I was expecting. "$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you and $!{player_first_name} go to the gardens? Get to know one another? See how many times $!{player_first_name} can hit on you?" Mozelle asks, smiling over at ${player_him_her_them}. "Good idea, Mozelle. How about it, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}? "The gardens are lovely this time of year," Mother adds. I swallow thickly, glancing over at ${player_him_her_them}. Of course Mother or Mozelle couldn't let me just meet and leave. $!{player_first_name} for all ${player_his_her_their} credit, still smiles and doesn't look nervous or upset by this idea. "Gardens? I'd love to see them and be alone with you," $!{player_first_name} says, playing around a loose string on ${player_his_her_their} clothing. I chuckle nervously but nod towards my mother and sister. "Alright. Let's go. T-they're not too far," I say, offering a smile towards $!{player_first_name}. I didn't have a choice in taking ${player_him_her_them} to the garden, but I could at least be nice about it. "Oh I can't wait," $!{player_first_name} says, batting ${player_his_her_their} eyes towards me. At least I manage to hold off another blush as we leave the hall. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 "Hi, $!{player_first_name}," I reply, averting my own eyes. My mind runs blank as I try to think of something else to say. I like ${player_his_her_their} outfit, though it leaves nothing to the imagination, but I couldn't even get a compliment out. The silence stretches on for a short while until Mozelle, either out of her own impatience or annoyance, decides to break it. "How about you two keep this lively conversation going in the gardens?" She suggests, which causes $!{player_first_name} to flush a bit. My heart flutters ever so slightly when I glance over and meet $!{player_first_name}'s eyes. We said a combined six words to each other. Surely ${player_he_she_they} would say no. $!{player_first_name}, much to my surprise, agrees. "S-sure, if $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_last_name} doesn't mind. I'd hate to make you do something you don't want to do." I flush lightly. I've done plenty of things that I didn't want to do, but this definitely ranked near bottom on that list. "N-no. No, I'll take you there," I say, smiling over at $!{player_first_name}. "I don't mind." "Great. After you, $!{defaultroyal_title}." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 I'm a bit surprised by the aloofness of their greeting. I expected $!{player_first_name} to have a bit more to ${player_his_her_their} introduction, but I appreciated the desire to not drag this meeting on any longer than necessary. $!{player_first_name} fiddles around with ${player_his_her_their} fingers while waiting for a response from me. "Hi $!{player_first_name}." I pause, figuring that I should respond with something else like a compliment or a welcome to the palace, but I couldn't decide what to say. $!{player_first_name} looks down at ${player_his_her_their} shoes, which causes me to look away. Father coughs a bit, causing us to look up at him with wide eyes. "$!{player_first_name}, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you two go to the gardens? When they're open to the public, they tend to be insanely crowded and very popular," Father suggests. "Maybe you guys can get to know each other more there." It wasn't a bad idea. If $!{player_first_name} and I were not going to look and talk to each other, at least we could do it among some flowers and butterflies. $!{player_first_name} agrees too. "Sounds nice," $!{player_first_name} says and I echo ${player_his_her_their} statement. Neither one of us moves though until Father motions us towards the exit. "Ha. Sorry," we say in unison, which causes Mozelle and Mother to chuckle a bit. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "Right," I say which causes $!{player_first_name} to chuckle. "Could be worse. Before I left my job we were preparing for a huge client to come in. This is much better than trying to impress some big shot CEOs," $!{player_first_name} replies. I nod noncommittally at $!{player_first_name}'s words. As if I could relate to a job like that. I didn't want to seem rude though, so I rack my brain for something else to say. "You look nice," I continue eventually, which causes $!{player_first_name} to grin. "Like you'd tell me if I didn't look nice," $!{player_first_name} jokes, which does make me chuckle a bit. "Touché." Mother smiles over at the two of us, hands resting behind her back. "Well, now that the two of you have met, how about you spend some time together in the garden?" Mother suggests with a smile. "Are the gardens where you take all the 99 percent matches?" $!{player_first_name} teases, causing me to flush a bit. Before I could reply, $!{player_first_name} continues. "Guess I can forgive you if these gardens are really as nice as Queen Ramona says. Lead the way." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "jerk") and (player_clothing_style = "revealing")) “Mother, Sis, you two are aware that this is a waste of time, right?” I say, fixing the crown on my head. I didn’t have to wear this and in fact, my parents told me not to, but I couldn’t resist. It was always so funny meeting people who had no idea how Court worked. They always seemed like they were walking on eggshells around anybody with a lick of royal blood inside of them. “Yet you still have to do it anyway,” Mozelle, unfortunately, reminds me. She was definitely getting a good kick out of me being involved in this whole debacle. “Yet you’ll always be number two to me,” I shoot back with a smirk. Mozelle rolls her eyes at me and I know that if our mother wasn’t present, she likely would’ve flicked me off or cursed me out. “Yet we’re going to be late,” Mother reminds us, slipping her arms through each of ours. “Now, if you could lead the way, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” I sigh, but begin walking back towards the Great Hall knowing that the faster I got there, the faster I could get this over with. *page_break We reach the Great Hall just a few moments before Father and $!{player_first_name} do, so there’s no time for him to exaggeratedly reveal $!{player_first_name} to me, which I preferred. I always thought that was so embarrassing for all parties involved when it happened anyway. $!{player_first_name} pauses, ${player_his_her_their} fingers immediately adjusting the waist of ${player_his_her_their} bottoms. I immediately notice how revealing and tight $!{player_first_name}'s clothes are and I scoff. Show off, much? Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 I snort, looking $!{player_first_name} up and down. "Please spare me the niceties," I say, watching ${player_his_her_their} eyes widen. "Excuse me?" $!{player_first_name} asks. I sigh, crossing my arms as I really look at ${player_his_her_their} outfit. "Look, I get that Rumi is the best dresser in Odessa, but you don't have to take the first thing that they offer you. You're allowed to think for yourself," I say. $!{player_first_name} crosses ${player_his_her_their} arms and I can just see the mental debate going on in ${player_his_her_their} head. $!{player_first_name} does eventually speak again. "Despite your obvious rudeness, I am still glad to meet you. On our walk back over here, King Frederick suggested we go to the gardens and talk more. Maybe you can think of a better insult on our walk there?" Now it's my turn for my eyes to widen because well, even I had to admit that was pretty good. My mother, ever the peacemaker walks a bit closer to the two of us. "Forgive $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I'm sure ${defaultroyal_he_she_they} will apologize on your way to the gardens," she says, slightly narrowing her eyes at me, before smiling over at $!{player_first_name}. "Sounds great to me," $!{player_first_name} says, uncrossing ${player_his_her_their} arms as ${player_he_she_they} wait for me to apologize. Well, $!{player_first_name} could keep waiting. I haven't sincerely apologized for anything in years. "I'll think about it on our walk over there." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 "Hm, wish I could say the same. Rumi has loads of mirrors their shop. Did you forget to look in one?" I ask, sniffing at $!{player_first_name}'s outfit. $!{player_first_name} laughs at my response, which catches me completely off guard. "Oh, so you like to play hard to get. Cute," $!{player_first_name} responds. "Look, King Frederick said that you and I should go visit one of the palace gardens together and get to know one another. You want to go now or later? Either way, my outfit isn't changing." I sigh, shooting a look over at Father before I look back at $!{player_first_name}. "I'd rather go never, but since Mother and Father won't allow that, I can tolerate a walk with you, I guess," I reply, already heading towards the exit without waiting for ${player_him_her_them}. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 Great, somebody shy. "Hi, er, $!{player_first_name}, right?" I ask. $!{player_he_she_they} nods, fiddling at ${player_his_her_their} clothes. Oh, $!{player_first_name}'s really shy. "Okay, well, I'm leaving," I say, turning around on my heel and heading towards an exit. Father catches up to me in five large steps and grabs my arm to stop me. "What do you think you're doing?" He whispers to me, noticing the crown on top of my head. "I told you not to wear that," Father adds much lower. "Leaving. $!{player_first_name} isn't talking and it isn't my job to get ${player_him_her_them} to talk to me," I whisper back, stepping out of his grip, but I still stay close. "Sorry, $!{parent_title}, but it kind of is your job. I get you have this whole jerk persona going on, but you need to take $!{player_first_name} to the gardens. Like it or not, that is what you will be doing," Father replies. "Or else." He grabs my arm again, just for emphasis and I immediately rip it out of his grip. "Okay, just stop touching me," I mumble, rubbing at my arm before I push past him and head back over to Mother, Mozelle and $!{player_first_name}. "Ah, Father just reminded me about giving you a tour of the gardens," I say, forcing a smile to my face. Whether it was sincere or not, I had no way of knowing, as $!{player_first_name} barely reacts to the news. Eventually, $!{player_first_name} nods and manages a shaky smile of ${player_his_her_their} own. "S-sounds nice. Can't wait to see the gardens." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 "$!{player_man_woman_person} of few words. I like that," I say. "Wish I could say the same about your outfit." $!{player_first_name} sighs and glances down at ${player_his_her_their} outfit before looking at me. "If I wanted to be insulted, I would've just stayed in Lox. Let's just go to the gardens and get this over with," $!{player_first_name} says, which makes me raise my eyebrows. "Who said we're going to the gardens?" I ask and turn to look at my family. "I did," Father says. "Do you have a problem with that?" Well, of course I did. I couldn't tell Father that though, and even if I did, it wouldn't even matter since I'd still have to do it anyway. "No. Can't wait to go. Yay flowers," I reply before I cross my arms. "Ready when you are, $!{player_first_name}. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "Personally, I wish we'd never met at all," I reply before yawning. $!{player_first_name} raises an eyebrow. "Bold of you to assume that I'm over the moon about this, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}," $!{player_first_name} says. "Oh, you don't even want to know half of the things I'm assuming about you right now. None of them are good," I shoot back, now looking at $!{player_first_name}. I wasn't used to a response like that from a stranger, only from Mozelle. $!{player_first_name} grins. "Personally, I'm flattered. You very clearly dislike me, yet you're allowing the very thought of me to consume your mind." I bristle at $!{player_first_name}'s words. "Just who do you think you are?" I ask, stepping a bit closer to ${player_him_her_them}. "Well, I'm $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name} from $!{player_hometown}. I have ${player_skin_color} skin, ${player_eye_color} eyes and…" Mother, eager to get us to stop bickering, walks in between us and places a hand on both of our shoulders. "Instead of arguing back and forth, how about you two go for a walk in the gardens? We'll follow if you'd like, just to make sure you two don't argue." "Arguing around azaleas and lilies, temping," $!{player_first_name} says, tapping on ${player_his_her_their} cheek in faux thought. Yep, this is the most insufferable person I have ever met. "I for one could use some fresh air. Follow if you want, $!{player_first_name}, but I'm leaving," I say, stepping out of Mother's touch. $!{player_first_name} does the same and starts walking behind me. "Oh no, I'm coming. You can't get rid of me that easily." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_gardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "charming") and (player_clothing_style = "revealing")) “Well, how do I look?” I smile widely towards my mother and Mozelle. I spent hours preparing for this meeting with $!{player_first_name}. Neither Father nor the Odessa Dates development team would tell me anything about ${player_him_her_them} and it was eating me up inside. After bugging an intern there for at least something small about ${player_him_her_them}, I got a hometown, $!{player_hometown}. “Aren’t those flowers native to $!{player_hometown}?” Mozelle asks and she plays around with my lapel. I quickly step away and make sure none of the petals are crushed. “Yes. Thought it would make a nice first impression,” I say, fidgeting with for a few more moments before dropping my hands at my sides. “Well, if ${player_he_she_they} can’t see the effort, they can definitely smell it,” Mozelle adds, crinkling up her nose. “Ease up on the body spray next time!” Mother laughs, smoothing a hand over my suit jacket. “You look and smell nice, love. I’m sure $!{player_first_name} will be glad to meet you,” she says, giving me a kiss on the cheek. I blush slightly, giving her a one-armed hug before separating. “Alright, alright. Enough Mother. Let’s go to the Great Hall before I inevitably spill something on myself or fall and rip something open.” *page_break $!{player_first_name} pauses, ${player_his_her_their} fingers immediately adjusting the waist of ${player_his_her_their} bottoms. I immediately notice how revealing and tight $!{player_first_name}'s clothes are and I nearly blush. Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 "You as well, $!{player_first_name}," I reply, giving $!{player_first_name} a wide smile. $!{player_he_she_they} doesn't look bad and is at least a nice seeming person. "I hope the journey here wasn't too rough." $!{player_first_name} shakes ${player_his_her_their} head. "Not at all. Cape Odessa is absolutely lovely." I'm glad that ${player_first_name} seems to be settling in fine. After all, if Father's website actually did its' job, $!{player_first_name} would be co-ruling it with me. It was important that ${player_first_name} liked most if not all of ${player_his_her_their} new surroundings. Mother and Father seem pleased that the two of us were getting along so fine. "Now that you two have met, how about showing ${player_him_her_them} the gardens, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}?" Mother asks with a bright smile. I nod, completely fine with that. "Allow me to, ${player_first_name}. I know the history of most of the flowers there and how we came to get them in our garden." I offer my elbow to ${player_him_her_them}, which ${player_he_she_they} eagerly takes. Whether that was because of actual excitement, or for the opportunity to continue following royal customs, I had no way of knowing. "Lead the way, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}!" *page_break *goto_scene chp2_gardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 I flush lightly, resting a hand behind my head. "Oh, you flatter me, $!{player_first_name}," I say. I was always glad to get a compliment, whether that was from somebody I was interested in or just the average citizen, but they always made me a bit embarrassed. "Well, you know what they say about flattery…how it'll get you everywhere and all of that," $!{player_first_name} replies with a grin. I glance over at the rest of my family, who are all grinning or smiling themselves. A great sign. "$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you and $!{player_first_name} walk around the gardens. It's the only close place I believe we haven't shown ${player_him_her_them}," Mother says. "Sure, if that's alright with $!{player_first_name}," I say, turning to ${player_him_her_them} for confirmation. "Being alone in a garden with you? That's more than alright with me, babe," $!{player_first_name} replies, which coaxes another flush out of me. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_gardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 "Hi, $!{player_first_name}. It's wonderful to meet you," I reply, giving ${player_him_her_them} a smile though ${player_he_she_they} couldn't see it. I watch ${player_him_her_them} fiddle around with ${player_his_her_their} clothing. It wasn't the typical style that I would wear, but $!{player_first_name} did wear it quite well. "You look very nice, $!{player_first_name}. Rumi did a wonderful job on you," I say. $!{player_first_name} doesn't look up, but does at least smile a bit this time. I take that as a win. The silence between us stretches on for a short while until Mozelle, either out of her own impatience or annoyance, decides to break it. "How about you two head to the gardens? It's a perfect place to be alone," She suggests, which causes $!{player_first_name} to flush a bit. I offer $!{player_first_name} my hand. "Totally voluntary. If you wish not to go, we can do something else," I say. $!{player_first_name}, much to my surprise, agrees. "S-sure, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Just lead the way." When $!{player_first_name} places ${player_his_her_their} hand in mine, my mind goes completely blank. It was a simple gesture, sure, but still one that made my heartbeat skip a beat or two. "It's not too far away," I tell ${player_him_her_them} as we head towards the room's exit. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_gardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 "Welcome to Dia and the palace, $!{player_first_name}," I say with a small smile. "I hope you've liked everything so far." "I have," ${player_he_she_they} replies. "Nice city." Though $!{player_first_name} doesn't really say much, I manage to eventually have a decent conversation with ${player_him_her_them} about the journey to Dia, staying in Cape Odessa and much more. Soon enough, Father breaks our conversation up with a proposal to go to the gardens and give $!{player_first_name} a tour there. "Sounds nice," $!{player_first_name} says, giving me a small smile, which I'm super happy about. "Follow me then. Feel free to walk beside me. I don't mind," I reply, hoping that perhaps that would allow $!{player_first_name} to eventually begin to open up to me. Also because I thought it was a bit uncomfortable to follow all the customs so closely in a private setting such as this one. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_gardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "On the contrary. I believe everything happens for a reason. Maybe you're my perfect match or maybe you're not. Either way, I'm still glad to have met you," I say, smiling brightly. $!{player_first_name} blinks rapidly before beginning to chuckle slowly. "No need to charm me, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I'm going to compete, so save that for the competition," $!{player_first_name} says. I hold up my hands, a bit confused. "Pardon me, I don't mean to make you feel uncomfortable," I say. Not sure what $!{player_first_name} means by me being charming, but I figure it's better to just apologize. "Ha, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}, I'm not uncomfortable. You can relax around me. You know…talk, less…er, royally?" $!{player_first_name} smiles and stuffs ${player_his_her_their} hands into ${player_his_her_their} pockets. "How about we talk more about this in the gardens?" I offer. I figure that my family wouldn't have had time to take ${player_him_her_them} there before coming to meet me. Plus, I could show off my flower expertise. "Sure. Our first lover's quarrel in a romantic garden. Sounds great to me," $!{player_first_name} replies before winking. I chuckle and just shake my head, nodding towards my family as a goodbye before we head out of the Great Hall. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_gardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "flirty") and (player_clothing_style = "revealing")) “Haven’t you primped enough?” Mozelle says to me as I look at continued to mess with the sleeves of my shirt. I roll my eyes and pinched at her nose, laughing when she swats my hand away. “Oh please. I could never. Not especially when I’m probably about to meet my spouse,” I say. I won’t lie. When Father told me about this plan, I was pretty upset, mainly because he thought I needed help finding somebody. Ask anybody in Odessa, but I didn’t exactly have a problem finding a mate. I had a bit of a reputation, after all. Mother laughs softly, pinching at my cheek. “Oh $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Let’s go. We don’t want to be late.” *page_break We reach the Great Hall just a few moments before Father and $!{player_first_name} do, so there’s no time for him to exaggeratedly reveal $!{player_first_name} to me. I’m a bit disappointed that I can’t exaggeratedly introduce myself to ${player_him_her_them}, but they’ll be plenty of other opportunities to act like a ham. $!{player_first_name} pauses, ${player_his_her_their} fingers immediately adjusting the waist of ${player_his_her_their} bottoms. I immediately notice how revealing and tight $!{player_first_name}'s clothes are and I am not complaining. Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 I smirk, reaching out for $!{player_first_name}'s hand before I fall to my knee. "Oh, I know all about pleasure," I say, pressing a kiss to the top of $!{player_first_name}'s hand. "Very nice to meet you, Sweetness." "S-Sweetness?" $!{player_first_name} asks in disbelief, as I rise from my knee. I nod with a grin. "Yes. Sweetness. Win or lose, I think Sweetness fits you incredibly well," I explain, letting go of ${player_his_her_their} hand. "Ah, well…thanks?" I smile brightly, really taking in $!{player_first_name}'s appearance, who ticks all of the things I typically find attractive about a person. Then again, though, that isn't too hard for most people. Mother seemed pleased that the two of us were getting along so well, while Father looked completely done with my flirting, as usual. "Now that you two have met, how about showing ${player_him_her_them} the gardens, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}?" Mother suggests with a bright smile. I grin. "I'm always down for alone time with anybody, especially when they're super attractive." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_gardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 "Oh, I know," I reply with a smirk. "It's always to hear it again, though. Nice to meet you, $!{player_first_name}." We spend a few moments regarding one another. I like $!{player_first_name}'s outfit, but I can't help but imagine how ${player_he_she_they} would look without a single thing on. $!{player_his_her_their} outfit was doing a great job of helping me visualize though. Eventually Mother breaks the silence by suggesting that we head off somewhere else. "$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you and $!{player_first_name} walk around the gardens. It's the only close place I believe we haven't shown ${player_him_her_them}," Mother says. "I would love to. There are loads of secret spots where the two of us can be alone…get to know one another. In private," I say, looking back over at ${player_first_name}, who is clearly interested in leaving as well. "If you like me now, you'll love me in private," $!{player_first_name} says, throwing a smirk in my direction. "I bet I will, Sweetness," I reply, motioning towards one of the many exits out of the hall. "Don't wait up for us!" I exclaim to my family before we leave. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_gardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 "Hi, $!{player_first_name}," I say, giving ${player_him_her_them} a good look up and down. $!{player_first_name} glances up at me for a brief moment before looking back down again, clearly embarrassed at the way I was looking at ${player_him_her_them}. "You look great, Sweetness. I must admit, I've never been this attracted to anyone so quickly," I continue. $!{player_first_name} doesn't look up, but does at least smile a bit this time. Clearly, not the most talkative person, but seems relatively harmless at least. The silence between us stretches on for a short while until Mozelle, either out of her own impatience or annoyance, decides to break it. "How about you two head to the gardens? It's a perfect place to be alone," She suggests, which causes $!{player_first_name} to flush a bit. "O-oh, alone?" $!{player_first_name} asks, fiddling around with ${player_his_her_their} fingers. "Yes, Sweetness, alone. I'll be a perfect respectful $!{defaultroyal_title}, I promise. I'll only flirt maybe two more times," I say with a wink. $!{player_first_name}, much to my surprise, agrees. "S-sure, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Just lead the way." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_gardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 "$!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}," I parrot, giving ${player_him_her_them} a wide smile. $!{player_his_her_their} expression doesn't change but I let the lack of response roll of my back. I've hit on quieter. "So $!{player_hometown}, huh? Nice place," I say. "I've had a lot of fun nights with people from there…" As I trail off in thought about one of my former hookups, $!{player_first_name} shifts uncomfortably from foot to foot. The movement reminds me that $!{player_first_name} is there and I smile sheepishly. "Sorry. Er…" I trail off again, wondering just what to say to ${player_him_her_them}. I wasn't used to one-sided talking like this. Eventually, Father proposes that the two of us go to the gardens and talk more there. For once, one of his ideas isn't that bad, though I would likely be doing most of the talking. "Fine with me," $!{player_first_name} agrees with a small smile. "That's the spirit, Sweetness," I say with a wink. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_gardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "What circumstances would those have been? In public? In a dimly lit club?" I ask, fiddling with the sleeve of my shirt as I give $!{player_first_name} a good look up and down. "Eyes up here, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}," $!{player_first_name} says, interrupting the very nice mental image I had of ${player_him_her_them} underneath my covers. "Eye contact only." I pout playfully, looking into ${player_his_her_their} eyes as ${player_he_she_they} wanted me to. "Eye contact? You're no fun, Sweetness." $!{player_first_name} crosses ${player_his_her_their} arms and raises an eyebrow. "Sweetness? What is that supposed to be?" I smirk and lightly tap my fingers against my jaw. "Oh, you know. A nickname? An alternate name for somebody?" $!{player_first_name} leans forward, a smirk on ${player_his_her_their} face as well. "I just thought the heir to the Odessa throne could come up with a better nickname for me than Sweetness. Some good those tutors were that our taxes helped pay for." I, for once, don't have a comeback. Not only was $!{player_first_name} nice to look at, ${player_his_her_their} comebacks were pretty great. "How about I show you the gardens? It's the only place I'm sure you haven't been to yet," I offer, once I've mostly recovered. The walk there could give me a good opportunity to come up with some one-liners myself. "Too afraid I'll outwit you in front of your family?" $!{player_first_name} teases. "That's fine. I'd love to see the gardens." I turn back to look at Mother, Father and Mozelle and all three of them are in various states of amusement. Well they're no help. "Fine, Sweetness. Since you agreed so nicely…" *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "sarcastic") and (player_clothing_style = "revealing")) “Happy, Mother?” I ask, slowly spinning around for her approval. Mozelle and Mother smile excitedly, clasping both of their hands together at the same time. “You look lovely, Name. Really. I’m glad you went with this jacket rather than the other one,” Mother says, kissing my cheek as she messed with my shirt collar yet again. “Careful Mother. If you keep messing with ${defaultroyal_his_her_their} clothes, you might accidentally give off the illusion that $!{defaultroyal_first_name}'s interested,” Mozelle teases. I huff, allowing Mother to continue fretting over my clothing. Better I allow her to do it rather than making up excuses. She’d only fret more. “Wait, who told you I wasn’t interested? Was it the lack of a smile or the lack of excitement?” I ask, causing Mozelle to laugh. “Ever the charmer. Let’s go,” she says and Mother nods. While Mozelle walks far ahead from Mother and I, Mother takes the opportunity to talk to me in a much lower voice. “$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, please. I know you’re unhappy about this whole thing, but Frederick really just wants to make you happy. At least try to seem interested?” Mother asks softly. I sigh, stomach twisting uncomfortably. Father always demanded a lot from me, but my Mother barely did. Always the peacekeeper. I nod, watching Mozelle excitedly open up the door leading to the Great Hall. “I’ll try,” I answer finally, giving my mother a small smile. *page_break We enter the Great Hall just a few moments before Father and $!{player_first_name} do, so there’s no time for him to exaggeratedly reveal $!{player_first_name} to me. I’m incredibly glad for that. $!{player_first_name} pauses, ${player_his_her_their} fingers immediately adjusting the waist of ${player_his_her_their} bottoms. I immediately notice how revealing and tight $!{player_first_name}'s clothes are and I nearly blush. Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing themselves. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 "Is it really a pleasure?" I ask, raising an eyebrow. Surely $!{player_first_name} was just laying it on thick. "Yes, truly," $!{player_first_name} says with a smile. "Everything in Dia that I've been to or seen so far has been lovely." $!{player_first_name} has to be kidding. $!{player_first_name}'s only been to Dia's fanciest hotel, Rumi's immaculate store and of course, the palace. Just a handful of the nicest places in the capital. But, if ${player_he_she_they} wants to lay it on thick, so can I. "Well, you look nice. Straight out of Rumi's store, I see," I say with a smile matching ${player_his_hers_theirs}. Mother seemed pleased that the two of us were getting along so well, or as well as I was appearing to be. "Now that you two have met, how about showing ${player_him_her_them} the gardens, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}?" Mother suggests with a bright smile. "The gardens? Sure. There's nothing I'd rather do more," I reply, narrowing my eyes towards Mother, who only smiles wider. "I'd love to see them," $!{player_first_name} adds with a wide smile of their own. Well, at least that makes one of us. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 I smirk, taking a long look at $!{player_first_name}. "I bet you say that to every heir you have to meet," I tease. "Maybe I do, but I have a strict don't kiss and tell policy," $!{player_first_name} replies with a wink. "But maybe I could break that for you." We spend a few moments regarding one another, though mine is more out of curiosity. I'm 100 percent sure that $!{player_first_name} is imagining how I look naked. Eventually Mother breaks our silence by suggesting that we head off somewhere else. "$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you and $!{player_first_name} walk around the gardens. It's the only close place I believe we haven't shown ${player_him_her_them}," Mother says. "Nothing would give me greater pleasure, Mother," I reply, giving her a mock salute before I turn back to $!{player_first_name}. "Just follow me, $!{player_first_name}. I'd love to show you all the flowers that were planted in a garden well before my birth." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 "Hi, $!{player_first_name}," I say, giving ${player_him_her_them} a good look up and down. $!{player_first_name} glances up at me for a brief moment before looking back down again, clearly embarrassed at the way I was looking at ${player_him_her_them}. "I see you're a chatterbox," I continue with an amused smile. "My, oh my. This will be an interesting competition." $!{player_first_name} doesn't look up, but does at least smile a bit this time. The silence between us stretches on for a short while until Mozelle, either out of her own impatience or annoyance, decides to break it. "How about you two head to the gardens? It's a perfect place to be alone," She suggests, which causes $!{player_first_name} to flush a bit. "O-oh, alone?" $!{player_first_name} asks, fiddling around with ${player_his_her_their} fingers. "Yes, alone. Unless you're afraid I'll bite," I chuckle. $!{player_first_name}, much to my surprise, agrees. "S-sure, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Just lead the way." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 "Wow, let me get a word in, $!{player_first_name}," I joke, giving ${player_him_her_them} a wide smile that doesn't change the expression on $!{player_his_her_their} face. Well, this will be an extremely short meeting. "So $!{player_hometown}, huh? Nice place," I say. "Very, erm…vital to Odessa's success." I cringe almost immediately after I say those words. I was getting more and more like Father every day. Luckily, Mother bails this awkward interaction out with a suggestion. "$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you take $!{player_first_name} to the gardens? Perhaps you two can find something to talk about there?" "If we can't talk in front of people, I don't know how in the world we will talk when we're alone, but I don't mind leaving to at least get some fresh air," I sigh, barely giving $!{player_first_name} a glance. $!{player_first_name} just shrugs at the suggestion. "Fine with me." "$!{player_he_she_they} speak," I gasp, pretending to fall to the ground in shock. $!{player_first_name} is unamused, unsurprisingly. "Ready, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}? The day isn't getting any longer." I flush ever so slightly, adjusting my clothing. "Ah. Yes. Follow me." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "Yeah, you're telling me. Here I was, thinking I could just wait for the next person to fall into my royal lap, when all of a sudden Father's got other plans," I say, narrowing my eyes towards Father's direction. I give him props for not rolling his eyes in front of $!{player_first_name}, at least. "Wait, so you're not over the moon like the media says you are?" $!{player_first_name} asks, feigning as if in deep thought. I burst out laughing. I am the furthest from over the moon right now. Maybe mulling on Mars is the more appropriate term. "For lack of time, let's just say no," I answer with a grin. I must admit, it's pretty refreshing to banter back and forth with somebody who could actually keep up. Mother gives the two of us a smile, but I notice that she's subtly motioning towards one of the exits that leads to the gardens. Hm. I suppose I could tolerate a bit of time alone with ${player_him_her_them}. "How about we tour the gardens, $!{player_first_name}? I can show you flowers that were planted long before I was even thought of," I offer. $!{player_first_name} is silent for a moment, but I already know the answer will be yes. "Hm, I had a feeling that I would eventually be alone with you, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Then I suppose you'll fall for me as the sun goes down and we can avoid this whole competition, yeah?" $!{player_first_name} asks. "Bold of you to assume that I believe in love at first sight, $!{player_first_name}." $!{player_first_name} playfully pouts at my words. "Oh c'mon. Let's go to the gardens before you break my heart even more." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "aloof") and (player_clothing_style = "casual")) “You could at least smile, $!{defaultroyal_first_name},” Mozelle says to me as my mother fusses around with the collar of my button down shirt. I scoff at that. “Easy for you to say. You’re not the one at the center of all the attention for this competition,” I reply, stepping away from my mother so she would stop fidgeting with everything on me. I glance at my reflection in a nearby hall mirror, not seeing much difference from before my mother decided to mess with my clothes. “$!{player_first_name} is lovely, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. You’ll like ${player_him_her_them},” my mother says with a soft smile. I sigh and nod, just to appease her. My mother always saw the best in people and situations and I envied her for it. Perhaps I was too much like Father, always seeing ulterior motives behind every action. “Alright, enough talking. $!{player_first_name} and Dad are heading back to the Great Hall. We should hurry,” Mozelle says, speed walking so that she could get ahead of Mother and I. We quickly follow after her and as we walk, my mind drifts to my supposed near perfect match. I was skeptical that this competition would even work. Father has always tried to meddle in my love life, no matter how much he claimed to the contrary in the media, but never to this extent. A computer program with the ability to find my spouse? I barely knew anything about this ${player_man_woman_person}, or any of the other contestants, yet I would eventually have to marry one of them? This was just a waste of time. *page_break We reach the Great Hall just a few moments before Father and $!{player_first_name} do, so there’s no time for him to exaggeratedly reveal $!{player_first_name} to me, which I preferred. Let me smile, nod and head back to my room. $!{player_first_name} pauses, ${player_his_her_their} fingers immediately adjusting the waist of ${player_his_her_their} bottoms. I immediately notice how casual $!{player_first_name}'s clothes are and I sigh. If only I could get away with being that casual all the time. Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing themselves. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 "You as well," I reply, giving $!{player_first_name} a brief smile. $!{player_he_she_they} doesn't look bad and is at least a nice seeming person. Still, I keep my distance, praying that somebody bails me out. "Well, now that the two of you have met, how about showing ${player_him_her_them} the gardens, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}?" Mother asks with a bright smile. Okay, not like that. "What a great, totally planned for idea!" Mozelle exclaims with a matching bright smile. "Ah, right. Totally forgot that," Father says, raising an eyebrow towards Mother and Mozelle. All they do is continue to sport grins. "Sounds good to me," $!{player_first_name} says, smiling a bit. "I'd love to see them." All that leaves is my response which is a soft sigh and nod. "Sure. Follow me, $!{player_first_name}." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 For the first time in quite a while, I find myself flushing. Not just a cutesy little flush, but a full blown reddening of the cheeks. What a cheeky ${player_man_woman_person}. "U-um, thank you," I finally answer, finding that a smile has worked itself on my face. "No, thank you. Pictures do not do you justice $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}," $!{player_first_name} says with a wink. When I glance over at Mother, she is both amused and over the moon at our meeting. She's smiling and I'm pretty sure if her eyes could sparkle, they would be. "Oh, this is absolutely lovely. How about you take $!{player_first_name} on a tour of the gardens?" Mother suggests. "The garden is lovely this time of year." I swallow thickly, glancing over at ${player_him_her_them}. Of course Mother couldn't let me just meet and leave. $!{player_first_name} for all ${player_his_her_their} credit, still smiles and doesn't look nervous or upset by this idea. "Gardens? I'd love to see them and be alone with you," $!{player_first_name} says, playing around a loose string on ${player_his_her_their} clothing. I at least manage not to blush again as we head off. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately casts ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 "Hi, $!{player_first_name}," I reply, trying to meet ${player_his_her_their} eyes, but I just couldn't. My eyes glance over ${player_his_her_their} outfit again, wracking my brain for something else to say to keep the conversation going. Either out of her own impatience or annoyance, Mozelle grins at the two of us and wraps her arms around each of our shoulders. "How about you two keep this lively conversation going in the gardens?" She suggests, which causes $!{player_first_name} to flush a bit. "Sure, if $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name} doesn't mind. I would love to go." My heart flutters ever so slightly when I glance over and meet $!{player_first_name}'s eyes. "N-no. No, I'll take you there," I say, carefully removing Mozelle's arm from around my shoulder. $!{player_first_name} immediately steps away as well, straightening ${player_his_her_their} clothing before facing me. "After you, $!{defaultroyal_title}." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 I'm a bit surprised by the aloofness of their greeting. I expected $!{player_first_name} to have a bit more to ${player_his_her_their} introduction, but I appreciated the desire to not drag this meeting on any longer than necessary. "You look very nice, $!{player_first_name}," I continue and $!{player_first_name} nods a brief smile appearing on ${player_his_her_their} face. "Thank you," $!{player_first_name} says, fiddling around with ${player_his_her_their} fingers. Hm, is this how I appear to others? "$!{player_first_name}, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you two go to the gardens? When they're open to the public, they tend to be insanely crowded and very popular," Father suggests. $!{player_first_name} nods. "Sounds nice." I echo ${player_his_her_their} agreement with the garden idea without much resistance. If this is how $!{player_first_name} usually acts, then I can definitely tolerate being around ${player_him_her_them} for a while. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "You're telling me," I find myself replying before I could help it. $!{player_first_name} chuckles, fingering at ${player_his_her_their} bottoms yet again. "Could be worse. Before I left my job we were preparing for a huge client to come in. This is much better than trying to impress some big shot CEOs," $!{player_first_name} replies. I laugh a bit and cross my arms, really taking in ${player_his_her_their} appearance. $!{player_first_name} really rocks ${player_his_her_their} outfit. I didn't even know it was possible to look so casual and comfortable at the same time. When our conversation comes to a comfortable end, Mother steps forward a bit, which tears our attention away from each other. "Well, now that the two of you have met and talked, how about you spend some time together in the garden?" Mother suggests with a smile. "Off to the gardens so $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name} can serenade me? I'm in for a treat, then," $!{player_first_name} teases, causing me to flush a bit. "Ah, I can't sing. Sorry to disappoint," I say. $!{player_first_name} pouts playfully. "Some $!{defaultroyal_title} you are! Guess I can forgive you if these gardens are really as nice as Queen Ramona says. Lead the way." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "shy") and (player_clothing_style = "casual")) “You’re biting at your lips again.” I sigh, letting my bottom lip go. I hadn’t even realized that I was so worked up over this meeting. Mozelle sighs and looks me up and down. “Why are you so nervous? You’re only about to potentially meet your future spouse in a few minutes,” she says, which is definitely not helping. “I-I’m not nervous!” I exclaim, though my stutter wasn’t very convincing. This type of stuff was more Mozelle’s style, meeting people and the like. I’m sure she’s about to set a world record for the most selfies taken with fans of the Crown. I was much more content behind the scenes, making an appearance as necessary. Like this one. “Everything will be fine, $!{defultroyal_first_name}. $!{player_first_name} is quite lovely. No weird feelings about ${player_him_her_them} at all. You’re nervous for no reason,” my mother assures beside me. “Maybe you’re right,” I say with a soft sigh. “Alright. But I won’t talk to ${player_him_her_them} long.” That response satisfies my mother and sister, so the three of us begin our walk back into the Great Hall. *page_break We reach the Great Hall just a few moments before Father and $!{player_first_name} do, so there’s no time for him to exaggeratedly reveal $!{player_first_name} to me, which I preferred. I always thought that was so embarrassing for all parties involved when it happened anyway. $!{player_first_name} pauses, ${player_his_her_their} fingers immediately adjusting the waist of $!{player_his_her_their} bottoms. I immediately notice how casual $!{player_first_name}'s clothes are and I sigh. If only I could get away with being that casual all the time. Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 "Y-you as well," I reply, giving $!{player_first_name} a brief smile. $!{player_he_she_they} doesn't look bad and is at least a nice seeming person. "Well, now that the two of you have met, how about showing ${player_him_her_them} the gardens, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}?" Mother asks with a bright smile. My eyes widen and I turn back towards Mother. "Are you sure-" "What a great, totally planned for idea!" Mozelle exclaims with a matching bright smile. Speaking over me. Again. "Ah, right. Totally forgot that," Father says, raising an eyebrow towards Mother and Mozelle. All they do is continue to sport grins. "Sounds good to me," $!{player_first_name} says, smiling a bit. "I'd love to see them." All that leaves is my response which is a soft sigh and nod. "Okay. Follow me, $!{player_first_name}," I say softly. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 Unsurprising to no one, I begin to flush. Not that I say too much to being with, but my own greeting dies on my lips as I try to process the obvious come on. Luckily, Mozelle catches on and bails me out, though not the way I was expecting. "$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you and $!{player_first_name} go to the gardens? Get to know one another? See how many times $!{player_first_name} can hit on you?" Mozelle asks, smiling over at ${player_him_her_them}. "Good idea, Mozelle. How about it, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}? "The gardens are lovely this time of year," Mother adds. I swallow thickly, glancing over at ${player_him_her_them}. Of course Mother or Mozelle couldn't let me just meet and leave. $!{player_first_name} for all ${player_his_her_their} credit, still smiles and doesn't look nervous or upset by this idea. "Gardens? I'd love to see them and be alone with you," $!{player_first_name} says, playing around with a loose string on ${player_his_her_their} clothing. I chuckle nervously but nod towards my mother and sister. "Alright. Let's go. T-they're not too far," I say, offering a smile towards $!{player_first_name}. I didn't have a choice in taking ${player_him_her_them} to the garden, but I could at least be nice about it. "Oh I can't wait," $!{player_first_name} says, batting ${player_his_her_their} eyes towards me. At least I manage to hold off another blush as we leave the hall. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 "Hi, $!{player_first_name}," I reply, averting my own eyes. My mind runs blank as I try to think of something else to say. I like ${player_his_her_their} outfit and how insanely comfortable it looks, but I couldn't even get a compliment out. The silence stretches on for a short while until Mozelle, either out of her own impatience or annoyance, decides to break it. "How about you two keep this lively conversation going in the gardens?" She suggests, which causes $!{player_first_name} to flush a bit. My heart flutters ever so slightly when I glance over and meet $!{player_first_name}'s eyes. We said a combined six words to each other. Surely ${player_he_she_they} would say no. $!{player_first_name}, much to my surprise, agrees. "S-sure, if $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name} doesn't mind. I'd hate to make you do something you don't want to do." I flush lightly. I've done plenty of things that I didn't want to do, but this definitely ranked near bottom on that list. "N-no. No, I'll take you there," I say, smiling over at $!{player_first_name}. "I don't mind." "Great. After you, $!{defaultlroyal_title}." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 I'm a bit surprised by the aloofness of their greeting. I expected $!{player_first_name} to have a bit more to ${player_his_her_their} introduction, but I appreciated the desire to not drag this meeting on any longer than necessary. $!{player_first_name} fiddles around with ${player_his_her_their} fingers while waiting for a response from me. "Hi $!{player_first_name}." I pause, figuring that I should respond with something else like a compliment or a welcome to the palace, but I couldn't decide what to say. $!{player_first_name} looks down at ${player_his_her_their} shoes, which causes me to look away. Father coughs a bit, causing us to look up at him with wide eyes. "$!{player_first_name}, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you two go to the gardens? When they're open to the public, they tend to be insanely crowded and very popular," Father suggests. "Maybe you guys can get to know each other more there." It wasn't a bad idea. If $!{player_first_name} and I were not going to look and talk to each other, at least we could do it among some flowers and butterflies. $!{player_first_name} agrees too. "Sounds nice," $!{player_first_name} says and I echo ${player_his_her_their} statement. Neither one of us moves though until Father motions us towards the exit. "Ha. Sorry," we say in unison, which causes Mozelle and Mother to chuckle a bit. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "Right," I say which causes $!{player_first_name} to chuckle. "Could be worse. Before I left my job we were preparing for a huge client to come in. This is much better than trying to impress some big shot CEOs," $!{player_first_name} replies. I nod noncommittally at $!{player_first_name}'s words. As if I could relate to a job like that. I didn't want to seem rude though, so I rack my brain for something else to say. "You look nice," I continue eventually, which causes $!{player_first_name} to grin. "Like you'd tell me if I didn't look nice," $!{player_first_name} jokes, which does make me chuckle a bit. "Touché." Mother smiles over at the two of us, hands resting behind her back. "Well, now that the two of you have met, how about you spend some time together in the garden?" Mother suggests with a smile. "Are the gardens where you take all the 99 percent matches?" $!{player_first_name} teases, causing me to flush a bit. Before I could reply, $!{player_first_name} continues. "Guess I can forgive you if these gardens are really as nice as Queen Ramona says. Lead the way." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "jerk") and (player_clothing_style = "casual")) “Mother, Sis, you two are aware that this is a waste of time, right?” I say, fixing the crown on my head. I didn’t have to wear this and in fact, my parents told me not to, but I couldn’t resist. It was always so funny meeting people who had no idea how Court worked. They always seemed like they were walking on eggshells around anybody with a lick of royal blood inside of them. “Yet you still have to do it anyway,” Mozelle, unfortunately, reminds me. She was definitely getting a good kick out of me being involved in this whole debacle. “Yet you’ll always be number two to me,” I shoot back with a smirk. Mozelle rolls her eyes at me and I know that if our mother wasn’t present, she likely would’ve flicked me off or cursed me out. “Yet we’re going to be late,” Mother reminds us, slipping her arms through each of ours. “Now, if you could lead the way, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” I sigh, but begin walking back towards the Great Hall knowing that the faster I got there, the faster I could get this over with. *page_break We reach the Great Hall just a few moments before Father and $!{player_first_name} do, so there’s no time for him to exaggeratedly reveal $!{player_first_name} to me, which I preferred. I always thought that was so embarrassing for all parties involved when it happened anyway. $!{player_first_name} pauses, ${player_his_her_their} fingers immediately adjusting the waist of ${player_his_her_their} bottoms. I immediately notice how casual $!{player_first_name}'s clothes are and I scoff. Did $!{player_first_name} even try? Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 I snort, looking $!{player_first_name} up and down. "Please spare me the niceties," I say, watching ${player_his_her_their} eyes widen. "Excuse me?" $!{player_first_name} asks. I sigh, crossing my arms as I really look at ${player_his_her_their} outfit. "Look, I get that Rumi is the best dresser in Odessa, but you don't have to take the first thing that they offer you. You're allowed to think for yourself," I say. $!{player_first_name} crosses ${player_his_her_their} arms and I can just see the mental debate going on in ${player_his_her_their} head. $!{player_first_name} does eventually speak again. "Despite your obvious rudeness, I am still glad to meet you. On our walk back over here, King Frederick suggested we go to the gardens and talk more. Maybe you can think of a better insult on our walk there?" Now it's my turn for my eyes to widen because well, even I had to admit that was pretty good. My mother, ever the peacemaker walks a bit closer to the two of us. "Forgive $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I'm sure ${defaultroyal_he_she_they} will apologize on your way to the gardens," she says, slightly narrowing her eyes at me, before smiling over at $!{player_first_name}. "Sounds great to me," $!{player_first_name} says, uncrossing ${player_his_her_their} arms as ${player_he_she_they} wait for me to apologize. Well, $!{player_first_name} could keep waiting. I haven't sincerely apologized for anything in years. "I'll think about it on our walk over there." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 "Hm, wish I could say the same. Rumi has loads of mirrors their shop. Did you forget to look in one?" I ask, sniffing at $!{player_first_name}'s outfit. $!{player_first_name} laughs at my response, which catches me completely off guard. "Oh, so you like to play hard to get. Cute," $!{player_first_name} responds. "Look, King Frederick said that you and I should go visit one of the palace gardens together and get to know one another. You want to go now or later? Either way, my outfit isn't changing." I sigh, shooting a look over at Father before I look back at $!{player_first_name}. "I'd rather go never, but since Mother and Father won't allow that, I can tolerate a walk with you, I guess," I reply, already heading towards the exit without waiting for ${player_him_her_them}. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 Great, somebody shy. "Hi, er, $!{player_first_name}, right?" I ask. $!{player_he_she_they} nods, fiddling at ${player_his_her_their} clothes. Oh, $!{player_first_name}'s really shy. "Okay, well, I'm leaving," I say, turning around on my heel and heading towards an exit. Father catches up to me in five large steps and grabs my arm to stop me. "What do you think you're doing?" He whispers to me, noticing the crown on top of my head. "I told you not to wear that," Father adds much lower. "Leaving. $!{player_first_name} isn't talking and it isn't my job to get ${player_him_her_them} to talk to me," I whisper back, stepping out of his grip, but I still stay close. "Sorry, $!{parent_title}, but it kind of is your job. I get you have this whole jerk persona going on, but you need to take $!{player_first_name} to the gardens. Like it or not, that is what you will be doing," Father replies. "Or else." He grabs my arm again, just for emphasis and I immediately rip it out of his grip. "Okay, just stop touching me," I mumble, rubbing at my arm before I push past him and head back over to Mother, Mozelle and $!{player_first_name}. "Ah, Father just reminded me about giving you a tour of the gardens," I say, forcing a smile to my face. Whether it was sincere or not, I had no way of knowing, as $!{player_first_name} barely reacts to the news. Eventually, $!{player_first_name} nods and manages a shaky smile of ${player_his_her_their} own. "S-sounds nice. Can't wait to see the gardens." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 "$!{player_man_woman_person} of few words. I like that," I say. "Wish I could say the same about your outfit." $!{player_first_name} sighs and glances down at ${player_his_her_their} outfit before looking at me. "If I wanted to be insulted, I would've just stayed in Lox. Let's just go to the gardens and get this over with," $!{player_first_name} says, which makes me raise my eyebrows. "Who said we're going to the gardens?" I ask and turn to look at my family. "I did," Father says. "Do you have a problem with that?" Well, of course I did. I couldn't tell Father that though, and even if I did, it wouldn't even matter since I'd still have to do it anyway. "No. Can't wait to go. Yay flowers," I reply before I cross my arms. "Ready when you are, $!{player_first_name}. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "Personally, I wish we'd never met at all," I reply before yawning. $!{player_first_name} raises an eyebrow. "Bold of you to assume that I'm over the moon about this, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}," $!{player_first_name} says. "Oh, you don't even want to know half of the things I'm assuming about you right now. None of them are good," I shoot back, now looking at $!{player_first_name}. I wasn't used to a response like that from a stranger, only from Mozelle. $!{player_first_name} grins. "Personally, I'm flattered. You very clearly dislike me, yet you're allowing the very thought of me to consume your mind." I bristle at $!{player_first_name}'s words. "Just who do you think you are?" I ask, stepping a bit closer to ${player_him_her_them}. "Well, I'm $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name} from $!{player_hometown}. I have ${player_skin_color} skin, ${player_eye_color} eyes and…" Mother, eager to get us to stop bickering, walks in between us and places a hand on both of our shoulders. "Instead of arguing back and forth, how about you two go for a walk in the gardens? We'll follow if you'd like, just to make sure you two don't argue." "Arguing around azaleas and lilies, temping," $!{player_first_name} says, tapping on ${player_his_her_their} cheek in faux thought. Yep, this is the most insufferable person I have ever met. "I for one could use some fresh air. Follow if you want, $!{player_first_name}, but I'm leaving," I say, stepping out of Mother's touch. $!{player_first_name} does the same and starts walking behind me. "Oh no, I'm coming. You can't get rid of me that easily." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "charming") and (player_clothing_style = "casual")) “Well, how do I look?” I smile widely towards my mother and Mozelle. I spent hours preparing for this meeting with $!{player_first_name}. Neither Father nor the Odessa Dates development team would tell me anything about ${player_him_her_them} and it was eating me up inside. After bugging an intern there for at least something small about ${player_him_her_them}, I got a hometown, $!{player_hometown}. “Aren’t those flowers native to $!{player_hometown}?” Mozelle asks and she plays around with my lapel. I quickly step away and make sure none of the petals are crushed. “Yes. Thought it would make a nice first impression,” I say, fidgeting with for a few more moments before dropping my hands at my sides. “Well, if ${player_he_she_they} can’t see the effort, they can definitely smell it,” Mozelle adds, crinkling up her nose. “Ease up on the body spray next time!” Mother laughs, smoothing a hand over my suit jacket. “You look and smell nice, love. I’m sure $!{player_first_name} will be glad to meet you,” she says, giving me a kiss on the cheek. I blush slightly, giving her a one-armed hug before separating. “Alright, alright. Enough Mother. Let’s go to the Great Hall before I inevitably spill something on myself or fall and rip something open.” *page_break $!{player_first_name} pauses, ${player_his_her_their} fingers immediately adjusting the waist of $!{player_his_her_their} bottoms. I immediately notice how casual $!{player_first_name}'s clothes are and I sigh. If only I could get away with being that casual all the time. Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 "You as well, $!{player_first_name}," I reply, giving $!{player_first_name} a wide smile. $!{player_he_she_they} doesn't look bad and is at least a nice seeming person. "I hope the journey here wasn't too rough." $!{player_first_name} shakes ${player_his_her_their} head. "Not at all. Cape Odessa is absolutely lovely." I'm glad that ${player_first_name} seems to be settling in fine. After all, if Father's website actually did its' job, $!{player_first_name} would be co-ruling it with me. It was important that ${player_first_name} liked most if not all of ${player_his_her_their} new surroundings. Mother and Father seem pleased that the two of us were getting along so fine. "Now that you two have met, how about showing ${player_him_her_them} the gardens, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}?" Mother asks with a bright smile. I nod, completely fine with that. "Allow me to, ${player_first_name}. I know the history of most of the flowers there and how we came to get them in our garden." I offer my elbow to ${player_him_her_them}, which ${player_he_she_they} eagerly takes. Whether that was because of actual excitement, or for the opportunity to continue following royal customs, I had no way of knowing. "Lead the way, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}!" *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 I flush lightly, resting a hand behind my head. "Oh, you flatter me, $!{player_first_name}," I say. I was always glad to get a compliment, whether that was from somebody I was interested in or just the average citizen, but they always made me a bit embarrassed. "Well, you know what they say about flattery…how it'll get you everywhere and all of that," $!{player_first_name} replies with a grin. I glance over at the rest of my family, who are all grinning or smiling themselves. A great sign. "$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you and $!{player_first_name} walk around the gardens. It's the only close place I believe we haven't shown ${player_him_her_them}," Mother says. "Sure, if that's alright with $!{player_first_name}," I say, turning to ${player_him_her_them} for confirmation. "Being alone in a garden with you? That's more than alright with me, babe," $!{player_first_name} replies, which coaxes another flush out of me. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 "Hi, $!{player_first_name}. It's wonderful to meet you," I reply, giving ${player_him_her_them} a smile though ${player_he_she_they} couldn't see it. I watch ${player_him_her_them} fiddle around with ${player_his_her_their} clothing. It wasn't the typical style that I would wear, but $!{player_first_name} did wear it quite well. "You look very nice, $!{player_first_name}. Rumi did a wonderful job on you," I say. $!{player_first_name} doesn't look up, but does at least smile a bit this time. I take that as a win. The silence between us stretches on for a short while until Mozelle, either out of her own impatience or annoyance, decides to break it. "How about you two head to the gardens? It's a perfect place to be alone," She suggests, which causes $!{player_first_name} to flush a bit. I offer $!{player_first_name} my hand. "Totally voluntary. If you wish not to go, we can do something else," I say. $!{player_first_name}, much to my surprise, agrees. "S-sure, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Just lead the way." When $!{player_first_name} places ${player_his_her_their} hand in mine, my mind goes completely blank. It was a simple gesture, sure, but still one that made my heartbeat skip a beat or two. "It's not too far away," I tell ${player_him_her_them} as we head towards the room's exit. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 "Welcome to Dia and the palace, $!{player_first_name}," I say with a small smile. "I hope you've liked everything so far." "I have," ${player_he_she_they} replies. "Nice city." Though $!{player_first_name} doesn't really say much, I manage to eventually have a decent conversation with ${player_him_her_them} about the journey to Dia, staying in Cape Odessa and much more. Soon enough, Father breaks our conversation up with a proposal to go to the gardens and give $!{player_first_name} a tour there. "Sounds nice," $!{player_first_name} says, giving me a small smile, which I'm super happy about. "Follow me then. Feel free to walk beside me. I don't mind," I reply, hoping that perhaps that would allow $!{player_first_name} to eventually begin to open up to me. Also because I thought it was a bit uncomfortable to follow all the customs so closely in a private setting such as this one. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "On the contrary. I believe everything happens for a reason. Maybe you're my perfect match or maybe you're not. Either way, I'm still glad to have met you," I say, smiling brightly. $!{player_first_name} blinks rapidly before beginning to chuckle slowly. "No need to charm me, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I'm going to compete, so save that for the competition," $!{player_first_name} says. I hold up my hands, a bit confused. "Pardon me, I don't mean to make you feel uncomfortable," I say. Not sure what $!{player_first_name} means by me being charming, but I figure it's better to just apologize. "Ha, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}, I'm not uncomfortable. You can relax around me. You know…talk, less…er, royally?" $!{player_first_name} smiles and stuffs ${player_his_her_their} hands into ${player_his_her_their} pockets. "How about we talk more about this in the gardens?" I offer. I figure that my family wouldn't have had time to take ${player_him_her_them} there before coming to meet me. Plus, I could show off my flower expertise. "Sure. Our first lover's quarrel in a romantic garden. Sounds great to me," $!{player_first_name} replies before winking. I chuckle and just shake my head, nodding towards my family as a goodbye before we head out of the Great Hall. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "flirty") and (player_clothing_style = "casual")) “Haven’t you primped enough?” Mozelle says to me as I look at continued to mess with the sleeves of my shirt. I roll my eyes and pinched at her nose, laughing when she swats my hand away. “Oh please. I could never. Not especially when I’m probably about to meet my spouse,” I say. I won’t lie. When Father told me about this plan, I was pretty upset, mainly because he thought I needed help finding somebody. Ask anybody in Odessa, but I didn’t exactly have a problem finding a mate. I had a bit of a reputation, after all. Mother laughs softly, pinching at my cheek. “Oh $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Let’s go. We don’t want to be late.” *page_break We reach the Great Hall just a few moments before Father and $!{player_first_name} do, so there’s no time for him to exaggeratedly reveal $!{player_first_name} to me. I’m a bit disappointed that I can’t exaggeratedly introduce myself to ${player_him_her_them}, but they’ll be plenty of other opportunities to act like a ham. $!{player_first_name} pauses, ${player_his_her_their} fingers immediately adjusting the waist of $!{player_his_her_their} bottoms. I immediately notice how casual $!{player_first_name}'s clothes are and I hum. It covered a bit too much skin for my liking, but $!{player_he_she_they} still looked great. Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 I smirk, reaching out for $!{player_first_name}'s hand before I fall to my knee. "Oh, I know all about pleasure," I say, pressing a kiss to the top of $!{player_first_name}'s hand. "Very nice to meet you, Sweetness." "S-Sweetness?" $!{player_first_name} asks in disbelief, as I rise from my knee. I nod with a grin. "Yes. Sweetness. Win or lose, I think Sweetness fits you incredibly well," I explain, letting go of ${player_his_her_their} hand. "Ah, well…thanks?" I smile brightly, really taking in $!{player_first_name}'s appearance, who ticks all of the things I typically find attractive about a person. Then again, though, that isn't too hard for most people. Mother seemed pleased that the two of us were getting along so well, while Father looked completely done with my flirting, as usual. "Now that you two have met, how about showing ${player_him_her_them} the gardens, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}?" Mother suggests with a bright smile. I grin. "I'm always down for alone time with anybody, especially when they're super attractive." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 "Oh, I know," I reply with a smirk. "It's always to hear it again, though. Nice to meet you, $!{player_first_name}." We spend a few moments regarding one another. I like $!{player_first_name}'s outfit, but I can't help but imagine how ${player_he_she_they} would look without a single thing on. Eventually Mother breaks the silence by suggesting that we head off somewhere else. "$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you and $!{player_first_name} walk around the gardens. It's the only close place I believe we haven't shown ${player_him_her_them}," Mother says. "I would love to. There are loads of secret spots where the two of us can be alone…get to know one another. In private," I say, looking back over at ${player_first_name}, who is clearly interested in leaving as well. "If you like me now, you'll love me in private," $!{player_first_name} says, throwing a smirk in my direction. "I bet I will, Sweetness," I reply, motioning towards one of the many exits out of the hall. "Don't wait up for us!" I exclaim to my family before we leave. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 "Hi, $!{player_first_name}," I say, giving ${player_him_her_them} a good look up and down. $!{player_first_name} glances up at me for a brief moment before looking back down again, clearly embarrassed at the way I was looking at ${player_him_her_them}. "You look great, Sweetness. I must admit, I've never been this attracted to anyone so quickly," I continue. $!{player_first_name} doesn't look up, but does at least smile a bit this time. Clearly, not the most talkative person, but seems relatively harmless at least. The silence between us stretches on for a short while until Mozelle, either out of her own impatience or annoyance, decides to break it. "How about you two head to the gardens? It's a perfect place to be alone," She suggests, which causes $!{player_first_name} to flush a bit. "O-oh, alone?" $!{player_first_name} asks, fiddling around with ${player_his_her_their} fingers. "Yes, Sweetness, alone. I'll be a perfect respectful $!{defaultroyal_title}, I promise. I'll only flirt maybe two more times," I say with a wink. $!{player_first_name}, much to my surprise, agrees. "S-sure, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Just lead the way." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 "$!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}," I parrot, giving ${player_him_her_them} a wide smile. $!{player_his_her_their} expression doesn't change but I let the lack of response roll off of my back. I've hit on quieter. "So $!{player_hometown}, huh? Nice place," I say. "I've had a lot of fun nights with people from there…" As I trail off in thought about one of my former hookups, $!{player_first_name} shifts uncomfortably from foot to foot. The movement reminds me that $!{player_first_name} is there and I smile sheepishly. "Sorry. Er…" I trail off again, wondering just what to say to ${player_him_her_them}. I wasn't used to one-sided talking like this.. Eventually, Father proposes that the two of us go to the gardens and talk more there. For once, one of his ideas isn't that bad, though I would likely be doing most of the talking. "Fine with me," $!{player_first_name} agrees with a small smile. "That's the spirit, Sweetness," I say with a wink. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "What circumstances would those have been? In public? In a dimly lit club?" I ask, fiddling with the sleeve of my shirt as I give $!{player_first_name} a good look up and down. "Eyes up here, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}," $!{player_first_name} says, interrupting the very nice mental image I had of ${player_him_her_them} underneath my covers. "Eye contact only." I pout playfully, looking into ${player_his_her_their} eyes as ${player_he_she_they} wanted me to. "Eye contact? You're no fun, Sweetness." $!{player_first_name} crosses ${player_his_her_their} arms and raises an eyebrow. "Sweetness? What is that supposed to be?" I smirk and lightly tap my fingers against my jaw. "Oh, you know. A nickname? An alternate name for somebody?" $!{player_first_name} leans forward, a smirk on ${player_his_her_their} face as well. "I just thought the heir to the Odessa throne could come up with a better nickname for me than Sweetness. Some good those tutors were that our taxes helped pay for." I, for once, don't have a comeback. Not only was $!{player_first_name} nice to look at, ${player_his_her_their} comebacks were pretty great. "How about I show you the gardens? It's the only place I'm sure you haven't been to yet," I offer, once I've mostly recovered. The walk there could give me a good opportunity to come up with some one-liners myself. "Too afraid I'll outwit you in front of your family?" $!{player_first_name} teases. "That's fine. I'd love to see the gardens." I turn back to look at Mother, Father and Mozelle and all three of them are in various states of amusement. Well they're no help. "Fine, Sweetness. Since you agreed so nicely…" *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "sarcastic") and (player_clothing_style = "casual")) “Happy, Mother?” I ask, slowly spinning around for her approval. Mozelle and Mother smile excitedly, clasping both of their hands together at the same time. “You look lovely, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Really. I’m glad you went with this jacket rather than the other one,” Mother says, kissing my cheek as she messed with my shirt collar yet again. “Careful Mother. If you keep messing with ${defaultroyal_his_her_their} clothes, you might accidentally give off the illusion that $!{defaultroyal_first_name}'s interested,” Mozelle teases. I huff, allowing Mother to continue fretting over my clothing. Better I allow her to do it rather than making up excuses. She’d only fret more. “Wait, who told you I wasn’t interested? Was it the lack of a smile or the lack of excitement?” I ask, causing Mozelle to laugh. “Ever the charmer. Let’s go,” she says and Mother nods. While Mozelle walks far ahead from Mother and I, Mother takes the opportunity to talk to me in a much lower voice. “$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, please. I know you’re unhappy about this whole thing, but Frederick really just wants to make you happy. At least try to seem interested?” Mother asks softly. I sigh, stomach twisting uncomfortably. Father always demanded a lot from me, but my Mother barely did. Always the peacekeeper. I nod, watching Mozelle excitedly open up the door leading to the Great Hall. “I’ll try,” I answer finally, giving my mother a small smile. *page_break We enter the Great Hall just a few moments before Father and $!{player_first_name} do, so there’s no time for him to exaggeratedly reveal $!{player_first_name} to me. I’m incredibly glad for that. $!{player_first_name} pauses, ${player_his_her_their} fingers immediately adjusting the waist of $!{player_his_her_their} bottoms. I immediately notice how casual $!{player_first_name}'s clothes are and I sigh. If only I could get away with being that casual all the time. Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 "Is it really a pleasure?" I ask, raising an eyebrow. Surely $!{player_first_name} was just laying it on thick. "Yes, truly," $!{player_first_name} says with a smile. "Everything in Dia that I've been to or seen so far has been lovely." $!{player_first_name} has to be kidding. $!{player_first_name}'s only been to Dia's fanciest hotel, Rumi's immaculate store and of course, the palace. Just a handful of the nicest places in the capital. But, if ${player_he_she_they} wants to lay it on thick, so can I. "Well, you look nice. Straight out of Rumi's store, I see," I say with a smile matching ${player_his_hers_theirs}. Mother seemed pleased that the two of us were getting along so well, or as well as I was appearing to be. "Now that you two have met, how about showing ${player_him_her_them} the gardens, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}?" Mother suggests with a bright smile. "The gardens? Sure. There's nothing I'd rather do more," I reply, narrowing my eyes towards Mother, who only smiles wider. "I'd love to see them," $!{player_first_name} adds with a wide smile of their own. Well, at least that makes one of us. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 I smirk, taking a long look at $!{player_first_name}. "I bet you say that to every heir you have to meet," I tease. "Maybe I do, but I have a strict don't kiss and tell policy," $!{player_first_name} replies with a wink. "But maybe I could break that for you." We spend a few moments regarding one another, though mine is more out of curiosity. I'm 100 percent sure that $!{player_first_name} is imagining how I look naked. Eventually Mother breaks our silence by suggesting that we head off somewhere else. "$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you and $!{player_first_name} walk around the gardens. It's the only close place I believe we haven't shown ${player_him_her_them}," Mother says. "Nothing would give me greater pleasure, Mother," I reply, giving her a mock salute before I turn back to $!{player_first_name}. "Just follow me, $!{player_first_name}. I'd love to show you all the flowers that were planted in a garden well before my birth." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 "Hi, $!{player_first_name}," I say, giving ${player_him_her_them} a good look up and down. $!{player_first_name} glances up at me for a brief moment before looking back down again, clearly embarrassed at the way I was looking at ${player_him_her_them}. "I see you're a chatterbox," I continue with an amused smile. "My, oh my. This will be an interesting competition." $!{player_first_name} doesn't look up, but does at least smile a bit this time. The silence between us stretches on for a short while until Mozelle, either out of her own impatience or annoyance, decides to break it. "How about you two head to the gardens? It's a perfect place to be alone," She suggests, which causes $!{player_first_name} to flush a bit. "O-oh, alone?" $!{player_first_name} asks, fiddling around with ${player_his_her_their} fingers. "Yes, alone. Unless you're afraid I'll bite," I chuckle. $!{player_first_name}, much to my surprise, agrees. "S-sure, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Just lead the way." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 "Wow, let me get a word in, $!{player_first_name}," I joke, giving ${player_him_her_them} a wide smile that doesn't change the expression on $!{player_his_her_their} face. Well, this will be an extremely short meeting. "So $!{player_hometown}, huh? Nice place," I say. "Very, erm…vital to Odessa's success." I cringe almost immediately after I say those words. I was getting more and more like Father every day. Luckily, Mother bails this awkward interaction out with a suggestion. "$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you take $!{player_first_name} to the gardens? Perhaps you two can find something to talk about there?" "If we can't talk in front of people, I don't know how in the world we will talk when we're alone, but I don't mind leaving to at least get some fresh air," I sigh, barely giving $!{player_first_name} a glance. $!{player_first_name} just shrugs at the suggestion. "Fine with me." "$!{player_he_she_they} speak," I gasp, pretending to fall to the ground in shock. $!{player_first_name} is unamused, unsurprisingly. "Ready, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}? The day isn't getting any longer." I flush ever so slightly, adjusting my clothing. "Ah. Yes. Follow me." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "Yeah, you're telling me. Here I was, thinking I could just wait for the next person to fall into my royal lap, when all of a sudden Father's got other plans," I say, narrowing my eyes towards Father's direction. I give him props for not rolling his eyes in front of $!{player_first_name}, at least. "Wait, so you're not over the moon like the media says you are?" $!{player_first_name} asks, feigning as if in deep thought. I burst out laughing. I am the furthest from over the moon right now. Maybe mulling on Mars is the more appropriate term. "For lack of time, let's just say no," I answer with a grin. I must admit, it's pretty refreshing to banter back and forth with somebody who could actually keep up. Mother gives the two of us a smile, but I notice that she's subtly motioning towards one of the exits that leads to the gardens. Hm. I suppose I could tolerate a bit of time alone with ${player_him_her_them}. "How about we tour the gardens, $!{player_first_name}? I can show you flowers that were planted long before I was even thought of," I offer. $!{player_first_name} is silent for a moment, but I already know the answer will be yes. "Hm, I had a feeling that I would eventually be alone with you, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Then I suppose you'll fall for me as the sun goes down and we can avoid this whole competition, yeah?" $!{player_first_name} asks. "Bold of you to assume that I believe in love at first sight, $!{player_first_name}." $!{player_first_name} playfully pouts at my words. "Oh c'mon. Let's go to the gardens before you break my heart even more." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "aloof") and (player_clothing_style = "casual")) “You could at least smile, $!{defaultroyal_first_name},” Mozelle says to me as my mother fusses around with the collar of my button down shirt. I scoff at that. “Easy for you to say. You’re not the one at the center of all the attention for this competition,” I reply, stepping away from my mother so she would stop fidgeting with everything on me. I glance at my reflection in a nearby hall mirror, not seeing much difference from before my mother decided to mess with my clothes. “$!{player_first_name} is lovely, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. You’ll like ${player_him_her_them},” my mother says with a soft smile. I sigh and nod, just to appease her. My mother always saw the best in people and situations and I envied her for it. Perhaps I was too much like Father, always seeing ulterior motives behind every action. “Alright, enough talking. $!{player_first_name} and Dad are heading back to the Great Hall. We should hurry,” Mozelle says, speed walking so that she could get ahead of Mother and I. We quickly follow after her and as we walk, my mind drifts to my supposed near perfect match. I was skeptical that this competition would even work. Father has always tried to meddle in my love life, no matter how much he claimed to the contrary in the media, but never to this extent. A computer program with the ability to find my spouse? I barely knew anything about this ${player_man_woman_person}, or any of the other contestants, yet I would eventually have to marry one of them? This was just a waste of time. *page_break We reach the Great Hall just a few moments before Father and $!{player_first_name} do, so there’s no time for him to exaggeratedly reveal $!{player_first_name} to me, which I preferred. Let me smile, nod and head back to my room. $!{player_first_name} pauses, ${player_his_her_their} fingers immediately adjusting the waist of $!{player_his_her_their} bottoms. I immediately notice how casual $!{player_first_name}'s clothes are and I sigh. If only I could get away with being that casual all the time. Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 "You as well," I reply, giving $!{player_first_name} a brief smile. $!{player_he_she_they} doesn't look bad and is at least a nice seeming person. Still, I keep my distance, praying that somebody bails me out. "Well, now that the two of you have met, how about showing ${player_him_her_them} the gardens, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}?" Mother asks with a bright smile. Okay, not like that. "What a great, totally planned for idea!" Mozelle exclaims with a matching bright smile. "Ah, right. Totally forgot that," Father says, raising an eyebrow towards Mother and Mozelle. All they do is continue to sport grins. "Sounds good to me," $!{player_first_name} says, smiling a bit. "I'd love to see them." All that leaves is my response which is a soft sigh and nod. "Sure. Follow me, $!{player_first_name}." *page_break **goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 For the first time in quite a while, I find myself flushing. Not just a cutesy little flush, but a full blown reddening of the cheeks. What a cheeky ${player_man_woman_person}. "U-um, thank you," I finally answer, finding that a smile has worked itself on my face. "No, thank you. Pictures do not do you justice $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}," $!{player_first_name} says with a wink. When I glance over at Mother, she is both amused and over the moon at our meeting. She's smiling and I'm pretty sure if her eyes could sparkle, they would be. "Oh, this is absolutely lovely. How about you take $!{player_first_name} on a tour of the gardens?" Mother suggests. "The garden is lovely this time of year." I swallow thickly, glancing over at ${player_him_her_them}. Of course Mother couldn't let me just meet and leave. $!{player_first_name} for all ${player_his_her_their} credit, still smiles and doesn't look nervous or upset by this idea. "Gardens? I'd love to see them and be alone with you," $!{player_first_name} says, playing around a loose string on ${player_his_her_their} clothing. I at least manage not to blush again as we head off. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 "Hi, $!{player_first_name}," I reply, trying to meet ${player_his_her_their} eyes, but I just couldn't. My eyes glance over ${player_his_her_their} outfit again, wracking my brain for something else to say to keep the conversation going. Either out of her own impatience or annoyance, Mozelle grins at the two of us and wraps her arms around each of our shoulders. "How about you two keep this lively conversation going in the gardens?" She suggests, which causes $!{player_first_name} to flush a bit. "Sure, if $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name} doesn't mind. I would love to go." My heart flutters ever so slightly when I glance over and meet $!{player_first_name}'s eyes. "N-no. No, I'll take you there," I say, carefully removing Mozelle's arm from around my shoulder. $!{player_first_name} immediately steps away as well, straightening ${player_his_her_their} clothing before facing me. "After you, $!{defaultroyal_title}." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 I'm a bit surprised by the aloofness of their greeting. I expected $!{player_first_name} to have a bit more to ${player_his_her_their} introduction, but I appreciated the desire to not drag this meeting on any longer than necessary. "You look very nice, $!{player_first_name}," I continue and $!{player_first_name} nods a brief smile appearing on ${player_his_her_their} face. "Thank you," $!{player_first_name} says, fiddling around with ${player_his_her_their} fingers. Hm, is this how I appear to others? "$!{player_first_name}, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you two go to the gardens? When they're open to the public, they tend to be insanely crowded and very popular," Father suggests. $!{player_first_name} nods. "Sounds nice." I echo ${player_his_her_their} agreement with the garden idea without much resistance. If this is how $!{player_first_name} usually acts, then I can definitely tolerate being around ${player_him_her_them} for a while. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "You're telling me," I find myself replying before I could help it. $!{player_first_name} chuckles, fingering at ${player_his_her_their} bottoms yet again. "Could be worse. Before I left my job we were preparing for a huge client to come in. This is much better than trying to impress some big shot CEOs," $!{player_first_name} replies. I laugh a bit and cross my arms, really taking in ${player_his_her_their} appearance. $!{player_first_name} really rocks ${player_his_her_their} outfit. I didn't even know it was possible to look so casual and comfortable at the same time. When our conversation comes to a comfortable end, Mother steps forward a bit, which tears our attention away from each other. "Well, now that the two of you have met and talked, how about you spend some time together in the garden?" Mother suggests with a smile. "Off to the gardens so $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name} can serenade me? I'm in for a treat, then," $!{player_first_name} teases, causing me to flush a bit. "Ah, I can't sing. Sorry to disappoint," I say. $!{player_first_name} pouts playfully. "Some $!{defaultroyal_title} you are! Guess I can forgive you if these gardens are really as nice as Queen Ramona says. Lead the way." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "shy") and (player_clothing_style = "casual")) “You’re biting at your lips again.” I sigh, letting my bottom lip go. I hadn’t even realized that I was so worked up over this meeting. Mozelle sighs and looks me up and down. “Why are you so nervous? You’re only about to potentially meet your future spouse in a few minutes,” she says, which is definitely not helping. “I-I’m not nervous!” I exclaim, though my stutter wasn’t very convincing. This type of stuff was more Mozelle’s style, meeting people and the like. I’m sure she’s about to set a world record for the most selfies taken with fans of the Crown. I was much more content behind the scenes, making an appearance as necessary. Like this one. “Everything will be fine, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. $!{player_first_name} is quite lovely. No weird feelings about ${player_him_her_them} at all. You’re nervous for no reason,” my mother assures beside me. “Maybe you’re right,” I say with a soft sigh. “Alright. But I won’t talk to ${player_him_her_them} long.” That response satisfies my mother and sister, so the three of us begin our walk back into the Great Hall. *page_break We reach the Great Hall just a few moments before Father and $!{player_first_name} do, so there’s no time for him to exaggeratedly reveal $!{player_first_name} to me, which I preferred. I always thought that was so embarrassing for all parties involved when it happened anyway. $!{player_first_name} pauses, ${player_his_her_their} fingers immediately adjusting the waist of $!{player_his_her_their} bottoms. I immediately notice how casual $!{player_first_name}'s clothes are and I sigh. If only I could get away with being that casual all the time. Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 "Y-you as well," I reply, giving $!{player_first_name} a brief smile. $!{player_he_she_they} doesn't look bad and is at least a nice seeming person. "Well, now that the two of you have met, how about showing ${player_him_her_them} the gardens, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}?" Mother asks with a bright smile. My eyes widen and I turn back towards Mother. "Are you sure-" "What a great, totally planned for idea!" Mozelle exclaims with a matching bright smile. Speaking over me. Again. "Ah, right. Totally forgot that," Father says, raising an eyebrow towards Mother and Mozelle. All they do is continue to sport grins. "Sounds good to me," $!{player_first_name} says, smiling a bit. "I'd love to see them." All that leaves is my response which is a soft sigh and nod. "Okay. Follow me, $!{player_first_name}," I say softly. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 Unsurprising to no one, I begin to flush. Not that I say too much to being with, but my own greeting dies on my lips as I try to process the obvious come on. Luckily, Mozelle catches on and bails me out, though not the way I was expecting. "$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you and $!{player_first_name} go to the gardens? Get to know one another? See how many times $!{player_first_name} can hit on you?" Mozelle asks, smiling over at ${player_him_her_them}. "Good idea, Mozelle. How about it, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}? "The gardens are lovely this time of year," Mother adds. I swallow thickly, glancing over at ${player_him_her_them}. Of course Mother or Mozelle couldn't let me just meet and leave. $!{player_first_name} for all ${player_his_her_their} credit, still smiles and doesn't look nervous or upset by this idea. "Gardens? I'd love to see them and be alone with you," $!{player_first_name} says, playing around with a loose string on ${player_his_her_their} clothing. I chuckle nervously but nod towards my mother and sister. "Alright. Let's go. T-they're not too far," I say, offering a smile towards $!{player_first_name}. I didn't have a choice in taking ${player_him_her_them} to the garden, but I could at least be nice about it. "Oh I can't wait," $!{player_first_name} says, batting ${player_his_her_their} eyes towards me. At least I manage to hold off another blush as we leave the hall. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 "Hi, $!{player_first_name}," I reply, averting my own eyes. My mind runs blank as I try to think of something else to say. I like ${player_his_her_their} outfit and how insanely comfortable it looks, but I couldn't even get a compliment out. The silence stretches on for a short while until Mozelle, either out of her own impatience or annoyance, decides to break it. "How about you two keep this lively conversation going in the gardens?" She suggests, which causes $!{player_first_name} to flush a bit. My heart flutters ever so slightly when I glance over and meet $!{player_first_name}'s eyes. We said a combined six words to each other. Surely ${player_he_she_they} would say no. $!{player_first_name}, much to my surprise, agrees. "S-sure, if $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name} doesn't mind. I'd hate to make you do something you don't want to do." I flush lightly. I've done plenty of things that I didn't want to do, but this definitely ranked near bottom on that list. "N-no. No, I'll take you there," I say, smiling over at $!{player_first_name}. "I don't mind." "Great. After you, $!{defaultroyal_title}." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 I'm a bit surprised by the aloofness of their ${greeting}. I expected $!{player_first_name} to have a bit more to ${player_his_her_their} introduction, but I appreciated the desire to not drag this meeting on any longer than necessary. $!{player_first_name} fiddles around with ${player_his_her_their} fingers while waiting for a response from me. "Hi $!{player_first_name}." I pause, figuring that I should respond with something else like a compliment or a welcome to the palace, but I couldn't decide what to say. $!{player_first_name} looks down at ${player_his_her_their} shoes, which causes me to look away. Father coughs a bit, causing us to look up at him with wide eyes. "$!{player_first_name}, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you two go to the gardens? When they're open to the public, they tend to be insanely crowded and very popular," Father suggests. "Maybe you guys can get to know each other more there." It wasn't a bad idea. If $!{player_first_name} and I were not going to look and talk to each other, at least we could do it among some flowers and butterflies. $!{player_first_name} agrees too. "Sounds nice," $!{player_first_name} says and I echo ${player_his_her_their} statement. Neither one of us moves though until Father motions us towards the exit. "Ha. Sorry," we say in unison, which causes Mozelle and Mother to chuckle a bit. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "Right," I say which causes $!{player_first_name} to chuckle. "Could be worse. Before I left my job we were preparing for a huge client to come in. This is much better than trying to impress some big shot CEOs," $!{player_first_name} replies. I nod noncommittally at $!{player_first_name}'s words. As if I could relate to a job like that. I didn't want to seem rude though, so I rack my brain for something else to say. "You look nice," I continue eventually, which causes $!{player_first_name} to grin. "Like you'd tell me if I didn't look nice," $!{player_first_name} jokes, which does make me chuckle a bit. "Touché." Mother smiles over at the two of us, hands resting behind her back. "Well, now that the two of you have met, how about you spend some time together in the garden?" Mother suggests with a smile. "Are the gardens where you take all the 99 percent matches?" $!{player_first_name} teases, causing me to flush a bit. Before I could reply, $!{player_first_name} continues. "Guess I can forgive you if these gardens are really as nice as Queen Ramona says. Lead the way." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "jerk") and (player_clothing_style = "revealing")) “Mother, Sis, you two are aware that this is a waste of time, right?” I say, fixing the crown on my head. I didn’t have to wear this and in fact, my parents told me not to, but I couldn’t resist. It was always so funny meeting people who had no idea how Court worked. They always seemed like they were walking on eggshells around anybody with a lick of royal blood inside of them. “Yet you still have to do it anyway,” Mozelle, unfortunately, reminds me. She was definitely getting a good kick out of me being involved in this whole debacle. “Yet you’ll always be number two to me,” I shoot back with a smirk. Mozelle rolls her eyes at me and I know that if our mother wasn’t present, she likely would’ve flicked me off or cursed me out. “Yet we’re going to be late,” Mother reminds us, slipping her arms through each of ours. “Now, if you could lead the way, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” I sigh, but begin walking back towards the Great Hall knowing that the faster I got there, the faster I could get this over with. *page_break We reach the Great Hall just a few moments before Father and $!{player_first_name} do, so there’s no time for him to exaggeratedly reveal $!{player_first_name} to me, which I preferred. I always thought that was so embarrassing for all parties involved when it happened anyway. $!{player_first_name} pauses, ${player_his_her_their} fingers immediately adjusting the waist of ${player_his_her_their} bottoms. I immediately notice how casual $!{player_first_name}'s clothes are and I scoff. Did $!{player_first_name} even try? Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 I snort, looking $!{player_first_name} up and down. "Please spare me the niceties," I say, watching ${player_his_her_their} eyes widen. "Excuse me?" $!{player_first_name} asks. I sigh, crossing my arms as I really look at ${player_his_her_their} outfit. "Look, I get that Rumi is the best dresser in Odessa, but you don't have to take the first thing that they offer you. You're allowed to think for yourself," I say. $!{player_first_name} crosses ${player_his_her_their} arms and I can just see the mental debate going on in ${player_his_her_their} head. $!{player_first_name} does eventually speak again. "Despite your obvious rudeness, I am still glad to meet you. On our walk back over here, King Frederick suggested we go to the gardens and talk more. Maybe you can think of a better insult on our walk there?" Now it's my turn for my eyes to widen because well, even I had to admit that was pretty good. My mother, ever the peacemaker walks a bit closer to the two of us. "Forgive $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I'm sure ${defaultroyal_he_she_they} will apologize on your way to the gardens," she says, slightly narrowing her eyes at me, before smiling over at $!{player_first_name}. "Sounds great to me," $!{player_first_name} says, uncrossing ${player_his_her_their} arms as ${player_he_she_they} wait for me to apologize. Well, $!{player_first_name} could keep waiting. I haven't sincerely apologized for anything in years. "I'll think about it on our walk over there." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 "Hm, wish I could say the same. Rumi has loads of mirrors their shop. Did you forget to look in one?" I ask, sniffing at $!{player_first_name}'s outfit. $!{player_first_name} laughs at my response, which catches me completely off guard. "Oh, so you like to play hard to get. Cute," $!{player_first_name} responds. "Look, King Frederick said that you and I should go visit one of the palace gardens together and get to know one another. You want to go now or later? Either way, my outfit isn't changing." I sigh, shooting a look over at Father before I look back at $!{player_first_name}. "I'd rather go never, but since Mother and Father won't allow that, I can tolerate a walk with you, I guess," I reply, already heading towards the exit without waiting for ${player_him_her_them}. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 Great, somebody shy. "Hi, er, $!{player_first_name}, right?" I ask. $!{player_he_she_they} nods, fiddling at ${player_his_her_their} clothes. Oh, $!{player_first_name}'s really shy. "Okay, well, I'm leaving," I say, turning around on my heel and heading towards an exit. Father catches up to me in five large steps and grabs my arm to stop me. "What do you think you're doing?" He whispers to me, noticing the crown on top of my head. "I told you not to wear that," Father adds much lower. "Leaving. $!{player_first_name} isn't talking and it isn't my job to get ${player_him_her_them} to talk to me," I whisper back, stepping out of his grip, but I still stay close. "Sorry, $!{parent_title}, but it kind of is your job. I get you have this whole jerk persona going on, but you need to take $!{player_first_name} to the gardens. Like it or not, that is what you will be doing," Father replies. "Or else." He grabs my arm again, just for emphasis and I immediately rip it out of his grip. "Okay, just stop touching me," I mumble, rubbing at my arm before I push past him and head back over to Mother, Mozelle and $!{player_first_name}. "Ah, Father just reminded me about giving you a tour of the gardens," I say, forcing a smile to my face. Whether it was sincere or not, I had no way of knowing, as $!{player_first_name} barely reacts to the news. Eventually, $!{player_first_name} nods and manages a shaky smile of ${player_his_her_their} own. "S-sounds nice. Can't wait to see the gardens." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 "$!{player_man_woman_person} of few words. I like that," I say. "Wish I could say the same about your outfit." $!{player_first_name} sighs and glances down at ${player_his_her_their} outfit before looking at me. "If I wanted to be insulted, I would've just stayed in Lox. Let's just go to the gardens and get this over with," $!{player_first_name} says, which makes me raise my eyebrows. "Who said we're going to the gardens?" I ask and turn to look at my family. "I did," Father says. "Do you have a problem with that?" Well, of course I did. I couldn't tell Father that though, and even if I did, it wouldn't even matter since I'd still have to do it anyway. "No. Can't wait to go. Yay flowers," I reply before I cross my arms. "Ready when you are, $!{player_first_name}. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "Personally, I wish we'd never met at all," I reply before yawning. $!{player_first_name} raises an eyebrow. "Bold of you to assume that I'm over the moon about this, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}," $!{player_first_name} says. "Oh, you don't even want to know half of the things I'm assuming about you right now. None of them are good," I shoot back, now looking at $!{player_first_name}. I wasn't used to a response like that from a stranger, only from Mozelle. $!{player_first_name} grins. "Personally, I'm flattered. You very clearly dislike me, yet you're allowing the very thought of me to consume your mind." I bristle at $!{player_first_name}'s words. "Just who do you think you are?" I ask, stepping a bit closer to ${player_him_her_them}. "Well, I'm $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name} from $!{player_hometown}. I have ${player_skin_color} skin, ${player_eye_color} eyes and…" Mother, eager to get us to stop bickering, walks in between us and places a hand on both of our shoulders. "Instead of arguing back and forth, how about you two go for a walk in the gardens? We'll follow if you'd like, just to make sure you two don't argue." "Arguing around azaleas and lilies, temping," $!{player_first_name} says, tapping on ${player_his_her_their} cheek in faux thought. Yep, this is the most insufferable person I have ever met. "I for one could use some fresh air. Follow if you want, $!{player_first_name}, but I'm leaving," I say, stepping out of Mother's touch. $!{player_first_name} does the same and starts walking behind me. "Oh no, I'm coming. You can't get rid of me that easily." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "charming") and (player_clothing_style = "casual")) “Well, how do I look?” I smile widely towards my mother and Mozelle. I spent hours preparing for this meeting with $!{player_first_name}. Neither Father nor the Odessa Dates development team would tell me anything about ${player_him_her_them} and it was eating me up inside. After bugging an intern there for at least something small about ${player_him_her_them}, I got a hometown, $!{player_hometown}. “Aren’t those flowers native to $!{player_hometown}?” Mozelle asks and she plays around with my lapel. I quickly step away and make sure none of the petals are crushed. “Yes. Thought it would make a nice first impression,” I say, fidgeting with for a few more moments before dropping my hands at my sides. “Well, if ${player_he_she_they} can’t see the effort, they can definitely smell it,” Mozelle adds, crinkling up her nose. “Ease up on the body spray next time!” Mother laughs, smoothing a hand over my suit jacket. “You look and smell nice, love. I’m sure $!{player_first_name} will be glad to meet you,” she says, giving me a kiss on the cheek. I blush slightly, giving her a one-armed hug before separating. “Alright, alright. Enough Mother. Let’s go to the Great Hall before I inevitably spill something on myself or fall and rip something open.” *page_break $!{player_first_name} pauses, ${player_his_her_their} fingers immediately adjusting the waist of $!{player_his_her_their} bottoms. I immediately notice how casual $!{player_first_name}'s clothes are and I sigh. If only I could get away with being that casual all the time. Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 "You as well, $!{player_first_name}," I reply, giving $!{player_first_name} a wide smile. $!{player_he_she_they} doesn't look bad and is at least a nice seeming person. "I hope the journey here wasn't too rough." $!{player_first_name} shakes ${player_his_her_their} head. "Not at all. Cape Odessa is absolutely lovely." I'm glad that ${player_first_name} seems to be settling in fine. After all, if Father's website actually did its' job, $!{player_first_name} would be co-ruling it with me. It was important that ${player_first_name} liked most if not all of ${player_his_her_their} new surroundings. Mother and Father seem pleased that the two of us were getting along so fine. "Now that you two have met, how about showing ${player_him_her_them} the gardens, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}?" Mother asks with a bright smile. I nod, completely fine with that. "Allow me to, ${player_first_name}. I know the history of most of the flowers there and how we came to get them in our garden." I offer my elbow to ${player_him_her_them}, which ${player_he_she_they} eagerly takes. Whether that was because of actual excitement, or for the opportunity to continue following royal customs, I had no way of knowing. "Lead the way, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}!" *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 I flush lightly, resting a hand behind my head. "Oh, you flatter me, $!{player_first_name}," I say. I was always glad to get a compliment, whether that was from somebody I was interested in or just the average citizen, but they always made me a bit embarrassed. "Well, you know what they say about flattery…how it'll get you everywhere and all of that," $!{player_first_name} replies with a grin. I glance over at the rest of my family, who are all grinning or smiling themselves. A great sign. "$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you and $!{player_first_name} walk around the gardens. It's the only close place I believe we haven't shown ${player_him_her_them}," Mother says. "Sure, if that's alright with $!{player_first_name}," I say, turning to ${player_him_her_them} for confirmation. "Being alone in a garden with you? That's more than alright with me, babe," $!{player_first_name} replies, which coaxes another flush out of me. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 "Hi, $!{player_first_name}. It's wonderful to meet you," I reply, giving ${player_him_her_them} a smile though ${player_he_she_they} couldn't see it. I watch ${player_him_her_them} fiddle around with ${player_his_her_their} clothing. It wasn't the typical style that I would wear, but $!{player_first_name} did wear it quite well. "You look very nice, $!{player_first_name}. Rumi did a wonderful job on you," I say. $!{player_first_name} doesn't look up, but does at least smile a bit this time. I take that as a win. The silence between us stretches on for a short while until Mozelle, either out of her own impatience or annoyance, decides to break it. "How about you two head to the gardens? It's a perfect place to be alone," She suggests, which causes $!{player_first_name} to flush a bit. I offer $!{player_first_name} my hand. "Totally voluntary. If you wish not to go, we can do something else," I say. $!{player_first_name}, much to my surprise, agrees. "S-sure, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Just lead the way." When $!{player_first_name} places ${player_his_her_their} hand in mine, my mind goes completely blank. It was a simple gesture, sure, but still one that made my heartbeat skip a beat or two. "It's not too far away," I tell ${player_him_her_them} as we head towards the room's exit. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 "Welcome to Dia and the palace, $!{player_first_name}," I say with a small smile. "I hope you've liked everything so far." "I have," ${player_he_she_they} replies. "Nice city." Though $!{player_first_name} doesn't really say much, I manage to eventually have a decent conversation with ${player_him_her_them} about the journey to Dia, staying in Cape Odessa and much more. Soon enough, Father breaks our conversation up with a proposal to go to the gardens and give $!{player_first_name} a tour there. "Sounds nice," $!{player_first_name} says, giving me a small smile, which I'm super happy about. "Follow me then. Feel free to walk beside me. I don't mind," I reply, hoping that perhaps that would allow $!{player_first_name} to eventually begin to open up to me. Also because I thought it was a bit uncomfortable to follow all the customs so closely in a private setting such as this one. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "On the contrary. I believe everything happens for a reason. Maybe you're my perfect match or maybe you're not. Either way, I'm still glad to have met you," I say, smiling brightly. $!{player_first_name} blinks rapidly before beginning to chuckle slowly. "No need to charm me, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I'm going to compete, so save that for the competition," $!{player_first_name} says. I hold up my hands, a bit confused. "Pardon me, I don't mean to make you feel uncomfortable," I say. Not sure what $!{player_first_name} means by me being charming, but I figure it's better to just apologize. "Ha, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}, I'm not uncomfortable. You can relax around me. You know…talk, less…er, royally?" $!{player_first_name} smiles and stuffs ${player_his_her_their} hands into ${player_his_her_their} pockets. "How about we talk more about this in the gardens?" I offer. I figure that my family wouldn't have had time to take ${player_him_her_them} there before coming to meet me. Plus, I could show off my flower expertise. "Sure. Our first lover's quarrel in a romantic garden. Sounds great to me," $!{player_first_name} replies before winking. I chuckle and just shake my head, nodding towards my family as a goodbye before we head out of the Great Hall. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "flirty") and (player_clothing_style = "casual")) “Haven’t you primped enough?” Mozelle says to me as I look at continued to mess with the sleeves of my shirt. I roll my eyes and pinched at her nose, laughing when she swats my hand away. “Oh please. I could never. Not especially when I’m probably about to meet my spouse,” I say. I won’t lie. When Father told me about this plan, I was pretty upset, mainly because he thought I needed help finding somebody. Ask anybody in Odessa, but I didn’t exactly have a problem finding a mate. I had a bit of a reputation, after all. Mother laughs softly, pinching at my cheek. “Oh $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Let’s go. We don’t want to be late.” *page_break We reach the Great Hall just a few moments before Father and $!{player_first_name} do, so there’s no time for him to exaggeratedly reveal $!{player_first_name} to me. I’m a bit disappointed that I can’t exaggeratedly introduce myself to ${player_him_her_them}, but they’ll be plenty of other opportunities to act like a ham. $!{player_first_name} pauses, ${player_his_her_their} fingers immediately adjusting the waist of $!{player_his_her_their} bottoms. I immediately notice how casual $!{player_first_name}'s clothes are and I hum. It covered a bit too much skin for my liking, but $!{player_he_she_they} still looked great. Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 I smirk, reaching out for $!{player_first_name}'s hand before I fall to my knee. "Oh, I know all about pleasure," I say, pressing a kiss to the top of $!{player_first_name}'s hand. "Very nice to meet you, Sweetness." "S-Sweetness?" $!{player_first_name} asks in disbelief, as I rise from my knee. I nod with a grin. "Yes. Sweetness. Win or lose, I think Sweetness fits you incredibly well," I explain, letting go of ${player_his_her_their} hand. "Ah, well…thanks?" I smile brightly, really taking in $!{player_first_name}'s appearance, who ticks all of the things I typically find attractive about a person. Then again, though, that isn't too hard for most people. Mother seemed pleased that the two of us were getting along so well, while Father looked completely done with my flirting, as usual. "Now that you two have met, how about showing ${player_him_her_them} the gardens, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}?" Mother suggests with a bright smile. I grin. "I'm always down for alone time with anybody, especially when they're super attractive." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 "Oh, I know," I reply with a smirk. "It's always to hear it again, though. Nice to meet you, $!{player_first_name}." We spend a few moments regarding one another. I like $!{player_first_name}'s outfit, but I can't help but imagine how ${player_he_she_they} would look without a single thing on. Eventually Mother breaks the silence by suggesting that we head off somewhere else. "$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you and $!{player_first_name} walk around the gardens. It's the only close place I believe we haven't shown ${player_him_her_them}," Mother says. "I would love to. There are loads of secret spots where the two of us can be alone…get to know one another. In private," I say, looking back over at ${player_first_name}, who is clearly interested in leaving as well. "If you like me now, you'll love me in private," $!{player_first_name} says, throwing a smirk in my direction. "I bet I will, Sweetness," I reply, motioning towards one of the many exits out of the hall. "Don't wait up for us!" I exclaim to my family before we leave. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 "Hi, $!{player_first_name}," I say, giving ${player_him_her_them} a good look up and down. $!{player_first_name} glances up at me for a brief moment before looking back down again, clearly embarrassed at the way I was looking at ${player_him_her_them}. "You look great, Sweetness. I must admit, I've never been this attracted to anyone so quickly," I continue. $!{player_first_name} doesn't look up, but does at least smile a bit this time. Clearly, not the most talkative person, but seems relatively harmless at least. The silence between us stretches on for a short while until Mozelle, either out of her own impatience or annoyance, decides to break it. "How about you two head to the gardens? It's a perfect place to be alone," She suggests, which causes $!{player_first_name} to flush a bit. "O-oh, alone?" $!{player_first_name} asks, fiddling around with ${player_his_her_their} fingers. "Yes, Sweetness, alone. I'll be a perfect respectful $!{defaultroyal_title}, I promise. I'll only flirt maybe two more times," I say with a wink. $!{player_first_name}, much to my surprise, agrees. "S-sure, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Just lead the way." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 "$!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}," I parrot, giving ${player_him_her_them} a wide smile. $!{player_his_her_their} expression doesn't change but I let the lack of response roll off of my back. I've hit on quieter. "So $!{player_hometown}, huh? Nice place," I say. "I've had a lot of fun nights with people from there…" As I trail off in thought about one of my former hookups, $!{player_first_name} shifts uncomfortably from foot to foot. The movement reminds me that $!{player_first_name} is there and I smile sheepishly. "Sorry. Er…" I trail off again, wondering just what to say to ${player_him_her_them}. I wasn't used to one-sided talking like this. Eventually, Father proposes that the two of us go to the gardens and talk more there. For once, one of his ideas isn't that bad, though I would likely be doing most of the talking. "Fine with me," $!{player_first_name} agrees with a small smile. "That's the spirit, Sweetness," I say with a wink. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "What circumstances would those have been? In public? In a dimly lit club?" I ask, fiddling with the sleeve of my shirt as I give $!{player_first_name} a good look up and down. "Eyes up here, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}," $!{player_first_name} says, interrupting the very nice mental image I had of ${player_him_her_them} underneath my covers. "Eye contact only." I pout playfully, looking into ${player_his_her_their} eyes as ${player_he_she_they} wanted me to. "Eye contact? You're no fun, Sweetness." $!{player_first_name} crosses ${player_his_her_their} arms and raises an eyebrow. "Sweetness? What is that supposed to be?" I smirk and lightly tap my fingers against my jaw. "Oh, you know. A nickname? An alternate name for somebody?" $!{player_first_name} leans forward, a smirk on ${player_his_her_their} face as well. "I just thought the heir to the Odessa throne could come up with a better nickname for me than Sweetness. Some good those tutors were that our taxes helped pay for." I, for once, don't have a comeback. Not only was $!{player_first_name} nice to look at, ${player_his_her_their} comebacks were pretty great. "How about I show you the gardens? It's the only place I'm sure you haven't been to yet," I offer, once I've mostly recovered. The walk there could give me a good opportunity to come up with some one-liners myself. "Too afraid I'll outwit you in front of your family?" $!{player_first_name} teases. "That's fine. I'd love to see the gardens." I turn back to look at Mother, Father and Mozelle and all three of them are in various states of amusement. Well they're no help. "Fine, Sweetness. Since you agreed so nicely…" *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "sarcastic") and (player_clothing_style = "casual")) “Happy, Mother?” I ask, slowly spinning around for her approval. Mozelle and Mother smile excitedly, clasping both of their hands together at the same time. “You look lovely, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Really. I’m glad you went with this jacket rather than the other one,” Mother says, kissing my cheek as she messed with my shirt collar yet again. “Careful Mother. If you keep messing with ${defaultroyal_his_her_their} clothes, you might accidentally give off the illusion that $!{defaultroyal_first_name}'s interested,” Mozelle teases. I huff, allowing Mother to continue fretting over my clothing. Better I allow her to do it rather than making up excuses. She’d only fret more. “Wait, who told you I wasn’t interested? Was it the lack of a smile or the lack of excitement?” I ask, causing Mozelle to laugh. “Ever the charmer. Let’s go,” she says and Mother nods. While Mozelle walks far ahead from Mother and I, Mother takes the opportunity to talk to me in a much lower voice. “$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, please. I know you’re unhappy about this whole thing, but Frederick really just wants to make you happy. At least try to seem interested?” Mother asks softly. I sigh, stomach twisting uncomfortably. Father always demanded a lot from me, but my Mother barely did. Always the peacekeeper. I nod, watching Mozelle excitedly open up the door leading to the Great Hall. “I’ll try,” I answer finally, giving my mother a small smile. *page_break We enter the Great Hall just a few moments before Father and $!{player_first_name} do, so there’s no time for him to exaggeratedly reveal $!{player_first_name} to me. I’m incredibly glad for that. $!{player_first_name} pauses, ${player_his_her_their} fingers immediately adjusting the waist of $!{player_his_her_their} bottoms. I immediately notice how casual $!{player_first_name}'s clothes are and I sigh. If only I could get away with being that casual all the time. Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 "Is it really a pleasure?" I ask, raising an eyebrow. Surely $!{player_first_name} was just laying it on thick. "Yes, truly," $!{player_first_name} says with a smile. "Everything in Dia that I've been to or seen so far has been lovely." $!{player_first_name} has to be kidding. $!{player_first_name}'s only been to Dia's fanciest hotel, Rumi's immaculate store and of course, the palace. Just a handful of the nicest places in the capital. But, if ${player_he_she_they} wants to lay it on thick, so can I. "Well, you look nice. Straight out of Rumi's store, I see," I say with a smile matching ${player_his_hers_theirs}. Mother seemed pleased that the two of us were getting along so well, or as well as I was appearing to be. "Now that you two have met, how about showing ${player_him_her_them} the gardens, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}?" Mother suggests with a bright smile. "The gardens? Sure. There's nothing I'd rather do more," I reply, narrowing my eyes towards Mother, who only smiles wider. "I'd love to see them," $!{player_first_name} adds with a wide smile of their own. Well, at least that makes one of us. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 I smirk, taking a long look at $!{player_first_name}. "I bet you say that to every heir you have to meet," I tease. "Maybe I do, but I have a strict don't kiss and tell policy," $!{player-first_name} replies with a wink. "But maybe I could break that for you." We spend a few moments regarding one another, though mine is more out of curiosity. I'm 100 percent sure that $!{player_first_name} is imagining how I look naked. Eventually Mother breaks our silence by suggesting that we head off somewhere else. "$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you and $!{player_first_name} walk around the gardens. It's the only close place I believe we haven't shown ${player_him_her_them}," Mother says. "Nothing would give me greater pleasure, Mother," I reply, giving her a mock salute before I turn back to $!{player_first_name}. "Just follow me, $!{player_first_name}. I'd love to show you all the flowers that were planted in a garden well before my birth." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 "Hi, $!{player_first_name}," I say, giving ${player_him_her_them} a good look up and down. $!{player_first_name} glances up at me for a brief moment before looking back down again, clearly embarrassed at the way I was looking at ${player_him_her_them}. "I see you're a chatterbox," I continue with an amused smile. "My, oh my. This will be an interesting competition." $!{player_first_name} doesn't look up, but does at least smile a bit this time. The silence between us stretches on for a short while until Mozelle, either out of her own impatience or annoyance, decides to break it. "How about you two head to the gardens? It's a perfect place to be alone," She suggests, which causes $!{player_first_name} to flush a bit. "O-oh, alone?" $!{player_first_name} asks, fiddling around with ${player_his_her_their} fingers. "Yes, alone. Unless you're afraid I'll bite," I chuckle. $!{player_first_name}, much to my surprise, agrees. "S-sure, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Just lead the way." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 "Wow, let me get a word in, $!{player_first_name}," I joke, giving ${player_him_her_them} a wide smile that doesn't change the expression on $!{player_his_her_their} face. Well, this will be an extremely short meeting. "So $!{player_hometown}, huh? Nice place," I say. "Very, erm…vital to Odessa's success." I cringe almost immediately after I say those words. I was getting more and more like Father every day. Luckily, Mother bails this awkward interaction out with a suggestion. "$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you take $!{player_first_name} to the gardens? Perhaps you two can find something to talk about there?" "If we can't talk in front of people, I don't know how in the world we will talk when we're alone, but I don't mind leaving to at least get some fresh air," I sigh, barely giving $!{player_first_name} a glance. $!{player_first_name} just shrugs at the suggestion. "Fine with me." "$!{player_he_she_they} speak," I gasp, pretending to fall to the ground in shock. $!{player_first_name} is unamused, unsurprisingly. "Ready, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}? The day isn't getting any longer." I flush ever so slightly, adjusting my clothing. "Ah. Yes. Follow me." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "Yeah, you're telling me. Here I was, thinking I could just wait for the next person to fall into my royal lap, when all of a sudden Father's got other plans," I say, narrowing my eyes towards Father's direction. I give him props for not rolling his eyes in front of $!{player_first_name}, at least. "Wait, so you're not over the moon like the media says you are?" $!{player_first_name} asks, feigning as if in deep thought. I burst out laughing. I am the furthest from over the moon right now. Maybe mulling on Mars is the more appropriate term. "For lack of time, let's just say no," I answer with a grin. I must admit, it's pretty refreshing to banter back and forth with somebody who could actually keep up. Mother gives the two of us a smile, but I notice that she's subtly motioning towards one of the exits that leads to the gardens. Hm. I suppose I could tolerate a bit of time alone with ${player_him_her_them}. "How about we tour the gardens, $!{player_first_name}? I can show you flowers that were planted long before I was even thought of," I offer. $!{player_first_name} is silent for a moment, but I already know the answer will be yes. "Hm, I had a feeling that I would eventually be alone with you, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Then I suppose you'll fall for me as the sun goes down and we can avoid this whole competition, yeah?" $!{player_first_name} asks. "Bold of you to assume that I believe in love at first sight, $!{player_first_name}." $!{player_first_name} playfully pouts at my words. "Oh c'mon. Let's go to the gardens before you break my heart even more." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "aloof") and (player_clothing_style = "royal")) “You could at least smile, $!{defaultroyal_first_name},” Mozelle says to me as my mother fusses around with the collar of my button down shirt. I scoff at that. “Easy for you to say. You’re not the one at the center of all the attention for this competition,” I reply, stepping away from my mother so she would stop fidgeting with everything on me. I glance at my reflection in a nearby hall mirror, not seeing much difference from before my mother decided to mess with my clothes. “$!{player_first_name} is lovely, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. You’ll like ${player_him_her_them},” my mother says with a soft smile. I sigh and nod, just to appease her. My mother always saw the best in people and situations and I envied her for it. Perhaps I was too much like Father, always seeing ulterior motives behind every action. “Alright, enough talking. $!{player_first_name} and Dad are heading back to the Great Hall. We should hurry,” Mozelle says, speed walking so that she could get ahead of Mother and I. We quickly follow after her and as we walk, my mind drifts to my supposed near perfect match. I was skeptical that this competition would even work. Father has always tried to meddle in my love life, no matter how much he claimed to the contrary in the media, but never to this extent. A computer program with the ability to find my spouse? I barely knew anything about this ${player_man_woman_person}, or any of the other contestants, yet I would eventually have to marry one of them? This was just a waste of time. *page_break We reach the Great Hall just a few moments before Father and $!{player_first_name} do, so there’s no time for him to exaggeratedly reveal $!{player_first_name} to me, which I preferred. Let me smile, nod and head back to my room. $!{player_first_name} pauses, ${player_his_her_their} fingers immediately adjusting the waist of ${player_his_her_their} bottoms. I immediately notice how much of a royal $!{player_first_name} looks already. Man, even if they didn't end up winning, an outfit like that surely had to get ${player_him_her_them} to the finals, at least. Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 "You as well," I reply, giving $!{player_first_name} a brief smile. $!{player_he_she_they} doesn't look bad and is at least a nice seeming person. Still, I keep my distance, praying that somebody bails me out. "Well, now that the two of you have met, how about showing ${player_him_her_them} the gardens, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}?" Mother asks with a bright smile. Okay, not like that. "What a great, totally planned for idea!" Mozelle exclaims with a matching bright smile. "Ah, right. Totally forgot that," Father says, raising an eyebrow towards Mother and Mozelle. All they do is continue to sport grins. "Sounds good to me," $!{player_first_name} says, smiling a bit. "I'd love to see them." All that leaves is my response which is a soft sigh and nod. "Sure. Follow me, $!{player_first_name}." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 For the first time in quite a while, I find myself flushing. Not just a cutesy little flush, but a full blown reddening of the cheeks. What a cheeky ${player_man_woman_person}. "U-um, thank you," I finally answer, finding that a smile has worked itself on my face. "No, thank you. Pictures do not do you justice $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}," $!{player_first_name} says with a wink. When I glance over at Mother, she is both amused and over the moon at our meeting. She's smiling and I'm pretty sure if her eyes could sparkle, they would be. "Oh, this is absolutely lovely. How about you take $!{player_first_name} on a tour of the gardens?" Mother suggests. "The garden is lovely this time of year." I swallow thickly, glancing over at ${player_him_her_them}. Of course Mother couldn't let me just meet and leave. $!{player_first_name} for all ${player_his_her_their} credit, still smiles and doesn't look nervous or upset by this idea. "Gardens? I'd love to see them and be alone with you," $!{player_first_name} says, playing around a loose string on ${player_his_her_their} clothing. I at least manage not to blush again as we head off. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 "Hi, $!{player_first_name}," I reply, trying to meet ${player_his_her_their} eyes, but I just couldn't. My eyes glance over ${player_his_her_their} outfit again, wracking my brain for something else to say to keep the conversation going. Either out of her own impatience or annoyance, Mozelle grins at the two of us and wraps her arms around each of our shoulders. "How about you two keep this lively conversation going in the gardens?" She suggests, which causes $!{player_first_name} to flush a bit. "Sure, if $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name} doesn't mind. I would love to go." My heart flutters ever so slightly when I glance over and meet $!{player_first_name}'s eyes. "N-no. No, I'll take you there," I say, carefully removing Mozelle's arm from around my shoulder. $!{player_first_name} immediately steps away as well, straightening ${player_his_her_their} clothing before facing me. "After you, $!{defaultroyal_title}." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 I'm a bit surprised by the aloofness of their greeting. I expected $!{player_first_name} to have a bit more to ${player_his_her_their} introduction, but I appreciated the desire to not drag this meeting on any longer than necessary. "You look very nice, $!{player_first_name}," I continue and $!{player_first_name} nods a brief smile appearing on ${player_his_her_their} face. "Thank you," $!{player_first_name} says, fiddling around with ${player_his_her_their} fingers. Hm, is this how I appear to others? "$!{player_first_name}, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you two go to the gardens? When they're open to the public, they tend to be insanely crowded and very popular," Father suggests. $!{player_first_name} nods. "Sounds nice." I echo ${player_his_her_their} agreement with the garden idea without much resistance. If this is how $!{player_first_name} usually acts, then I can definitely tolerate being around ${player_him_her_them} for a while. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "You're telling me," I find myself replying before I could help it. $!{player_first_name} chuckles, fingering at ${player_his_her_their} bottoms yet again. "Could be worse. Before I left my job we were preparing for a huge client to come in. This is much better than trying to impress some big shot CEOs," $!{player_first_name} replies. I laugh a bit and cross my arms, really taking in ${player_his_her_their} appearance. $!{player_first_name} really rocks ${player_his_her_their} outfit. If I didn't know any better, I would think it was borrowed from one of my cousin's closets. When our conversation comes to a comfortable end, Mother steps forward a bit, which tears our attention away from each other. "Well, now that the two of you have met and talked, how about you spend some time together in the garden?" Mother suggests with a smile. "Off to the gardens so $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name} can serenade me? I'm in for a treat, then," $!{player_first_name} teases, causing me to flush a bit. "Ah, I can't sing. Sorry to disappoint," I say. $!{player_first_name} pouts playfully. "Some $!{defaultroyal_title} you are! Guess I can forgive you if these gardens are really as nice as Queen Ramona says. Lead the way." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "shy") and (player_clothing_style = "royal")) “You’re biting at your lips again.” I sigh, letting my bottom lip go. I hadn’t even realized that I was so worked up over this meeting. Mozelle sighs and looks me up and down. “Why are you so nervous? You’re only about to potentially meet your future spouse in a few minutes,” she says, which is definitely not helping. “I-I’m not nervous!” I exclaim, though my stutter wasn’t very convincing. This type of stuff was more Mozelle’s style, meeting people and the like. I’m sure she’s about to set a world record for the most selfies taken with fans of the Crown. I was much more content behind the scenes, making an appearance as necessary. Like this one. “Everything will be fine, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. $!{player_first_name} is quite lovely. No weird feelings about ${player_him_her_them} at all. You’re nervous for no reason,” my mother assures beside me. “Maybe you’re right,” I say with a soft sigh. “Alright. But I won’t talk to ${player_him_her_them} long.” That response satisfies my mother and sister, so the three of us begin our walk back into the Great Hall. *page_break We reach the Great Hall just a few moments before Father and $!{player_first_name} do, so there’s no time for him to exaggeratedly reveal $!{player_first_name} to me, which I preferred. I always thought that was so embarrassing for all parties involved when it happened anyway. $!{player_first_name} pauses, ${player_his_her_their} fingers immediately adjusting the waist of ${player_his_her_their} bottoms. I immediately notice how much of a royal $!{player_first_name} looks already. Man, even if they didn't end up winning, an outfit like that surely had to get ${player_him_her_them} to the finals, at least. Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 "Y-you as well," I reply, giving $!{player_first_name} a brief smile. $!{player_he_she_they} doesn't look bad and is at least a nice seeming person. "Well, now that the two of you have met, how about showing ${player_him_her_them} the gardens, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}?" Mother asks with a bright smile. My eyes widen and I turn back towards Mother. "Are you sure-" "What a great, totally planned for idea!" Mozelle exclaims with a matching bright smile. Speaking over me. Again. "Ah, right. Totally forgot that," Father says, raising an eyebrow towards Mother and Mozelle. All they do is continue to sport grins. "Sounds good to me," $!{player_first_name} says, smiling a bit. "I'd love to see them." All that leaves is my response which is a soft sigh and nod. "Okay. Follow me, $!{player_first_name}," I say softly. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 Unsurprising to no one, I begin to flush. Not that I say too much to being with, but my own greeting dies on my lips as I try to process the obvious come on. Luckily, Mozelle catches on and bails me out, though not the way I was expecting. "$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you and $!{player_first_name} go to the gardens? Get to know one another? See how many times $!{player_first_name} can hit on you?" Mozelle asks, smiling over at ${player_him_her_them}. "Good idea, Mozelle. How about it, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}? "The gardens are lovely this time of year," Mother adds. I swallow thickly, glancing over at ${player_him_her_them}. Of course Mother or Mozelle couldn't let me just meet and leave. $!{player_first_name} for all ${player_his_her_their} credit, still smiles and doesn't look nervous or upset by this idea. "Gardens? I'd love to see them and be alone with you," $!{player_first_name} says, playing around with a loose string on ${player_his_her_their} clothing. I chuckle nervously but nod towards my mother and sister. "Alright. Let's go. T-they're not too far," I say, offering a smile towards $!{player_first_name}. I didn't have a choice in taking ${player_him_her_them} to the garden, but I could at least be nice about it. "Oh I can't wait," $!{player_first_name} says, batting ${player_his_her_their} eyes towards me. At least I manage to hold off another blush as we leave the hall. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 "Hi, $!{player_first_name}," I reply, averting my own eyes. My mind runs blank as I try to think of something else to say. I like ${player_his_her_their} outfit and how insanely royal it looks, but I couldn't even get a compliment out. The silence stretches on for a short while until Mozelle, either out of her own impatience or annoyance, decides to break it. "How about you two keep this lively conversation going in the gardens?" She suggests, which causes $!{player_first_name} to flush a bit. My heart flutters ever so slightly when I glance over and meet $!{player_first_name}'s eyes. We said a combined six words to each other. Surely ${player_he_she_they} would say no. $!{player_first_name}, much to my surprise, agrees. "S-sure, if $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name} doesn't mind. I'd hate to make you do something you don't want to do." I flush lightly. I've done plenty of things that I didn't want to do, but this definitely ranked near bottom on that list. "N-no. No, I'll take you there," I say, smiling over at $!{player_first_name}. "I don't mind." "Great. After you, $!{defaultroyal_title}." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 I'm a bit surprised by the aloofness of their greeting. I expected $!{player_first_name} to have a bit more to ${player_his_her_their} introduction, but I appreciated the desire to not drag this meeting on any longer than necessary. $!{player_first_name} fiddles around with ${player_his_her_their} fingers while waiting for a response from me. "Hi $!{player_first_name}." I pause, figuring that I should respond with something else like a compliment or a welcome to the palace, but I couldn't decide what to say. $!{player_first_name} looks down at ${player_his_her_their} shoes, which causes me to look away. Father coughs a bit, causing us to look up at him with wide eyes. "$!{player_first_name}, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you two go to the gardens? When they're open to the public, they tend to be insanely crowded and very popular," Father suggests. "Maybe you guys can get to know each other more there." It wasn't a bad idea. If $!{player_first_name} and I were not going to look and talk to each other, at least we could do it among some flowers and butterflies. $!{player_first_name} agrees too. "Sounds nice," $!{player_first_name} says and I echo ${player_his_her_their} statement. Neither one of us moves though until Father motions us towards the exit. "Ha. Sorry," we say in unison, which causes Mozelle and Mother to chuckle a bit. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "Right," I say which causes $!{player_first_name} to chuckle. "Could be worse. Before I left my job we were preparing for a huge client to come in. This is much better than trying to impress some big shot CEOs," $!{player_first_name} replies. I nod noncommittally at $!{player_first_name}'s words. As if I could relate to a job like that. I didn't want to seem rude though, so I rack my brain for something else to say. "You look nice," I continue eventually, which causes $!{player_first_name} to grin. "Like you'd tell me if I didn't look nice," $!{player_first_name} jokes, which does make me chuckle a bit. "Touché." Mother smiles over at the two of us, hands resting behind her back. "Well, now that the two of you have met, how about you spend some time together in the garden?" Mother suggests with a smile. "Are the gardens where you take all the 99 percent matches?" $!{player_first_name} teases, causing me to flush a bit. Before I could reply, $!{player_first_name} continues. "Guess I can forgive you if these gardens are really as nice as Queen Ramona says. Lead the way." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "jerk") and (player_clothing_style = "royal")) “Mother, Sis, you two are aware that this is a waste of time, right?” I say, fixing the crown on my head. I didn’t have to wear this and in fact, my parents told me not to, but I couldn’t resist. It was always so funny meeting people who had no idea how Court worked. They always seemed like they were walking on eggshells around anybody with a lick of royal blood inside of them. “Yet you still have to do it anyway,” Mozelle, unfortunately, reminds me. She was definitely getting a good kick out of me being involved in this whole debacle. “Yet you’ll always be number two to me,” I shoot back with a smirk. Mozelle rolls her eyes at me and I know that if our mother wasn’t present, she likely would’ve flicked me off or cursed me out. “Yet we’re going to be late,” Mother reminds us, slipping her arms through each of ours. “Now, if you could lead the way, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” I sigh, but begin walking back towards the Great Hall knowing that the faster I got there, the faster I could get this over with. *page_break We reach the Great Hall just a few moments before Father and $!{player_first_name} do, so there’s no time for him to exaggeratedly reveal $!{player_first_name} to me, which I preferred. I always thought that was so embarrassing for all parties involved when it happened anyway. $!{player_first_name} pauses, ${player_his_her_their} fingers immediately adjusting the waist of ${player_his_her_their} bottoms. I immediately notice how much of a royal $!{player_first_name} looks already. Man, even if they didn't end up winning, an outfit like that surely had to get ${player_him_her_them} to the finals, at least. Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 I snort, looking $!{player_first_name} up and down. "Please spare me the niceties," I say, watching ${player_his_her_their} eyes widen. "Excuse me?" $!{player_first_name} asks. I sigh, crossing my arms as I really look at ${player_his_her_their} outfit. "Rumi deserves Odessa's highest civilian honor for making you look like you belong here. I'm impressed," I say. $!{player_first_name} crosses ${player_his_her_their} arms and I can just see the mental debate going on in ${player_his_her_their} head. $!{player_first_name} does eventually speak again. "Well, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}, I do belong here, at least in the competition. If you hadn't realized, we're a near perfect match for one another. Despite your obvious rudeness, I am still glad to meet you," $!{player_first_name} says, adjusting the collar of ${player_his_her_their} shirt before continuing. "On our walk back over here, King Frederick suggested we go to the gardens and talk more. Maybe you can think of a better insult on our walk there? Or better yet, show me a few pictures of your amazing royal outfits?" Now it's my turn for my eyes to widen because well, even I had to admit that was pretty good. My mother, ever the peacemaker walks a bit closer to the two of us. "Forgive $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I'm sure ${defaultroyal_he_she_they} will apologize on your way to the gardens," she says, slightly narrowing her eyes at me, before smiling over at $!{player_first_name}. "Sounds great to me," $!{player_first_name} says, uncrossing ${player_his_her_their} arms as ${player_he_she_they} wait for me to apologize. Well, $!{player_first_name} could keep waiting. I haven't sincerely apologized for anything in years. "I'll think about it on our walk over there." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 "Hm, wish I could say the same. Rumi has loads of mirrors their shop. Did you forget to look in one?" I ask, sniffing at $!{player_first_name}'s outfit. $!{player_first_name} laughs at my response, which catches me completely off guard. "Oh, so you like to play hard to get. Cute," $!{player_first_name} responds. "Look, King Frederick said that you and I should go visit one of the palace gardens together and get to know one another. You want to go now or later? Either way, my outfit isn't changing." I sigh, shooting a look over at Father before I look back at $!{player_first_name}. "I'd rather go never, but since Mother and Father won't allow that, I can tolerate a walk with you, I guess," I reply, already heading towards the exit without waiting for ${player_him_her_them}. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 Great, somebody shy. "Hi, er, $!{player_first_name}, right?" I ask. $!{player_he_she_they} nods, fiddling at ${player_his_her_their} clothes. Oh, $!{player_first_name}'s really shy. "Okay, well, I'm leaving," I say, turning around on my heel and heading towards an exit. Father catches up to me in five large steps and grabs my arm to stop me. "What do you think you're doing?" He whispers to me, noticing the crown on top of my head. "I told you not to wear that," Father adds much lower. "Leaving. $!{player_first_name} isn't talking and it isn't my job to get ${player_him_her_them} to talk to me," I whisper back, stepping out of his grip, but I still stay close. "Sorry, $!{parent_title}, but it kind of is your job. I get you have this whole jerk persona going on, but you need to take $!{player_first_name} to the gardens. Like it or not, that is what you will be doing," Father replies. "Or else." He grabs my arm again, just for emphasis and I immediately rip it out of his grip. "Okay, just stop touching me," I mumble, rubbing at my arm before I push past him and head back over to Mother, Mozelle and $!{player_first_name}. "Ah, Father just reminded me about giving you a tour of the gardens," I say, forcing a smile to my face. Whether it was sincere or not, I had no way of knowing, as $!{player_first_name} barely reacts to the news. Eventually, $!{player_first_name} nods and manages a shaky smile of ${player_his_her_their} own. "S-sounds nice. Can't wait to see the gardens." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 "$!{player_man_woman_person} of few words. I like that," I say. "Wish I could say the same about your outfit." $!{player_first_name} sighs and glances down at ${player_his_her_their} outfit before looking at me. "If I wanted to be insulted, I would've just stayed in Lox. Let's just go to the gardens and get this over with," $!{player_first_name} says, which makes me raise my eyebrows. "Who said we're going to the gardens?" I ask and turn to look at my family. "I did," Father says. "Do you have a problem with that?" Well, of course I did. I couldn't tell Father that though, and even if I did, it wouldn't even matter since I'd still have to do it anyway. "No. Can't wait to go. Yay flowers," I reply before I cross my arms. "Ready when you are, $!{player_first_name}. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "Personally, I wish we'd never met at all," I reply before yawning. $!{player_first_name} raises an eyebrow. "Bold of you to assume that I'm over the moon about this, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}," $!{player_first_name} says. "Oh, you don't even want to know half of the things I'm assuming about you right now. None of them are good," I shoot back, now looking at $!{player_first_name}. I wasn't used to a response like that from a stranger, only from Mozelle. $!{player_first_name} grins. "Personally, I'm flattered. You very clearly dislike me, yet you're allowing the very thought of me to consume your mind." I bristle at $!{player_first_name}'s words. "Just who do you think you are?" I ask, stepping a bit closer to ${player_him_her_them}. "Well, I'm $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name} from $!{player_hometown}. I have ${player_skin_color} skin, ${player_eye_color} eyes and…" Mother, eager to get us to stop bickering, walks in between us and places a hand on both of our shoulders. "Instead of arguing back and forth, how about you two go for a walk in the gardens? We'll follow if you'd like, just to make sure you two don't argue." "Arguing around azaleas and lilies, temping," $!{player_first_name} says, tapping on ${player_his_her_their} cheek in faux thought. Yep, this is the most insufferable person I have ever met. "I for one could use some fresh air. Follow if you want, $!{player_first_name}, but I'm leaving," I say, stepping out of Mother's touch. $!{player_first_name} does the same and starts walking behind me. "Oh no, I'm coming. You can't get rid of me that easily." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "charming") and (player_clothing_style = "royal")) “Well, how do I look?” I smile widely towards my mother and Mozelle. I spent hours preparing for this meeting with $!{player_first_name}. Neither Father nor the Odessa Dates development team would tell me anything about ${player_him_her_them} and it was eating me up inside. After bugging an intern there for at least something small about ${player_him_her_them}, I got a hometown, $!{player_hometown}. “Aren’t those flowers native to $!{player_hometown}?” Mozelle asks and she plays around with my lapel. I quickly step away and make sure none of the petals are crushed. “Yes. Thought it would make a nice first impression,” I say, fidgeting with for a few more moments before dropping my hands at my sides. “Well, if ${player_he_she_they} can’t see the effort, they can definitely smell it,” Mozelle adds, crinkling up her nose. “Ease up on the body spray next time!” Mother laughs, smoothing a hand over my suit jacket. “You look and smell nice, love. I’m sure $!{player_first_name} will be glad to meet you,” she says, giving me a kiss on the cheek. I blush slightly, giving her a one-armed hug before separating. “Alright, alright. Enough Mother. Let’s go to the Great Hall before I inevitably spill something on myself or fall and rip something open.” *page_break $!{player_first_name} pauses, ${player_his_her_their} fingers immediately adjusting the waist of ${player_his_her_their} bottoms. I immediately notice how much of a royal $!{player_first_name} looks already. Man, even if they didn't end up winning, an outfit like that surely had to get ${player_him_her_them} to the finals, at least. Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 "You as well, $!{player_first_name}," I reply, giving $!{player_first_name} a wide smile. $!{player_he_she_they} doesn't look bad and is at least a nice seeming person. "I hope the journey here wasn't too rough." $!{player_first_name} shakes ${player_his_her_their} head. "Not at all. Cape Odessa is absolutely lovely." I'm glad that ${player_first_name} seems to be settling in fine. After all, if Father's website actually did its' job, $!{player_first_name} would be co-ruling it with me. It was important that ${player_first_name} liked most if not all of ${player_his_her_their} new surroundings. Mother and Father seem pleased that the two of us were getting along so fine. "Now that you two have met, how about showing ${player_him_her_them} the gardens, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}?" Mother asks with a bright smile. I nod, completely fine with that. "Allow me to, ${player_first_name}. I know the history of most of the flowers there and how we came to get them in our garden." I offer my elbow to ${player_him_her_them}, which ${player_he_she_they} eagerly takes. Whether that was because of actual excitement, or for the opportunity to continue following royal customs, I had no way of knowing. "Lead the way, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}!" *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 I flush lightly, resting a hand behind my head. "Oh, you flatter me, $!{player_first_name}," I say. I was always glad to get a compliment, whether that was from somebody I was interested in or just the average citizen, but they always made me a bit embarrassed. "Well, you know what they say about flattery…how it'll get you everywhere and all of that," $!{player_first_name} replies with a grin. I glance over at the rest of my family, who are all grinning or smiling themselves. A great sign. "$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you and $!{player_first_name} walk around the gardens. It's the only close place I believe we haven't shown ${player_him_her_them}," Mother says. "Sure, if that's alright with $!{player_first_name}," I say, turning to ${player_him_her_them} for confirmation. "Being alone in a garden with you? That's more than alright with me, babe," $!{player_first_name} replies, which coaxes another flush out of me. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 "Hi, $!{player_first_name}. It's wonderful to meet you," I reply, giving ${player_him_her_them} a smile though ${player_he_she_they} couldn't see it. I watch ${player_him_her_them} fiddle around with ${player_his_her_their} clothing. If I didn't know any better, I would think that $!{player_first_name} stole it from a family member's closet. $!{player_he_she_they} wore it well. "You look very nice, $!{player_first_name}. Rumi did a wonderful job on you," I say. $!{player_first_name} doesn't look up, but does at least smile a bit this time. I take that as a win. The silence between us stretches on for a short while until Mozelle, either out of her own impatience or annoyance, decides to break it. "How about you two head to the gardens? It's a perfect place to be alone," She suggests, which causes $!{player_first_name} to flush a bit. I offer $!{player_first_name} my hand. "Totally voluntary. If you wish not to go, we can do something else," I say. $!{player_first_name}, much to my surprise, agrees. "S-sure, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Just lead the way." When $!{player_first_name} places ${player_his_her_their} hand in mine, my mind goes completely blank. It was a simple gesture, sure, but still one that made my heartbeat skip a beat or two. "It's not too far away," I tell ${player_him_her_them} as we head towards the room's exit. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 "Welcome to Dia and the palace, $!{player_first_name}," I say with a small smile. "I hope you've liked everything so far." "I have," ${player_he_she_they} replies. "Nice city." Though $!{player_first_name} doesn't really say much, I manage to eventually have a decent conversation with ${player_him_her_them} about the journey to Dia, staying in Cape Odessa and much more. Soon enough, Father breaks our conversation up with a proposal to go to the gardens and give $!{player_first_name} a tour there. "Sounds nice," $!{player_first_name} says, giving me a small smile, which I'm super happy about. "Follow me then. Feel free to walk beside me. I don't mind," I reply, hoping that perhaps that would allow $!{player_first_name} to eventually begin to open up to me. Also because I thought it was a bit uncomfortable to follow all the customs so closely in a private setting such as this one. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "On the contrary. I believe everything happens for a reason. Maybe you're my perfect match or maybe you're not. Either way, I'm still glad to have met you," I say, smiling brightly. $!{player_first_name} blinks rapidly before beginning to chuckle slowly. "No need to charm me, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I'm going to compete, so save that for the competition," $!{player_first_name} says. I hold up my hands, a bit confused. "Pardon me, I don't mean to make you feel uncomfortable," I say. Not sure what $!{player_first_name} means by me being charming, but I figure it's better to just apologize. "Ha, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}, I'm not uncomfortable. You can relax around me. You know…talk, less…er, royally?" $!{player_first_name} smiles and stuffs ${player_his_her_their} hands into ${player_his_her_their} pockets. "How about we talk more about this in the gardens?" I offer. I figure that my family wouldn't have had time to take ${player_him_her_them} there before coming to meet me. Plus, I could show off my flower expertise. "Sure. Our first lover's quarrel in a romantic garden. Sounds great to me," $!{player_first_name} replies before winking. I chuckle and just shake my head, nodding towards my family as a goodbye before we head out of the Great Hall. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "flirty") and (player_clothing_style = "royal")) “Haven’t you primped enough?” Mozelle says to me as I look at continued to mess with the sleeves of my shirt. I roll my eyes and pinched at her nose, laughing when she swats my hand away. “Oh please. I could never. Not especially when I’m probably about to meet my spouse,” I say. I won’t lie. When Father told me about this plan, I was pretty upset, mainly because he thought I needed help finding somebody. Ask anybody in Odessa, but I didn’t exactly have a problem finding a mate. I had a bit of a reputation, after all. Mother laughs softly, pinching at my cheek. “Oh $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Let’s go. We don’t want to be late.” *page_break We reach the Great Hall just a few moments before Father and $!{player_first_name} do, so there’s no time for him to exaggeratedly reveal $!{player_first_name} to me. I’m a bit disappointed that I can’t exaggeratedly introduce myself to ${player_him_her_them}, but they’ll be plenty of other opportunities to act like a ham. $!{player_first_name} pauses, ${player_his_her_their} fingers immediately adjusting the waist of ${player_his_her_their} bottoms. I immediately notice how much of a royal $!{player_first_name} looks already. Man, even if ${player_he_she_they} didn't end up winning, an outfit like that surely had to get ${player_him_her_them} to the finals, at least. Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 I smirk, reaching out for $!{player_first_name}'s hand before I fall to my knee. "Oh, I know all about pleasure," I say, pressing a kiss to the top of $!{player_first_name}'s hand. "Very nice to meet you, Sweetness." "S-Sweetness?" $!{player_first_name} asks in disbelief, as I rise from my knee. I nod with a grin. "Yes. Sweetness. Win or lose, I think Sweetness fits you incredibly well," I explain, letting go of ${player_his_her_their} hand. "Ah, well…thanks?" I smile brightly, really taking in $!{player_first_name}'s appearance, who ticks all of the things I typically find attractive about a person. Then again, though, that isn't too hard for most people. Mother seemed pleased that the two of us were getting along so well, while Father looked completely done with my flirting, as usual. "Now that you two have met, how about showing ${player_him_her_them} the gardens, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}?" Mother suggests with a bright smile. I grin. "I'm always down for alone time with anybody, especially when they're super attractive." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 "Oh, I know," I reply with a smirk. "It's always nice to hear it again, though. Nice to meet you, $!{player_first_name}." We spend a few moments regarding one another. I like $!{player_first_name}'s outfit, but I can't help but imagine how ${player_he_she_they} would look without a single thing on. Eventually Mother breaks the silence by suggesting that we head off somewhere else. "$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you and $!{player_first_name} walk around the gardens. It's the only close place I believe we haven't shown ${player_him_her_them}," Mother says. "I would love to. There are loads of secret spots where the two of us can be alone…get to know one another. In private," I say, looking back over at ${player_first_name}, who is clearly interested in leaving as well. "If you like me now, you'll love me in private," $!{player_first_name} says, throwing a smirk in my direction. "I bet I will, Sweetness," I reply, motioning towards one of the many exits out of the hall. "Don't wait up for us!" I exclaim to my family before we leave. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 "Hi, $!{player_first_name}," I say, giving ${player_him_her_them} a good look up and down. $!{player_first_name} glances up at me for a brief moment before looking back down again, clearly embarrassed at the way I was looking at ${player_him_her_them}. "You look great, Sweetness. I must admit, I've never been this attracted to anyone so quickly," I continue. $!{player_first_name} doesn't look up, but does at least smile a bit this time. Clearly, not the most talkative person, but seems relatively harmless at least. The silence between us stretches on for a short while until Mozelle, either out of her own impatience or annoyance, decides to break it. "How about you two head to the gardens? It's a perfect place to be alone," She suggests, which causes $!{player_first_name} to flush a bit. "O-oh, alone?" $!{player_first_name} asks, fiddling around with ${player_his_her_their} fingers. "Yes, Sweetness, alone. I'll be a perfect respectful $!{defaultroyal_title}, I promise. I'll only flirt maybe two more times," I say with a wink. $!{player_first_name}, much to my surprise, agrees. "S-sure, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Just lead the way." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 "$!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}," I parrot, giving ${player_him_her_them} a wide smile. $!{player_his_her_their} expression doesn't change but I let the lack of response roll off of my back. I've hit on quieter. "So $!{player_hometown}, huh? Nice place," I say. "I've had a lot of fun nights with people from there…" As I trail off in thought about one of my former hookups, $!{player_first_name} shifts uncomfortably from foot to foot. The movement reminds me that $!{player_first_name} is there and I smile sheepishly. "Sorry. Er…" I trail off again, wondering just what to say to ${player_him_her_them}. I wasn't used to one-sided talking like this. Eventually, Father proposes that the two of us go to the gardens and talk more there. For once, one of his ideas isn't that bad, though I would likely be doing most of the talking. "Fine with me," $!{player_first_name} agrees with a small smile. "That's the spirit, Sweetness," I say with a wink. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_gardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "What circumstances would those have been? In public? In a dimly lit club?" I ask, fiddling with the sleeve of my shirt as I give $!{player_first_name} a good look up and down. "Eyes up here, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}," $!{player_first_name} says, interrupting the very nice mental image I had of ${player_him_her_them} underneath my covers. "Eye contact only." I pout playfully, looking into ${player_his_her_their} eyes as ${player_he_she_they} wanted me to. "Eye contact? You're no fun, Sweetness." $!{player_first_name} crosses ${player_his_her_their} arms and raises an eyebrow. "Sweetness? What is that supposed to be?" I smirk and lightly tap my fingers against my jaw. "Oh, you know. A nickname? An alternate name for somebody?" $!{player_first_name} leans forward, a smirk on ${player_his_her_their} face as well. "I just thought the heir to the Odessa throne could come up with a better nickname for me than Sweetness. Some good those tutors were that our taxes helped pay for." I, for once, don't have a comeback. Not only was $!{player_first_name} nice to look at, ${player_his_her_their} comebacks were pretty great. "How about I show you the gardens? It's the only place I'm sure you haven't been to yet," I offer, once I've mostly recovered. The walk there could give me a good opportunity to come up with some one-liners myself. "Too afraid I'll outwit you in front of your family?" $!{player_first_name} teases. "That's fine. I'd love to see the gardens." I turn back to look at Mother, Father and Mozelle and all three of them are in various states of amusement. Well they're no help. "Fine, Sweetness. Since you agreed so nicely…" *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "sarcastic") and (player_clothing_style = "royal")) “Happy, Mother?” I ask, slowly spinning around for her approval. Mozelle and Mother smile excitedly, clasping both of their hands together at the same time. “You look lovely, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Really. I’m glad you went with this jacket rather than the other one,” Mother says, kissing my cheek as she messed with my shirt collar yet again. “Careful Mother. If you keep messing with ${defaultroyal_his_her_their} clothes, you might accidentally give off the illusion that $!{defaultroyal_first_name}'s interested,” Mozelle teases. I huff, allowing Mother to continue fretting over my clothing. Better I allow her to do it rather than making up excuses. She’d only fret more. “Wait, who told you I wasn’t interested? Was it the lack of a smile or the lack of excitement?” I ask, causing Mozelle to laugh. “Ever the charmer. Let’s go,” she says and Mother nods. While Mozelle walks far ahead from Mother and I, Mother takes the opportunity to talk to me in a much lower voice. “$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, please. I know you’re unhappy about this whole thing, but Frederick really just wants to make you happy. At least try to seem interested?” Mother asks softly. I sigh, stomach twisting uncomfortably. Father always demanded a lot from me, but my Mother barely did. Always the peacekeeper. I nod, watching Mozelle excitedly open up the door leading to the Great Hall. “I’ll try,” I answer finally, giving my mother a small smile. *page_break We enter the Great Hall just a few moments before Father and $!{player_first_name} do, so there’s no time for him to exaggeratedly reveal $!{player_first_name} to me. I’m incredibly glad for that. $!{player_first_name} pauses, ${player_his_her_their} fingers immediately adjusting the waist of ${player_his_her_their} bottoms. I immediately notice how much of a royal $!{player_first_name} looks already. Man, even if they didn't end up winning, an outfit like that surely had to get ${player_him_her_them} to the finals, at least. Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 "Is it really a pleasure?" I ask, raising an eyebrow. Surely $!{player_first_name} was just laying it on thick. "Yes, truly," $!{player_first_name} says with a smile. "Everything in Dia that I've been to or seen so far has been lovely." $!{player_first_name} has to be kidding. $!{player_first_name}'s only been to Dia's fanciest hotel, Rumi's immaculate store and of course, the palace. Just a handful of the nicest places in the capital. But, if ${player_he_she_they} wants to lay it on thick, so can I. "Well, you look nice. Straight out of Rumi's store, I see," I say with a smile matching ${player_his_hers_theirs}. Mother seemed pleased that the two of us were getting along so well, or as well as I was appearing to be. "Now that you two have met, how about showing ${player_him_her_them} the gardens, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}?" Mother suggests with a bright smile. "The gardens? Sure. There's nothing I'd rather do more," I reply, narrowing my eyes towards Mother, who only smiles wider. "I'd love to see them," $!{player_first_name} adds with a wide smile of their own. Well, at least that makes one of us. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 I smirk, taking a long look at $!{player_first_name}. "I bet you say that to every heir you have to meet," I tease. "Maybe I do, but I have a strict don't kiss and tell policy," $!{player_first_name} replies with a wink. "But maybe I could break that for you." We spend a few moments regarding one another, though mine is more out of curiosity. I'm 100 percent sure that $!{player_first_name} is imagining how I look naked. Eventually Mother breaks our silence by suggesting that we head off somewhere else. "$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you and $!{player_first_name} walk around the gardens. It's the only close place I believe we haven't shown ${player_him_her_them}," Mother says. "Nothing would give me greater pleasure, Mother," I reply, giving her a mock salute before I turn back to $!{player_first_name}. "Just follow me, $!{player_first_name}. I'd love to show you all the flowers that were planted in a garden well before my birth." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 "Hi, $!{player_first_name}," I say, giving ${player_him_her_them} a good look up and down. $!{player_first_name} glances up at me for a brief moment before looking back down again, clearly embarrassed at the way I was looking at ${player_him_her_them}. "I see you're a chatterbox," I continue with an amused smile. "My, oh my. This will be an interesting competition." $!{player_first_name} doesn't look up, but does at least smile a bit this time. The silence between us stretches on for a short while until Mozelle, either out of her own impatience or annoyance, decides to break it. "How about you two head to the gardens? It's a perfect place to be alone," She suggests, which causes $!{player_first_name} to flush a bit. "O-oh, alone?" $!{player_first_name} asks, fiddling around with ${player_his_her_their} fingers. "Yes, alone. Unless you're afraid I'll bite," I chuckle. $!{player_first_name}, much to my surprise, agrees. "S-sure, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Just lead the way." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 "Wow, let me get a word in, $!{player_first_name}," I joke, giving ${player_him_her_them} a wide smile that doesn't change the expression on $!{player_his_her_their} face. Well, this will be an extremely short meeting. "So $!{player_hometown}, huh? Nice place," I say. "Very, erm…vital to Odessa's success." I cringe almost immediately after I say those words. I was getting more and more like Father every day. Luckily, Mother bails this awkward interaction out with a suggestion. "$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you take $!{player_first_name} to the gardens? Perhaps you two can find something to talk about there?" "If we can't talk in front of people, I don't know how in the world we will talk when we're alone, but I don't mind leaving to at least get some fresh air," I sigh, barely giving $!{player_first_name} a glance. $!{player_first_name} just shrugs at the suggestion. "Fine with me." "$!{player_he_she_they} speak," I gasp, pretending to fall to the ground in shock. $!{player_first_name} is unamused, unsurprisingly. "Ready, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}? The day isn't getting any longer." I flush ever so slightly, adjusting my clothing. "Ah. Yes. Follow me." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "Yeah, you're telling me. Here I was, thinking I could just wait for the next person to fall into my royal lap, when all of a sudden Father's got other plans," I say, narrowing my eyes towards Father's direction. I give him props for not rolling his eyes in front of $!{player_first_name}, at least. "Wait, so you're not over the moon like the media says you are?" $!{player_first_name} asks, feigning as if in deep thought. I burst out laughing. I am the furthest from over the moon right now. Maybe mulling on Mars is the more appropriate term. "For lack of time, let's just say no," I answer with a grin. I must admit, it's pretty refreshing to banter back and forth with somebody who could actually keep up. Mother gives the two of us a smile, but I notice that she's subtly motioning towards one of the exits that leads to the gardens. Hm. I suppose I could tolerate a bit of time alone with ${player_him_her_them}. "How about we tour the gardens, $!{player_first_name}? I can show you flowers that were planted long before I was even thought of," I offer. $!{player_first_name} is silent for a moment, but I already know the answer will be yes. "Hm, I had a feeling that I would eventually be alone with you, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Then I suppose you'll fall for me as the sun goes down and we can avoid this whole competition, yeah?" $!{player_first_name} asks. "Bold of you to assume that I believe in love at first sight, $!{player_first_name}." $!{player_first_name} playfully pouts at my words. "Oh c'mon. Let's go to the gardens before you break my heart even more." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "aloof") and (player_clothing_style = "smart")) “You could at least smile, $!{defaultroyal_first_name},” Mozelle says to me as my mother fusses around with the collar of my button down shirt. I scoff at that. “Easy for you to say. You’re not the one at the center of all the attention for this competition,” I reply, stepping away from my mother so she would stop fidgeting with everything on me. I glance at my reflection in a nearby hall mirror, not seeing much difference from before my mother decided to mess with my clothes. “$!{player_first_name} is lovely, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. You’ll like ${player_him_her_them},” my mother says with a soft smile. I sigh and nod, just to appease her. My mother always saw the best in people and situations and I envied her for it. Perhaps I was too much like Father, always seeing ulterior motives behind every action. “Alright, enough talking. $!{player_first_name} and Dad are heading back to the Great Hall. We should hurry,” Mozelle says, speed walking so that she could get ahead of Mother and I. We quickly follow after her and as we walk, my mind drifts to my supposed near perfect match. I was skeptical that this competition would even work. Father has always tried to meddle in my love life, no matter how much he claimed to the contrary in the media, but never to this extent. A computer program with the ability to find my spouse? I barely knew anything about this ${player_man_woman_person}, or any of the other contestants, yet I would eventually have to marry one of them? This was just a waste of time. *page_break We reach the Great Hall just a few moments before Father and $!{player_first_name} do, so there’s no time for him to exaggeratedly reveal $!{player_first_name} to me, which I preferred. Let me smile, nod and head back to my room. I immediately notice the Rebecca influences in the way that $!{player_first_name} dresses. I half expect ${player_him_her_them} to whip out a clipboard and tell me all the things I'm late for. Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 "You as well," I reply, giving $!{player_first_name} a brief smile. $!{player_he_she_they} doesn't look bad and is at least a nice seeming person. Still, I keep my distance, praying that somebody bails me out. "Well, now that the two of you have met, how about showing ${player_him_her_them} the gardens, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}?" Mother asks with a bright smile. Okay, not like that. "What a great, totally planned for idea!" Mozelle exclaims with a matching bright smile. "Ah, right. Totally forgot that," Father says, raising an eyebrow towards Mother and Mozelle. All they do is continue to sport grins. "Sounds good to me," $!{player_first_name} says, smiling a bit. "I'd love to see them." All that leaves is my response which is a soft sigh and nod. "Sure. Follow me, $!{player_first_name}." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 For the first time in quite a while, I find myself flushing. Not just a cutesy little flush, but a full blown reddening of the cheeks. What a cheeky ${player_man_woman_person}. "U-um, thank you," I finally answer, finding that a smile has worked itself on my face. "No, thank you. Pictures do not do you justice $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}," $!{player_first_name} says with a wink. When I glance over at Mother, she is both amused and over the moon at our meeting. She's smiling and I'm pretty sure if her eyes could sparkle, they would be. "Oh, this is absolutely lovely. How about you take $!{player_first_name} on a tour of the gardens?" Mother suggests. "The garden is lovely this time of year." I swallow thickly, glancing over at ${player_him_her_them}. Of course Mother couldn't let me just meet and leave. $!{player_first_name} for all ${player_his_her_their} credit, still smiles and doesn't look nervous or upset by this idea. "Gardens? I'd love to see them and be alone with you," $!{player_first_name} says, playing around a loose string on ${player_his_her_their} clothing. I at least manage not to blush again as we head off. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 "Hi, $!{player_first_name}," I reply, trying to meet ${player_his_her_their} eyes, but I just couldn't. My eyes glance over ${player_his_her_their} outfit again, wracking my brain for something else to say to keep the conversation going. Either out of her own impatience or annoyance, Mozelle grins at the two of us and wraps her arms around each of our shoulders. "How about you two keep this lively conversation going in the gardens?" She suggests, which causes $!{player_first_name} to flush a bit. "Sure, if $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name} doesn't mind. I would love to go." My heart flutters ever so slightly when I glance over and meet $!{player_first_name}'s eyes. "N-no. No, I'll take you there," I say, carefully removing Mozelle's arm from around my shoulder. $!{player_first_name} immediately steps away as well, straightening ${player_his_her_their} clothes before facing me. "After you, $!{defaultroyal_title}." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 I'm a bit surprised by the aloofness of their greeting. I expected $!{player_first_name} to have a bit more to ${player_his_her_their} introduction, but I appreciated the desire to not drag this meeting on any longer than necessary. "You look very nice, $!{player_first_name}," I continue and $!{player_first_name} nods a brief smile appearing on ${player_his_her_their} face. "Thank you," $!{player_first_name} says, fiddling around with ${player_his_her_their} fingers. Hm, is this how I appear to others? "$!{player_first_name}, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you two go to the gardens? When they're open to the public, they tend to be insanely crowded and very popular," Father suggests. $!{player_first_name} nods. "Sounds nice." I echo ${player_his_her_their} agreement with the garden idea without much resistance. If this is how $!{player_first_name} usually acts, then I can definitely tolerate being around ${player_him_her_them} for a while. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "You're telling me," I find myself replying before I could help it. $!{player_first_name} chuckles, fingering at ${player_his_her_their} clothing. "Could be worse. Before I left my job we were preparing for a huge client to come in. This is much better than trying to impress some big shot CEOs," $!{player_first_name} replies. I laugh a bit and cross my arms, really taking in ${player_his_her_their} appearance. $!{player_first_name} seems insanely comfortable not only in clothing straight from Rebecca's closet but just around me in general. That was refreshing. "Well, now that the two of you have met, how about you spend some time together in the garden?" Mother suggests with a smile. "Off to the gardens so $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name} can serenade me? I'm in for a treat, then," $!{player_first_name} teases, causing me to flush a bit. "Ah, I can't sing. Sorry to disappoint," I say. $!{player_first_name} pouts playfully. "Some $!{defaultroyal_title} you are! Guess I can forgive you if these gardens are really as nice as Queen Ramona says. Lead the way." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "shy") and (player_clothing_style = "smart")) “You’re biting at your lips again.” I sigh, letting my bottom lip go. I hadn’t even realized that I was so worked up over this meeting. Mozelle sighs and looks me up and down. “Why are you so nervous? You’re only about to potentially meet your future spouse in a few minutes,” she says, which is definitely not helping. “I-I’m not nervous!” I exclaim, though my stutter wasn’t very convincing. This type of stuff was more Mozelle’s style, meeting people and the like. I’m sure she’s about to set a world record for the most selfies taken with fans of the Crown. I was much more content behind the scenes, making an appearance as necessary. Like this one. “Everything will be fine, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. $!{player_first_name} is quite lovely. No weird feelings about ${player_him_her_them} at all. You’re nervous for no reason,” my mother assures beside me. “Maybe you’re right,” I say with a soft sigh. “Alright. But I won’t talk to ${player_him_her_them} long.” That response satisfies my mother and sister, so the three of us begin our walk back into the Great Hall. *page_break We reach the Great Hall just a few moments before Father and $!{player_first_name} do, so there’s no time for him to exaggeratedly reveal $!{player_first_name} to me, which I preferred. I always thought that was so embarrassing for all parties involved when it happened anyway. I immediately notice the Rebecca influences in the way that $!{player_first_name} dresses. I half expect ${player_him_her_them} to whip out a clipboard and tell me all the things I'm late for. Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 "Y-you as well," I reply, giving $!{player_first_name} a brief smile. $!{player_he_she_they} doesn't look bad and is at least a nice seeming person. "Well, now that the two of you have met, how about showing ${player_him_her_them} the gardens, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}?" Mother asks with a bright smile. My eyes widen and I turn back towards Mother. "Are you sure-" "What a great, totally planned for idea!" Mozelle exclaims with a matching bright smile. Speaking over me. Again. "Ah, right. Totally forgot that," Father says, raising an eyebrow towards Mother and Mozelle. All they do is continue to sport grins. "Sounds good to me," $!{player_first_name} says, smiling a bit. "I'd love to see them." All that leaves is my response which is a soft sigh and nod. "Okay. Follow me, $!{player_first_name}," I say softly. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 Unsurprising to no one, I begin to flush. Not that I say too much to being with, but my own greeting dies on my lips as I try to process the obvious come on. Luckily, Mozelle catches on and bails me out, though not the way I was expecting. "$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you and $!{player_first_name} go to the gardens? Get to know one another? See how many times $!{player_first_name} can hit on you?" Mozelle asks, smiling over at ${player_him_her_them}. "Good idea, Mozelle. How about it, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}? "The gardens are lovely this time of year." I swallow thickly, glancing over at ${player_him_her_them}. Of course Mother or Mozelle couldn't let me just meet and leave. $!{player_first_name} for all ${player_his_her_their} credit, still smiles and doesn't look nervous or upset by this idea. "Gardens? I'd love to see them and be alone with you," $!{player_first_name} says, playing around a loose string on ${player_his_her_their} clothing. I chuckle nervously but nod towards my mother and sister. "Alright. Let's go. T-they're not too far," I say, offering a smile towards $!{player_first_name}. I didn't have a choice in taking ${player_him_her_them} to the garden, but I could at least be nice about it. "Oh I can't wait," $!{player_first_name} says, batting ${player_his_her_their} eyes towards me. At least I manage to hold off another blush as we leave the hall. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 "Hi, $!{player_first_name}," I reply, averting my own eyes. My mind runs blank as I try to think of something else to say. I like ${player_his_her_their} outfit, but I couldn't even get a compliment out. The silence stretches on for a short while until Mozelle, either out of her own impatience or annoyance, decides to break it. "How about you two keep this lively conversation going in the gardens?" She suggests, which causes $!{player_first_name} to flush a bit. My heart flutters ever so slightly when I glance over and meet $!{player_first_name}'s eyes. We said a combined six words to each other. Surely ${player_he_she_they} would say no. $!{player_first_name}, much to my surprise, agrees. "S-sure, if $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name} doesn't mind. I'd hate to make you do something you don't want to do." I flush lightly. I've done plenty of things that I didn't want to do, but this definitely ranked near bottom on that list. "N-no. No, I'll take you there," I say, smiling over at $!{player_first_name}. "I don't mind." $!{player_first_name} adjusts ${player_his_her_their} cape before ${player_he_she_they} answer. "Great. After you, $!{defaultroyal_title}." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 I'm a bit surprised by the aloofness of their greeting. I expected $!{player_first_name} to have a bit more to ${player_his_her_their} introduction, but I appreciated the desire to not drag this meeting on any longer than necessary. $!{player_first_name} fiddles around with ${player_his_her_their} fingers while waiting for a response from me. "Hi $!{player_first_name}." I pause, figuring that I should respond with something else like a compliment or a welcome to the palace, but I couldn't decide what to say. $!{player_first_name} looks down at ${player_his_her_their} shoes, which causes me to look away. Father coughs a bit, causing us to look up at him with wide eyes. "$!{player_first_name}, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you two go to the gardens? When they're open to the public, they tend to be insanely crowded and very popular," Father suggests. "Maybe you guys can get to know each other more there." It wasn't a bad idea. If $!{player_first_name} and I were not going to look and talk to each other, at least we could do it among some flowers and butterflies. $!{player_first_name} agrees too. "Sounds nice," $!{player_first_name} says and I echo ${player_his_her_their} statement. Neither one of us moves though until Father motions us towards the exit. "Ha. Sorry," we say in unison, which causes Mozelle and Mother to chuckle a bit. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "Right," I say which causes $!{player_first_name} to chuckle. "Could be worse. Before I left my job we were preparing for a huge client to come in. This is much better than trying to impress some big shot CEOs," $!{player_first_name} replies. I nod noncommittally at $!{player_first_name}'s words. As if I could relate to a job like that. I didn't want to seem rude though, so I rack my brain for something else to say. "You look nice," I continue eventually, which causes $!{player_first_name} to grin. "Like you'd tell me if I didn't look nice," $!{player_first_name} jokes, which does make me chuckle a bit. "Touché." Mother smiles over at the two of us, hands resting behind her back. "Well, now that the two of you have met, how about you spend some time together in the garden?" Mother suggests with a smile. "Are the gardens where you take all the 99 percent matches?" $!{player_first_name} teases, causing me to flush a bit. Before I could reply, $!{player_first_name} continues. "Guess I can forgive you if these gardens are really as nice as Queen Ramona says. Lead the way." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "jerk") and (player_clothing_style = "smart")) “Mother, Sis, you two are aware that this is a waste of time, right?” I say, fixing the crown on my head. I didn’t have to wear this and in fact, my parents told me not to, but I couldn’t resist. It was always so funny meeting people who had no idea how Court worked. They always seemed like they were walking on eggshells around anybody with a lick of royal blood inside of them. “Yet you still have to do it anyway,” Mozelle, unfortunately, reminds me. She was definitely getting a good kick out of me being involved in this whole debacle. “Yet you’ll always be number two to me,” I shoot back with a smirk. Mozelle rolls her eyes at me and I know that if our mother wasn’t present, she likely would’ve flicked me off or cursed me out. “Yet we’re going to be late,” Mother reminds us, slipping her arms through each of ours. “Now, if you could lead the way, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” I sigh, but begin walking back towards the Great Hall knowing that the faster I got there, the faster I could get this over with. *page_break We reach the Great Hall just a few moments before Father and $!{player_first_name} do, so there’s no time for him to exaggeratedly reveal $!{player_first_name} to me, which I preferred. I always thought that was so embarrassing for all parties involved when it happened anyway. I immediately notice the Rebecca influences in the way that $!{player_first_name} dresses. I half expect ${player_him_her_them} to whip out a clipboard and tell me all the things I'm late for. Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 I snort, looking $!{player_first_name} up and down. "Please spare me the niceties," I say, watching ${player_his_her_their} eyes widen. "Excuse me?" $!{player_first_name} asks. I sigh, crossing my arms as I really look at ${player_his_her_their} outfit. "Look, I get that Rumi is the best dresser in Odessa, but you don't have to take the first thing that they offer you. You're allowed to think for yourself," I say. $!{player_first_name} crosses ${player_his_her_their} arms and I can just see the mental debate going on in ${player_his_her_their} head. $!{player_first_name} does eventually speak again. "Despite your obvious rudeness, I am still glad to meet you. On our walk back over here, King Frederick suggested we go to the gardens and talk more. Maybe you can think of a better insult on our walk there?" Now it's my turn for my eyes to widen because well, even I had to admit that was pretty good. My mother, ever the peacemaker walks a bit closer to the two of us. "Forgive $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I'm sure ${defaultroyal_he_she_they} will apologize on your way to the gardens," she says, slightly narrowing her eyes at me, before smiling over at $!{player_first_name}. "Sounds great to me," $!{player_first_name} says, uncrossing ${player_his_her_their} arms as ${player_he_she_they} wait for me to apologize. Well, $!{player_first_name} could keep waiting. I haven't sincerely apologized for anything in years. "I'll think about it on our walk over there." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 "Hm, wish I could say the same. Rumi has loads of mirrors their shop. Did you forget to look in one?" I ask, sniffing at $!{player_first_name}'s outfit. She looked like an intern that was born to do Rebecca's bidding. $!{player_first_name} laughs at my response, which catches me completely off guard. "Oh, so you like to play hard to get. Cute," $!{player_first_name} responds. "Look, King Frederick said that you and I should go visit one of the palace gardens together and get to know one another. You want to go now or later? Either way, my outfit isn't changing." I sigh, shooting a look over at Father before I look back at $!{player_first_name}. "I'd rather go never, but since Mother and Father won't allow that, I can tolerate a walk with you, I guess," I reply, already heading towards the exit without waiting for ${player_him_her_them}. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 Great, somebody shy. "Hi, er, $!{player_first_name}, right?" I ask. $!{player_he_she_they} nods, fiddling at ${player_his_her_their} clothes. Oh, $!{player_first_name}'s really shy. "Okay, well, I'm leaving," I say, turning around on my heel and heading towards an exit. Father catches up to me in five large steps and grabs my arm to stop me. "What do you think you're doing?" He whispers to me, noticing the crown on top of my head. "I told you not to wear that," Father adds much lower. "Leaving. $!{player_first_name} isn't talking and it isn't my job to get ${player_him_her_them} to talk to me," I whisper back, stepping out of his grip, but I still stay close. "Sorry, $!{parent_title}, but it kind of is your job. I get you have this whole jerk persona going on, but you need to take $!{player_first_name} to the gardens. Like it or not, that is what you will be doing," Father replies. "Or else." He grabs my arm again, just for emphasis and I immediately rip it out of his grip. "Okay, just stop touching me," I mumble, rubbing at my arm before I push past him and head back over to Mother, Mozelle and $!{player_first_name}. "Ah, Father just reminded me about giving you a tour of the gardens," I say, forcing a smile to my face. Whether it was sincere or not, I had no way of knowing, as $!{player_first_name} barely reacts to the news. Eventually, $!{player_first_name} nods and manages a shaky smile of ${player_his_her_their} own. "S-sounds nice. Can't wait to see the gardens." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 "$!{player_man_woman_person} of few words. I like that," I say. "Wish I could say the same about your outfit." $!{player_first_name} sighs and glances down at ${player_his_her_their} outfit before looking at me. "If I wanted to be insulted, I would've just stayed in Lox. Let's just go to the gardens and get this over with," $!{player_first_name} says, which makes me raise my eyebrows. "Who said we're going to the gardens?" I ask and turn to look at my family. "I did," Father says. "Do you have a problem with that?" Well, of course I did. I couldn't tell Father that though, and even if I did, it wouldn't even matter since I'd still have to do it anyway. "No. Can't wait to go. Yay flowers," I reply before I cross my arms. "Ready when you are, $!{player_first_name}. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "Personally, I wish we'd never met at all," I reply before yawning. $!{player_first_name} raises an eyebrow. "Bold of you to assume that I'm over the moon about this, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}," $!{player_first_name} says. "Oh, you don't even want to know half of the things I'm assuming about you right now. None of them are good," I shoot back, now looking at $!{player_first_name}. I wasn't used to a response like that from a stranger, only from Mozelle. $!{player_first_name} grins. "Personally, I'm flattered. You very clearly dislike me, yet you're allowing the very thought of me to consume your mind." I bristle at $!{player_first_name}'s words. "Just who do you think you are?" I ask, stepping a bit closer to ${player_him_her_them}. "Well, I'm $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name} from $!{player_hometown}. I have ${player_skin_color} skin, ${player_eye_color} eyes and…" Mother, eager to get us to stop bickering, walks in between us and places a hand on both of our shoulders. "Instead of arguing back and forth, how about you two go for a walk in the gardens? We'll follow if you'd like, just to make sure you two don't argue." "Arguing around azaleas and lilies, temping," $!{player_first_name} says, tapping on ${player_his_her_their} cheek in faux thought. Yep, this is the most insufferable person I have ever met. "I for one could use some fresh air. Follow if you want, $!{player_first_name}, but I'm leaving," I say, stepping out of Mother's touch. $!{player_first_name} does the same and starts walking behind me. "Oh no, I'm coming. You can't get rid of me that easily." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "charming") and (player_clothing_style = "smart")) “Well, how do I look?” I smile widely towards my mother and Mozelle. I spent hours preparing for this meeting with $!{player_first_name}. Neither Father nor the Odessa Dates development team would tell me anything about ${player_him_her_them} and it was eating me up inside. After bugging an intern there for at least something small about ${player_him_her_them}, I got a hometown, $!{player_hometown}. “Aren’t those flowers native to $!{player_hometown}?” Mozelle asks and she plays around with my lapel. I quickly step away and make sure none of the petals are crushed. “Yes. Thought it would make a nice first impression,” I say, fidgeting with for a few more moments before dropping my hands at my sides. “Well, if ${player_he_she_they} can’t see the effort, they can definitely smell it,” Mozelle adds, crinkling up her nose. “Ease up on the body spray next time!” Mother laughs, smoothing a hand over my suit jacket. “You look and smell nice, love. I’m sure $!{player_first_name} will be glad to meet you,” she says, giving me a kiss on the cheek. I blush slightly, giving her a one-armed hug before separating. “Alright, alright. Enough Mother. Let’s go to the Great Hall before I inevitably spill something on myself or fall and rip something open.” *page_break $!{player_first_name} pauses when ${player_he_she_they} see me. I immediately notice the Rebecca influences in the way that $!{player_first_name} dresses. Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 "You as well, $!{player_first_name}," I reply, giving $!{player_first_name} a wide smile. $!{player_he_she_they} doesn't look bad and is at least a nice seeming person. "I hope the journey here wasn't too rough." $!{player_first_name} shakes ${player_his_her_their} head. "Not at all. Cape Odessa is absolutely lovely." I'm glad that ${player_first_name} seems to be settling in fine. After all, if Father's website actually did its' job, $!{player_first_name} would be co-ruling it with me. It was important that ${player_first_name} liked most if not all of ${player_his_her_their} new surroundings. Mother and Father seem pleased that the two of us were getting along so fine. "Now that you two have met, how about showing ${player_him_her_them} the gardens, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}?" Mother asks with a bright smile. I nod, completely fine with that. "Allow me to, ${player_first_name}. I know the history of most of the flowers there and how we came to get them in our garden." I offer my elbow to ${player_him_her_them}, which ${player_he_she_they} eagerly takes. Whether that was because of actual excitement, or for the opportunity to continue following royal customs, I had no way of knowing. "Lead the way, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}!" *page_break **goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 I flush lightly, resting a hand behind my head. "Oh, you flatter me, $!{player_first_name}," I say. I was always glad to get a compliment, whether that was from somebody I was interested in or just the average citizen, but they always made me a bit embarrassed. "Well, you know what they say about flattery…how it'll get you everywhere and all of that," $!{player_first_name} replies with a grin. I glance over at the rest of my family, who are all grinning or smiling themselves. A great sign. "$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you and $!{player_first_name} walk around the gardens. It's the only close place I believe we haven't show ${player_him_her_them}," Mother says. "Sure, if that's alright with $!{player_first_name}," I say, turning to ${player_him_her_them} for confirmation. "Being alone in a garden with you? That's more than alright with me, babe," $!{player_first_name} replies, which coaxes another flush out of me. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 "Hi, $!{player_first_name}. It's wonderful to meet you," I reply, giving ${player_him_her_them} a smile though ${player_he_she_they} couldn't see it. I watch ${player_him_her_them} fiddle around with ${player_his_her_their} clothing. It wasn't the typical style that I would wear, but $!{player_first_name} did wear it quite well. "You look very nice, $!{player_first_name}. Rumi did a wonderful job on you," I say. $!{player_first_name} doesn't look up, but does at least smile a bit this time. I take that as a win. The silence between us stretches on for a short while until Mozelle, either out of her own patience or annoyance, decides to break it. "How about you two head to the gardens? It's a perfect place to be alone," She suggests, which causes $!{player_first_name} to flush a bit. I offer $!{player_first_name} my hand. "Totally voluntary. If you wish not to go, we can do something else," I say. $!{player_first_name}, much to my surprise, agrees. "S-sure, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Just lead the way." When $!{player_first_name} places ${player_his_her_their} hand in mine, my mind goes completely blank. It was a simple gesture, sure, but still one that made my heartbeat skip a beat or two. "It's not too far away," I tell ${player_him_her_them} as we head towards the room's exit. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 "Welcome to Dia and the palace, $!{player_first_name}," I say with a small smile. "I hope you've liked everything so far." "I have," ${player_he_she_they} replies. "Nice city." Though $!{player_first_name} doesn't really say much, I manage to eventually have a decent conversation with ${player_him_her_them} about the journey to Dia, staying in Cape Odessa and much more. Soon enough, Father breaks our conversation up with a proposal to go to the gardens and give $!{player_first_name} a tour there. "Sounds nice," $!{player_first_name} says, giving me a small smile, which I'm super happy about. "Follow me then. Feel free to walk beside me. I don't mind," I reply, hoping that perhaps that would allow $!{player_first_name} to eventually begin to open up to me. Also because I thought it was a bit uncomfortable to follow all the customs so closely in a private setting such as this one. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "On the contrary. I believe everything happens for a reason. Maybe you're my perfect match or maybe you're not. Either way, I'm still glad to have met you," I say, smiling brightly. $!{player_first_name} blinks rapidly before beginning to chuckle slowly. "No need to charm me, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I'm going to compete, so save that for the competition," $!{player_first_name} says. I hold up my hands, a bit confused. "Pardon me, I don't mean to make you feel uncomfortable," I say. Not sure what $!{player_first_name} means by me being charming, but I figure it's better to just apologize. "Ha, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}, I'm not uncomfortable. You can relax around me. You know…talk, less…er, royally?" $!{player_first_name} smiles and stuffs ${player_his_her_their} hands into ${player_his_her_their} pockets. "How about we talk more about this in the gardens?" I offer. I figure that my family wouldn't have had time to take ${player_him_her_them} there before coming to meet me. Plus, I could show off my flower expertise. "Sure. Our first lover's quarrel in a romantic garden. Sounds great to me," $!{player_first_name} replies before winking. I chuckle and just shake my head, nodding towards my family as a goodbye before we head out of the Great Hall. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "flirty") and (player_clothing_style = "smart")) “Haven’t you primped enough?” Mozelle says to me as I look at continued to mess with the sleeves of my shirt. I roll my eyes and pinched at her nose, laughing when she swats my hand away. “Oh please. I could never. Not especially when I’m probably about to meet my spouse,” I say. I won’t lie. When Father told me about this plan, I was pretty upset, mainly because he thought I needed help finding somebody. Ask anybody in Odessa, but I didn’t exactly have a problem finding a mate. I had a bit of a reputation, after all. Mother laughs softly, pinching at my cheek. “Oh $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Let’s go. We don’t want to be late.” *page_break We reach the Great Hall just a few moments before Father and $!{player_first_name} do, so there’s no time for him to exaggeratedly reveal $!{player_first_name} to me. I’m a bit disappointed that I can’t exaggeratedly introduce myself to ${player_him_her_them}, but there willl be plenty of other opportunities to act like a ham. I immediately notice the Rebecca influences in the way that $!{player_first_name} dresses. Unlike Rebecca, I actually think $!{player_first_name} looks good in ${player_his_her_their} clothes. Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 I smirk, reaching out for $!{player_first_name}'s hand before I fall to my knee. "Oh, I know all about pleasure," I say, pressing a kiss to the top of $!{player_first_name}'s hand. "Very nice to meet you, Sweetness." "S-Sweetness?" $!{player_first_name} asks in disbelief, as I rise from my knee. I nod with a grin. "Yes. Sweetness. Win or lose, I think Sweetness fits you incredibly well," I explain, letting go of ${player_his_her_their} hand. "Ah, well…thanks?" I smile brightly, really taking in $!{player_first_name}'s appearance, who ticks all of the things I typically find attractive about a person. Then again, though, that isn't too hard for most people. Mother seemed pleased that the two of us were getting along so well, while Father looked completely done with my flirting, as usual. "Now that you two have met, how about showing ${player_him_her_them} the gardens, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}?" Mother suggests with a bright smile. I grin. "I'm always down for alone time with anybody, especially when they're super attractive." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 "Oh, I know," I reply with a smirk. "It's always to hear it again, though. Nice to meet you, $!{player_first_name}." We spend a few moments regarding one another. I like $!{player_first_name}'s outfit, but I can't help but imagine how ${player_he_she_they} would look without a single thing on. Eventually Mother breaks the silence by suggesting that we head off somewhere else. "$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you and $!{player_first_name} walk around the gardens. It's the only close place I believe we haven't shown ${player_him_her_them}," Mother says. "I would love to. There are loads of secret spots where the two of us can be alone…get to know one another. In private," I say, looking back over at ${player_first_name}, who is clearly interested in leaving as well. "If you like me now, you'll love me in private," $!{player_first_name} says, throwing a smirk in my direction. "I bet I will, Sweetness," I reply, motioning towards one of the many exits out of the hall. "Don't wait up for us!" I exclaim to my family before we leave. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 "Hi, $!{player_first_name}," I say, giving ${player_him_her_them} a good look up and down. $!{player_first_name} glances up at me for a brief moment before looking back down again, clearly embarrassed at the way I was looking at ${player_him_her_them}. "You look great, Sweetness. I must admit, I've never been this attracted to anyone so quickly," I continue. $!{player_first_name} doesn't look up, but does at least smile a bit this time. Clearly, not the most talkative person, but seems relatively harmless at least. The silence between us stretches on for a short while until Mozelle, either out of her own impatience or annoyance, decides to break it. "How about you two head to the gardens? It's a perfect place to be alone," She suggests, which causes $!{player_first_name} to flush a bit. "O-oh, alone?" $!{player_first_name} asks, fiddling around with ${player_his_her_their} fingers. "Yes, Sweetness, alone. I'll be a perfect respectful $!{defaultroyal_title}, I promise. I'll only flirt maybe two more times," I say with a wink. $!{player_first_name}, much to my surprise, agrees. "S-sure, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Just lead the way." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 "$!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}," I parrot, giving ${player_him_her_them} a wide smile. $!{player_his_her_their} expression doesn't change but I let the lack of response roll of my back. I've hit on quieter. "So $!{player_hometown}, huh? Nice place," I say. "I've had a lot of fun nights with people from there…" As I trail off in thought about one of my former hookups, $!{player_first_name} shifts uncomfortably from foot to foot. The movement reminds me that $!{player_first_name} is there and I smile sheepishly. "Sorry. Er…" I trail off again, wondering just what to say to ${player_him_her_them}. I wasn't used to one-sided talking like this. Eventually, Father proposes that the two of us go to the gardens and talk more there. For once, one of his ideas isn't that bad, though I would likely be doing most of the talking. "Fine with me," $!{player_first_name} agrees with a small smile. "That's the spirit, Sweetness," I say with a wink. *page_break **goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "What circumstances would those have been? In public? In a dimly lit club?" I ask, fiddling with the sleeve of my shirt as I give $!{player_first_name} a good look up and down. "Eyes up here, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}," $!{player_first_name} says, interrupting the very nice mental image I had of ${player_him_her_them} underneath my covers. "Eye contact only." I pout playfully, looking into ${player_his_her_their} eyes as ${player_he_she_they} wanted me to. "Eye contact? You're no fun, Sweetness." $!{player_first_name} crosses ${player_his_her_their} arms and raises an eyebrow. "Sweetness? What is that supposed to be?" I smirk and lightly tap my fingers against my jaw. "Oh, you know. A nickname? An alternate name for somebody?" $!{player_first_name} leans forward, a smirk on ${player_his_her_their} face as well. "I just thought the heir to the Odessa throne could come up with a better nickname for me than Sweetness. Some good those tutors were that our taxes helped pay for." I, for once, don't have a comeback. Not only was $!{player_first_name} nice to look at, ${player_his_her_their} comebacks were pretty great. "How about I show you the gardens? It's the only place I'm sure you haven't been to yet," I offer, once I've mostly recovered. The walk there could give me a good opportunity to come up with some one-liners myself. "Too afraid I'll outwit you in front of your family?" $!{player_first_name} teases. "That's fine. I'd love to see the gardens." I turn back to look at Mother, Father and Mozelle and all three of them are in various states of amusement. Well they're no help. "Fine, Sweetness. Since you agreed so nicely…" *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting *if ((defaultroyal_personality = "sarcastic") and (player_clothing_style = "smart")) “Happy, Mother?” I ask, slowly spinning around for her approval. Mozelle and Mother smile excitedly, clasping both of their hands together at the same time. “You look lovely, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Really. I’m glad you went with this jacket rather than the other one,” Mother says, kissing my cheek as she messed with my shirt collar yet again. “Careful Mother. If you keep messing with ${defaultroyal_his_her_their} clothes, you might accidentally give off the illusion that $!{defaultroyal_first_name}'s interested,” Mozelle teases. I huff, allowing Mother to continue fretting over my clothing. Better I allow her to do it rather than making up excuses. She’d only fret more. “Wait, who told you I wasn’t interested? Was it the lack of a smile or the lack of excitement?” I ask, causing Mozelle to laugh. “Ever the charmer. Let’s go,” she says and Mother nods. While Mozelle walks far ahead from Mother and I, Mother takes the opportunity to talk to me in a much lower voice. “$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, please. I know you’re unhappy about this whole thing, but Frederick really just wants to make you happy. At least try to seem interested?” Mother asks softly. I sigh, stomach twisting uncomfortably. Father always demanded a lot from me, but my Mother barely did. Always the peacekeeper. I nod, watching Mozelle excitedly open up the door leading to the Great Hall. “I’ll try,” I answer finally, giving my mother a small smile. *page_break We enter the Great Hall just a few moments before Father and $!{player_first_name} do, so there’s no time for him to exaggeratedly reveal $!{player_first_name} to me. I’m incredibly glad for that. $!{player_first_name} pauses when ${player_he_she_they} see me. I immediately notice the Rebecca influences in the way that $!{player_first_name} dresses. Unlike Rebecca, I actually think $!{player_first_name} look good in ${player_his_her_their} clothes. Before I can get a word out, $!{player_first_name}’s bowing and introducing ${player_himself_herself_themselves}. *fake_choice #“Hello, Your Majesty. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” *set charming +1 "Is it really a pleasure?" I ask, raising an eyebrow. Surely $!{player_first_name} was just laying it on thick. "Yes, truly," $!{player_first_name} says with a smile. "Everything in Dia that I've been to or seen so far has been lovely." $!{player_first_name} has to be kidding. $!{player_first_name}'s only been to Dia's fanciest hotel, Rumi's immaculate store and of course, the palace. Just a handful of the nicest places in the capital. But, if ${player_he_she_they} wants to lay it on thick, so can I. "Well, you look nice. Straight out of Rumi's store, I see," I say with a smile matching ${player_his_hers_theirs}. Mother seemed pleased that the two of us were getting along so well, or as well as I was appearing to be. "Now that you two have met, how about showing ${player_him_her_them} the gardens, $!{defaultroyal_first_name}?" Mother suggests with a bright smile. "The gardens? Sure. There's nothing I'd rather do more," I reply, narrowing my eyes towards Mother, who only smiles wider. "I'd love to see them," $!{player_first_name} adds with a wide smile of their own. Well, at least that makes one of us. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hi $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. I’m $!{player_first_name}. Can I just say you are definitely more attractive in person?” *set flirty +1 I smirk, taking a long look at $!{player_first_name}. "I bet you say that to every heir you have to meet," I tease. "Maybe I do, but I have a strict don't kiss and tell policy," $!{player-first_name} replies with a wink. "But maybe I could break that for you." We spend a few moments regarding one another, though mine is more out of curiosity. I'm 100 percent sure that $!{player_first_name} is imagining how I look naked. Eventually Mother breaks our silence by suggesting that we head off somewhere else. "$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you and $!{player_first_name} walk around the gardens. It's the only close place I believe we haven't shown ${player_him_her_them}," Mother says. "Nothing would give me greater pleasure, Mother," I reply, giving her a mock salute before I turn back to $!{player_first_name}. "Just follow me, $!{player_first_name}. I'd love to show you all the flowers that were planted in a garden well before my birth." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“H-Hi there. I’m $!{player_first_name} $!{player_last_name}.” After $!{player_first_name} introduces ${player_himself_herself_themselves}, ${player_he_she_they} immediately cast ${player_his_her_their} eyes to the ground. *set shy +1 "Hi, $!{player_first_name}," I say, giving ${player_him_her_them} a good look up and down. $!{player_first_name} glances up at me for a brief moment before looking back down again, clearly embarrassed at the way I was looking at ${player_him_her_them}. "I see you're a chatterbox," I continue with an amused smile. "My, oh my. This will be an interesting competition." $!{player_first_name} doesn't look up, but does at least smile a bit this time. The silence between us stretches on for a short while until Mozelle, either out of her own impatience or annoyance, decides to break it. "How about you two head to the gardens? It's a perfect place to be alone," She suggests, which causes $!{player_first_name} to flush a bit. "O-oh, alone?" $!{player_first_name} asks, fiddling around with ${player_his_her_their} fingers. "Yes, alone. Unless you're afraid I'll bite," I chuckle. $!{player_first_name}, much to my surprise, agrees. "S-sure, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Just lead the way." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“$!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}.” $!{player_first_name} nods and that seems to be the end of ${player_his_her_their} greeting. *set aloof +1 "Wow, let me get a word in, $!{player_first_name}," I joke, giving ${player_him_her_them} a wide smile that doesn't change the expression on $!{player_his_her_their} face. Well, this will be an extremely short meeting. "So $!{player_hometown}, huh? Nice place," I say. "Very, erm…vital to Odessa's success." I cringe almost immediately after I say those words. I was getting more and more like Father every day. Luckily, Mother bails this awkward interaction out with a suggestion. "$!{defaultroyal_first_name}, how about you take $!{player_first_name} to the gardens? Perhaps you two can find something to talk about there?" "If we can't talk in front of people, I don't know how in the world we will talk when we're alone, but I don't mind leaving to at least get some fresh air," I sigh, barely giving $!{player_first_name} a glance. $!{player_first_name} just shrugs at the suggestion. "Fine with me." "$!{player_he_she_they} speak," I gasp, pretending to fall to the ground in shock. $!{player_first_name} is unamused, unsurprisingly. "Ready, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}? The day isn't getting any longer." I flush ever so slightly, adjusting my clothing. "Ah. Yes. Follow me." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting #“Hello $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Wish we could’ve met under better circumstances, but hey.” *set sarcastic +1 "Yeah, you're telling me. Here I was, thinking I could just wait for the next person to fall into my royal lap, when all of a sudden Father's got other plans," I say, narrowing my eyes towards Father's direction. I give him props for not rolling his eyes in front of $!{player_first_name}, at least. "Wait, so you're not over the moon like the media says you are?" $!{player_first_name} asks, feigning as if in deep thought. I burst out laughing. I am the furthest from over the moon right now. Maybe mulling on Mars is the more appropriate term. "For lack of time, let's just say no," I answer with a grin. I must admit, it's pretty refreshing to banter back and forth with somebody who could actually keep up. Mother gives the two of us a smile, but I notice that she's subtly motioning towards one of the exits that leads to the gardens. Hm. I suppose I could tolerate a bit of time alone with ${player_him_her_them}. "How about we tour the gardens, $!{player_first_name}? I can show you flowers that were planted long before I was even thought of," I offer. $!{player_first_name} is silent for a moment, but I already know the answer will be yes. "Hm, I had a feeling that I would eventually be alone with you, $!{defaultroyal_title} $!{defaultroyal_first_name}. Then I suppose you'll fall for me as the sun goes down and we can avoid this whole competition, yeah?" $!{player_first_name} asks. "Bold of you to assume that I believe in love at first sight, $!{player_first_name}." $!{player_first_name} playfully pouts at my words. "Oh c'mon. Let's go to the gardens before you break my heart even more." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_defaultgardenmeeting