Dancing Queen

(link:"...")[= (text-colour:purple)+(t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)["[....ka..]"] (link:".....")[= (text-colour:purple)+(t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)["E...ka.."] (link:"//..wh...//")[= (text-colour:purple)+(t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)["Er..ka..!"] (t8n-arrive:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[[//Whuh?//->Opening Scene 2]] (set: $rhythm to 0) (set: $regalness to 0)

(text-colour:purple)+(t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)["ERIKA WAKE UP!"] (link:"AHHHHHHHH!")[= //You roll face-first on the floor of your chambers, looking up at the blurry blob that you assume is your sister.// (text-colour:purple)["ERIKA! GET UP! THE CORONATION IS IN THIRTY MINUTES!"] (link:"...")[= (link:".....")[= (link:"THAT'S TODAY?")[= (link:"Kass! WHY DIDN'T YOU WAKE ME UP EARLIER?!")[= //Kass ignores your criticism and begins to throw an array of rather gaudy outfits onto the side of your bed.// [[//I'd better get ready.//->Opening Scene 3]]

//Kass drags you by the wrist down the Main Hall to preparations. You stumble behind reluctantly, lost in thought.// (link:"...")[= (link:"Hey, Kass?")[= (text-colour:purple)["What is it, Erika?! And pick up the pace a bit, please? I feel like I'm dragging Ginger back to her stable."] (link:"Nothing... It's just...")[= //I didn't sign up for this shit!// [[...Forget it.->Opening Scene 4]]

//You arrive at the Main Hall. Everyone from the castle is gathered, looking at you expectantly.// (link:"Uh...")[= (link:"Hello everyone! Thank you for making it here today! I uh... look forward to serving you!")[= (link:"Or uh... to you serving me?")[= //Nailed it.// (link:"Anyways!")[= (link:"Thank you all for making it here today!")[= //Kass looks at you, mortified, as though you have just committed murder in front of the audience. She tries to ease the awkward silence with a slow applause, which the crowd adopts after a brief moment.// [[//Let's get this coronation over with...//->Opening Scene 5]]

//You somehow survive the coronation, mostly thanks to Kass' guidance at every turn of the process. She walks you back to your chambers, looking arguably more exhausted than you.// (link:"...")[= (text-colour:purple)["Erika..."] (link:"...yeah?")[= (text-colour:purple)["I know this is a lot of responsibility to put on you right now. The amount of weight put on your shoulders this suddenly isn't fair... but I hope you know I'll be here for you every step of the way."] (link:"...")[= (link:"Kass?")[= (link:"Do you really think I can handle this?")[= //Kass faintly smiles at you. You haven't seen her this genuine towards you in a long time...// (text-colour:purple)["...Of course you can, Erika. I know you haven't... exactly followed Mom's footsteps in the way she wanted, but she would be so, so proud of you for doing this. Just... do me a favor and take this seriously as you can. I know you're going to have to sacrifice a lot of time and energy, but you're needed in this kingdom more than ever right now."] [[...Yeah, I guess you're right. Thanks.->Opening Scene 6]]

(set: $nightHook to "Reflection (Night " + (text: $day_number) + ")") This is Day $day_number The time of day is currently $timeOfDay Your Regalness is $regalness Your Rhythm is $rhythm (if:$day_number is 1)[(This is the main room of the game. From here, you will be able to access different parts of the world depending on the time of day. You may choose to focus on your responsibilities, or take some time off to practice your dancing techniques. If you become experienced enough in either category, something interesting might happen at the Castle (Daytime) or the Ballroom (Afternoon). Good luck!] //What should I do...?// (if:$timeOfDay is "Night" and $day_number is not 7) [ (link-goto: "Sleep.", "Dream") ] (elseif:$timeOfDay is "Night") [(link-goto: "Sleep.", "Judgment")] (if:$timeOfDay is "Day") [[[[Spend the day working at the Castle?->The Castle]]] [[Practice your dance routine?->Practice]]] (elseif:$timeOfDay is "Afternoon") [[[[Spend the night in to study at the Castle?->Study]]] [[[Dance!->The Ballroom]]]] (set: $max_length to 4) (set: $base_sentences to (a: "//You dream that the ballroom has been replaced by a Study Hall. You are haunted by the textbooks that Mom assigned you that you never finished...//", "//You have a dream that the Castle's Defense Squadron are replaced by anthropomorphic playing cards. You're very amused watching them flop around...//", "//You dream about a dogs. You want a dog. Why doesn't the Castle allow dogs? Wait... you're the Queen... You are inspired to bring this issue up immediately.//", "//You dream that Kass was appointed Queen before you inherited the title. Gosh, things would've been so different...//" )) (set: $ballroom2_sentence to (a: "//You dream that Jade is backflipping through flaming hoops in the ballroom. Her movements are strong and confident, but you fear for her safety anyways.//", "//You dream that you are the star in a musical based around the royal family. You wake up right before your first appearance on-stage.//" )) (set: $castle2_sentence to (a: "//You dream that Peet is secretly an enemy operative sent to burn the Castle down from the inside... You decide Peet couldn't tell a convincing lie even if he tried.//", "//You dream that you are riding Ginger away from the Castle into the sunset. It feels like a happy ending to a cliche movie. Until Ginger bucks you into the air, faceplanting you into the ground.//" )) (set: $ballroom4_sentence to (a: "//You dream that Jade is performing a waltz routine with you. It feels... comforting.//", "//You dream that you had a dance-off with Kass. She won. This is the worst nightmare you've had, yet.//" )) (set: $castle4_sentence to (a: "//You have a dream in which Kass piledrives the Reverend into the conference room table. You fear what that woman is capable of when she is angry...//", "//You dream that Mom visited the Castle one last time. She's proud of you. You don't want to wake up.//" )) (if: $castle_event_number >= 3) [ (set: $base_sentences to it + $castle2_sentence) (set: $max_length to it + 2) ] (if: $castle_event_number >= 5) [ (set: $base_sentences to it + $castle4_sentence) (set: $max_length to it + 2) ] (if: $ballroom_event_number >= 3) [ (set: $base_sentences to it + $ballroom2_sentence) (set: $max_length to it + 2) ] (if: $ballroom_event_number >= 5) [ (set: $base_sentences to it + $ballroom4_sentence) (set: $max_length to it + 2) ]

(set: $timeOfDay to "Afternoon") (set: $regalness to it + 1) (set: _event_links to (a: "//You hear a sharp whinny from the distance. It doesn't sound particularly good.//", "//You smell something burning in the Kitchen.//", "//You decide to take a stroll in the Garden today. You come across Kass and Peet having a conversation next to the fountain.//", "//Kass prepared that meeting for me today. I should get over there quickly.//", "//The door to Mom's room is slightly creaked open. Peek inside?//", )) //You spend the day doing chores around the Castle.// (if: $regalness >= $castle_event_value and $castle_event_number <= 5) [(link-goto: _event_links's $castle_event_number, "Castle Event " + (text: $castle_event_number))] (else:) [[Return to your room.->Bedchambers]]

(set: $timeOfDay to "Night") (set: $rhythm to it + 1) (set: _event_links to (a: "//You notice a shadowy figure out of the corner of your eye as you finish up your routine.//", "//As you approach the ballroom floor, you already hear music playing from inside...//", "//Jade, punctual as ever, is excited to get to dancing today. Show her some ballroom techniques?//", "//You thought of an interesting proposal to lift Jade's spirits a bit. You ask Kass to come down to the ballroom with you tonight. She reluctantly agrees.//", "//I have to tell Jade something...//", )) //You head down to the ballroom to practice .// (if: $rhythm >= $ballroom_event_value and $ballroom_event_number <= 5) [(link-goto: _event_links's ($ballroom_event_number), "Ballroom Event " + (text: $ballroom_event_number))] (else:) [[Return to your room.->Bedchambers]]

(set: $ballroom_event_number to it + 1) (set: $ballroom_event_value to it + 2) (text-colour:#37b24d)["Impressive stuff, Your Majesty!"] //The figure approaches you from the shadows. They walk towards the lit ballroom floor, revealing themselves. It's a girl about your age. She's wearing baggy pants with a tank top - certainly not Castle attire.// (link: "Oh uh... Hello! Didn't see you there!")[= (link: "I was just uh... finishing up some...")[= (link: "...chores...")[= (link: "...")[= (text-colour:#37b24d)["At midnight?"] (link: "I don't recognize you from the Castle. Have we met before?")[= //She gives you a hearty chuckle. Did you say something funny?// (text-colour:#37b24d)["I honestly didn't expect I would be found out this early... by the //QUEEN//, no less!"] (link: "Oh... it's no big deal, really.")[= (text-colour:#37b24d)["Name's Jade. I just moved near the Castle Square a few weeks back. It's much different than what I'm used to, I'll tell you that much. Seems like this place has a shortage on dance clubs, so I've been borrowing this ballroom late at night to scratch the itch. Hope you don't mind!"] //She seems to have no shame in trespassing. Jeez, you realize you sound like Mom. Honestly, what's the big deal? If anyone understands what it feels like to have your dancing practice limited by circumstance, it's you.// [[Well it's nice to meet you, Jade!->Ballroom Event 1 Page 2]]

(set: $ballroom_event_number to it + 1) (set: $ballroom_event_value to it + 2) //The ballroom echoes with a cool, rhythmic beat. You see Jade performing on the ballroom floor, twisting her legs every which way in a pattern that you can't even comprehend.// (link: "Wow, Jade, that was great!")[= (link: "I've honestly never seen a routine quite like that before...")[= (text-colour:#37b24d)["Oh, hey Erika! Appreciate it! Gosh, you should see the look on your face! I assume you don't get many breakdancers around the Castle, yeah?"] (link: "A... what?")[= //Jade gives you a pitiful look, then beckons you over to the floor.// (text-colour:#37b24d)["Here, try this."] //Jade directs you through some basic breakdancing moves. You feel as though you are probably not in the right attire to be doing this...// (text-colour:#37b24d)["Good stuff, Your Majesty! You're getting the hang of it!"] (t8n:"blur")+(link: "//...//")[= (t8n:"blur")+(link: "//Can't...//")[= [[//...Breathe...//->Ballroom Event 2 Page 2]]

(set: $ballroom_event_number to it + 1) (set: $ballroom_event_value to it + 3) //You spend a majority of the day showing Jade the proper poise of a ballroom waltz. She's clumsy and awkward. You're not used to seeing her like that.// //You decide to rest for a bit.// (text-colour:#37b24d)["Whew, I wasn't expecting that to be such a workout. The movements are much slower, but the strength and precision you need for this kind of stuff is surprising."] //It's a change of pace for her to be the one having trouble with new techniques for once.// (link: "Yeah, it certainly does a number on your calves. I've gotten used to it by now but God it can make you sore for days if you're not used to it...")[= (text-colour:#37b24d)["No kidding."] //You pause for a moment, curious to ask Jade something that you've been wondering about recently.// (link: "Hey, Jade?")[= [[What drove you to become a dancer?->Ballroom Event 3 Page 2]]

(set: $ballroom_event_number to it + 1) (set: $ballroom_event_value to it + 2) (text-colour:purple)["So uh, what's the plan exactly Erika?"] //You shush her, preparing for your grand plan. Surely enough, Jade shows up shortly after.// (link: "Jade!")[= //You stand proudly in the center of the ballroom. Kass awkwardly introduces herself to Jade from the sidelines.// (link: "I challenge you...")[= (link: "To a dance-off!")[= //You grab her hand and bring her to the floor. You explain the rules. Each dancer will have one song of their choice to perform, and finally, they will perform together based on the song of the losing player's choosing. After each song, the referee will rate each dance out of 10. The most points at the end wins!// (text-colour:purple)["Erika! You didn't tell me I was going to have to be a referee! I barely know anything about dancing..."] (link: "Too late to back out now!")[= //Kass sighs in acquiescence.// (text-colour:#37b24d)["You're on!"] [[Begin!->Ballroom Event 4 Page 2]]

(set: $ballroom_event_number to it + 1) //You walk to the ballroom. Jade is practicing as usual. She enthusiastically greets you.// (link: "Hey Jade! I actually... wanted to talk to you about something!")[= //Jade turns her head, intrigued.// (text-colour:#37b24d)["Yeah, Erika? What's up?"] (link: "I've just been thinking, and...")[= (link: "I want you and your brother to live here, at the Castle.")[= (link: "Er... free of charge!")[= //Jade is taken aback by your request. She thinks you're joking at first.// (text-colour:#37b24d)["Erika, I don't know what to say... Why?"] (link: "Jade...")[= (link: "I know how passionate you are about dancing.")[= (link: "No matter your circumstances.")[= (link: "And that's something... I saw in myself.")[= (link: "Jade, I don't want you to give up on your dreams.")[= (link: "Sharing these few nights with you has has renewed a passion in me that I thought had died out long ago.")[= (text-colour:#37b24d)["Erika... I..." "You mean a lot to me, too." "I don't know what I would've done if I hadn't met you." "I would be so grateful if you really let me stay here with you."] [[...->Ballroom Event 5 Page 2]]

(set: $castle_event_number to it + 1) (set: $castle_event_value to it + 2) //You approach the field and spot an angry, little speck running around in circles.// (link:"//Get a better look.//")[= //Yep. That's your sister.// (text-colour: purple)["ERIKA!,"] she yells from a distance. (text-colour: purple)["LOOK OUT!"] //You see Kass' horse, Ginger, running straight in your direction towards the open gate right in front of you.// (link:"//Close the gate!//")[= //Ginger rears on her hind legs as Kass catches up to her. She gets a hold of Ginger's reigns and irritatingly drags her back to the stable.// [[Seems like things are going well here.->Castle Event 1 Page 2]]

(set: $castle_event_number to it + 1) (set: $castle_event_value to it + 2) //You walk into the kitchen to see the stove blazing into flames a few feet high. Peet, the Head Chef, is frantically filling a bucket of water to pour over the flames.// (link:"Hey, uh, Peet?")[= (t8n:"shudder")+(link:"Everything okay in here??")[= //Peet turns at you with bloodshot eyes and a distraught smile on his face.// (text-colour: orange)["OH! HEY THERE, ERIKA! DIDN'T SEE YA THERE! EVERYTHING IS FINE, THANKS!!! :D"] (link:"...")[= //Everything is very clearly not fine.// (t8n:"shudder")+(link:"What's going on, Peet.")[= (text-colour: orange)["I WAS JUST PREPPING DINNER AND UH... I RAN INTO SOME TECHNICAL DIFFICULTIES!! BUT IT'S FINE, I SWEAR!!!!"] //Peet grins and shoots an extremely sad finger-gun at you before slipping on the wet floor and, miraculously, throwing the bucket from his grasp straight onto the flames and dousing them for good.// [[//Help him up.//->Castle Event 2 Page 2]]

(set: $castle_event_number to it + 1) (set: $castle_event_value to it + 3) (link:"Hey, guys!")[= (text-colour: orange)["Oh, hey Erika!!! How's it been?"] //Peet's big grin starkly contrasts with Kass' furrowed brow. She appears to be troubled by something. She takes you aside while Peet dozes off on one of the garden benches.// (link:"Is everything okay?")[= (text-colour: purple)["I just don't know what to do Erika... This staffing shortage just sprung up out of nowhere and it's going to take some time to fully recover. Our current department leads are taking a big hit from this, both mentally and physically. I mean... have you even //seen// Peet recently?"] (link:"//You look behind your shoulder.//")[= //Peet is completely knocked out.// (text-colour: purple)["//He's losing it Erika. We need to find a way to mitigate this sooner than later!//"] [[You're right.->Castle Event 3 Page 2]]

(set: $castle_event_number to it + 1) (set: $castle_event_value to it + 2) //You walk into the Conference Chamber. Everyone from each department is in attendance, from the Cleaning Staff to the Defense Squadron. You take your seat in an oversized, antiquated chair at the head of the conference table. To your left, Kass is preparing to take notes on the meeting.// (link:"Hello everyone, I'm glad you could all make it today.")[= (link:"It has come to my attention that, recently, we have been running on a shortage in staff, as I'm sure you're all aware.")[= //In the background, the Castle Bishop, Reverend Bartholomew VI, scoffs and mutters a remark that you cannot hear.// (link:"Er...")[= (link:"Considering this unexpected shortage, we may have to strategically fill some of the more essential positions, such as the kitchen and cleaning departments, until we recruit more members.")[= //You outline a plan to assign the Defense Squadron to a voluntary recruitment operation in the Castle Square. The Squadron diligently accepts this request. The Reverend speaks up.// (text-colour: magenta)["You wish to mock our front line of Defense by assigning them to such trivial matters? Lady Annalisa would have never allowed something so preposterous!"] (link:"Well... //ahem//...")[= //Kass stares the Reverend down with a murderous intent. She forces herself to keep her composure.// [[//I have a feeling she's not going to let him get away with that.//->Castle Event 4 Page 2]]

(set: $castle_event_number to it + 1) //Kass is sitting on Mom's bed, looking through old photographs and letters. Her eyes are red and puffy.// (text-colour: purple)["You can come in, you know."] (link:"Hey... sorry for barging in.")[= (link:"If you need me to leave, I can just-")[= (text-colour: purple)["Erika, what the hell am I doing with my life? I've done nothing but study and prepare for this responsbility for my entire life... and I fuck everything up instantly! I could never live up to her expectations. Not like this. I'm a sad excuse for a daughter. I feel so... purposeless."] (link:"Kass...")[= (link:"No one has ever, EVER come close to doing what you have for me.")[= (link:"I am so, so grateful to have you in my life. I wouldn't be where I am right now if it wasn't for you.")[= (link:"I mean... if I'm being honest with you...")[= (link:"I was confident Mom was going to choose you as her successor. You were always so diligent, capable, smart...")[= (link:"She saw something in you. Hell, I did too. You may differ from what Mom would've done at times... but that's not a bad thing!")[= (link:"..Mom was talented at what she did. It's no wonder you looked up to her so much.")[= (link:"But she put her pride above her people. She cared for them deeply, but they were there to serve us first and foremost.")[= (link:"You're different Kass. You care for these people. You grew up with them as your family, not as employees.")[= (link:"The nobles in this Castle can't even comprehend the kind of hard work that people do around here. Mom tolerated them for her status, but you're different, Kass.")[= (link: "When you stood up for me, you were speaking for every member of the Castle. They just didn't have the power to say it.")[= (link: "And... that's what a real Queen would do.")[= //Kass looks up at you, conflicted and teary-eyed, with a gentle smile on her face.// (text-colour: purple)["Erika, I appreciate it, I really do, but I could never do what you do. Your charisma and enthusiasm? That's what this Kingdom needs right now."] [[...->Castle Event 5 Page 2]]

(set: $ending to ($rhythm - $regalness)) (set: _final_score to 0) (if:$ending >= 8)[(set: _final_score to 5)] (elseif:$ending >= 4)[(set: _final_score to 4)] (elseif:$ending is <= 2 and >= -2)[(set: _final_score to 3)] (elseif:$ending <= -8)[(set: _final_score to 1)] (elseif:$ending <= -4)[(set: _final_score to 2)] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//This week has been more eventful than I had anticipated...//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//I've been... doing some thinking over the course of this week.//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//And my perspective towards being Queen have changed quite a bit...//] (link:"...")[= (link-goto: "//Here's where I stand.//", "Epilogue " + (text: _final_score))

(link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//When I was younger, I lacked confidence, responsibility, focus...//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//I wasn't happy. My passion pulled me away from my responsbility.//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//But... after this week, I feel... capable...//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//Things are changing rapidly. I am determined to improve the quality of life of my citizens. The outdated nobility system has been abolished.//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//When I look at Peet, and Kass, and every other member of my staff, I see my family. My people. And I would do anything for them.//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//As long as I have Kass, and my people's support, I feel unstoppable. I strive to do everything in my power to make this Kingdom the best it has ever been//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//This is what I was born to do.//] (t8n-arrive:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[[...->Ending 1 Title]]

(link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//Leading this Kingdom is something I've learned to love...//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//But nothing will ever surpass my desire to dance...//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//No matter how hard things get at the Castle, I will always continue pursuing this dream.//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//Maybe one day... I will be recognized on the ballroom... but...//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//At the end of the day, I have a duty to uphold. I have to do this...//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//For Mom.//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//For Kass.//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//For my people.//] (t8n-arrive:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[[...->Ending 2 Title]]

(link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//All my life, I have chosen dancing over my responsibilities.//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//But, truthfully, that is something I regret.//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//As much as I love dancing, I have a responsibility to my family. To Kass. To Mom.//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//Yet, being Queen is still not something I'm looking forward to.//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//In truth, I still wish I could dance to my heart's content. Let go of the massive weight on my shoulders.//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//But, the only way to truly find my happiness is through a balance in both. It will be difficult. It will be time-consuming. But, to live a well-balanced, healthy life...//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//Moderation is key.//] (t8n-arrive:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[[...->Ending 3 Title]]

(link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//Spending my time on the ballroom...//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//It makes the stress of my responsibilities momentarily fade away...//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//As much as I love Kass, and this Castle, and my people...//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//My heart lies in this ballroom.//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//Seeing the way Jade is passionate about dance the way I am fills me with... inspiration.//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//I... wish to pursue dance in the same way she does. Just being able to express myself every night here in the Castle makes it all seem worth it.//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//So... while I will give my best effort to become the best Queen I can be... I will continue visiting the ballroom - and Jade - as often as I can...//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//Dancing the night away.//] (t8n-arrive:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[[...->Ending 4 Title]]

(link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//The flame that exists within me to dance is not something that can be extingushed, or even controlled.//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//In my heart, I know that being Queen is not something that can sustain me for the rest of my life.//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//I... want to travel the world with Jade. We joked about moving back to the city and performing on stage in duets. But... I wasn't really joking.//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//As for the Castle... I want Kass to take over for me. I... know how bad she wanted this. And as much as I appreciate her giving me this chance, she has every right to chase her passion, too.//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//I can't say the transition will go smoothly, but at this point? It doesn't matter to me.//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//As long as I have my passion. As long as Jade is with me.//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//I will choose to dance.//] (t8n-arrive:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[[...->Ending 5 Title]]

(set: $timeOfDay to "Night") (set: $regalness to it + 1) (set: _sentence_generator to (random:1,10)) (set: _study_sentence to (a: "You have no idea what any of this means, but you're sure you'll pick up on it eventually.", "You're definitely going to need Kass' help with this one...", "You debate whether to slam your head into your textbooks to see if that will make you learn more effectively.", "Your vocabulary has matured rather lavishly. Yes, quite.", "You consider autodefenestration to cure your boredom.", "You read some books on economic and political theory. You realize that a monarchy might not be as great as you were told.", "You snuck in a book on ballroom techniques to read on your break.", "You study agriculture. You're hungry for cheese.", "You complete some homework that Kass had prepared for you. You have about twenty hours left before you catch up to her lesson plan.", "You dream that you're in a large-scale theater production. Wait. You realize you aren't supposed to be sleeping right now." )) //You spend the day practicing your dance moves in your room.// //(print: _study_sentence's (_sentence_generator))// [[Return.->Bedchambers]]

(set: $timeOfDay to "Afternoon") (set: $rhythm to it + 1) (set: _sentence_generator to (random:1,10)) (set: _practice_sentence to (a: "You feel... happy right now.", "You're pretty sure you just accidentally dented the wall with an extravagant twirl-kick.", "You hope Kass and the staff have things under control just for now...", "You imagine how hilarious it would be to see Kass doing this.", "You're impressed with how much you've improved since you were little.", "You try out some disco moves that may too bold for the ballroom.", "You realize you may be more out of shape than you thought.", "You imagine yourself dancing in front of the entire castle staff. You realize that was a mistake.", "You think you may have sprained your ankle, but damn did that routine feel solid!", "You put on Mom's favorite song. It feels right." )) //You spend the day practicing your dance moves in your room.// //(print: _practice_sentence's (_sentence_generator))// [[Return.->Bedchambers]]

(link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//I knew deep down that Kass wanted this much more than I did. She was so diligent to her studies. I always envied her drive to impress Mom.//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//Whenever Kass was nose-deep in a textbook, I was lost in my head, practicing in the ballroom until the early hours of the morning.//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//It's funny, the ballroom was really the only place I felt confident. But I knew Mom wouldn't allow that. (text-colour:red)["A foolish endeavor,"] she always called it.// ] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//And I knew Mom would've chosen Kass instead of me, too, if... things didn't happen the way they did.//] [[...->Opening Scene 7]]

(link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//I just wish I could run away from it all.//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//But... I can't just... ignore my duties. I would be a stain on the family.//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[//I can't disappoint Kass like that.//] (link:"...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(t8n-time:2s)[[[//It wouldn't be fair to her.//->Bedchambers]]] (set: $timeOfDay to "Day") (set: $day_number to 1) (set: $castle_event_number to 1) (set: $ballroom_event_number to 1) (set: $castle_event_value to 1) (set: $ballroom_event_number to 1)

//Kass, pretending not to seem out-of-breath, flashes a tired smile at you.// (text-colour: purple)["Thanks for the help back there, Erika. Ginger has been acting up ever since I took over things here. She was always so calm until Mom..."] (link:"...")[= (text-colour: purple)["Look - I've never been great with animals. Overseeing the stable might as well be my worst nightmare."] (link:"Well, typically you don't want to leave the gate wide open.")[= (link:"Or... let go of the reigns...")[= (link:"But... I really appreciate how hard you've been working these past few weeks.")[= (link:"Seriously. You're the only thing keeping this place together at this point.")[= //Kass averts her eyes and downplays your compliments, but you can tell that she really appreciated what you had to say. She's clearly not used to the praise, but she deserves it.// [[Return->Bedchambers]]

(link:"Y'know Peet...")[= (link:"Recently, it seems you've been overworking yourself quite a bit.")[= (link:"I'd be willing to help you out in the meantime if you need any-")[= (t8n:"shudder")+(text-colour: orange)["Oh Erika, I appreciate it, really, but I'm keeping up just fine here!"] (link:"Peet... I'm serious. I can help you out.")[= (text-colour: orange)["..."] (text-colour: orange)["Okay, maybe I could use some help just for today if that's... alright?"] (link:"Sure! What do you need me to do?")[= (text-colour: orange)["Well, there's some vegetables you could chop up for me while I clean the stove..."] (t8n:"rumble")+(link:"//Sounds easy enough.//")[= (t8n:"rumble")+(link:"//Chop!//")[= (t8n:"rumble")+(link:"//Chop!//")[= (link:"//Chop!//")[= (link:"//...What's that... smell?//")[= //Peet, the talented pyromancer, has managed to create an even larger flame. It seems as though he has unknowingly turned the stove on. Cleaning supplies and kitchen utensils are scattered on the stovetop. You help control the situation before getting ready to head back.// [[Return->Bedchambers]]

Ending 1 - Birthright [[Replay?->Opening Scene]]

Ending 2 - Sacrifice [[Replay?->Opening Scene]]

Ending 3 - Everything in Moderation [[Replay?->Opening Scene]]

Ending 4 - Passionate Endeavor [[Replay?->Opening Scene]]

Ending 5 - Dancing Queen [[Replay?->Opening Scene]]

//This is a more serious problem than you thought. It's a difficult matter, but you're concerned for the well-being of your staff. This feels like your first REAL job here, and you are committed to it.// (link:"I'll have to check in with everyone in the departments. I think we should hold a meeting and discuss this with everyone as soon as we can.")[= //Kass is taken aback by your forward tone. She nods in agreement.// (text-colour: purple)["Sure thing, Your Majesty,"] she smugly jests, (text-colour: purple)["I'll try to set something up within the next few days. Thanks for taking care of this, Erika."] (link:"Of course!")[= //Your imposter syndrome momentarily fades. You feel capable.// //Peet is now drooling on the bench. You decide to leave him there - he deserves the rest.// //You think you'll help prepare dinner tonight.// [[Return->Bedchambers]]

(text-colour: purple)["Well, //Reverend//, the reason why we are assigning the Defense Squadron is because, at this current time, we have no matters in which their intervention is necessary. Meanwhile, the Castle staff is in desperate need for additional assistance."] (link:"Yes, er..., Kass is absolutely correct.")[= (link:"And, in turn, the nobility and other non-service members of staff will be required to assist in daily tasks around the Castle temporarily until we meet our staffing requirements.")[= //Rev. Bartholomew looks around at the others in hopes of garnering outrage at this prospect.// (text-colour: magenta)["I will not stand to be disgraced like this! I have dedicated my life guiding this Kingdom in the name of the Lord! I refuse to be reduced to a busboy!"] (link:"Um... Reverend, with all due respect, this is not option-")[= (text-colour: magenta)["And you have the gall to call yourself successor to the Great Queen Annalisa!? Such impudence!"] (link:"//You try your best to keep your composure, just as Kass would-//")[= (text-colour: purple)["You have GOT to be kidding me. You have the audacity to speak to my sister that way?"] (link:"//Oh.//")[= (text-colour: purple)["It is vital to provide our Kingdom's staff with the support that they need - something that not even my own MOTHER was capable of doing. Erika is doing something absolutely vital for this Kingdom, and if you have a problem with participating in this transition, you won't be needed here anymore. Get the hell out."] [[//Holy shit.//->Castle Event 4 Page 3]]

//Kass realizes what she has just done, and rapidly sits back down, flustered as ever.// //The Reverend, shocked beyond belief, walks promptly out of the Conference Chambers. The rest of the nobility meekly follow the Reverend outside. Everyone is staring directly at you and Kass, dumbfounded.// (link:"//This is not going as expected.//")[= (text-colour: purple)["Everyone, I would like to apologize for my outburst - it was extremely unprofessional and rude and I should-"] //The Head of the Cleaning Staff interjects.// (text-colour:#fcc419)["Erm - Lady Kass, I, for one, found the Bishop's statements extremely uncalled for and honestly, I really don't think anyone here really //liked// the Nobles anyways..."] (text-colour: orange)["Yeah, I mean, honestly?"] Peet chimes in, (text-colour: orange)["I much prefer the way Erika is handling things around here. This isn't the first time Castle staff has ran into serious overworking issues. The Nobles always acted like they owned the place, and they never really did much around here anyways..."] (link:"Uh... well, I appreciate that.")[= (link:"And I also just realized we have lost most of our staffing substitutes...")[= (link:"But that's okay!")[= (link:"Together, I believe we can work this out, with some strategic reorganization.")[= //You communicate with the departments about their needs, and reallocate the members of each department to form a more suitable working environment for everyone at the Castle. It's not necessarily satisfactory, but it IS doable until the Defense Squadron finds enough recruits.// //Kass, who is clearly feeling guilty over this sudden liability, stays quiet for the rest of the meeting.// [[Return.->Bedchambers]]

(link:"Kass, I'm serious. I know this is against every Royal Family standard but... I would be willing to give all of this up.")[= (link:"I'ts always been your dream to rule this Castle.")[= (link:"Hell, the only pursuit I ever had was in the ballroom - this is not what I expected to be doing in a million years.")[= (text-colour: purple)["I've seen the ways you help people around this Castle, Erika. And I can tell how much you enjoy it. As much as I wanted to be Queen growing up, I want you to have this, Erika. I know it's not exactly what you imagined, but I do know that you are the woman for this job.] //You feel bittersweet, and a bit guilty. You don't know what to say... but, you are more than happy to keep things the way they've been if that's really what Kass thinks is for the best.// (text-colour: purple)["After all, I've been enjoying my duties. Strategy and planning are kinda my thing. The public appearance shit isn't for me as much as I thought it was."] (link:"...")[= (text-colour: purple)["I'm so proud of you, Erika."] (link:"I'm here for you, Kass")[= (link:"I always will be. Just like you've been for me.")[= (link:"I love you so much. You're the best sister I could've ever asked for.")[= //You hug Kass tightly. You are so lucky to have her in your life. All of the uncertainty facing the Castle suddenly feels okay, knowing that she's around. Together, you are going to make this Kingdom better than it has ever been.// [[Return->Bedchambers]]

(link: "To be perfectly honest with you, it's rare to meet another dancer around here!")[= (link: "I've actually... never had someone watch me dance before.")[= (link: "Sorry if it was a trainwreck...")[= //Jade proudly grins at you with her hands on her hips.// (text-colour:#37b24d)["Lady Erika, you were impressive! A little classical for my taste, but your technique and form is absolutely amazing! Where did you learn?"] (link: "Oh um... I'm actually self-taught!")[= (link: "And please! You can just call me Erika!")[= (text-colour:#37b24d)["Well, listen, Erika. It's getting late, but next time you're down here, I would love to dance with you!"] //You have never danced with someone else before. The thought alone intimidates you, but you also feel excited. You can't leave Jade hanging!// (link: "Uh... yeah! Sounds like fun!")[= (text-colour:#37b24d)["Well it was nice meeting you, Erika! Gotta say... NOT what I expected the Queen to be like! Anyways! I'll see you around!"] //Jade dashes out of the ballroom. She seems... unique.// [[Return->Bedchambers]]

//You call for a break, to which Jade reluctantly agrees. You sit with her, exhausted, on the ballroom floor. You feel like you want to take a nap right here and now.// (text-colour:#37b24d)["You know, it's been really great being able to find someone else around here who knows how to dance! Hey, maybe next time, you can show me some fancy ballroom techniques, yeah?"] //You are still panting, but you feel invigorated after expanding your dancing knowledge.// (t8n:"blur")+(link: "...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(link: "...I ...")[= (t8n:"blur")+(link: "would love...")[= (t8n-arrive:"blur")+(link: "to!")[= //You feel as though you've been holding your breath underwater for ten minutes... So light-headed... You decide to take the rest of the night off. Jade, still bursting with energy, waves you off as she continues to perform flips and twists that make you legs feel weak.// [[Return->Bedchambers]]

(set: $timeOfDay to "Day") (set: $day_number to it + 1) (set: $sentence_generator to (random:1,$max_length)) (print: $base_sentences's ($sentence_generator)) [[Wake up.->Bedchambers]]

//Jade sheepishly chuckles as if she'd been anticipating this question.// (text-colour:#37b24d)["Well, back in the city, the dancing scene was always massive. I always wanted to join a dancing troupe, perform while traveling the world... But... that dream didn't last long. My father passed last year, and ever since then, it's been just me and my little bro. We couldn't afford to live in the city anymore, so we moved into the village just outside of town." "I had to drop dancing to work full-time at the antique store in town. That's why I come here every night right after work to squeeze whatever time I can get out of here... Even then, I have to rush things, because I can't keep my bro by himself at home for too long. We need each other right now. "But... this is the only time I really feel like I can get a glimpse of what things could've been like..."] (link: "Wow, Jade, I'm so sorry...")[= (link: "I had no idea.")[= (link: "Ever since my Mom passed last year, my sister and I have been alone - directionless - too.")[= (link: "I'm lucky enough to have inherited so much, but I know what it feels like have your responsibilities weigh on you.")[= (link: "Jade, you're so talented. I'll do whatever I can in my power to make your dream come true.")[= //Jade, shocked, gives you an appreciative smile. She puts her hand on your shoulder.// (text-colour:#37b24d)["Erika... I can handle myself, really. I'm just glad to have someone I can share my passion with. It's been a lot less lonely with you around... Thank you."] //You hug Jade and get ready to head back to your room. You weren't expecting to grow so close to Jade so soon, but you're happy she opened up to you. There is something special about her, but you can't quite place your finger on it.// [[Return.->Bedchambers]]

//You're up first. You put on one of Kass' favorite songs. Hopefully that's not considered cheating...// (t8n: "pulse")+(link: "//Get into posture!//")[= (t8n: "fade-down")+(link: "//Step!//")[= (t8n: "fade-down")+(link: "//1!//")[= (t8n: "fade-down")+(link: "//2!//")[= (t8n: "shudder")+(link: "//3!//")[= (t8n: "slide-right")+(link: "//Twirl!//")[= (t8n: "slide-left")+(link: "//Spin!//")[= (t8n: "slide-right")+(link: "//Spin!//")[= (t8n: "pulse")+(link: "//Spin!//")[= (link: "//Pose!//")[= //You catch your breath, awaiting Kass' score.// (text-colour:purple)["Uh, that was good, Erika! Er... I give it a........"] (link: "...")[= (text-colour:purple)["7?"] (link: "//You're dead to me, Kass.//")[= //It's Jade's turn.// //Jade is performing ridiculously advanced moves. She is a fierce competitor. Jade performs tricky footwork, flips, and spins. It seems impossible!// //Jade eagerly looks at Kass for a score.// (text-colour:purple)["Erm... that was certainly something else! Very impressive stuff. I give it a........"] (text-colour:purple)["9?"] [[//I can't blame her...//->Ballroom Event 4 Page 3]]

//It's time for the final round. I get to choose the song. You know what? I'm going to mix things up...// //You decide to instead put on one of Jade's hip-hop mixes that you are quite fond of. It's time to beat her at her own game. Jade, surprised, joins you on the floor.// (t8n: "pulse")+(link: "//Get into posture!//")[= (t8n: "rumble")+(link: "//Step!//")[= (t8n: "slide-left")+(link: "//Hop!//")[= (t8n: "rumble")+(link: "//Turn!//")[= (t8n: "pulse")+(link: "//Drop!//")[= (t8n: "slide-right")+(link: "//Sweep!//")[= (t8n: "slide-left")+(link: "//Spin!//")[= (t8n: "rumble")+(link: "//Spin!//")[= (t8n: "pulse")+(link: "//Flip!//")[= (link: "//Pose!//")[= //Jade is clearly more advanced than you, but you felt like you actually kept up with her for the first time!// (text-colour:purple)["Um.. well... you both did great!"] (text-colour:purple)["I'm going to give Erika an 8 and... Jade a 9 again."] //You turn to Jade. You no longer care about winning your self-proclaimed dance-off. You just want to see Jade happy.// (link: "Congratulations, Miss Jade! You are the first annual Castle Ball champion!")[= (text-colour:#37b24d)["Thank you, thank you! You danced well, Erika. It was tough competition!"] //She blushes at you. You can't tell if she's flustered or just flushed out from the intense routine.// //You think you've raised Jade's mood quite a bit. You haven't seen her this invigorated in a while. Jade announces that she has to rush home, but that it was a lot of fun and that she was very thankful that you held this dance-off for her. You and Kass head home. She's still mad at you for putting her on the spot like that, but you can tell she enjoyed the dances.// [[Return->Bedchambers]]

(text-colour:#37b24d)["Erika... "Your kindness, elegance, and positivity... You carry a light within you that... has given me so much hope. Even at the worst time in my life." "I'm not sure how else to put this but... I want to dance beside you. Nothing could make me happier..."] (link: "I...")[= (link: "Jade...")[= (link: "...I would love nothing more.")[= //You and Jade continue to dance together late into the night. You tell her that you will clean out one of the unused Chambers for her and her brother by tomorrow afternoon.// //Despite the immense amount of stress that you face in your daily responsibilities, everything seems okay as long as Jade is with you.// [[Return.->Bedchambers]]