Militat Omnis Amans: Every Lover Serves

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(transition: "dissolve")[[[Wake up.->Who Am I? 2]]]

(live: 1s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time:2s)[ You awaken inside a cold, dark room, so cold you’d expect snow to fall at any moment. A tiny [[blue->Light Flavor]] light appears, faintly glowing in the darkness. Dim blue candlelight extends from it, revealing the black stone walls of a long, [[dark hallway.->Who Am I? 3]]]]

You make your way down the hallway, blind save for the small, rhythmic pulse of blue light. It does not grow as you approach, but takes on the form of a thin, dancing thread, weaving itself in, out, and around the dark. (live: 7s)[(stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[ After about a minute, you feel the walls to your left and right fade away, expanding to form a large chamber made from solid, smooth black stone, lightly tinted by the thread of light.]] (live: 15s)[(stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ [[Wake up.->Who Am I? 4]] [[Go on.-> Go On]]]]

It pulses, small, rhythmic. A tiny (text-style: "fade-in-out")[[[heartbeat->Who Am I? 2]]].

A voice. (live: 2s)[(stop: )(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ Thin, faint, almost too far away.]] (live: 6s)[(stop: )(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ **//You will remain//**.]] (live: 9s)[(stop: )(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ **//But you must [[choose->Chambers1]].//**]]

The thread of light pulses. Your eyes follow it, no more than a few inches long, as it winds itself around a pale hand. Your eyes follow up an arm, cloaked in a emerald sleeve, before resting upon the full form of a cloaked human |Sorceress>[figure].(click: ?Sorceress)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ She stands before you, the thread dancing between her fingers. Her skin is a pale white, her face like a porcelain mask, almost featureless save two dark eyes that follow you as you enter her |Space>[chamber].(click: ?Space)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ She is clothed in dark green robes that shimmer like feathers in the dim light. A cloak rests on her shoulders, draping over her form, concealing her |voice>[shape].(click: ?voice)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ Her voice is cold, but soft, like a whisper against your |Decision>[mind.](click: ?Decision)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ **//Your fate is (link-reveal: "malleable")[(show: ?malleable)], to a degree//**.] |malleable)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[**//You will remain.//**]]]] (link-reveal: "But")[(show: ?But)]. |But)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[**//You must [[choose.->Chambers1]]//**]]]]]]]

You blink awake, gasping. The rickety cot is hard under your back. Your room is small. Barely enough room to pace between the walls. You drag your hands down across your face. (live: 7s)[ (stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 7s)[There's something happening today.] (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 9s)[Something important.]] (live: 12s)[ (stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 12s)[The [[Arena->PrepZone1 (Awaken in Your Room Day1)]].]]

After years and years of scars (click-replace: "scars")[(show: ?scars)]|scars)[blood] (click-replace: "blood")[(show: ?blood)]|blood)[dirt] (click-replace: "dirt")[(show: ?dirt)]|dirt)[sand](click-replace: "sand")[(show: ?sand)]|sand)[hurt](click-replace: "hurt")[(show: ?hurt)]|hurt)[loss](click-replace: "loss")[(show: ?loss)]|loss)[fighting] it is finally time. (live: 7s)[ (stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[Time for what?]] (live: 10s)[ (stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 5s)[A large, stocky man leans his head around the doorway to your small room. His right eye is marred by a thick pink scar. "Oi, get your ass up. Who let you sleep before a fight, eh?"]] (live: 18s)[(stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time:2s)[ |Converse>["Fight?"](click-append: ?Converse)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ "Seems that Caius knocked some sense out of that thick skull of yours. Get up, get ready, and go wait at the gate, idiot. Your weapons are on the bench." The man disappears from the doorframe.]]]] (live: 26s)[(stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[[[Look around->My Room 1]]] (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[[[Leave the room->Common Area D1]]]]

(text-style: "underline")[''Legal Code of Vostel''] //Section 145, Subsection G, Article IV, "Rights of the Monarchy"// As the Right of the Monarchy states, it is within the power of the |legalese1>[Ruling Class](mouseover-append: ?legalese1)[ - being as the Ruling Class consists of one individual imbued with the gods-given right to enact regional law upon their fiefdom and subordinates -] to select one or more individuals within the |legalese2>[fiefdom](mouseover-append: ?legalese2)[, as deemed worthy by the Ruling Class,] to be |legalese3>[wedded](mouseover-append: ?legalese3)[ (according to mutually agreed upon cultural custom)] to the sole member of the Ruling Class, monarch of the fiefdom of Vostel. [[Crumple it up and toss it beneath the cot.->My Room 1]] [[Fold the page and pocket it.->My Room D1 P2]]

The hall stretches to the left and opens up into a large chamber lit by a dozen |smoke>[torches lining the walls.](click-replace: ?smoke)[ torches lining the walls. The air is clear; they give off no smoke.] Dirt crunches beneath your boots. There are weapons racks by the far wall surrounded by weary gladiators. Three of them are spotted with dried blood. Four armed guards flank two heavy wooden doors. Two long benches sit against the wall to your right, glinting swords neatly laid out across them. The other fighters look to be keeping their distance from the benches. The ones who turn at your approach quickly avert their |sight>[eyes.](click-append: ?sight)[ Out of respect? Fear?] (live: 10s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time:2s)[ |Bench>[Approach the weapons bench.](click-replace: ?Bench)+(transition: "dissolve")[ There are four swords resting on the benches: (live: 3s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)+(text-style: "blur")[A scratched shortsword. A chipped longsword. A dented greatsword.] (live: 0s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[[[A gleaming gladius.->Sword]] ]]]] ]]

There are two other cots in the room, both unoccupied. The stone walls are bare save for two lit sconces. Firelight flickers, shadows the walls. Underneath your cot, there is a piece of |paper>[paper.](click-append: ?paper)[ It is wrinkled, as though it had been crushed inside a fist. You can just make out the [[[words->Marriage Law]]] in the dim light.] [[Leave the room->Common Area D1]]

You wrap your hand around the worn leather hilt and raise the gladius. She's perfectly balanced, shined to perfection. It feels like coming home. Your thumb brushes over a brand on the |Mark>[hilt.](click-append: ?Mark)[ (live: 1s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)+(text-style: "blurrier")[Militat omnis amans.]]] (live: 5s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[You remember carving the words into the fresh leather.]] (live: 8s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[It was a cold day.]] (live: 11s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[You held his knife in your hand.]] (live: 14s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[Anger burned beneath the empty loss.]] (live: 17s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[You made a [[choice->Combat D1]].]]

Take lines from Ovid - Love is War and put them at the start of dream passages. @King's name is Frederick. "You" is Aiden AKA The Bloodied Demon, famed gladiator. @"militat omnis amans" - make it less blurry as the days go by (blurrier, blurry, then normal. Maybe a strikethrough or something one day?) @If-then: donning armor pieces -Helmet, gauntlets, breastplate -choosing to don one/more affects the story: choosing to forego all of them unlocks the last one, the final scene (meeting btwn king and You) -HELMET: king can see their face - being seen (what is an actor's greatest fear?) -BREASTPLATE: open vitals to harm, vulnerability of the heart -GAUNTLETS: open to touch, intimacy and sensuality (accomplany with memory of sensations) *Multiple translations of the Latin phrase: serves, does battle, wages war, etc. -something something perception and perspective, depending on the person blah blah blah @COLOR CHANGE: during battle scenes or scenes of passion (of any of its definitions) turn the links (text-color: "red")[RED]. -Make recurring passages more concise. ONLY MENTION THINGS IN DETAIL THAT ARE NEW. Refer to things like "the X" and "go through the motions," etc.

Don your |face>[helmet.](click-append: ?face)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ Let no one see who you really are.] Don your |Vitals>[breastplate.](click-append: ?Vitals)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ Protect the heart(click-replace: "heart")[(show: ?heart)]|heart)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[lungs]](click-replace: "lungs")[(show: ?lungs)]|lungs)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[stomach]](click-replace: "stomach")[(show: ?stomach)]|stomach)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[fragile parts of you]].] Don your |Touch>[gauntlets.](click-append: ?Touch)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ Hide the callouses, the scars, the killing tools they have become.] (live: 15s)[ (stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 5s)[[[Enter the field.->Field2]]]]

There are two other cots in the room, both unoccupied. The stone walls are bare save for two lit sconces. Firelight flickers, shadows the walls. The page sits heavy in your pocket. [[Leave the room->Common Area D1]]

Walk down the hall physical sensations gripping gladius like holding King's hand can almost imagine it's leaving your house, the one you had together, before the portcullis rises and you're exposed heat, roar of the crowd, "The Bloodied Demon" introduction Choice: salute the king and queen or not -option to examine the queen from this distance - she is wearing green -memory flash! Combat begins

Don your |face>[helmet.](click-append: ?face)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ Keep hiding who you really are.] Don your |Vitals>[breastplate.](click-append: ?Vitals)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ Bury the heart(click-replace: "heart")[(show: ?heart)]|heart)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[lungs]](click-replace: "lungs")[(show: ?lungs)]|lungs)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[stomach]](click-replace: "stomach")[(show: ?stomach)]|stomach)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[fragile parts of you]].] Don your |Touch>[gauntlets.](click-append: ?Touch)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ The metal is |kick)[cold] (link: "cold")[(show: ?2)(show: ?kick)] against the palms of your hands. |2)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ The leather is too thick to feel the grip of your sword, to run your thumb over the |words>[words.] (click: ?words)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ |decide>[//His hand was warm in yours.//]] (click-replace: ?decide)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[[[Put the gauntlets down.->Open hands ]]]]]]

(live: 2s)[ (stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ The blade is heavy as the crates you carried for him. The words read like braille under your thumb. Like a silent prayer to gods you abandoned long ago.]] (live: 6s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ He was the one who built the shrine in your closet.]] (live: 10s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[You can't help but wonder. ]](live: 14s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 1s)[ `.` ]](live: 16s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 1s)[ `.` ]] (live: 19s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ Does he still |faith>[believe?]]] (click-append: "?faith")[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[ [[Do you?->Field D2]]]]

Believe me, Atticus, every lover serves as a soldier. DREAM 3 Who, if neither a soldier nor a lover, will endure the frosts Of the night and snow mixed with dense rain? DREAM 1 Certainly lovers use the sleep of husbands And move their weapons after the enemies sleep. To pass through the bands of guards and troops of watchmen. It is always the work of a soldier and a wretched lover DREAM 2 He who does not want to become idle, let him love. END You then, who think that love's an idle fit, Know, that it is the exercise of wit. DREAM 2

Purple: Flavor text and love-relevat bits Red: red linked passages, red for war and red for love Orange: to be amended, fixed, whatever. Incompletes. Also notes. Green: branchign or recursive nodes Yellow: Repeated day passages. Will be amended in future of story to include recursions and reflective aspects, also changes according to story structure. ALSO: Dream Sequences. Because why not.

King is also reliving the same day. Aiden notices that some days, while everyone else looks and feels the same, the king seems more haggared, more tired, more forlorn. His face grows longer in the shadow of the overhang. Final scene, he calls for the fight to cease. It is the first time it has happened. (At risk is his reputation as a strong monarch, showing mercy - weakness - and saving a fighter from the death his career ensures. he is a distant king, and acting so far out of his perceived character could be dangerous.) He tells Aiden that he never thought he had the power to change anything. That he had to see him die again and again and endure the remains of the day knowing Aiden was gone from the world. The queen didn't tell him any of this. She didn't realize he was reliving days, she was so focused on the gladiator. They were also apart for most of the day leading up to the fight, and after, when he had to meet with the victor, the same cocky man every time. Shows that both sides have to be willing to sacrifice, to give. Both partners end up learning and giving what they never thought they could.

(live: 1s)[ (stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[A rough meaty hand claps onto your shoulder.]] (live: 5s)[ (stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)["Get in the ring, Demon."]] (live: 8s)[(stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[Was... was that your name?]] (live: 11s)[(stop:) [(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ |care>[Does it even matter?]] (click-replace: "Does it even matter?")[ (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ His hand slides from your shoulder as you turn and make your way down the short |walk>[hallway.] ]]]] (click-append: ?walk)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ Dirt crunches beneath your boots. The roar of the crowd grows louder and louder. You can almost hear individual voices shouting, calling for (text-color: "red")[blood]. Through the slats in your helmet, you can see slivers of daylight streaming through the gaps in the |gate>[portcullis.]] (click-append: ?gate)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ For a brief moment, almost too quick to [[remember->Open Gate]], you hear a low rumble of laughter in your ear. Your heart grows warm.]

You stop a few paces from the portcullis. (live: 3s)[ (stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 1s)[The roar of the crowd stutters your (text-style: "fade-in-out")[heartbeat]. But only for a |heart>[moment.]] (click-append: ?heart)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ As the portcullis rises and you are slowly bathed in sunlight, you wonder for the first |wonder>[time:] (click-append: ?wonder)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ |wonder2>[ Why am I doing this?]] (click-append: ?wonder2)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ [[What am I fighting for?->Queen's Smile]]]]]

(transition: "dissolve")[Striding into the center of the arena, you raise your head and take in the (link-reveal: "stands")[ (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[arcing high above, packed with bodies chanting and cheering]], the cloudless sky, the (link-reveal: "Queen's Seat.")[ (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ There she sits, back straight, perched on her silver throne, king at her side. She sees you. Your eyes meet.]]] (live: 12s)[ (stop: ) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[She (link-reveal: "smiles.")[ (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[ It is not a happy smile. You can see it in the shadows of her face. There is something she [[regrets.->King's Glare.]]]]]]

You quickly avert your eyes. (live: 3s)[(stop: )(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[Something about her gaze makes you feel |ladygaze>[cold.]]] (click-append: ?ladygaze)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ Beside her, the king looks upon you with a blank expression. The corners of his lips sag into a |bae>[frown.]] (click-append: ?bae)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ You've heard he is a [[handsome->Ogle The King]] man, an equal match for the queen's |kinglook>[beauty.]] (click-append: ?kinglook)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ Tired eyes stare down at you, root you to the earth, send your heart racing in a way the smell of blood |myblue>[never could.]] (click-append: ?myblue)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ From this [[distance->Salute Choice]], you cannot see the color of his (text-color: "blue")[eyes].]

(live: 1s)[(stop: )(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[His brown hair is mostly hidden by the heavy crown resting on his head. It curls behind his ears.]] (live: 4s)[(stop: )(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[Broad shoulders sag, curving his back into a slight slouch.]] (live: 9s)[(stop: )(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|question>["Need help carrying that, sir?"]]] (click-replace: ?question)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[His stare does not linger on |memory>[you.] [(click-append: ?memory)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ |remember>[ "Yes, thank you...?"] (click-replace: ?remember)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ |name>["Aiden."]] (click-replace: ?name)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ You tell yourself it doesn't [[hurt->King's Glare 2]].]]]]

You quickly avert your eyes. (live: 3s)[(stop: )(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[Something about her gaze makes you feel (link-reveal: "cold.")[ (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ Beside her, the king looks upon you with a blank expression. The corners of his lips sag into a (link-reveal: "frown.")[ (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ You've heard he is a handsome man, an equal match for the queen's (link-reveal: "beauty.")[ (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ Tired eyes stare down at you, root you to the earth, send your heart racing in a way the smell of blood (link-reveal: "never could.")[ (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ From this distance, you cannot see the color of his (text-color: "blue")[eyes].]]]]]]]]]]

(live: 3s)[(stop: )(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[ You quickly avert your eyes. Something about her gaze makes you feel cold. Beside her, the king looks upon you with a blank expression. The corners of his lips sag into a frown. You've heard he is a handsome man, an equal match for the queen's |kinglook>[beauty.]] (click-append: ?kinglook)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ Tired eyes stare down at you, root you to the earth, send your heart racing in a way the smell of blood |myblue>[never could.]] (click-append: ?myblue)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ From this [[distance->Salute Choice]], you cannot see the color of his (text-color: "blue")[eyes].]]

(live: 0s)[(stop: )(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ Your opponent stands before you, heavily armored in shabby chainmail. They raise their longsword in a salute to the Royals.]] (live: 6s)[(stop: )(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ You brush your thumb over the letters engraved into your sword. You feel nothing through the thick leather of your gauntlets.]] (live: 9s)[(stop: )(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ [[Do you salute?->Salute]] [[Or stand?->No Salute]]]]

(live: 0s)[(stop: )(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ You raise your gladius high, levelling the tip with the queen's (link-reveal: "throat.")[ (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ She sucks in a breath and opens her lips: [[//"Begin!"//->FIGHTING ]]]]]]

(live: 0s)[(stop: )(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ You adjust your grip and raise your gladius in front of you, taking on a (link-reveal: "defensive stance.")[ (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ The king tilts his head ever so slightly. (link-reveal: "A familiar gesture.")[ (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ The queen raises an eyebrow in (link-reveal: "curiosity.")[ (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ She sucks in a breath and opens her lips: [[//"Begin!"//->FIGHTING ]]]]]]]]]]

(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[Your opponent |charge>[charges] at you.] (click: ?charge)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ You quickly step out of the way and turn on the ball of your foot, coming to a |nextmove>[stop] right behind them.]] (click: ?nextmove)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ [[Go for the knees.->Fight 2]] [[Aim for the neck.->Fight 2]]]]

(transition: "dissolve")[You aim for a weak spot.] (live: 3s)[(stop: )(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[They shift their weight and pivot on their heel, bringing their blade up to |parry>[parry] the blow.]] (click: ?parry)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[Throwing their weight behind their blade, they heave forward and throw you back a few steps. You barely catch your |balance>[balance] before they are on you again.]] (click: ?balance)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ It's hot under your armor. Sweat drips into your |eyes>[eyes]. It stings.]] (click: ?eyes)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[You |blink>[blink] hard.]] (click: ?blink)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ In that moment of darkness, you wind up flat on your back, dazed, staring up at your opponent. The sun is hot on your |face>[face]. Your helmet clatters to the dirt. The back of your head throbs.]] (click: ?face)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[Your opponent slams a booted foot onto your stomach. A rib cracks under your skin. They |raise>[raise] their blade.]] (click: ?raise)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ There is calm silence for the span of a shallow breath. You think you hear a strangled |scream>[scream] from the Queen's Seat.]] (click: ?scream)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)+(transition: "pulse")[ [[The blade falls.->OVID 1]]]]

You lay in the dirt, sword scattered in the dirt at your side. Dream woman in front of you "Militat Omnis Amans. 'Every lover wages war.' Interesting choice." "That's not the only translation." "I know." She taps the hole in your breastplate. "Died of a broken heart. You can't protect yourself from everything that might hurt you, you know?" She pulls you to your feet. Rests a hand over your heart. "Sometimes, you have to let yourself hurt in order to heal." [and look at how that line can be interpreted. Hoo boy good one.) "I'm sorry," she says. "This is taking more of a toll on you than I had thought." "Still. Try to remember." And transition into a memory, then wake up in the room again.

=><= (css: "font-size: 120%;")+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 7s)[**// Who but a soldier, and a lover, can Bear the night's cold, in show'rs of hail and rain?//** (live: 9s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 5s)[[[Ovid->Hurt and Heal]], //Amores//]] ]

(live: 2s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[You lay in the dirt frozen in time, sword scattered in the dirt at your side.]] (live: 6s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[The woman from your dream stands before you. A shimmering cloak of jade feathers casts a prism of sunlight across the ground.]] (live: 10s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[She picks up your |sword>[gladius]. Runs her fingers over the carving on the hilt.]] (click: ?sword)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ "Militat Omnis Amans. 'Every lover wages war.' Interesting |choice>[choice]."]] (click: ?choice)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ "That's not the only |talk>[translation]," you say.]] (click: ?talk)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ "|know>[I know]."]] (click: ?know)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ She taps the hole in your breastplate. "Died of a broken heart. You can't protect yourself from everything that might |hurt>[hurt] you, you know?"]] (click: ?hurt)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ She pulls you to your feet. Rests a hand over your |heart>[heart].]] (click: ?heart)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ "Sometimes, you have to let yourself hurt in order to [[heal->Woman Sorry]]." ]]

(live: 2s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)["I'm sorry," she says. ]] (live: 4s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ "This is taking more of a toll on you than I had thought."]] (live: 8s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ "//Still.//"]] (live: 11s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s) [ [[**//Try to remember.//**->MEMORY D1 Village]]]]

(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|dark>[The blue sky above you dims, wavers, and slides into darkness.] ] (click-replace: ?dark)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[ |open>[It is a cold darkness. You feel as though you are on the verge of sleep, that uncertain place between the waking world and what lies beyond.]] (click-replace: ?open)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ |see>[You open your eyes.]] (click-replace: ?see)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|light>[ Dim blue candlelight extends from a small point in the distance, revealing the black stone walls of a long, dark hallway. This seems strangely familiar.]] (click-replace: ?light)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ |hall>[You make your way down the hallway, blind save for the small, rhythmic pulse of blue light. It does not grow as you approach, but takes on the form of a thin, dancing thread, weaving itself in, out, and around the dark. ]] (click-replace: ?hall)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|thread>[After about a minute, you feel the walls to your left and right fade away, expanding to form a large chamber made from solid, smooth black stone, lightly tinted by the thread of light.]] (click-replace: ?thread)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ |fade>[The thread pulses once, twice, and blooms outward, expanding to cover the smooth obsidian walls. It grows brighter and brighter and for a moment you have to cover your eyes from the blinding blue light. It fades, slowly, then all at once, and you lower your hand. ]] (click-replace: ?fade)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[|field>[A field of lush green grass stretches before you. A ways off sits a quaint farmhouse. On its left is a small vegetable garden surrounded by a short wooden fence. Behind the house, you can make out several acres of farmland. Two chickens, one white and one brown, peck at the dirt in front of the house. To your right, not too far from the house, you see a small village.]] (click-replace: ?field)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[|familiar>[ It is a familiar one.]] (click-replace: ?familiar)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[|village>[You see the Docilus family’s home with its slightly tilted roof. You see Marcus Crassus’s store with its red door. You see the wishing well in the center of the village where you and your sister dropped copper coins when no one was looking. You see the blacksmith’s forge gently billowing smoke into a pale blue sky. ]] (click-replace: ?village)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[ [[This is your village as it was.->MEMORY D1.2 figure]]]

Created By: Jordyn Ochser References: Ovid's //Amores//, trns. Henry Cromwell

(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ You can hear the faint sounds of laughter and the barest echo of voices. ] (live: 4s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[ There is a [[figure->Frederick]] standing on the front porch of your home, feeding the chickens. ]]

(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 5s)[ |Fred>[Frederick.]] (click-replace: ?Fred)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[ |rush>[It all comes back to you in a rush:]] (click-replace: ?rush)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|man>[ a man no older than you in the market square]] (click-replace: ?man)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ |lift>[he struggled to lift a stack of crates]] (click-replace: ?lift)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ |help>["Need some help carrying that, sir?"]] (click-replace: ?help)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ |sir>[You weren't sure if using 'sir' was appropriate for people your age. Best to err on the side of caution.]] (click-replace: ?sir)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ |sheep>[His (text-color: "blue")[eyes] met yours. He looked a bit sheepish. As though not being able to carry a herculean weight shamed him.]] (click-replace: ?sheep)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ |thank>["Yes, thank you...?"]] (click-replace: ?thank)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ |Aiden>["Aiden," you said, and he smiled.]] (click-replace: ?Aiden)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ |meet>["Good to meet you, Aiden." He held out his hand.]] (click-replace: ?meet)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ |boy>["Frederick."]] (click-replace: ?boy)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ |here>["You're not from around here, are you, Frederick?"]] (click-replace: ?here)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ He laughed. [[You took his hand.->MEMORY 1.3 embrace fade]]]

(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[Frederick turns and waves as you approach.] (live: 5s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[His smile outshines the sun.]] (live: 8s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[He holds his arms open, waiting for you to come (text-style: "blur")[[[home.->Chambers D2]]]]]

(live: 0s)[ (stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 5s)[A large, stocky man leans his head around the doorway to your small room. His right eye is marred by a thick pink scar. "Oi, get your ass up. Who let you sleep before a fight, eh?"]] (live: 6s)[(stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time:2s)[ |Converse>["What's going on?"](click-append: ?Converse)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ "Seems that Caius knocked some sense out of that thick skull of yours. Get up, get ready, and go wait at the gate, idiot. Your weapons are on the bench." The man disappears from the doorframe.]]]] (live: 11s)[(stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[[[Look around->My Room 2]]] (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[[[Leave the room->Common Area D2]]]]

(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[ There are two other cots in the room, both unoccupied. The stone walls are bare save for two lit sconces. Firelight flickers, shadows the walls. Everything is the same as |what>[yesterday.] Underneath your cot, there is a piece of |paper>[paper.](click-append: ?paper)[ It is wrinkled, sitting there as though you never touched it. You can just make out the [[[words->Marriage Law2]]] in the dim light.] [[Leave the room->Common Area D2]]] (click: ?what)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[|hell>[What the hell is happening?]]] (click-replace: ?hell)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[Where is he?]]

The hall stretches to the left and opens up into a large chamber lit by a dozen |smoke>[torches lining the walls.](click-replace: ?smoke)[ torches lining the walls. The air is clear; they give off no smoke.] Dirt crunches beneath your boots. The weapoon racks are there. So are the guards. And the benches. The other fighters keep their distance. The ones who turn at your approach quickly avert their |sight>[eyes.](click-append: ?sight)[ They never look at you.] (live: 10s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time:2s)[ |Bench>[Approach the weapons bench.](click-replace: ?Bench)+(transition: "dissolve")[ Four swords sit there: (live: 1s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)+(text-style: "blur")[A scratched shortsword. |sword>[A chipped longsword. ] A dented greatsword.] (live: 0s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[[[A gleaming gladius.->Sword2]] ]]]] ]] (click-append: ?sword)[(transition: "dissolve")[ Is this what killed you?]]

You wrap your hand around the worn leather hilt and raise the gladius. She's perfectly balanced, shined to perfection. A sliver of fear pierces your gut. The brand is still |Mark>[there.](click-append: ?Mark)[ (live: 1s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)+(text-style: "blur")[Militat omnis amans.]]] (live: 5s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|why>[Why is everything the same?]]] (click-replace: ?why)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[You fear what would happen should anything change. |prevent>[Though, maybe you can prevent your death this time.]]] (click-replace: ?prevent)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|find>[ Maybe you can find him.]]] (click-replace: ?find)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[[[Play along.->Combat D2]]]]

(text-style: "underline")[''Legal Code of Vostel''] //Section 145, Subsection G, Article IV, "Rights of the Monarchy"// As the Right of the Monarchy states, it is within the power of the |legalese1>[Ruling Class](mouseover-append: ?legalese1)[ - being as the Ruling Class consists of one individual imbued with the gods-given right to enact regional law upon their fiefdom and subordinates -] to select one or more individuals within the |legalese2>[fiefdom](mouseover-append: ?legalese2)[, as deemed worthy by the Ruling Class,] to be |legalese3>[wedded](mouseover-append: ?legalese3)[ (according to mutually agreed upon cultural custom)] to the sole member of the Ruling Class, monarch of the fiefdom of Vostel. [[Crumple it up and toss it beneath the cot.->My Room 2]] [[Fold the page and pocket it.->My Room D2 P2]]

The page sits heavy in your pocket. [[Leave the room->Common Area D2]]

(live: 1s)[ (stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[A rough meaty hand claps onto your shoulder.]] (live: 5s)[ (stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)["Get in the ring, Demon."]] (live: 8s)[(stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[That is not your name. Just what they call you.]] (live: 11s)[(stop:) [(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ |care>[It doesn't matter.]] (click-replace: ?care)[ (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ His hand slides from your shoulder as you turn and make your way down the short |walk>[hallway.] ]]]] (click-append: ?walk)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ The roar of the crowd grows louder and louder as you walk. You can almost hear individual voices shouting, calling for (text-color: "red")[blood]. Through the slats in your helmet, you can see slivers of daylight streaming through the gaps in the |gate>[portcullis.]] (click-append: ?gate)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ Your hands are [[warm->Open Gate D2]]. ]

You stop a few paces from the portcullis. (live: 3s)[ (stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 1s)[The roar of the crowd stutters your (text-style: "fade-in-out")[heartbeat]. But only for a |heart>[moment.]] (click-append: ?heart)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ As the portcullis rises and you are slowly bathed in sunlight, you wonder |wonder>[again:] (click-append: ?wonder)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ |wonder2>[ Why am I doing this?]] (click-append: ?wonder2)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ [[What am I fighting for?->Queen's Smile D2]]]]]

(transition: "dissolve")[Striding into the center of the arena, you raise your head and take in the (link-reveal: "stands")[ (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[arcing high above, packed with bodies chanting and cheering]], the cloudless sky, the (link-reveal: "Queen's Seat.")[ (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ There she sits, back straight, perched on her silver throne, king at her side. She sees you. Your eyes meet.]]] (live: 12s)[ (stop: ) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[She (link-reveal: "smiles.")[ (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[ It is happier than last time. You can see regret in the shadows of her face. She [[knows.->King's Glare. D2]]]]]]

You tear your eyes away from her face. (live: 3s)[(stop: )(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[What does she |ladygaze>[know?]]] (click-append: ?ladygaze)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ Beside her, the king looks upon you with a blank expression. The corners of his lips sag into a |bae>[frown.]] (click-append: ?bae)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ You hate that frown. There's no light in |kinglook>[it.]] (click-append: ?kinglook)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ Tired eyes stare down at you, root you to the earth, send your heart racing in a way the smell of blood |myblue>[never could.]] (click-append: ?myblue)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ From this [[distance->Salute Choice D2]], you cannot see the color of his (text-color: "blue")[eyes]. But you know.]

(live: 0s)[(stop: )(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ Your opponent stands before you, heavily armored in shabby chainmail. They raise their longsword in a salute to the Royals.]] (live: 6s)[(stop: )(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ You brush your thumb over the letters engraved into your sword. You feel the words one letter at a time.]] (live: 9s)[(stop: )(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ [[Do you salute?->Salute D2]] [[Or stand?->No Salute D2]]]]

(live: 0s)[(stop: )(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ You raise your gladius high, levelling the tip with the queen's (link-reveal: "feet.")[ (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ She sucks in a breath and opens her lips: [[//"Begin!"//->FIGHTING D2]]]]]]

(live: 0s)[(stop: )(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ You adjust your grip and raise your gladius in front of you, taking on a (link-reveal: "defensive stance.")[ (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ The king tilts his head ever so slightly. (link-reveal: "A familiar gesture.")[ (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ The queen raises an eyebrow in (link-reveal: "amusement.")[ (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ She sucks in a breath and opens her lips: [[//"Begin!"//->FIGHTING D2]]]]]]]]]]

(transition: "dissolve")[You take a step back, raising your sword in front of you to parry the next blow. The hilt is warm in your hand.] (live: 3s)[(stop: )(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[They shift their weight and pivot on their heel, swinging their blade around to |parry>[slash] you across the middle.]] (click: ?parry)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[Your gladius catches the strike. Their blade slams into the dirt. You barely catch your |balance>[breath] before they are on you again.]] (click: ?balance)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ An overhead strike, arcing down from the left. You're in a bad position to block it. Sweat drips into your |eyes>[eyes]. It stings.]] (click: ?eyes)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[You raise your sword. You're not fast |blink>[enough].]] (click: ?blink)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ The longsword slams into the side of your head and cuts into the slope between your neck and shoulder. Your helmet clatters to the dirt. The sun is hot on your face. You fall to your knees. Blood streams into your eyes, down your |face>[breastplate.]]] (click: ?face)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[It was supposed to protect your heart. All it is is extra weight. They |raise>[raise] their blade.]] (click: ?raise)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ There is calm silence for the span of a shallow breath. You think you hear a strangled |scream>[scream] from the Queen's Seat.]] (click: ?scream)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)+(transition: "pulse")[ [[They thrust the sword forward into your heart.->OVID 2]]]]

(transition: "dissolve")[You aim for a weak spot.] (live: 3s)[(stop: )(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[They shift their weight and pivot on their heel, bringing their blade up to |parry>[parry] the blow. You recognize this move. You know you can't avoid it.]] (click: ?parry)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[Throwing their weight behind their blade, they heave forward and throw you back a few steps. You barely catch your |balance>[balance] before they are on you again.]] (click: ?balance)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ It's hot under your armor. Sweat drips into your |eyes>[eyes]. It stings.]] (click: ?eyes)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[You |blink>[blink] hard.]] (click: ?blink)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ In that moment of darkness, you wind up flat on your back, dazed, staring up at your opponent. The sun is hot on your |face>[face]. Your helmet clatters to the dirt. The back of your head throbs.]] (click: ?face)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[Your oponent slams a booted foot onto your stomach. A rib cracks under your skin. They |raise>[raise] their blade.]] (click: ?raise)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ There is calm silence for the span of a shallow breath. You think you hear a strangled |scream>[scream] from the Qeen's Seat.]] (click: ?scream)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)+(transition: "pulse")[ [[The blade falls.->OVID 2]]

=><= (css: "font-size: 120%;")+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 7s)[**// You then, who think that love's an idle fit, Know, that it is the exercise of wit.//** (live: 9s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 5s)[[[Ovid->Did You Learn?]], //Amores//]] ]

(live: 2s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[You kneel in the dirt frozen in time. Your sword clatters to the ground.]] (live: 6s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[The woman from your dream stands before you once again. She looks worried.]] (live: 10s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[She picks up your |sword>[gladius]. Runs her fingers over the carving on the hilt.]] (click: ?sword)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ "'In love are wars.' |choice>[Hm]."]] (click: ?choice)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ "We've done this |talk>[before]," you say.]] (click: ?talk)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ "|know>[We have]."]] (click: ?know)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ She taps the hole in your breastplate. "And we will continue until you remember. Open yourself to |hurt>[hurt], Aiden. Let it heal."]] (click: ?hurt)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ She pulls you to your feet. Rests a hand over your |heart>[heart].]] (click: ?heart)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ "[[Why do you fight?->Why fight?]]." ]]

(live: 1s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s) [ [[**//Keep trying.//**->MEMORY D2 Promise]]]]

(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ After two years, you built a house. ] (live: 4s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[ You and Frederick.]] (live: 7s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[ You were [[happy.->Promise 2]]]]

(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 5s)[ |Fred>[You laid in bed one morning, sunlight peeking through the slats of your windowshade. It was a day of rest.]] (click-replace: ?Fred)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[|rush>["Of all things, Aiden, what do you want?"]] (click-replace: ?rush)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|man>["It's too early for big questions, love."]] (click-replace: ?man)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|lift>["Alright," Fred said. "How about a dream?"]] (click-replace: ?lift)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|help>["Let's hear it," you said.]] (click-replace: ?help)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|sir>["Okay." He turned, wrapped an arm around your waist, laid his cheek on your chest, right above your thumping heart. He pressed a kiss to your sleep-warm skin. Your fingers wove into his soft brown hair.]] (click-replace: ?sir)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|sheep>["If you could do anything today, no limits, no restrictions, what would you do?"]] (click-replace: ?sheep)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|thank>["And I could bring you with me?" you asked.]] (click-replace: ?thank)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|Aiden>["Of course."]] (click-replace: ?Aiden)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|meet>[You stared at the ceiling as you thought. "I would fight in the Queen's Arena."]] (click-replace: ?meet)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ |boy>["Really?" Fred asked, rising up on one elbow to look you in the eye.]] (click-replace: ?boy)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|here>["I could make us a lot of money. And wear you on my arm like a trophy." You leaned in to press a kiss to his lips.]] (click-replace: ?here)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|joy>[He laughed. "You could do it," he said. "I believe in you."]] (click-replace: ?joy)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|love>[He said it through laughter, but you heard the promise in his words.]] (click-replace: ?love)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[He pressed a hand to your [[heart->Chambers D3]].]

(live: 0s)[ (stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 5s)[The man with the scar is here again. "Oi, get your ass up. Who let you sleep before a fight, eh?"]] (live: 6s)[(stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time:2s)[ |Converse>["What am I supposed to remember?"](click-append: ?Converse)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ "Seems that Caius knocked some sense out of that thick skull of yours. Get up, get ready, and go wait at the gate, idiot. Your weapons are on the bench." The man disappears from the doorframe.]]]] (live: 11s)[(stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[[[Look around->My Room 3]]] (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[[[Leave the room->Common Area D3]]]]

(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[ Two unoccupied cots. Bare stone walls. Two lit sconces. Firelight flickers, shadows the walls. Everything is the |what>[same.] Underneath your cot, there is a piece of |paper>[paper.](click-append: ?paper)[ It lays flat on the ground. You can just make out the words in the dim light. These [[[words->Marriage Law3]]] are different.] [[Leave the room->Common Area D3]]] (click: ?what)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[|hell>[What the hell is happening?]]] (click-replace: ?hell)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[How can you get to him?]]

The hall stretches to the left and opens up into a large chamber lit by a dozen |smoke>[torches lining the walls.](click-replace: ?smoke)[ torches lining the walls. The air is clear; they give off no smoke.] Dirt. Weapoon racks. Guards. Benches. The others stay |away>[away.] (click-append: ?away)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ They still don't look at you.]] (live: 10s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time:2s)[ |Bench>[Approach the bench.](click-replace: ?Bench)+(transition: "dissolve")[ Four swords: (live: 1s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)+(text-style: "blur")[A scratched shortsword. |sword>[A chipped longsword. ] A dented greatsword.] (live: 0s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[[[A gleaming gladius.->Sword3]] ]]]] ]] (click-append: ?sword)[(transition: "dissolve")[ You pick it up and toss it beneath the bench.]]

You wrap your hand around the worn leather hilt and raise the gladius. She's perfectly balanced, shined to perfection. You're not as afraid as before. The brand is still |Mark>[there.](click-append: ?Mark)[ (live: 1s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)+(text-style: "blur")[Militat omnis amans.]]] (live: 5s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|why>[You have to win.]]] (click-replace: ?why)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[You can't keep doing this. |prevent>[Over and over and over again.]]] (click-replace: ?prevent)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|find>[ You have to find him.]]] (click-replace: ?find)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[[[You need to win.->Combat D3]]]]

(text-style: "underline")[''Legal Code of Vostel''] //Section 89, Subsection R, Article V, "Rights of the Combatant"// It is the Right of the Combatant who claims victory in the Queen's Arena to attend a private audience with the |legalese1>[Ruling Class](mouseover-append: ?legalese1)[ - consisting of the Ruling Monarch themself, their chosen spouse, both parties, or a singular member of the Royal Family -] so long as both participating parties agree to |legalese2>[predetermined terms of parlay](mouseover-append: ?legalese2)[ (as elaborated upon in //Article VIII// of //Section 154//, //Subsection K//, //"Terms of Parlay with Outside Parties"//)]. [[Crumple it up and toss it beneath the cot.->My Room 3]] [[Fold the page and pocket it.->My Room D3 P2]]

The page sits heavy in your pocket. You feel a glimmer of hope. [[Leave the room->Common Area D3]]

Don your |face>[helmet.](click-append: ?face)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ Don't risk being seen.] Don your |Vitals>[breastplate.](click-append: ?Vitals)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ Hide the heart(click-replace: "heart")[(show: ?heart)]|heart)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[lungs]](click-replace: "lungs")[(show: ?lungs)]|lungs)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[stomach]](click-replace: "stomach")[(show: ?stomach)]|stomach)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[|learn>[fragile parts of you]]].] (click: ?learn)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ |heavy>[It is heavy in your hands. You place your hand over the part that protects your heart.]] Leave the |Touch>[gauntlets.](click-append: ?Touch)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ Feel the words.] (click-replace: ?heavy)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|nope>[It's just dead weight.]] (click-replace: ?nope)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|fear>[You can't win with fear weighing you down.]] (click-replace: ?fear)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[[[//His breath warm on your skin, words warm in your heart.//->Field 3]]]

(live: 1s)[ (stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[A rough meaty hand claps onto your shoulder.]] (live: 5s)[ (stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)["Get in the ring, Demon."]] (live: 8s)[(stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[You wish he knew your name.]] (live: 11s)[(stop:) [(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ |care>[It doesn't matter.]] (click-replace: ?care)[ (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ His hand slides from your shoulder as you turn and make your way down the short |walk>[hallway.] ]]]] (click-append: ?walk)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ The roar of the crowd grows louder and louder as you walk. You can almost hear individual voices shouting, calling for (text-color: "red")[blood]. Through the slats in your helmet, you can see slivers of daylight streaming through the gaps in the |gate>[portcullis.]] (click-append: ?gate)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ Your hands are warm. You feel [[light->Open Gate D3]]. ]

You stop a few paces from the portcullis. (live: 3s)[ (stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 1s)[The roar of the crowd no longer stutters your (text-style: "fade-in-out")[heartbeat]. You feel |heart>[brave.]] (click-append: ?heart)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ As the portcullis rises and you are slowly bathed in sunlight, you |wonder>[wonder:] (click-append: ?wonder)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ |wonder2>[ Will he know who I am?]] (click-append: ?wonder2)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ [[What I am fighting for?->Queen's Smile D3]]]]]

(transition: "dissolve")[Striding into the center of the arena, you raise your head and take in the (link-reveal: "stands")[ (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[arcing high above, packed with bodies chanting and cheering]], the cloudless sky, the (link-reveal: "Queen's Seat.")[ (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ She sits perched on her silver throne, her king at her side. She sees you. Your eyes meet.]]] (live: 8s)[ (stop: ) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[She (link-reveal: "smiles.")[ (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[ She nods in approval. But you can still see regret in her eyes. She's [[happier->King's Glare. D3]], though. ]]]]

You nod to her and look away. (live: 3s)[(stop: )(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[Have you learned |ladygaze>[enough?]]] (click-append: ?ladygaze)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ Beside her, the king is still blank-faced. The corners of his lips sag into a |bae>[frown.]] (click-append: ?bae)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ You smile at him. Your cheeks press against the metal of your helmet. He can't see |kinglook>[it.]] (click-append: ?kinglook)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ Tired (text-color: "blue")[eyes] stare down at you, root you to the earth, send your heart racing in a way the smell of blood |myblue>[never could.]] (click-append: ?myblue)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ Even from this [[distance->Salute Choice D3]], through the exhaustion, you see that he is beautiful.]

(live: 0s)[(stop: )(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ Your opponent stands before you, heavily armored in shabby chainmail. They raise their longsword in a salute to the Royals.]] (live: 6s)[(stop: )(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ You brush your thumb over the letters engraved into your sword. You feel the words one letter at a time. You press a hand to your heart.]] (live: 9s)[(stop: )(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ [[Do you salute?->Salute D3]] [[Or stand?->No Salute D3]]]]

(live: 0s)[(stop: )(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ You adjust your grip and raise your gladius in front of you, taking on a (link-reveal: "defensive stance.")[ (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ The king tilts his head ever so slightly. (link-reveal: "You wish he would smile.")[ (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ The queen raises an eyebrow in (link-reveal: "amusement.")[ (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ She sucks in a breath and opens her lips: [[//"Begin!"//->FIGHTING D3]]]]]]]]]]

(transition: "dissolve")[You aim for a weak spot.] (live: 3s)[(stop: )(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[They shift their weight and pivot on their heel, bringing their blade up to |parry>[parry] the blow. You recognize this move. You know you can't avoid it.]] (click: ?parry)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[Throwing their weight behind their blade, they heave forward and throw you back a few steps. You barely catch your |balance>[balance] before they are on you again.]] (click: ?balance)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ It's hot under your armor. Sweat drips into your |eyes>[eyes]. It stings.]] (click: ?eyes)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[You |blink>[blink] hard.]] (click: ?blink)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ In that moment of darkness, you wind up flat on your back, dazed, staring up at your opponent. The sun is hot on your |face>[face]. Your helmet clatters to the dirt. The back of your head throbs.]] (click: ?face)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[Your oponent slams a booted foot onto your stomach. A rib cracks under your skin. They |raise>[raise] their blade.]] (click: ?raise)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ There is calm silence for the span of a shallow breath. You think you hear a strangled |scream>[scream] from the Qeen's Seat.]] (click: ?scream)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)+(transition: "pulse")[ [[The blade falls.->OVID 3]]

(transition: "dissolve")[You take a step back, raising your sword in front of you to parry the next blow. The hilt is warm in your hand.] (live: 3s)[(stop: )(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[They shift their weight and pivot on their heel, swinging their blade around to |parry>[slash] you across the middle.]] (click: ?parry)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[Your gladius catches the strike. Their blade slams into the dirt. You barely catch your |balance>[breath] before they are on you again. But you are faster this time.]] (click: ?balance)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ An overhead strike, arcing down from the left. You jump back, narrowly dodging the flashing steel. Sweat drips into your |eyes>[eyes]. It stings.]] (click: ?eyes)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[You lunge forward. Your opponent isn't fast |blink>[enough].]] (click: ?blink)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ Your gladius pierces their side, right between the buckles of their armor. They scream in pain. You don't see them drop their blade. You're too close. They move in your blindspot. They grab your |face>[helmet.] Tear it off. It clatters to the dirt.]] (click: ?face)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ They |raise>[raise] their blade.]] (click: ?raise)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ There is calm silence for the span of a shallow breath. You think you hear a strangled |scream>[scream] from the Queen's Seat.]] (click: ?scream)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)+(transition: "pulse")[ [[They thrust the sword forward into your heart.->OVID 3]]]]

=><= (css: "font-size: 120%;")+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 7s)[**// Certainly lovers use the sleep of husbands And move their weapons after the enemies sleep. To pass through the bands of guards and troops of watchmen. It is always the work of a soldier and a wretched lover...//** (live: 9s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 5s)[[[Ovid->One day more.]], //Amores//]] ]

(live: 2s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[You kneel in the dirt frozen in time. Your sword clatters to the ground.]] (live: 6s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[The woman from your dream stands before you once again. She is annoyed.]] (live: 10s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[She picks up your |sword>[gladius]. Runs her fingers over the carving on the hilt.]] (click: ?sword)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ "'Every lover serves as a soldier.' |choice>[Hm]."]] (click: ?choice)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ "We've done this |talk>[before]," you say.]] (click: ?talk)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ "|know>[One last time]."]] (click: ?know)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ She taps your forehead. "One last chance. Remember why you |hurt>[fight]. Let him see you. Stop fighting."]] (click: ?hurt)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ She pulls you to your feet. Rests a hand over your |heart>[heart].]] (click: ?heart)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ "[[Don't be afraid.->Kidnapping]]" ]]

(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 5s)[ |Fred>[It was a cold day.]] (click-replace: ?Fred)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[|rush>[Fred left early to go to the market. You were still asleep.]] (click-replace: ?rush)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|man>["Be back soon," his note said.]] (click-replace: ?man)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|lift>[Worry churned in your gut.]] (click-replace: ?lift)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|help>[When you left, no more than an hour after he did, the streets were filled with people.]] (click-replace: ?help)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|sir>["What's going on?" you asked. A young woman turned and smiled at you.]] (click-replace: ?sir)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|sheep>["The queen has come!" she said. "She's touring the kingdom looking for a husband."]] (click-replace: ?sheep)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|thank>[You laughed. "Well, best of luck to her, then."]] (click-replace: ?thank)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|Aiden>[You turned and made your way to the market.]] (click-replace: ?Aiden)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|meet>[You saw the carriage first. Draped in purple fabric, its edges lined with gold. A team of four white horses stamped their feet. The crowd cheered. ]] (click-replace: ?meet)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ |boy>[Where was Fred?]] (click-replace: ?boy)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|here>[You pushed your way through the crowd, calling his name.]] (click-replace: ?here)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|joy>[Then you saw him.]] (click-replace: ?joy)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|love>[But not before she did.]] (click-replace: ?love)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|regret>[Two guards had him by the arms. He saw you.]] (click-replace: ?regret)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|afraid>["Frederick!" You screamed his name as the guards pulled him away.]] (click-replace: ?afraid)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|leaving>["What a lucky young man," a woman behind you said. You ran forward. One of the royal guards caught you around the middle.]] (click-replace: ?leaving)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|care>["Don't!" But it was too late.]] (click-replace: ?care)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|lost>[He called your name as the carriage doors swung shut.]] (click-replace: ?lost)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[That was the last time you [[saw->Chambers D4]] him.]

You blink awake, gasping. The rickety cot is hard under your back. Your room is small. Barely enough room to pace between the walls. You lay there, still. Heart (text-style: "fade-in-out")[beating] slowly. (live: 7s)[ (stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 7s)[ [[You know what to do now.->PrepZone4]]]]

(live: 0s)[ (stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 5s)[The man with the scar is here again. "Oi, get your ass up. Who let you sleep before a fight, eh?"]] (live: 6s)[(stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time:2s)[ |Converse>["I know what I have to do now."](click-append: ?Converse)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ "Seems that Caius knocked some sense out of that thick skull of yours. Get up, get ready, and go wait at the gate, idiot. Your weapons are on the bench." The man disappears from the doorframe.]]]] (live: 11s)[(stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[[[Look around->My Room 4]]] (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[[[Leave the room->Common Area D4]]]]

(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[ Cots. Walls. Sconces. Firelight, shadows. Everything is the |what>[same.] Underneath your cot, there is a piece of |paper>[paper.](click-append: ?paper)[ It lays flat on the ground. You can just make out the words in the dim light. The same [[[words->Marriage Law4]]] as before.] [[Leave the room->Common Area D4]]] (click: ?what)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[|hell>[He's here.]]] (click-replace: ?hell)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[He's waiting for you.]]

The hall to the left, the chamber lit by torches. Clear air. No smoke. Dirt. Weapoon racks. Guards. Benches. The others stay |away>[away.] (click-append: ?away)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ They don't matter.]] (live: 10s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time:2s)[ |Bench>[Approach the bench.](click-replace: ?Bench)+(transition: "dissolve")[ Four swords: (live: 1s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)+(text-style: "blur")[A scratched shortsword. |sword>[A chipped longsword. ] A dented greatsword.] (live: 0s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[[[A gleaming gladius.->Sword4]] ]]]] ]] (click-append: ?sword)[(transition: "dissolve")[ You barely glance at it.]]

(text-style: "underline")[''Legal Code of Vostel''] //Section 89, Subsection R, Article V, "Rights of the Combatant"// It is the Right of the Combatant who claims victory in the Queen's Arena to attend a private audience with the |legalese1>[Ruling Class](mouseover-append: ?legalese1)[ - consisting of the Ruling Monarch themself, their chosen spouse, both parties, or a singular member of the Royal Family -] so long as both participating parties agree to |legalese2>[predetermined terms of parlay](mouseover-append: ?legalese2)[ (as elaborated upon in //Article VIII// of //Section 154//, //Subsection K//, //"Terms of Parlay with Outside Parties"//)]. [[Crumple it up and toss it beneath the cot.->My Room 4]] [[Fold the page and pocket it.->My Room D4 P2]]

The page sits heavy in your pocket. You feel brave. [[Leave the room->Common Area D4]]

You wrap your hand around the worn leather hilt and raise the gladius. She's perfectly balanced, shined to perfection. You're no longer afraid. The brand is |Mark>[there.](click-append: ?Mark)[ (live: 1s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)+(text-style: "blur")[Militat omnis amans.]]] (live: 5s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|why>[The promise you made to yourself.]]] (click-replace: ?why)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[The promise you made to him. |prevent>[The only proise you haven't yet broken.]]] (click-replace: ?prevent)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|find>[ You will find him.]]] (click-replace: ?find)[(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[[[He will see.->Combat D4]]]]

Don your |face>[helmet.](click-append: ?face)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ |see>[No.]] (click-replace: ?see)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|open>[Let yourself be seen.]] (click-replace: ?open)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[[[//His eyes and yours, the first day, the last day, every moment in between.//->Field 4]]] Leave the |Vitals>[breastplate.](click-append: ?Vitals)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ Vulnerability is not weakness.] Leave the |Touch>[gauntlets.](click-append: ?Touch)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ Feel the words. His touch.]

(live: 1s)[ (stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[A rough meaty hand claps onto your shoulder.]] (live: 5s)[ (stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)["Get in the ring, Demon."]] (live: 8s)[(stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[You fought hard to earn that name.]] (live: 11s)[(stop:) [(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ |care>[It is time to retire.]] (click-replace: ?care)[ (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ His hand slides from your shoulder as you turn and make your way down the short |walk>[hallway.] ]]]] (click-append: ?walk)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ The roar of the crowd grows louder and louder as you walk. You can almost hear individual voices shouting, calling for (text-color: "red")[blood]. Slivers of daylight stream through the gaps in the |gate>[portcullis.]] (click-append: ?gate)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ They look like rays from |heal>[heaven.]] (click-append: ?heal)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ Your hands are warm. You feel light. You close your eyes, take a breath, and [[pray.->Open Gate D4]] ]

You stop a few paces from the portcullis. (live: 3s)[ (stop:) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 1s)[Your (text-style: "fade-in-out")[heart beats] strong. You feel |heart>[brave.]] (click-append: ?heart)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ As the portcullis rises and you are slowly bathed in sunlight, you |wonder>[wonder:] (click-append: ?wonder)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[ [[Will he remember me?->Queen's Smile D4]]]]]

(transition: "dissolve")[Striding into the center of the arena, you raise your head and take in the (link-reveal: "stands")[ (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[arcing high above, packed with bodies chanting and cheering]], the cloudless sky, the (link-reveal: "Queen's Seat.")[ (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ She sits perched on her silver throne, your king at her side. She sees you. Your eyes meet.]]] (live: 8s)[ (stop: ) (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 2s)[She (link-reveal: "smiles.")[ (transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[ She nods in approval. There is no more regret in her eyes. She is [[happy->King's Glare. D4]]. ]]]]

You nod to her and look away. (live: 3s)[(stop: )(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[You lock eyes with the |ladygaze>[king.]]] (click-append: ?ladygaze)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ Beside her, he is no longer blank-faced. His eyes are wide in shock, his mouth hanging |bae>[open.]] (click-append: ?bae)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ You smile at him. This time, he can |kinglook>[see.]] (click-append: ?kinglook)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ Tired (text-color: "blue")[eyes] stare down at you, root you to the earth, send your heart racing the way they always |myblue>[did.]] (click-append: ?myblue)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ Even from this [[distance->King's Call D4]], you see that he is still beautiful.]

(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 5s)[ |Fred>[Frederick raises his hand.]] (click-replace: ?Fred)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[|rush>[A hush falls over the crowd.]] (click-replace: ?rush)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|man>["There will be no fight today," he calls out.]] (click-replace: ?man)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|lift>[The crowd murmurs in confusion, the low rumble of their whispers like the buzz of cicadas.]] (click-replace: ?lift)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|help>[The queen looks at her husband and smiles. This time, it reaches her eyes. She stands and rests a hand on his arm.]] (click-replace: ?help)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|sir>[Fred turns to one of the royal guards and says something. You're too far away to make out the words. Your opponent stands before you, looking between you and the king.]] (click-replace: ?sir)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|sheep>[But you don't notice.]] (click-replace: ?sheep)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|thank>[Your eyes haven't left his.]] (click-replace: ?thank)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|Aiden>[You drop your sword.]] (click-replace: ?Aiden)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|meet>[You place your right hand over your heart.]] (click-replace: ?meet)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ |boy>[Fred smiles. Raises his hand.]] (click-replace: ?boy)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|here>[Mirrors you.]] (click-replace: ?here)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|joy>[Let the tears fall.]] (click-replace: ?joy)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|love>[Let the hurt fade.]] (click-replace: ?love)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|regret>[Let yourself heal.]] (click-replace: ?regret)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|afraid>[//No more fighting//, Fred says. You read the words on his lips.]] (click-replace: ?afraid)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|leaving>[//No more fighting//, you say.]] (click-replace: ?leaving)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|care>[He shouts your name across the arena.]] (click-replace: ?care)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|lost>[The portcullis opens behind you.]] (click-replace: ?lost)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[The guards arrive to take you [[home->OVID 4]].]

(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 5s)[ |Fred>[You wake up slowly. It is a day of rest.]] (click-replace: ?Fred)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 4s)[|rush>[You are not alone.]] (click-replace: ?rush)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|man>[Lying beside you, an arm slung over your waist, is Frederick.]] (click-replace: ?man)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|lift>[Your king.]] (click-replace: ?lift)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|help>["Good morning," he mumbles between sleep-slow breaths.]] (click-replace: ?help)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[|sir>["Yes," you say, and press a kiss to the top of his head.]] (click-replace: ?sir)+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 3s)[ [["It is."->Credits]]]

=><= (css: "font-size: 120%;")+(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 7s)[**// He who does not want to become idle, let him love.//** (live: 7s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 5s)[Ovid, //Amores//]] (live: 15s)[(stop:)(transition: "dissolve")+(transition-time: 5s)[[[Wake up.->END]]]] ]

Created By: Jordyn Ochser References: Ovid's //Amores//, translated by Henry Cromwell