The House Party with macros

Who do you want to be? (link: "Masculine Character")[(set: $male to "true")(goto: "Mr. Edward")] (link: "Feminine Character") [(set: $male to "false")(goto: "Miss Harriet")] (link: "I don't care")[(goto: "I don't care")]

{ (set: $male to true) (set: $reputation to 40) (set: $siblingrelationship to 60) (set: $cousinrelationship to 50) } You are the honourable Mr. Edward Rowley, heir presumptive to the Viscount, your father. You have one younger brother and two younger sisters, one of whom, Harriet, will be attending this party with you. While you are obligated to marry and produce heirs at some point, you are only just turned 27 and still plan on sowing your wild oats for a while longer. As long as you avoid the scheming debutantes and matchmaking mamas (and the scandel they court), there is nothing stopping you from enjoying your planned trip to tour the Continent next week. Your stated objective is to get through this final house party of the London season without getting leg shackled. However, there are any number of other outcomes that could occur, should you so choose. Now, behave in a way fitting your station! Avoid those social pitfalls! And, above all else, don't get caught in the parson's noose! Remember, the house party only lasts for 3 days, so you'd best get started. Good luck! [[Begin]]

{ (set: $male to "false") (set: $reputation to 40) (set: $siblingrelationship to 60) (set: $cousinrelationship to 50) (set: $changedcounter to 0) } You are the honourable Miss Harriet Rowley, the eldest daughter of a wealthy viscount with a large dowry. You have an older brother, Edward, who will be attending the house party with you, and several younger siblings who have yet to emerge into Society. At 20 years old, you've learned to adeptly navigate the marriage mart and rejected several proposals. While you wish to be wed, you have no interest in accepting the courtship of a fortune hunter nor a gentleman with whom you do not suit. Your younger sister Jane will be debuting next season, and your biggest concern at the moment is ensuring her come-out is sucessful and untouched by scandal. Your stated objective is to make it through this final house party of the London season without breaking any of the ton's unspoken rules. However, should you wish it, there are plenty of other routes you could choose to take. Do you want to find a husband? Are you desperate to create a scandal to get your name in gossip sheets throughout the ton? Perhaps you want to raise your eligibility, taking society by storm with your elegant gowns and refined manners. Whatever your goal, you'd best get to it. Remember, the house party lasts for just 3 days. Now, behave in a way fitting your station! Avoid those social pitfalls! And, above all else, don't get cause a scandal! Good luck. [[Begin]]

(link-goto: "Pick for me!", (either: "Mr. Edward", "Miss Harriet"))

Your time at the house party has ended, and with it, the London season of 1822.

(if: $male is "true") [ ]\ (else:) [ ] (if: $reputation <= 10) **minimum value for rep before kicked out** (if: $siblingrelationship >= 30) **minimum value for sibling help** (if: $cousinrelationship >= 30) **minimum value for cousin help** (set: $changedcounter to ###) **number of times player had changed** (set: $changed to 'true') (set: $value to "a number wo quotes or truefalse") (set: $value to it - "a number") (set: $value to it + "a number")  (link: "text you want to appear in-game")[(goto: "name of passage)] — (em dash for copy and pasting)

Two finely dressed people sit across from another in a moving carriage. It's silent, save for the monotonous rumbling of the carriage wheels. Bright afternoon sunshine pours through the open window, the golden heat offset by the lazy breeze that swirls through the air. The lady–the honourable Miss Harriet Rowley–is sitting perfectly upright in her seat, reading a novel, a small pair of spectacles perched on the tip of her nose. Across from her, the gentleman–the honourable Mr. Edward Rowley–lounges back against the seat, looking out the window at the rolling English countryside with a bored expression on his handsome visage. "I don't see why Mother forced us to attend Hanbridge's house party," he says, breaking the silence. Harriet sets her novel aside and removes her spectacles, folding them and putting them into her reticule. "Because, dear brother, it's the last one of the Season, and she's still hoping to marry us off." Edward squints at his sister. "Marry //you// off, maybe. Mother knows better than to try such with me. Besides, I'm only just turned 27." Harriet laughs. "Do you know nothing about our dear Mama? Ever since I've debuted, she's grown more and more desperate to get me down the aisle, and–" "Yes, well, you're a woman," Edward says. "Your life begins once you make a suitable match." Harriet's smile falls, and she glares at him. Edward winces. "Sorry. What were you saying?" Harriet sucks in a deep breath and continues. "Mama is marriage-minded, and he has //two// children of age. By marrying us off, she'll be able to focus solely on Jane's upcoming debut." "Don't be ridiculous, Harriet." "Do you //really// think her headache the night of the opening ball of the Season was a coincidence? An unfortunately timed malady that just so happened to force you to play chaperone?" Harriet scoffs at her brother. Edward's mouth falls as he thinks over the past Season, recalling all the headaches and illnesses that had plagued their mother and forced him into Society. "That scheming, manipulative..." "Careful, Edward," Harriet warns, a slight smile playing at the edge of her lips, "she's still our Mama." Edward swallows the rest of his bitter tirade. "Well, what are we going to do?" "We'll have to get through this house party without incident, then you can head off on your trip." "And what of you?" Harriet shrugs. "Between now and the start of next Season, Mama will be occupied preparing for Jane's debut. She won't have time to focus on me." A grin flashes across Edward's face. "You're brilliant, Harriet." His eyes catch on the buildings now passing by the window. "Looks like we're pulling into Hanbridge's estate now. Are you ready?" "As I'll ever be." Harriet tucks her novel away and pats her coiffure, ensuring every pin is in place. Edward brushes his hands down his jacket and pants, trying to smooth invisible wrinkles. The siblings smile grimly at one another as the carriage slows to a gentle stop. [[Wait for the carriage door to be opened]] [[Reach out and open the carriage door]]

(if: $male is true) [A servant in fine livery opens the door. [[Hold your hand out to be helped from the carriage]] [[Jump down from the carriage]] ]\ (else:) [A servant in fine livery opens the carriage door. Edward jumps out first and stands at attention, his hand extended to help you down from the carriage. [[Take Edward's hand]] [[Jump down from the carriage]] ]

(if: $male is true) [(set: $reputation to it - 3) You push open the door, ignoring Harriet's sharply indrawn breath. A servant dressed in fine livery stands a few steps away, looking shocked. He had clearly been moving forward to open the door for you. He recovers from his shock quickly and moves forward to hold the door. [[Hold your hand out to be helped from the carriage]] [[Jump down from the carriage]] ]\ (else:) [(set: $siblingrelationship to it - 5) "Harriet!" Edward reaches out and stays your hand before you push open the door. "There are servants to do that." You withdraw your hand back to your lap. [[Wait for the carriage door to be opened]] ]

(if: $male is true) [You jump out of the carriage. [[Turn around and help Harriet]] [[Start towards the manor]] ]\ (else:) [(set: $siblingrelationship to it - 3)(set: $reputation to it - 5)You ignore Edward's proffered hand and jump from the carriage. "Harriet!" Edward admonishes under his breath. You shrug. [[Walk towards the manor]] ]

(set: $siblingrelationship to it - 3)You wait for assistance. The servant eyes you warily, then glances around, unsure of how to proceed. "Edward!" Harriet hisses. "What are you doing? Get out of the carriage." [[Continue to wait]] [[Jump down from the carriage]]

You reach out and grasp Edward's hand in your own, using his support to carefully descend from the carriage. [[Walk towards the manor]]

(set: $reputation to it - 5)After a few more awkward seconds, the servant hesitantly extends his hand. You take it and exit the carriage. [[Turn around and help Harriet]] [[Start towards the manor]]

(set: $siblingrelationship to it + 3)You turn, extending your hand up towards your sister. She takes it and emerges from the carriage. "Thank you, Edward." [[Walk towards the manor]]

(set: $siblingrelationship to it - 5)You walk towards the manor. Behind you, you hear Harriet gasp at your rudeness, then her murmured thanks towards the servant as she descends from the carriage. She rushes up to your side. "Edward! Never in my life have I seen such rudeness from you. Do better, please." [[Walk towards the manor]]

data that is copy+pasted across passages for whatever reason

The stately manor that looms ahead has perfectly manicured shrubbery, gracefully aging masonry, and uniformly shining windows. A finely dressed couple—the lord and lady of the manor—await you on the landing in front of the door. You draw close. [[Continue past the couple]] [[Stop in front of the couple]]

(if: $male is true) [(set: $reputation to it - 5)(set: $siblingrelationship to it - 5)"Edward!" Harriet admonishes under her breath. She reaches out and grabs your arm. [[Stop in front of the couple]] [[Pull yourself free and continue on]] ]\ (else:) [(set: $reputation to it - 5)(set: $siblingrelationship to it - 5)"Harriet!" Edward hisses, reaching out and tugging you to a stop. [[Stop in front of the couple]] [[Pull yourself free and continue on]] ]

(if: $male is true) [You and Harriet halt a respectful distance from the couple. [["How do you do, Lord Hanbridge?"]] [[Bow]] ]\ (else:) [You and Edward halt a respectful distance from the couple. [["Lord Hanbridge, Lady Hanbridge, how lovely to see you both."]] [[Curtsy]] ]

(if: $male is true) [(set: $siblingrelationship to it - 80)(set: $reputation to it - 80)(set: $cousinrelationship to it - 80)“Well, I never!” Lord Hanbridge exclaims as you move past him. “Edward, what are you doing?” Harriet cries. You push open the front door of the manor and find yourself in a beautiful foyer, with gleaming marble floors and a grand staircase. “Now, see here,” Lord Handbridge says, grabbing your arm and pulling you to a stop, “you can’t just barge into my house without greeting myself or my wife. It’s simply not done!” You turn back. Lord Hanbridge stands in the doorway, glaring at you. Behind him, his wife gives you a withering stare and Harriet stares at you in shock. “My lord, is there a problem?” A well-dressed servant appears beside you, glancing between you and Lord Hanbridge. “Indeed there is. Take him back to his carriage and tell the coachman to bring him back to wherever he came from.” The butler takes hold of your arm and begins escorting you back out of the manor and down the steps. A cry of distress comes from Harriet. “Please, my lord, I’m not—” “Take her back as well,” Hanbridge orders. “I won’t have anything to do with such a rude family.” With that, the butler signals to another servant, who rushes forward to take Harriet’s arm, and they escort you both back to your coach and deposit you inside without ceremony. Before long, the carriage begins its journey, spiriting you back to your parents’ estate with your reputations in tatters. [[The End]] ]\ (else:) [(set: $siblingrelationship to it - 80)(set: $reputation to it - 80)(set: $cousinrelationship to it - 80)“Well, I never!” Lord Hanbridge exclaims as you move past him. “Harriet, what are you doing?” Edward cries. You push open the front door of the manor and find yourself in a beautiful foyer, with gleaming marble floors and a grand staircase. “Now, see here,” Lord Handbridge says, grabbing your arm and pulling you to a stop, “you can’t just barge into my house without greeting myself or my wife. It’s simply not done!” You turn back. Lord Hanbridge stands in the doorway, glaring at you. Behind him, his wife gives you a withering stare and Edward is staring at you in shock. “My lord, is there a problem?” A well-dressed servant appears beside you, glancing between you and Lord Hanbridge. “Indeed there is. Take her back to her carriage and tell the coachman to bring her back to wherever she came from.” The butler takes hold of your arm and begins escorting you back out of the manor and down the steps. A cry of dismay comes from Edward. “Please, my lord, I’m not—” “Take him back as well,” Hanbridge orders. “I won’t have anything to do with such a rude family.” With that, the butler signals to another servant, who rushes forward to take Edward’s arm, and they escort you both back to your coach and deposit you inside without ceremony. Before long, the carriage begins its journey, spiriting you back to your parents’ estate with your reputations in tatters. [[The End]] ]

Harriet dips into a curtsy as you execute a perfect bow. "Mr. Rowley, Miss Rowley, so pleased to see you." Lord Hanbridge nods in greeting. His wife smiles at you both. [[“Thank you both for inviting us. We’ve heard such wonderful things about your estate.”]] [[Stay silent]]

Edward bows as you dip into a perfect curtsy. "Mr. Rowley, Miss Rowley, so pleased to see you." Lord Hanbridge nods in greeting. His wife smiles at you both. [[“Thank you both for inviting us. We’ve heard such wonderful things about your estate.”]] [[Stay silent]]

(set: $reputation to it - 5)Harriet dips into a curtsy as you greet the couple. The lord and lady of the manor look shocked at your informal greeting. You see Harriet wince out of the corner of your eye. "Mr. Rowley," Lord Hanbridge says. "How... refreshing of you to greet us in such an friendly manor." Lady Hanbridge purses her lips as she stares at you. If your error isn’t quickly corrected, the remainder of your stay will be tainted by this first misstep.(if: $siblingrelationship >= 30)[ "My brother is a bit peaked from the journey, my lord," Harriet says, trying to cover your mistake. "We both are. We set out at an early hour from Rowley Park. Nevertheless, we're so pleased to be here." "Ah, Miss Rowley. We're so glad to have you both here." Lady Hanbridge says, smiling at her.] [[Stay silent]] [[“Thank you both for inviting us. We’ve heard such wonderful things about your estate.”]]

(set: $reputation to it - 5)Next to you, Edward bows. At your informal greeting, the lord and lady of the manor look shocked and Edward cringes. “Miss Rowley,” Lord Hanbridge says. “How... refreshing of you to greet us in such a friendly manner.” Lady Hanbridge purses her lips as she stares at you. If your error isn’t quickly corrected, the remainder of your stay will be tainted by this first misstep.(if: $siblingrelationship >= 30)[ “My sister is a bit muddled from the journey, my lord.” Edward says at last. “We both are. We set out at an early hour from Rowley Park. But we’re so pleased to be here.” “Yes, well, we’re glad to have you here.” Lady Hanbridge says, flashing a genuine smile at your brother.] [[“Thank you both for inviting us. We’ve heard such wonderful things about your estate.”]] [[Stay silent]]

(set: $reputation to it + 5)"We hope Hanbridge House meets all your expectations," Lady Hanbridge responds, smiling. "Please, come in, come in." Lord Hanbridge and his wife turn and lead you both into the manor. [[Enter the house]]

(if: $male is true) ["We wanted to thank you both for inviting us. We've heard such wonderful things about your estate," Harriet says. "We hope Hanbridge House meets all your expectations," Lady Hanbridge responds, smiling. "Please, come in, come in." Lord Hanbridge and his wife turn and lead you both into the manor.]\ (else:) ["Thank you both for inviting us. We've heard such wonderful things about your estate," Edward says. "We hope Hanbridge House meets all your expectations," Lady Hanbridge responds, smiling "Please, come in, come in." Lord Hanbridge and his wife turn and lead you both into the manor.] [[Enter the house]]

(if: $male is true) [You and Harriet follow Lord and Lady Hanbridge into the manor and find yourselves in a large foyer with gleaming marble floors and a grand staircase. Muffled chatter and faint laughter emanated from the nearby dining room where the other guests have been seated. “You've arrived just at the start of dinner, I'm afraid. We're keeping country hours while we're here. Please join us once you've settled in. Hill,” Lady Hanbridge calls out to a nearby servant, “please escort Miss Rowley up to the Blue Bedroom in the West Wing.” Your sister curtsies and departs, followed closely by servants bearing her trunks. “And you, Mr. Rowley, will be in the Yellow Bedroom.” Lady Hanbridge smiles at you. “Smith, please take him there.” Another servant bows deeply to Lady Hanbridge and nods at you. He leads you up the stairs and down the West Wing, which is a bustling hub of activity. Servants dart in and out of fine bedrooms, carrying trunks and bed linens. Several of the doors are closed, likely the rooms of the guests who’d already arrived and now wait downstairs. You follow Smith into a finely equipped bedroom with a large bed, dark wood furnishings, and pastel yellow wallpaper. Two windows look out onto the Hanbridge estate, the evening sun shining on meticulously manicured gardens that lead into a sprawling hedge maze. “Is everything to your liking, sir?” Smith asks. You nod. With a bow, Smith departs and several other servants enter bearing your trunks, which they immediately set to unpacking. [[Change out of your travelling costume]] [[Head back downstairs]] ]\ (else:) [You and Edward follow Lord and Lady Hanbridge into the manor and find yourselves in a large foyer with gleaming marble floors and a grand staircase. Muffled chatter and faint laughter emanated from the nearby dining room where the other guests have been gathered. “You've arrived just at the start of dinner, I'm afraid. We're keeping country hours while we're here. Please join us once you've settled in. Hill,” Lady Hanbridge calls out to a nearby servant, “please escort Miss Rowley up to the Blue Bedroom in the West Wing.” You follow Hill up the stairs and down the West Wing, which is a bustling hub of activity. Servants dart in and out of fine bedrooms, carrying trunks and bed linens. Several of the doors are closed, likely the rooms of the guests who’d already arrived and now wait downstairs. You follow Hill into a finely equipped bedroom with an enormous bed, pale wood furnishings, and floral blue wallpaper. Two windows look out onto the Hanbridge estate, the evening sunlight shining on meticulously manicured gardens that lead into a sprawling hedge maze. “Is everything to your liking, miss?” Hill asks. You nod. With a quick curtsy, Hill departs and several other servants enter bearing your trunks, which they immediately set to unpacking. [[Help the servants unpack your things]] [[Change out of your travelling costume]] [[Head back downstairs]] ]

(if: $male is true)[You return downstairs and find your way to the dining room, where the other guests are gathered. You walk into the room. While you are able to recognize most of the guests, there are a few who are yet unknown to you. "Ah, Mr. Rowley," Lady Hanbridge says, rising from her spot at one end of the table. "Please allow me to introduce you to some of our esteemed guests." She gestures first to a young-looking, blond sitting between two young women whom you also do not recognize. "This is Mr. Wilford, who owns one of the neighboring estates. Mr. Wilford, I present to you Mr. Rowley, heir to Viscount Rowley." He bows to you in greeting, then resumes his seat. She gestures to the timid blonde and petite brunette sitting near him. "And that is Miss Wilford and Miss Fairfax. Miss Wilford is Mr. Wilford's sister, and Miss Fairfax is our vicar's daughter. Miss Wilford and Miss Fairfax, might I present Mr. Rowley to you?" The ladies nod in greeting. [[Offer a bow]] [[Nod in reply]] [["Pleased to make your acquaintance."]] ]\ (else:)[You return downstairs and find your way to the dining room, where the other guests are gathered. You walk into the room. While you are able to recognize most of the guests, there are a few who are yet unknown to you. The gentlemen rise from their seats as you enter. "Ah, Miss Rowley," Lady Hanbridge says, rising from her spot at one end of the table. "Might I introduce you to some of our esteemed guests?" She gestures first to a young-looking, blond sitting between two young women whom you also do not recognize. "This is Mr. Wilford, who owns one of the neighboring estates. Mr. Wilford, I present to you Miss Rowley, the eldest daughter of the Viscount Rowley." He bows to you in greeting. She gestures to the timid blonde and petite brunette who rise to their feet. "And that is Miss Wilford and Miss Fairfax. Miss Wilford is Mr. Wilford's sister, and Miss Fairfax is our vicar's daughter. Miss Wilford and Miss Fairfax, please meet Miss Rowley." The ladies offer you a brief curtsy. [[Nod in reply]] [["Pleased to make your acquaintance."]] [[Curtsy back to them]] ]

(set: $reputation to it - 3)You walk over to the servants and try to help them put your belongings away. “Oh, no, miss,” one maid stutters, shooing you away. “We’ll do this. You should go downstairs and mingle with the other guests.” [[Head back downstairs]]

(set: $changed to "true")(set: $reputation to it + 5)(set: $changedcounter to it + 1) (if: $male is true) [You summon your valet and change into a fresh set of clothes. [[Head back downstairs]] ]\ (else:) [You summon your lady's maid and change into an evening gown. [[Head back downstairs]] ]

(set: $reputation to it + 5)You offer a polite bow of greeting. [[Take your seat]]

(if: $male is true) [(set: $reputation to it - 5)You offer them a dignified nod. ]\ (else:) [You offer a dignified nod. ] [[Take your seat]]

(set: $reputation to it - 5)You greet them with a smile. [[Take your seat]]

(set: $reputation to it + 5)You dip into a curtsy. [[Take your seat]]

(if: $male is "true") [(set: $reputation to it - 5)"Mr. Rowley!" the Countess laughs. "No need to join us in the drawing room. Please, sit back down and enjoy yourself." (link: "Stay with the gentlemen")[(goto: "Option Three Night One Dinner")] ]\ (else:) [You and the other ladies dutifully head to the drawing room, where you all find comfortable seats. A conversation soon starts up about all that had happened over the past several weeks of the Season. You find you don't have too much to contribute the conversation. (link: "Sit and listen attentively to the conversation")[(goto: "Option Five Night One Dinner")] (link: "Take your book from earlier out of your pocket and read")[(goto: "Option Six Night One Dinner")] ]

(if: $male is "true") [The ladies file out of the dining room, leaving the men sitting comfortably in their seats. A servant comes around the table, pouring brandy for each gentleman. Lord Hanbridge goes to the hutch in the corner of the room and brings out cigars, which he passes around. (link: "Partake with the other gentlemen")[(goto: "Option Five Night One Dinner")] (link: "Decline the cigar and leave your drink untouched")[(goto: "Option Six Night One Dinner")] ]\ (else:) [(set: $reputation to it - 5)"Miss Rowley!" the Countess calls. "Come now, and leave the gentlemen in peace." (link: "Rise to join the ladies in filing out")[(goto: "Option Four Night One Dinner")] ]

(if: $male is "true") [You join the others and politely clap. The night wears on, until all the ladies have performed their best.]\ (else:) ["Ah, well," Lady Hanbridge says, "a pity. I'm sure you would excell at it." She turns her focus from you and encourages Miss Wilford to exhibit. The night wears on, until all the ladies have performed their best. ] "Well, it's been a long day for all of us. I think we should break for sleep," the Countess says at last. "We shall return to our enjoyment tomorrow afternoon!" The party breaks up, everyone saying their goodnights before taking their leave. [[Go to bed]]

(if: $reputation <= 10) [Lady Hanbridge catches up to you on your way back to you room and pulls you into a finely furnished room, with rich, dark wooden bookshelves and a matching desk covered in neatly stacked papers. "I'm so terribly sorry about this," Lady Hanbridge says, "but I'm afraid I have to ask you and your (if: $male = 'true')[sister](else:)[brother] to leave. You simply haven't been behaving properly while here, and Lord Hanbridge and I simply cannot risk your terrible repuation rubbing off on our family." You frown. While you know that you've been behaving improperly while here, you hadn't realized it had gotten this bad. "You may stay the night, but come morning, I must insist you take your carriage back home." With these final words, Lady Hanbridge marches from the room. The following morning, you and your sibling are packed away in your carriage and sent on your way. You have failed to keep scandal from tainting your family. [[The End]] ]\ (else:) [(set: $changed to 'false') [[Awaken]] ]

(if: $male is true) [You awaken the next day around 10. You slept in a deep, dreamless sleep, and you're anxious to get the day started. Your valet knocks on the door before entering the room. "Are you ready to awaken, my lord?" You swing your legs out of bed and complete your morning ablutions. By the time you turn back around, your valet has laid out three outfits for you to choose from. Which would you like to wear? (link: "The green outfit")[(goto: "Day 2 Outfit")] (link: "The blue outfit")[(goto: "Day 2 Outfit")] (link: "The black outfit")[(goto: "Day 2 Outfit")] ]\ (else:) [ You awaken the next day around 10. You slept in a deep, dreamless sleep, and you're anxious to get the day started. Your maid knocks on the door before entering the room. "Are you ready to awaken, my lady?" You swing your legs out of bed and complete your morning ablutions. By the time you turn back around, your maid has laid out three dress for you to choose from. Which would you like to wear? (link: "The pale pink dress")[(goto: "Day 2 Outfit")] (link: "The light blue dress")[(goto: "Day 2 Outfit")] (link: "The simple sprigged muslin")[(goto: "Day 2 Outfit")] ]

(if: $male is true) [Your valet assists you in putting on your chosen outfit.]\ (else:) [Your lady's maid assists you in putting on your chosen dress.] [[Head down to breakfast]]

(if: $male is "true") [You walk over and sit next to your sister and Charlotte–your other cousin, Leopold's younger sister. They're engrossed in conversation and you spy a sheet of paper next to Charlotte's plate. You recognize the header as being one of the many gossip publications from London. "You're getting that mailed here? You're only staying for a weekend." You chuckle at Charlotte's desperation for town gossip, even outside of the city. "Don't be ridiculous, Leopold," Harriet says. "It isn't //hers//. Lady Hanbridge and her daughter subscribe to several gossip columns as well and have offered their copies to their guests for perusals. I understand Lord Hanbridge has made the same offer with his newspapers. You need only ask a servant if you wish for reading material." (link: "Ignore your sister and get the latest gossip")[(goto: "Option Four Breakfast Day Two")] (link: "Get a newspaper and read it over your breakfast")[(goto: "Option Five Breakfast Day Two")] ]\ (else:) [(set: $siblingrelationship to it + 3)You walk over and seat yourself next to Edward and Leopold–your other cousin, Charlotte's older brother. They're laughing amongst themselves and talking in low voices, but they fall silent once you sit. "Don't let my presence keep you from enjoying yourselves," you say. "What were you talking about before I came over?" The men exchange a glance, apparently weighing the cost of telling you. It's Leopold who breaks the silence. "We were talking about some of the gentleman in attendance. It's nothing, really, just some gossip from our time at school." You grin. "Men? Gossipping? Why, I can hardly believe my ears." Edward rolls his eyes at your cheek. "Do you want to know, or not?" "Yes! Of course I want to know. Who is this gossip pertaining to?" "Well, we were talking about Thornwick, but I was going to tell your brother something I heard about the youngest Mr. Ackley," Leopold offers. (link: "Ask about Lord Thornwick")[(goto: "Option Four Breakfast Day Two")] (link: "Ask about Mr. Ackley")[(goto: "Option Five Breakfast Day Two")] ]

You arrive downstairs in the dining room for breakfast. There are two groups of people you can choose to sit with this morning. {(if: $male = 'true')} [(link: "Join Harriet's group")[(goto: "Sibling's group")] (link: "Join Leopold's group")[(goto: "Cousin's group")] ]\ {(else:)} [(link: "Join Edward's group")[(goto: "Sibling's group")] (link: "Join Charlotte's group")[(goto: "Cousin's group")] ]

(if: $male is "true") [You walk over and sit beside Leopold, who's engaged in conversation with Mr. Crawford. They both nod their greeting to you, which you return. "Good morning, Rowley. Your cousin and I were just discussing your trip to the Continent next week." Mr. Crawford says upon your seating yourself. "He says you mean to stay in Calais before continuing onto Paris. I was just telling him that I know of a better place to stay than Calais for the first leg of your trip." (link: "Continue talking about trip")[(goto: "Option One Breakfast Day Two")] (link: "Ask Crawford about his history with Calais")[(goto: "Option Two Breakfast Day Two")] ]\ (else:) [You walk over and sit beside Charlotte, who's engaged in conversation with Lady Dorothea, the Earl of Hanbridge's eldest daughter. They both nod in greeting at you. "I'm just so relieved that the Season is over at last. We'll finally be able to escape London and get back to the fresh country air," Dorothea says. "Oh, yes, the country certainly has its charms, but I must confess, I'll miss the Season once it's over," Charlotte replies. "There's always a fresh piece of gossip to read about. Just think, once it officially ends, I'll no longer have a gossip sheet to review over my breakfast!" Charlotte concludes with a dramatic flourish towards the paper and a laugh. "You make a good point," Lady Dorothea concedes with a nod, "but I've never enjoyed those sheets overmuch. The writers have the tendency to make a big to-do out of nothing, simply to sell more sheets." There's a distant look in her eyes, and you can tell that she's not referring to today's gossip, but instead something of a personal nature. (link: "Ask about the contents of today's gossip sheet")[(goto: "Option One Breakfast Day Two")] (link: "Ask Lady Dorothea about her experience with gossip columns")[(goto: "Option Two Breakfast Day Two")] ]

(if: $male is "true") [(set: $siblingrelationship to it + 5)You roll your eyes at your sister's waspishness. She's not a morning person. "What's the talk this morning?" You gesture to the sheet with your toast before taking a bite. Your cousin looks up. "Oh, nothing much. I imagine the rumour mill's slowing down as people start to leave town." She peers closer at line near the end. "Oh!" "What? Did some huge scandal break?" Harriet is instantly alert, reaching for the sheet, which Charlotte deftly moves from her grasp. "It says here that the widowed Countess of Eversleigh has lately been seen spending time in the company of Mr. Bernard Ackley, and that at last night's ball they danced together //three times//!" "In one night? Does it mention anything about a marriage proposal?" Harriet asks. "Mr. Bernard Ackley..." you muse. "Isn't his brother in attendence? I think I recall seeing him last night. Perhaps he'll know more on the situation." "No," Charlotte says, "no betrothal is mentioned. Maybe he'll be asking her today?" "Still," Harriet says, grinning, "to dance together thrice without a prior betrothal is unheard of. Even if they do become engaged today, such actions dance on the edge of propriety." Charlotte nods in agreement. The remainder of meal in spent speculating on the nature of the relationship between Mr. Ackley and the countess. Charlotte finishes first and takes her leave. "I'm going to get dressed before this afternoon's activity. We'll be walking into the local town. I'll talk to you later." You and Harriet finish soon after. [[Change clothes]] (link: "Go to the drawing room")[(goto: "Go into town")] ]\ (else:)  [You lean in as your brother lowers his voice. "It's my understanding that Thornwick isn't actually Lord Hanbridge's firstborn." "Yes," you say, confused, "everyone knows Hanbridge has by-blows. But they don't matter when it comes to inheriting titles." "No, I'm not talking about the by-blows. I'm talking about another, //legitimate// son and heir from his first marriage." "His... his what?" "His first marriage. It's my understanding that he wed a woman in India and had a child with her–a son." Edward confides. Your mind reels in horror. "Wait, so he's not legally wed to Lady Hanbridge?" "Oh, lord no," Leopold assures you. "They're married. His first wife died." You sit back in shock, your mind absorbing the information. "To be fair, he wasn't Earl when he married her. He was just a spare fighting for King and country," Edward says, trying to soothe you. "Look, I'm going to need some time to process this. You two can chatter, if you want, but I need time." You pass the remainder of your meal in silence. Eventually, you finish and rise alongside Leopold and Edward. "I'm going to change before we head into town," Edward says, walking to the stairs. [[Change clothes]] (link: "Go to the drawing room and wait")[(goto: "Go into town")] ]

(if: $male is "true") [You approach a servant and ask for a newspaper. He scurries out and returns with today's issue of The Town Times, a popular newspaper due to its apolitical leanings. You settle in, ignoring the chatter and giggles of your sister and cousin as you take in the latest news. There is nothing particularly of note, mostly due to the fact that Parliament rose last week. A minor fire occured in a factory near the docks, but it was quickly put out without much damage to the structure. No lives were lost, but two people were injured. By the time you finish eating, the hour has grown late and the morning sun has strengthened to its height. (link: "Go upstairs and change before the next activity")[(goto: "Change Clothes")] (link: "Go to the drawing room and wait for the others to assemble")[(goto: "Go into town")] ]\ (else:) [You lean in as Leopold lowers his voice. "According to my friend, the young Mr. Ackley is in desperate straits." "In what way?" you ask. "He's got mountains of gambling debts at the club," Leopold continues. "His brother, the Marquess of Conway, is refusing to pay for his brother. Apparently, this isn't the first time he's found himself in this position." "It makes sense," Edward muses. "I've seen him at my club. He's always at the tables, roaring drunk and betting high. It's not a sight for the faint of heart." You purse your lips, thinking of the Mr. Ackley you've seen: gentle, good-natured, and exceedingly complimentary. "I suppose he only ever converses with me in an attempt to gain my dowry." Edward shoots you a pitying look, which you wave off. "I never liked him overmuch. I won't trouble myself over it. I simply will keep this information in mind in futue interactions of that nature." Leopold smiles at you. "Look at you, Harriet, looking on the bright side of things." You grin back. "I try." You all finish your meals, exchanging gossip with one another and genrally having a good time. Eventually, you leave the dining room. "I'm going upstairs to change before we head into town," Edward says. (link: "Go upstairs and change before the next activity")[(goto: "Change Clothes")] (link: "Go to the drawing room and wait for the others to assemble")[(goto: "Go into town")] ]

(if: $male is "true") ["Would his suggestion work for the purposes of our trip?" You direct this question to your cousin. "I confess, I know little about French countryside, but what he reccommends certainly sounds better than finding a crowded inn when we land in Calais." "What is it you suggest?" you ask Mr. Crawford. "I suggested you head to Le Havre by way of Portsmouth. It's less crowded and a far nicer city than Calais. In addition, you'd be guarenteed a spot on one of the steamboats, which will make it a reliable 4 hours to cross the channel." You consider it. The sailing ships from Dover to Calais are crowded and their schedules are unreliable, as their movement is dependant upon the currents and the wind. "I suppose it couldn't hurt," you say at last. "Brilliant," Leopold says with a smile. "Do you have any other advice for our trip?" The three of you discuss your plans and Mr. Crawford makes several other reccommendations that would improve your experience. By the time you finish your meals, you're the last three still sitting. "We'd best be going," Leopold says. "It's my understanding that we'll be walking into town today." You get up and leave the breakfast room. (link: "Go to your room and get changed")[(goto: "Change clothes")] (link: "Go to the drawing room and wait for the group to gather")[(goto: "Go into town")] ]\ (else:)  [You lean over, trying to read the sheet from its current place next to Charlotte's plate. You're unsuccessful at making much out. "What's today's news, Charlotte?" Your cousin looks up from her own perusal of the sheet. "Oh, nothing much. I imagine the rumour mill's slowing down as people start to leave town." She peers closer at line near the end. "Oh!" Lady Dorothea looks up from her plate and quickly swallows her mouthful of toast. "What? Did some huge scandal break?" "I thought you weren't interested in gossip," Charlotte teases. Lady Dorothea glares. "Come on, Charlotte, quit teasing us and tell us the news," you say, breaking the tension. "It says here that the widowed Countess of Eversleigh has lately been seen spending time in the company of Mr. Bernard Ackley, and that at last night's ball they danced together //three times//!" "In one night? Does it mention anything about a marriage proposal?" Lady Dorothea asks. "Mr. Bernard Ackley..." you muse. "Isn't his brother in attendance? I think I recall seeing him last night. Perhaps he'll know more on the situation." "No," Charlotte says, "no betrothal is mentioned. Maybe he'll be asking her today?" "Still," Lady Dorothea says, "to dance together thrice without a prior betrothal is unheard of. Even if they do become engaged today, such actions dance on the edge of propriety." Charlotte nods in agreement. The remainder of meal in spent speculating on the relationship of Mr. Ackley and the countess. Lady Dorothea finishes first and takes her leave. "I'm going to get dressed before this afternoon's activity. We'll be walking into the local town. I'll talk to you later." You and Charlotte finish soon after. (link: "Go to your room and get changed")[(goto: "Change clothes")] (link: "Go to the drawing room and wait for the group to gather")[(goto: "Go into town")] ]

(if: $male is "true") ["And how is it you know so much about France, Mr. Crawford?" you ask. "Have you taken this journey yourself?" "No, no, nothing like that." Mr. Crawford brushes the suggestion away. "After all, I could hardly afford something like what the two of you are undertaking." He cuts a hard glance at you, something in his eyes warning you away from the subject of his past. "I'm sure my cousin didn't mean to be rude," Leopold cuts in. "He just wants to be sure that your information is sound. It would do no good if we followed your advice only to wind up mugged and out in the cold!" He chuckles at his own joke. (link: "Change the subject and talk about your trip")[(goto: "Option One Breakfast Daay Two")] (link: "Press Mr. Crawford on his past")[(goto: "Option Three Breakfast Day Two")] ] (else:)  ["You sound as though you speak from personal experience," you say. "What happened?" Lady Dorothea blushes. "Oh, I didn't... that is, I'm not quite..." She takes a bracing sip of tea, avoiding your gaze. Charlotte eyes her companion with curiousity. "Yes, now that my cousin mentions it, you've always been reticent to engage with the rumormill, which is odd, considering that the ton's favorite subject of conversation." Dorothea takes a large bite of her toast, scrutinizing her plate with an intensity rarely shown to breakfast food. (link: "Change the subject and ask about the contents of today's gossip sheet")[(goto: "Option One Breakfast Day Two")] (link: "Press Lady Dorothea on the subject")[(goto: "Option Three Breakfast Day Two")] ]

(if: $male is "true") ["I'm sorry," you say. "I don't mean to be rude or to make you uncomfortable. I was simply curious, that's all. If you really don't wish to talk about it, then by all means, we can talk about something else." Mr. Crawford looks at you, considering. After a few tense moments, it seems he decides to trust you. "You must forgive my wariness. As I'm surre you're aware, I don't often attend functions like this and I suppose the situation has made me a bit... tense." "Think nothing of it," Leopold says. "But that being said, why are you here? I wasn't aware you were close with the Earl or with Thornwick." "I'm not. In fact, I don't believe I was ever formally introduced to Thornwick, and I've only spoken with Hanbridge a handful of times while in recieving lines." Crawford sighs. "I was dragged here by my cousin. His older brother Bernard was invited, but he chose to stay in town for some reason. Since I've been staying with them for the past few weeks, Bernard asked me to go in his stead to watch out for Corwin. He's young and naive, and far too easily influenced by others. If I didn't owe the Ackley's a debt, I assure you I would be enjoying myself in town right now." "What debt do you owe to them?" Leopold asks. "They're family. Surely any debt would be waved away." "Oh, not that sort of debt," Mr. Crawford says. "Nothing monetary, that is. And I'm certain if I brought the subject of it up with them, it would quickly be dismissed. But..." He hesitates. "What?" you prompt. "Well, I owe their father for saving myself and my father from a lifetime of ruin and misery." "Oh, so nothing too serious," Leopold quips. The joke makes Crawford smile. "I'm not sure how much you two know of my family, but the truth is that my mother wasn't a gently-bred English woman. In fact, she wasn't English at all." He takes a deep breath before sharing again in a low voice. "She was a French whore. My father, the spare of the Marquess of Conway, got a prostitute with child and decided to run off with her. Now, the marquessate wasn't doing well financially even then, so the old marquess had no hesitations about pruning my branch of the family tree. I was born and raised in Northern France, until my mother died when I was 6. My father, ever the industrious type, had up until then been relying on my mother to... work her trade, as it were, to support us. Once she was gone, there was no breadwinner, so my father decided to write to his family to beg for support. Fortunately, the old marquess had died at that point, so his brother–my uncle–was in charge of the family. He wrote back to my father, enclosing funds for him to travel back to England and see his family–my family–in person. Once there, my father... well, my uncle took me in and passed some funds along to my father for him to live on. Without him..." Mr. Crawford trails off. "I'm not quite sure what to say," Leopold says. "I know what it must have taken for you to share such with us. I swear, we won't betray your confidence." Mr. Crawford shrugs. "I doubt most of it is much of a secret." "Still." Leopold insists. "We won't say a word." "Absolutely not," you put in. "This stays between us." "Well, I thank you both for that," Mr. Crawford says with a smile. "Now, back to your trip..." The three of you discuss your plans for the remainder of breakfast. By the time you finish your meals, you're the last three still sitting. "We'd best be going," Leopold says. "It's my understanding that we'll be walking into town today." You get up and leave the breakfast room. (link: "Go to your room and get changed")[(goto: "Change clothes")] (link: "Go to the drawing room and wait for the group to gather")[(goto: "Go into town")] ] (else:)  ["Come, now, Lady Dorothea," you say, briefly laying a comforting touch on her arm. "You needn't feel shy around us. We won't say a thing." Charlotte nods emphatically. "No, no, not a thing to anyone! You can trust us." Lady Dorothea looks at both of you before lowering her gaze back to her hands with a sigh. "Oh, very well. I suppose you two won't let up until I tell you." She calls over a servant, who refills your cups with tea, then begins her tale as she stirs in sugar into her cup. "It was two years ago, during the debut ball of my first Season." You and Charlotte exchange a puzzled glance. Neither of you recall Lady Dorothea coming out alongside you. Instead, you were under the impression that last year had been her first. It had been considered a bit odd, what with her being an Earl's legitimate daughter debuting at the age of 19, but no one had thought much of it. "I know, I know. You're both confused because you thought that last year had been my first. That was intentional on the part of my family. You see, I withdrew from the Season of 1820 after that first night because of what happened. We didn't want anyone speculating about the events I'm about to relay to you. No one did, thank the lord, which is why you know nothing about it. We were successful in hushing up the whole affair, thanks to my family's connections and wealth." She looks up and grips your and Charlotte's forearms. "Which is why you must both swear to never breathe a word of this to anyone." You and Charlotte nod, swearing your silence. She releases your arms and nods. "Okay, then. It was during the debut ball of my first Season. Everything was going well–or, well enough, for a nervous debutante at her very first London ball. I had rolled my ankle during the third set and needed to beg off my other dance partners. I could manage walking well-enough, but it hurt too much for me to manage the complicated steps and turns of a waltz or quadrille. I had the partner for my fourth set–a Mr. Binghamton–walk with me into the gardens. The ballroom was loud and stuffy, and I'd simply needed a reprieve from the it all. I'd thought we'd be able to converse on a bench for the duration of the dance while we took in the night air. However, it turns out I was less steady on my feet than I'd thought, because when I tried to descend the stairs, my ankle buckled and I went sprawling. Fortunately, it was just a few steps down to the ground. Unfortunately, Mr. Binghamton was too much of a gentleman to simply let go of my arm and let me fall, so I wound up taking him down with me. I wound up on my back in the grass and he was braced above me. We were both relatively unhurt, excepting my pride, of course, but that's the position we were in when we were intruded upon by Mr. Finch." You hear Charlotte suck in a breath. Mr. Finch owns and edits The Town Times, a highly reputable newspaper with a well-read gossip column. He's as sharp as he is wealthy, and he owns both a large house in Mayfair and a fully-staffed home in Kent. Lady Dorothea smiles without humor. "Yes, I see you both comprehend what the situation was. Anyway, he stumbled upon us like that, and Mr. Binghamton tried to explain the situation. Finch nodded, but I could see that he didn't really believe us. I heard the final strains of song from the ballroom, and had Mr. Binghamton escort me back to my parents, to whom I promptly told the whole thing. They were furious with me for ending up in such a state, of course, but my father paid Mr. Finch some exorbitant sum and told Mr. Binghamton that it'd never happened. We left the ball immediately and made for our country home the very next day. We watched the papers with a close eye, scanning every article of every gossip column for any //hint// of what had happened, but it seemed that disaster had been averted. No one ever said anything, and so my reputation was preserved. It was decided I'd debut as a fresh face the following Season, and that was that." Lady Dorothea finishes her tale with a delicate shrug of her shoulders. "Wow," Charlotte says. "Well, I can certainly understand why you were so reticent to tell us. That sort of thing could have ruined you! I promise, we'll never breathe a word of it, Lady Dorothea." Lady Dorothea smiles again. "You know, it feels wonderful to have gotten that off my chest. Please, you mustn't think me forward, but I want to give you both leave to address me by my Christian name." Charlotte returns the smile. "Very well. I insist upon returning the favor. You must call me Charlotte." They both turn expectant eyes to you. [[Stay quiet]] [[Agree with Charlotte]] ]

Once the majority of the party gathers in the drawing room, you all turn your attention to the Countess, who stands in the center of the room. "Okay," she says, smiling, "since those of us who'll be going are here, it's best we get started. You'll be going into the local village today. While it doesn't have the surplus of shops that London does, there are a variety of small places for you to choose from, as well as a well-regarded inn in which you may take your luncheon, if you so desire." She calls out names, grouping together and sending off two couples at a time. {(if: $male = 'true')} [She calls your and your sister's names. You are paired up with Lady Dorothea, and your sister with Mr. Laughton. "Shall we?" You offer your arm to Lady Dorothea, and together you walk from the house and down the steps, following the grouping not too far ahead of you. You can hear your sister conversing with Mr. Laughton behind you. (link: "Ask Lady Dorothea about her family")[(goto: "Option One Day Two Walk")] (link: "Ask Lady Dorothea about her enjoyment of the country")[(goto: "Option Two Day Two Walk")] ]\ {(else:)} [She calls your and your sister's names. You are paired up with Mr. Laughton, and your brother with Lady Dorothea. "Shall we?" Mr. Laughton asks, offering you his arm. You take it, and the two of you follow your brother and Lady Dorothea as you exit the house. You see your brother and Lady Dorothea talking and laughing together in front of you. (link: "Ask Mr. Laughton about his family")[(goto: "Option One Day Two Walk")] (link: "Ask Mr. Laughton about his enjoyment of the country")[(goto: "Option Two Day Two Walk")] ]

You go upstairs and change your clothes. (if: $reputation <= 10) [Lady Hanbridge knocks on your door and enters the room. She looks distressed, and she's fidgeting with her dress as she avoids your gaze. "I'm so terribly sorry about this," Lady Hanbridge says at last, "but I'm afraid I have to ask you and your (if: $male = 'true')[sister](else:)[brother] to leave. You simply haven't been behaving properly while here, and Lord Hanbridge and I simply cannot risk your terrible repuation rubbing off on our family." You frown. While you know that you've been behaving improperly while here, you hadn't realized it had gotten this bad. "I hate to cut your vist short, but it simply must be done." She waves and a horde of servants come rushing into the room and pack away your things. Lady Hanbridge grasps your arm and lightly pulls you from the room. She leads you back downstairs to the entrance hall, and you can see your carriage waiting through the windows. You and your sibling are packed into your carriage without ceremony and sent on your way. You have failed to keep scandal from tainting your family. [[The End]] ]\ (else:) [(set: $changed to 'true')(set: $reputation to it + 3)(set: $changedcounter to it + 1) [[Go into town]] ]

(if: $male is "true")  ["So," you say, "I understand your younger brother is away at university right now?" "Yes, George is just finishing his first year at Cambridge. He's done quite well, as I understand it." Lady Dorothea says. "That's very well-done of him. I remember my own first year there." You chuckle. "I'm afraid my performance left much to be desired." "I'm sure that can't be true," she replies diplomatically. "Oh, but I assure you, it is. I was relishing in the first taste of freedom." "Freedom?" "Yes," you say. "Freedom from any high-handed authority figures. My father wasn't around to tell me what to do, and the professors there only cared about our class performance. The off-hours were our own." "It sounds lovely," Lady Dorothea says with a sigh. (link: "Ask Lady Dorothea what she would do with such freedom")[(goto: "Option Three Day Two Walk")] (link: "Continue sharing your Cambridge experience")[(goto: "Option Four Day Two Walk")] ]\ (else:)  ["You have two older brothers, is that right?" you ask Mr. Laughton. "Yes, my lady. Harold is the eldest–the Viscount Sansbury–and he has 6 years on me. The other–Isaiah–is not 4 years my elder." You two fall into silence after that. After a few moments, you try again to start a conversation. "I have just one older brother of my own–Edward–that's him ahead of us. But I have a younger sister and brother at home as well." "Is that so?" "Yes. The youngest–my brother, Alexander–is just 14 years old. He's still at Eton. And my younger sister, Jane, is 17 and will be debuting next year." "And how do you enjoy being from such a large family?" he asks. "Oh, I wouldn't consider us a large family by any measure–but I do enjoy it. It's lovely, growing up with siblings. But I suppose there's no need for me to tell you so, you grew up in one yourself!" "Yes, I suppose I did," Mr. Laughton muses. "Though I'm not sure that 'lovely' is how I would phrase it. More... annoying. Suffocating, perhaps." You laugh before realizing he wasn't joking. "You aren't close with your brothers, I take it." "I'm not... un-close with them. We just have vastly different interests and goals in life." "Such as?" "Isaiah is an academic. He plans on joining one of his previous professors on an archeological dig in Egypt next month." "And the eldest?" "Well, Harold is the viscount." Mr. Laughton shoots you a smile. "His interests are mostly around land management. He's still learning how to do it, since he only inherited the title a few years ago. He had been training all his life to follow our father into trade." "And you? Where do your interests lie?" you ask. "I'm not quite sure yet," he replies. "How about you, Miss Rowley? What are your interests?" You frown at his evasion, but answer his question anyway. "I enjoy reading, mostly." "Oh, me, too. There's nothing I love so much as a good book." "Really?" You're surprised. You hadn't ever pegged him as the reading sort. "Do you have a favorite?" "Do you?" "Pardon?" "What's your favorite book?" he asks. "There are so many it gets difficult to choose," you say slowly, "but I suppose right now my favorite is //Persuasion//, Miss Austen's final work." "Yes, that's mine, too." Mr. Laughton quickly agrees. "Ah. And who was your favorite character? Mr. Bingley or Mr. Knightley?" you ask, growing suspicious. "Knightley, to be sure, my lady." //Right/, you think. //I suppose I should've known he'd be a fortune hunter. A third son of a recently inherited title.// "Yes," you say, forcing a smile to your face, "he's mine, too." Your walk continues in much the same fashion, before you finally arrive in the town. You see your brother and his partner enter the milliner's and Lady Sadie on Lord Thornwick's arm walk into the draper's. [[Enter the milliner's]] [[Enter the draper's]] ]

(if: $male is "true") ["Do you and your family come to stay here often?" you ask. "Yes, we pass most of our time here when Parliment isn't sitting," she says. "We have a few other estates in the family, but we like Essex best." "It certainly is a lovely place to call home," you reply. "My own family manages an estate in Huntingdonshire where we spend the majority of our time." "And how do you like being out of the city?" "I prefer being in the city, purely for the entertainments offered therein, but the country air does reinvigorate the spirits. And yourself? Which do you prefer?" "Oh, the country, for sure. Though I will concede that town is far superior in its breadth of activities, I much prefer the fresh air and quiet that comes with the English countryside." Lady Dorothea smiles, tilting her head back slightly to enjoy the soft breeze and bright sun. "And, though I will deny it should you ever share this with anyone, I do love the feel of the sun on my face. I don't get to experience that much when in town, since there's hardly a restful moment when I'm isolated enough to do so!" "Isolated enough?" you ask, puzzled. "Surely you could capture the sunlight when strolling through Hyde Park." She flashes you a mischeivous smile. "Yes, but I much prefer the experience without my bonnet. I could hardly remove it in the midst of the ton." You laugh. "Indeed not! I suppose that //would// make your sunbathing an activity limited to the country." The two of you continue chatting in such a manner as you walk on, and you reach the town before half an hour has passed. "Which shop should we go to?" Lady Dorothea asks. You see your sister walk into the milliner's with Mr. Laughton and Lady Sadie walk into the draper's on Lord Thornwick's arm. [[Enter the milliner's]] [[Enter the draper's]] ]\ (else:)  ["How are you enjoying the countryside, sir?" you ask. "What with your involvement in industry, I don't suppose you're often able to escape town." "No, indeed not," Mr. Laughton replies. "Though I don't find myself often in need of 'escaping' town. I quite enjoy the hustle and bustle of London. It may be hectic, but it's always been my home." You consider this, thinking over your own childhood in Huntingdonshire. It had been chaotic, but that had less to do with your environment and more to do with the wild antics of yourself and your siblings. "Yes, I suppose my view of the country as idyllic is coloured by my being raised away from London. I can still recall the first time I visited the city with my mother and father–I was just turned 12. We stayed in our townhouse while Papa took care of some business in Parliament. Mama thought she'd take advantage of the situation and take me to a 'proper' dressmaker. I became so overwhelmed in the end that I had a temper tantrum and had to be carried bodily back to the carriage." Mr. Laughton chuckles. "I'm sure that experience is a common one amongst those raised as you were." "Those raised as I was?" you ask, feeling yourself tense. "What does that mean?" "You know," he says, waving his free hand in a dismissive manner, "just that most of the ton had the same soft upbringing as you. It's the same one I would hope to provide to my children. The joys of living free from worry and fear, never needing to dirty your hands in London's soot..." He trails off, realizing how tense you are beside him. "I mean no offense, my lady. It's just–" "Of course not," you say, plastering on a smile and tightening your grip on his arm. "Why woud I be offended at such a thing? Indeed, you make //such// an excellent point, sir, that I shall spend the remainder of this walk thinking on how wonderfully perfect my childhood was." You walk the rest of the way in stilted silence. Mr. Laughton occassionally tries to engage you in conversation again, but you refuse any attempt. "Which shop should we go to?" he asks once you finally arrive in town. You see your brother walk into the milliner's with Lady Dorothea and Lady Sadie walk into the draper's on Lord Thornwick's arm. [[Enter the draper's]] [[Enter the milliner's]] ]

(if: $male is "true") [ ]\ (else:) [ ]

(if: $male is "true")  [You smile, your thoughts returning to your days as a Cambridge student. "I have to say, could I do it all again, I think I'd try to attend Oxford instead of Cambridge." "Why?" she asks. "Mathematics has never been a subject that holds a great deal of my interest. I understand that Oxford puts more emphasis on studying the classics." "I can't say I particularly care for math, either." "What did you enjoy at school?" you ask. "While my academic career largely stopped when I attended finishing school, I remember enjoying my Italian lessons a great deal." "And now? What is it you do for enjoyment?" "Music, mostly. We have a music room here with the most lovely grand piano. When we're in town for the Season, I must make do with a harpsichord." You talk more about Lady Dorothea's music and your own enjoyments and arrive in town before even half an hour had passed. "Which shop should we go to?" Lady Dorothea asks. You see your sister walk into the milliner's with Mr. Laughton and Lady Sadie walk into the draper's on Lord Thornwick's arm. [[Enter the milliner's]] [[Enter the draper's]]

(if: $male is "true") ["What would you do with such?" you ask. "Pardon?" "If you had such freedom, what would you do with it?" you ask again. Lady Dorothea blushes, a delicate pink that washes up her neck and darkens her cheeks. "I'm terribly sorry, Mr. Rowley, but I'm afraid I don't understand the question." //She's lying//, you think. Your question gets dangerously close to overstepping the bounds of polite conversation. [[Persist]] (link: "Apologize and continue talking of Cambridge")[(goto: "Option Four Day Two Walk")] ]\

[[Change clothing]] [[Head down to drawing room]]

{(set: $changedcounter to it + 1) (if: $reputation <= 10) [Lady Hanbridge knocks on your door and enters the room. She looks distressed, and she's fidgeting with her dress as she avoids your gaze. "I'm so terribly sorry about this," Lady Hanbridge says at last, "but I'm afraid I have to ask you and your (if: $male = 'true')[sister](else:)[brother] to leave. You simply haven't been behaving properly while here, and Lord Hanbridge and I simply cannot risk your terrible repuation rubbing off on our family." You frown. While you know that you've been behaving improperly while here, you hadn't realized it had gotten this bad. "I hate to cut your vist short, but it simply must be done." She waves and a horde of servants come rushing into the room and pack away your things. Lady Hanbridge grasps your arm and lightly pulls you from the room. She leads you back downstairs to the entrance hall, and you can see your carriage waiting through the windows. You and your sibling are packed into your carriage without ceremony and sent on your way. You have failed to keep scandal from tainting your family. [[The End]] ]} (else-if: $male = 'true') [ ] (else:) [[Head down to drawing room]]

(if: $male = 'true') [Your valet assists you in putting on your chosen outfit. (if: $reputation <= 10) [Lady Hanbridge knocks on your door and enters the room. She looks distressed, and she's fidgeting with her dress as she avoids your gaze. "I'm so terribly sorry about this," Lady Hanbridge says at last, "but I'm afraid I have to ask you and your sister to leave. You simply haven't been behaving properly while here, and Lord Hanbridge and I simply cannot risk your terrible repuation rubbing off on our family." You frown. While you know that you've been behaving improperly while here, you hadn't realized it had gotten this bad. "I hate to cut your vist short, but it simply must be done." She waves and a horde of servants come rushing into the room and pack away your things. Lady Hanbridge grasps your arm and lightly pulls you from the room. She leads you back downstairs to the entrance hall, and you can see your carriage waiting through the windows. You and your sibling are packed into your carriage without ceremony and sent on your way. You have failed to keep scandal from tainting your family. [[The End]] ] (else:)[ [[Head to breakfast]] ] ]\ (else:) [Your lady's maid assists you in putting on your chosen dress. (if: $reputation <= 10) [Lady Hanbridge knocks on your door and enters the room. She looks distressed, and she's fidgeting with her dress as she avoids your gaze. "I'm so terribly sorry about this," Lady Hanbridge says at last, "but I'm afraid I have to ask you and your brother to leave. You simply haven't been behaving properly while here, and Lord Hanbridge and I simply cannot risk your terrible repuation rubbing off on our family." You frown. While you know that you've been behaving improperly while here, you hadn't realized it had gotten this bad. "I hate to cut your vist short, but it simply must be done." She waves and a horde of servants come rushing into the room and pack away your things. Lady Hanbridge grasps your arm and lightly pulls you from the room. She leads you back downstairs to the entrance hall, and you can see your carriage waiting through the windows. You and your sibling are packed into your carriage without ceremony and sent on your way. You have failed to keep scandal from tainting your family. [[The End]] ] (else:)[ [[Head to breakfast]] ] ]

(if: $male is "true") [You awaken the next morning feeling refreshed. Today is the final day of the house party, and tonight there will be a large ball here at Hanbridge House. Your valet knocks on the door before entering the room. "Are you ready to awaken, my lord?" You swing your legs out of bed and complete your morning ablutions. By the time you turn back around, your valet has laid out three outfits for you to choose from. Which would you like to wear? (link: "The navy outfit")[(goto: "Day 3 Outfit")] (link: "The maroon outfit")[(goto: "Day 3 Outfit")] (link: "The grey outfit")[(goto: "Day 3 Outfit")] ]\ (else:) [You awaken the next morning feeling refreshed. Today is the final day of the house party, and tonight there will be a large ball here at Hanbridge House. Your maid knocks on the door before entering the room. "Are you ready to awaken, my lady?" You swing your legs out of bed and complete your morning ablutions. By the time you turn back around, your maid has laid out three outfits for you to choose from. Which would you like to wear? (link: "The calico muslin dress")[(goto: "Day 3 Outfit")] (link: "The pale green dress")[(goto: "Day 3 Outfit")] (link: "The sprigged muslin")[(goto: "Day 3 Outfit")] ]

You go back to your room to change and prepare for the fast approaching ball. {(if: $reputation <= 10)} [Lady Hanbridge knocks on your door and enters the room. She looks distressed, and she's fidgeting with her dress as she avoids your gaze. "I'm so terribly sorry about this," Lady Hanbridge says at last, "but I'm afraid I have to ask you and your (if: $male = 'true')[sister](else:)[brother] to leave. You simply haven't been behaving properly while here, and Lord Hanbridge and I simply cannot risk your terrible repuation rubbing off on our family." You frown. While you know that you've been behaving improperly while here, you hadn't realized it had gotten this bad. "I hate to cut your vist short, but it simply must be done." She waves and a horde of servants come rushing into the room and pack away your things. Lady Hanbridge grasps your arm and lightly pulls you from the room. She leads you back downstairs to the entrance hall, and you can see your carriage waiting through the windows. You and your sibling are packed into your carriage without ceremony and sent on your way. You have failed to keep scandal from tainting your family. [[The End]] ]\ {(else-if: $male = 'true')} [You ring for a bath, and as it's being prepared by the servants, your valet shaves you. You climb into the steaming tub, allowing the heated water to relax your tense muscles before dutifully washing off the grime with lightly scented soap. By the time you finish, your valet has laid out three formal outfits for you to choose from. Which would you like to wear? (link: "The ")[(goto: "Ball outfit")] (link: "The ")[(goto: "Ball outfit")] (link: "The ")[(goto: "Ball outfit")] ]\ {(else:)} [You ring for a bath, and as it's being prepared by the servants, your maid takes down your hair, brushes it, and repins it loosely atop your head. You climb into the steaming tub, allowing the heated water to relax your tense muscles before dutifully washing yourself with lightly scented soap. By the time you finish, your maid has laid out three ballgowns for you to choose from. Which would you like to wear? (link: "The ")[(goto: "Ball outfit")] (link: "The ")[(goto: "Ball outfit")] (link: "The ")[(goto: "Ball outfit")] ]\ (link: "Skip changing and head to the ballroom")[(goto: "Head to the ballroom")

{(set: $changedcounter to it + 1) (if: $male = 'true')} [Your valet assists you in putting on your chosen outfit. He ties your cravat perfectly and helps you with your cufflinks. Just before heading out, you give yourself one last glance in the mirror. You look like a perfect gentleman.]\ {(else:)} [Your lady's maid assists you in putting on your chosen dress. She dresses your hair and together you choose which jewelry best matches your dress. You step into your slippers before glancing at yourself in your looking glass. You look like the perfect, gently-bred English woman.] [[Head to the ballroom]]

{(if: $male = 'true') [You've done it! You successfully made it through the house party without causing scandal or getting caught in a matrimonial trap. ]\ (else:) [You've done it! You made it through the house party without causing any major scandals or tainting your family name.]} (if: $siblingrelationship > 60 and $cousinrelationship > 50) [You took care of your loved ones, and they took care of you. Your relationships with Edward and Charlotte are better than ever. Good job!] (else-if: $siblingrelationship > 60) [You and Edward are closer than ever, which will serve you both well as he heads off to the Continent next week.] (else-if: $cousinrelationship > 50) [You and Charlotte are closer than ever, which will serve you both well. Maybe she can help you stay sane in the lead up to next Season as your mother slowly descends into madness ensuring Jane's debut is perfect.] (if: $changedcounter = 5) [Your sense of style turned a lot of heads, and you will certainly be talked about as one of the most elegant ladies in attendance.] (else: $changedcounter <= 2) [Your fashion sense left a lot to be desired, which was certainly detrimental to your reputation. Hopefully enough scandal will happen between now and the start of next Season that your attempt at style will fade from memory.] (if: $reputation > 60) [You are leaving with a sterling reputation that will certainly do you well on next Season's marriage mart. Congratulations!] (else-if: $reputation < 25) [You are leaving with a dinged-up reputation, but you're still in good standing with polite society—but just barely.] ] [[The End]]

"Now," Lady Hanbridge says, "I was thinking we'd have the young ladies exhibit their skills for us." She nods to her daughter, the Lady Dorothea, who rises from her seat and speaks quietly to a waiting servant. A harp is brought in shortly thereafter, and Lady Dorothea sets herself up and begins the perform. The notes are smooth and pitch-perfect. She clearly works hard at this, and the hard work has paid off. You've heard professional musicians play with less skill. Next, Charlotte takes center-stage, demurely seating herself at the harpsichord and performing a short song as she plays along. While she isn't untalented, very little could compare to the previous performance. Your cousin, however, seems unbothered as she grins at her applause and curtsies before resuming her earlier position besides Harriet. The Lady Sadie goes next, belting out a song while Miss Prescott plays an accompaniment. (if: $male is "true") [The girl up next–Miss Wilford–is perfectly composed as she approaches the instrument. She takes her seat and begins to play... the piece is barely recognizable in its mutilation. Her fingers are clumsy as they move across the keys, plonking out the notes without a semblence of rhythm. She finally finishes on the wrong key, holding the note for a heartbeat longer than it should be held. (link: "Clap politely with the others")[(goto: "Post Dinner Night One Rep Same")] (link: "Wince slightly at the poorly played notes")[(goto: "Post Dinner Night One Rep Loss")] (link: "Pay a compliment to the lady in question")[(goto: "Post Dinner Night One Rep Gain")] ]\ (else:) ["Miss Rowley," the Countess says, smiling as they finish and curtsy, "you must play next for us." (link: "Claim a lack of knowledge of the instrument")[(goto: "Post Dinner Night One Rep Same")] (link: "Politely decline the invitation")[(goto: "Post Dinner Night One Rep Loss")] (link: "Perform as the others have done")[(goto: "Post Dinner Night One Rep Gain")] ]

You follow the sounds of music and chatter to the ballroom, where you're greeted by the sight of around one hundred people dressed in their finest evening wear flowing in and out, spinning on the dancefloor, and talking with others. (if: 'male' is true) [ ]\ (else:) [ ]

(set: $cousinrelationship to it - 5)(set: $reputation to it - 3) You don't say anything. The air grows awkward. "Well," Dorothea says at last, "I suppose I must away and change my clothes. The party will be headed into the local town this afternoon." She stands and curtsies before leaving the room. "Yes, I guess I'll head upstairs as well." Charlotte says, avoiding your eye. She leaves. You finish your breakfast quickly. You can either go up to your room and change your clothing, or you can go to the drawing room to wait for the party to gather. [[Change clothes]] (link: "Go to the drawing room")[(goto: "Go into town")]

(set: $cousinrelationship to it + 5)(set: $reputation to it + 3) "Yes," you say, "and you must call me Harriet." You three smile at each other, knowing that a new bond of friendship has formed through Dorothea's painful recollection. You finish your breakfast between chattering with the two women. Finally, once you've all finished, you leave the dining room and head into the hall. "I'm going upstairs to change before our next activity," Dorothea says. "We'll be walking into the local town." "I'll go up with you," Charlotte says. (link: "Join them and change your clothes")[(goto: "Change clothes")] (link: "Head to the drawing room and wait for the party to gather")[(goto: "Go into town")]

"My sister often says that being a woman in polite society comes with a cage that you must pretend isn't there," you say. "She claims that the women of the ton are unable to experience freedom–at least, the same freedom the men do–unless they become wealthy widows. I was just curious if you feel the same, and, if you do, what you'd do with freedom if you had it." Lady Dorothea gives you an assessing look, a slight smile on her face. "I see," she says at last. "Your sister sounds like a bluestocking." You laugh. "She is, a bit, though she'd hate to be labelled as such." Lady Dorothea laughs, then says, "I suppose I'd have to agree with your sister. I'd never given it much thought before, but what she says makes sense. If I had the freedom that you describe..." She pauses, considering the question before continuing. "I think I'd attend the theater every night that I could, taking in as many shows as they put on. In this hypothetical situation, there are no balls or parties for me to attend, and I happen to own a box in every theater in London!" She finished her pronouncement with a great smile. "Is that so?" You ask, enjoying her enjoyment. "Yes, I do so enjoy it. Seeing the actors and hearing the music–it transports one to another world. It's simply lovely, provided the actors are amply talented." "Hm. I've never paid much attendance to the theater, but I suppose I'll have to start." She flashes you a grin. You two continue talking as you walk, arriving in town before even half an hour had passed. "Which shop should we go to?" Lady Dorothea asks. You see your sister walk into the milliner's with Mr. Laughton and Lady Sadie walk into the draper's on Lord Thornwick's arm. [[Enter the milliner's]] [[Enter the draper's]]

(if: $male is "true")  [ ]\ (else:)  [ ]

(if: $male is "true")  [ ]\ (else:)  [ ]

(if: $male is "true") [You find your place between your cousin Lady Charlotte Godwin and Lady Margaret Kenmore, the Marquess of Cleaversham's sister. (link: "Speak to Charlotte")[(goto: "Option One Night One Dinner")] (link: "Speak to Lady Maragaret")[(goto: "Option Two Night One Dinner")] ]\ (else:) [You find your place between your cousin Leopold, Viscount of Tilbury, and Baron Fogg. (link: "Speak to Leopold")[(goto: "Option One Night One Dinner")] (link: "Speak to Lord Fogg")[(goto: "Option Two Night One Dinner")] ]

{(set: $cousinrelationship to it + 5)} (if: $male is "true") [You turn to your cousin. "Charlotte," you say in greeting. "How are you?" She smiles at you. "I'm doing quite well, Edward. And you?" "Oh, I'm doing well enough," you reply. "How are my aunt and uncle? Still in London?" "No, they returned to the country today. They left London shortly after we did." "They'll be happier out of the city, I imagine." "Oh, yes," Charlotte nods vigorously. "Mama was nearly at her wit's end. You know how the town's energy strains her nerves." "Yes," you say, biting back a smile as you think of your aunt's theatrics. Her nerves, much like your own mother's, seem to flare up at the most convenient times. "I remember." "How about Aunt and Uncle Rowley? Are they back at Havenbrook yet?" "Yes, but they returned last week. They brought Harriet with them, and I stayed there last night." "How lovely! How are little Jane and dear Alexander?" You regale your cousin with the latest antics of your younger siblings. By the time you finish, Charlotte is unable to hold back her laughter and the main course has been served. "You're joking," Charlotte says as her giggles die down. "There's no way Alexander would do such a thing. He's far too dear." "He's 14, Charlotte. He's not 'too dear' for anything, especially not when it comes to his older sister. Besides, he only just returned home from Eton. He had all that mischeivous energy pent up." "So he's doing well there? No trouble?" "No, none at all. From what I'm given to understand, he's been a model student." "How lovely! I'm sure my aunt and uncle are proud." "Yes, after my own performance there, I imagine they were expecting the worst." "You weren't that bad a child," Charlotte says. "You only say that because you can't remember it. You and Harriet were far too young. I assure you, your brother and I got up to plenty of mischief at Eton." You and your cousin continue updating one another on your families and reminiscing about the past. Soon enough, everyone has finished, and dinner has ended. The countess stands. "Ladies, I believe we shall withdraw and allow the gentlemen their brandy and cigars." (link: "Stay with the gentlemen")[(goto: "Option Three Night One Dinner")] (link: "Rise to join the ladies in filing out")[(goto: "Option Four Night One Dinner")] ]\ (else:) [You turn and greet your cousin. "Leopold, how are you doing?" "I'm doing quite well, Harriet. How are you doing?" You smile. "I'm well. Tired from traveling all day, but otherwise in fine spirits." "Ah, yes. Did you and Edward travel from London today?" Leopold asks. "No, we came from Havenbrok Manor. My parents and I returned home from London last week. Edward joined us yesterday so that we may set out from Huntingdonshire together." "All the way from Havenbrook! No wonder it took you most of the day to travel here. I confess, I'm quite tired myself, and Charlotte and I merely travelled from London. I can't imagine how you're even awake right now, let alone up and socialzing." You laugh. "You always were prone to hyperbole, Leopold. I'm quite able to converse and dine with others. Have my aunt and uncle not yet returned to their country estate? Papa insisted we leave town as soon as Parliament rose last week." "Actually, they returned shortly after my and Charlotte's departure this morning. They should be home by now." The main course is served, then Leopold turns back to you. "Are all your siblings home as well?" "Yes. Jane, as you know, is preparing for her debut next Season, and Alexander joined us a few days ago. Would you believe that he's as mischeivous as ever?" "What's the boy done now?" You and your cousin continue updating one another on your families and reminiscing about the past. Soon enough, everyone has finished, and dinner has ended. The countess stands. "Ladies, I believe we shall withdraw and allow the gentlemen their brandy and cigars." (link: "Stay with the gentlemen")[(goto: "Option Three Night One Dinner")] (link: "Rise to join the ladies in filing out")[(goto: "Option Four Night One Dinner")] ]

{(set: $reputation to it + 5)} (if: $male is "true") [You turn to Lady Margaret. "Lady Margaret, how do you do this evening?" She offers you a small smile before returned her focus to her plate. "I'm doing well, sir, how are you?" "I'm doing quite well," you say. "Have you been here at Hanbridge House long?" "Oh, no, my brother and I only just arrived today. We stayed in London these past few days, so the journey was no trouble." "I see. Myself and my sister journeyed here from Huntingdonshire, else we'd not have arrived so late." "Indeed. I'm not overly familiar with the area, but I take it to understand the trip took most of the day?" "Yes, by carriage it can take anywhere from 8 to 12 hours. We left this morning at an ungodly hour, merely to find you all eating supper upon arrival." Lady Margaret laughs. "That sounds like quite an enjoyable experience." "Quite," you agree. The two of you lapse into a somewhat-awkward silence, lessened so by your main courses arriving and the conversations surrounding you. "So, my lady," you say, trying to renew the conversation after you both had finished your meals,"are you looking forward to returning your country home for the summer?" Lady Margaret's expression falls for a moment, before she fixes a perfectly placid expression on her face. "I shall certainly enjoying escaping the London air for that of the country, though I'll miss the entertainments offered by town. How about you, Mr. Rowley?" "I find I agree with you, my lady, in that assessment of the situation. The countryside is a wonderful change from the noise of the city, but I'm quite put out by the prospect of these months without London's entertainment." "What-?" Lady Margaret starts to ask, but is interrupted by the countess standing from her seat. "Ladies, I believe we shall withdraw and allow the gentlemen their brandy and cigars," Lady Hanbridge says. (link: "Stay with the gentlemen")[(goto: "Option Three Night One Dinner")] (link: "Rise to join the ladies in filing out")[(goto: "Option Four Night One Dinner")] ] (else:) [You turn to Baron Fogg, who greets you with a nod. "How are you this evening, Miss Rowley?" Lord Fogg asks. "I'm quite well," you reply, "How are you?" "Perfectly splendid," he says with a grin. "Was your journey overlong?" "Yes, my brother and I made the trip from our family estate in Huntingdonshire." "Goodness! I'm shocked you decided not to depart from London. My wife and I extended our stay in town this past week merely to avoid the hassle of travelling here from Surry. Huntingdonshire, indeed!" "I'm afraid the decision wasn't up to us, my lord," you respond diplomatically. "It was my parents who made the decision to return home last week once Parliament rose for the season. My mother was most eager to leave London." You meals arrive, which distract the two of you from further conversation for a while. Instead, you listen in on and occassionally comment upon others' discussions nearby. Eventually, the both of you finish your meals. "Well, then, Miss Rowley, did you have the good fortune of seeing //Hamlet// at Covent Garden earlier this week? My dear Emma and I quite enjoy seeing Shakespeare's work staged." "No, my lord," you say with the utmost patience. "I left London with my parents last week. The last show I saw was a pantomime last month." Lord Fogg grunts. The countess rises from her seat. "Ladies, I believe we shall withdraw and allow the gentlemen their brandy and cigars." (link: "Stay with the gentlemen")[(goto: "Option Three Night One Dinner")] (link: "Rise to join the ladies in filing out")[(goto: "Option Four Night One Dinner")] ]

{(set: $reputation to it - 5)} (if: $male is "true") [You decline the cigar when it reaches you and leave your drink untouched. The men around you bellow with laughter as their glasses grow progressively more empty and second drinks are poured. The air grows thick and hazy with the heavy smoke of cigars. "Alright, alright!" Lord Hanbridge cries at last, a slightly wobbly smile on his face. "Enough, gentlemen. We ought to rejoin the ladies." (link: "Head to the drawing room to join the women")[(goto: "Post-Dinner Night One")] ]\ (else:) [The women around you titter as they chatter away, conversing with one another about their plans for the summer now that the Season has finished. You, meanwhile, are lost in another world as you pick up where you left off in the carriage earlier. The bitter smell of cigar smoke reaches your nose, and you tuck away your book just moments before the gentlemen rejoin your party, most swaying just slightly and wearing dazed smiles. (link: "Smile and look to Lady Hanbridge for the next activity")[(goto: "Post Dinner Night One")] ]

{(set: $reputation to it + 5)} (if: $male is "true") [You take the cigar, lighting it when it's offered to you. The brandy burns as it goes down, before filling your chest with the most delightful warmth. You join the others in their raucous conversation, bellowing with laughter as your glasses grow progressively more empty and second drinks are poured. The air becomes thick and hazy with the heavy smoke of cigars. "Alright, alright!" Lord Hanbridge cries at last, a slightly wobbly smile on his face. "Enough, gentlemen. We ought to rejoin the ladies." (link: "Head to the drawing room to join the women")[(goto: "Post-Dinner Night One")] ]\ (else:) [The conversation shifts away from the Season, instead focusing on plans for the upcoming weeks of summer, free from the constraints of London. When it comes to be your turn to share, you explain your family's plans for a brief sojourn in the lakes district. Soon enough, the bitter smell of cigar smoke reaches your nose as the gentlemen rejoin your party, most swaying just slightly and wearing dazed smiles. (link: "Smile and look to Lady Hanbridge for the next activity")[(goto: "Post Dinner Night One")] ]

{(set: $reputation to it - 5)} (if: $male is "true") [You wince, but join in with the others as they applaud her. The night wears on, until all the ladies have performed their best. ]\ (else:) [An slightly awkward pause follows your refusal, but the countess recovers and moves on, encouraging Miss Wilford to exhibit. The night wears on, until all the ladies have performed their best.] "Well, it's been a long day for all of us. I think we should break for sleep," the Countess says at last. "We shall return to our enjoyment tomorrow afternoon!" The party breaks up, everyone saying their goodnights before taking their leave. [[Go to bed]]

{(set: $reputation to it + 5)} (if: $male is "true") [Miss Wilford blushes as she accepts your compliment. Some of the other gentleman, not to be outdone, also offer praise. A few of the other ladies–like Lady Sadie–look a bit miffed at having been overlooked for such praise. The night wears on, until all the ladies have performed their best. ]\ (else:) [You seat yourself at the instrument and perform your favorite piece. While your skill in no ways matches that of Lady Dorothea's harp playing, you do admirably well, given your loathing of practicing your music. You rise and curtsy to the applause and then resume your earlier seat. The night wears on, until all the ladies have performed their best. ] "Well, it's been a long day for all of us. I think we should break for sleep," the Countess says at last. "We shall return to our enjoyment tomorrow afternoon!" The party breaks up, everyone saying their goodnights before taking their leave. [[Go to bed]]

(if: $male is "true") [ ]\ (else:) [ ]