

*set implicit_control_flow true




*comment Point of no return
*comment Resist the impossible, keep expectations
*comment Build up to something big


*temp MrsHDialogueCounterCarriage 0

*set heels "heels"
*set shoes "heels"

*if (prefersHeels)
	*set heels "heels"
	*set shoes "heels"
*else
	*set heels "soles"
	*set shoes "shoes"



*temp mcOblivious false
*set travellsWith "W"

*temp WRomance false
*if ((romanceW > 0) and (johnAttracted))
	*set WRomance true

*temp looks "looks better"





*if (testingWithBag)
	*set heels "heels"
	*set mc_name "Rosalind"
	*set mc_lastname "Holmes"

	*set WRomance true

	*set hRomancePoints 4
	*set someKindOfSimp true
	*set johnAttracted true
	*set romanceW 10

	*set mc_lady "lady"
	*set letHborrowYourHand true

	*set eyeColour "black"
	*set bodyDetail "hands"
	*set bodyDetailT "slender"

	*set mc_lady "lady"
	*set mc_miss "miss"
	*set mc_rude "girl"
	*set mc_term ", madam"

	*set genderMC "woman"
	*set mc_them false
	*set mc_xhe "she"
	*set mc_xir "her"
	*set mc_xirs "hers"
	*set mc_xim "her"
	*set mc_ximself "herself"
	*set mc_s "s"
	*set mc_es "es"
	*set mc_re "'s"
	*set mc_ve "'s"

	*set mc_madam "madam"
	*set romanceL 5

	*set bWearingDress true

	*set bAttractive 5
	*set bBold true


	*set AphroditeStyle true
	*set bTheme "aphrodite"
	*set bBold true

	*set bMainColour "delicate peach"
	*set bMainColourPhrase "pale peach, all pretty and pink"
	*set bMainTrueColour "pink"
	*set bMainColourSynonym "peach"
	*set bMainColourAdjective "pale pastell"
	*set bMainColourOf "cherry blossoms"

	*set bSecondaryColour "gleaming gold"
	*set bSecondaryTrueColour "gold"

	*set halfSimpH true

	Bag, did you accept H's invite to come pick u up themselves?

	*fake_choice
		#Yes
			*set driver false
			*set goingWithH true
		#No
			*set driver true			
			*set goingWithH false



*temp spokeWithW false
*set WLookedOnMCAndSmiledCh6 true




*if (bPrettied = "more")
	*set looks "looks better"

*elseif (bPrettied = "less")
	*set looks "looks worse"

*elseif (bPrettied = "none")
	*set looks "looks same"





*set mcObliviousNr 0
*set mcObliviousNr (mcIgnorantToL + obliviosToHRomance)
*if (mcObliviousNr > 1)
	*set mcOblivious true





*temp individual "individual"
*if (genderMC = "man")
	*set individual "man"
*if (genderMC = "woman")
	*set individual "woman"


*temp aindividual "an individual"
*if (genderMC = "man")
	*set aindividual "a man"
*if (genderMC = "woman")
	*set aindividual "a woman"


*temp virtue "honour"
*if (genderMC = "woman")
	*set virtue "virtue"


*temp gentlewoman "gentlewoman"
*if (hMan)
	*set gentlewoman "gentleman"




*comment TODO... someday
*set adjective_Primped ""




*set turnedDownHInTheCarriage false

*comment *goto testSkip

[b]Chapter 6[/b]
*page_break

You walk down the familiar stairway that ever creaks—it never not warning the one that stands just below the stairs, or even by the door, despite ${heels} stepping against plush carpet overlaid the old stair-wood—that someone is approaching.

Each step tells someone who stands there beneath, waiting for you, that you approach.

And it is a familiar path.

And your steps must be familiar too.

To who's below.

To who's so familiar to you too–for the good doctor is waiting for you. Down these very stairs...

And you've been here before, in many ways, in many disguises, on many days.
*temp nervousAndShy false
*fake_choice
	#And yet... My heart is in my throat now. [i]Watson, ${j_he}...[/i]
		*set nervousAndShy true
		*comment The knowledge of what awaits you is just a few steps away.
		
		*if (looks = "looks same") 
			You look the same as you always did, surely. But would ${j_he} care? Would ${j_he} mind?
		*elseif (looks = "looks worse")
			You looked... different. Would ${j_he} notice?
		*elseif (looks = "looks better") and (wRomance)
			Will ${j_he}... notice? How you look now. $!{j_he} always did seem to notice you; all about you. 
			
			Would it be so terrible if ${j_he} notices that you ponder ${j_hi} reaction with a bated breath of your own?
		*else
			Will ${j_he}... notice? How you look now. $!{j_he} always did seem to notice you; all about you. 
	#And yet I wonder what ${j_he} will think. [i]Watson, ${j_he}...[/i]
		*comment The knowledge of what awaits you is just a few steps away.
		
		*if (looks = "looks same")
			You look the same as you always did, surely. But would ${j_he} care? Would ${j_he} mind?
		*elseif (looks = "looks worse")
			You looked different. Would ${j_he} notice?
		*elseif (looks = "looks better") and (wRomance)
			Will ${j_he} notice that you look different now? $!{j_he} always did seem to notice you; all about you… 
			
			Would it be so terrible if ${j_he} [i]sees[/i] you, and sees that you wonder at ${j_hi} reaction with a bated breath of your own?
		*else
			Will ${j_he} notice that you look different now? $!{j_he} always did seem to notice you; all about you… 
	#And yet my heart is in my throat. [i]A ball...[/i]
		The knowledge of what awaits you, a night of [i]something[/i], something you can not quite grasp but know to be something special.
	#And today, surely, is just another day.

*comment do i keep this page break ?? i dont know
*page_break

*comment romance content

*if (wRomance)
	*if (nervousAndShy)
		Step by step.

		Out the window, by the stairs landing, the sky is grey and darkening. The wind roars. Each day, the house is cooled further by winds of growing autumn, and the ball may be decidedly colder, as is the case in such large halls.

		But.

		You halt as you turn at the landing of the stairs. Your feet cease. Your hand grips the carved, smooth walnut newel—for when you appear and are revealed to ${j_him}—${j_he} is revealed to you. 

		$!{j_he} stands there in blue and gold.

		*if (((attractive < 3) and (looks = "looks same")) or (looks = "looks worse"))
			Gazing up at you with the usual warm eyes, the colour of the most heavenly sky.

		*else
			Gazing up at you with widened eyes, the colour of the most heavenly sky.

			And ${j_he} swallows, as do you.

		Further and further, you are revealed to ${j_him} with a new step. And you feel ${j_hi} eyes on you. And you warm at the sight of ${j_him}. 
		
		[i]And you burn.[/i]
		
	*else
		Step by step.

		Out the window, by the stairs landing, the sky is grey and darkening. The wind roars. Each day, the house is cooled further by winds of growing autumn, and the ball may be decidedly colder, as is the case in such large halls.

		But.

		You halt as you turn at the landing of the stairs. Your feet cease. Your hand grips the carved, smooth walnut newel—for when you appear and are revealed to ${j_him}—${j_he} is revealed to you. 

		$!{j_he} stands there in blue and gold.

		*if (((attractive < 3) and (looks = "looks same")) or (looks = "looks worse"))
			Gazing up at you with the usual warm eyes, the colour of the most heavenly sky.

		*else
			Gazing up at you with widened eyes, the colour of the most heavenly sky.

			And ${j_he} swallows.
		
		Further and further, you are revealed to ${j_him} with a new step. And you feel ${j_hi} eyes on you. And you warm at the sight of ${j_him}. 
		
		[i]And ${j_he} appears to burn.[/i]

*else
		Step by step.

		Out the window, by the stairs landing, the sky is grey and darkening. The wind roars. Each day, the house is cooled further by winds of growing autumn, and the ball may be decidedly colder, as is the case in such large halls.

		But.

		You halt as you turn at the landing of the stairs. Your feet cease. Your hand grips the carved, smooth walnut newel—for when you appear and are revealed to ${j_him}—${j_he} is revealed to you. 

		$!{j_he} stands there in blue and gold.

		Gazing up at you with the usual warm eyes, the colour of the most heavenly sky.

		You wonder if you do not feel a little warmer when ${j_he} is by your side.


*page_break
*if (wRomance)
	*if (johnMan)
		$!{j_he} is dressed as a Knight. Or a squire, based on the simpler quality. And despite a seam frayed and a limb’s length uneven, it fits just right. It feels just right. On ${j_him}, to you—it looks far too perfect, hanging on his strong shoulders, especially as the garment ${j_he} wears is paired with a warm, darkening blush across ${j_hi} cheeks.
	*else
		$!{j_he} is dressed as a Knight. Or a squire, based on the simpler quality. Her hair is the same, but let loose. Her figure drawn tight enough to show. And despite a seam frayed and a limb’s length uneven, it fits just right. It feels just right. On ${j_him}, to you—it looks far too perfect, especially as the garment ${j_he} wears is paired with a warm, darkening blush across ${j_hi} cheeks.

	*if ((nervousAndShy) and (skinBlushes))
		*comment if blushing // wearing blush?
		A blush you fear you may wear to match, yet you do not dare to raise your hand to your skin to know the truth.
	*elseif (skinBlushes = false)
		A blush you fear you may wear to match, hidden under you skin. Despite its concealment you almost feel compelled to raise your hand, to check, to [i]truly[/i] know...

*else
	*comment PLATONIC SECTION
	*comment PLATONIC SECTION -- maybe add more, maybe...
	*comment PLATONIC SECTION

	$!{j_he} is dressed as a knight. Or a squire, based on the simpler quality. But despite a seam frayed and a limb’s length uneven, it fits just right. It looks just right. On ${j_him}—it looks perfect, especially as the garment ${j_he} wears is paired with a beaming smile lifting ${j_hi} cheeks.

	*page_break
	You descend the few remaining steps of the stairs.

	Watson quickly steps aside, and turns ${j_hi} eyes to the wooden, creaking, floorboards as you do.

	And when the eyes return on you, it is neither a glare, a stare, or a soft gaze.

	It is simply Watson's regular regard.

	On you, ${j_hi} detective.

	*if (looks = "looks worse")
		"Someone's taking their duties seriously, I see," ${j_he} quips as he looks over your metamorphosis of devaluation. How you tried very hard to be less, to catch as few eyes as possible—at-least favorably.

		"It's a foolproof disguise, Watson."

		"Of course, Sherlock, never doubted it for a second."




*temp wellDressed "well-dressed"
*if (bSimple)
		*set wellDressed "simply and practically-dressed"
*if (bBold)
	*if (bWearingDress)
		*set wellDressed "well-dressed yet slightly underdressed"
	*else
		*set wellDressed "well and tightly dressed"
*if (bCharming)
	*set wellDressed "well-dressed and charming"
*if (bProper)
	*set wellDressed "well-dressed and elegant"
*if (bDelicate)
	*set wellDressed "softly and delicately dressed"




*if (wRomance)
	*if (((attractive < 3) and (looks = "looks same")) or (looks = "looks worse"))


		*comment honestly maybe change this later... im not sure if they should have the bigger scene or not...


		You descend the few remaining steps of the stairs.

		Watson quickly steps aside, and turns ${j_hi} eyes to the wooden, creaking, floorboards as you do.

		And when the eyes return on you, it is neither a glare or a stare. It is a soft gaze.

		It is simply Watson's regular regard.

		On you, ${j_hi} detective.

		*if (looks = "looks worse")
			"Someone's taking their duties seriously, I see," ${j_he} quips as he looks over your metamorphosis of devaluation. How you tried very hard to be less, to catch as few eyes as possible—at-least favorably.

			"It's a foolproof disguise, Watson."

			"Of course, Sherlock, never doubted it for a second."

			*goto skip1


		*fake_choice
			#“Do you not care for it?” Watson does not say ${j_he} approves, so ${j_he} must hate it.
				This time, ${j_hi} gaze parts from the polite and stumbles down your ${wellDressed} figure. “I…” $!{j_he} swallows again. “Forgive me, it is quite the...” The blue eyes return to yours. ”Opposite...”

				“It is?” you ask softly.
				*if (looks = "looks same")
					*comment looks same but also is attractive
					“${mc_name}, you… I apologise, I did not know I’d be without capable words.” $!{j_he} still blushes, to ${j_hi} own humiliation. And yet still, ${j_hi} gaze explores. “You look much like… you always look."
				
					The ${j_man} pauses and almost sighs, but no air leaves ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look exactly as I have always seen you, and lovelier than I have ever seen you before?”

					[i]Oh.[/i]

				*page_break


				“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} clears ${j_hi} throat and steps further to stand now steady with both feet on the step below you. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind, “If they see your brilliance tonight, ${mc_name}, you will dazzle all of London. And I am simply grateful, to be there... by your side.
				
				"Perhaps if the English language had stronger words—then perhaps I could tell you better, how you appear before me. As you always do… Always have.” 

				"Then... you do not dislike it?" you ask once more, simply because it is all that comes to your mind to ask.

				"No." ${j_he} grins. "No, dislike—dislike could not be a word further from the truth, ${mc_name}. I simply fail at words. Not appreciation," $!{j_he} laughs. It is a warm, happy thing.

				And you smile too; nothing could make you stop.

				*page_break

				And there you stand. In the middle of the somewhat cramped entryway.

				$!{j_hi} gaze seems glued. Unfamiliarly drawn to explore all that you are. How your legs extend, or how your ${skinColour} skin glows.

				Or perhaps this is how ${j_he} always gazed upon you.

				And you never realised…

				Not the extent.

				Till now.

				*goto skip1
				
			*if (true) #“[i]Oh[/i]. There you are, ${johnName}.”
				*comment Maybe think of an alt
				$!{j_hi} gaze parts from the polite and stumbles down your ${wellDressed} figure. “I…” $!{j_he} swallows again. “Forgive me, it is quite the... You look...”

				“Yes?" you ask for clarification. "I look—” 

				*comment looks same but also is attractive
				“${mc_name}, you… I apologise, I did not know I’d be without capable words.” $!{j_he} still blushes, to ${j_hi} own humiliation. And yet still, ${j_hi} gaze explores. “You look much like… you always look."
			
				The ${j_man} pauses and almost sighs, but no air leaves ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look exactly as I have always seen you, and lovelier than I have ever seen you before?”

				[i]Oh.[/i]


				*page_break

				“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} clears ${j_hi} throat and steps further to stand now steady with both feet beside you. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind, “If they see your brilliance tonight, ${mc_name}, you will dazzle all of London. And I am simply grateful, to be there... by your side.
				
				"Perhaps if I had a better grasp of the English language, or it had stronger words—then perhaps I could tell you better, how you appear before me. As you always do… Always have.” 

				I smile. “ $!{johnName}, your words are never lacking… Perhaps you should simply, take more pride in your words as they are, and say them more often?” 

				“More often?”

				“Yes. Would you mind?”

				“You know I sing your praises each and every day, [i]${mc_name}[/i]. But [i]more often[/i], you say?”

				“Mmm. I think so.”

				$!{j_he} laughs. It is a warm, happy thing. And you still smile; nothing could make you stop.

				“I would like that,” ${j_he} says. “Very much.”


				*page_break

				And there you stand. In the middle of the somewhat cramped entryway.

				$!{j_hi} gaze seems glued. Unfamiliarly drawn to explore all that you are. How your legs extend, or how your ${skinColour} skin glows.

				Or perhaps this is how ${j_he} always gazed upon you.

				And you never realised…

				Not the extent.

				Till now.


				*goto skip1








	*else
		It had never before been more obvious to you that, for some reason... $!{j_he} can not turn ${j_hi} gaze away.

		$!{j_he} can not look away. Not for a moment. Not one.

		And, by themselves, your steps continue forward and down the stairs, as if they never slowed nor halted, and—


		*if (bWearingDress)
			*if (johnMan)
				*comment Quickly, then, his steps are towards you. Only stopping until, he has a foot bracing on the bottom landing. His hand, white-gloved, he holds out and up to you—to guide you down the treacherous steps, and his blue gaze is glued to your expression only by some sheer shaking will.

				Quickly, then, his steps are towards you. He only stops until he has a foot bracing on the bottom landing. His hand, white-gloved, he holds out and up to you—to guide you down the treacherous steps, and his blue gaze is glued to your expression only by some sheer shaking will.

				He tries to speak, but his voice is husky and broken, "${mc_name}..." He tries to smile, but it is uneven and too plastered on.

			*else
				Quickly, then, her steps are towards you. She only stops until she has a heel bracing on the bottom landing. Her hand, delicate white-gloved, she holds out and up to you—to guide you down the treacherous steps, and her blue gaze is glued to your expression only by some sheer shaking will.

				She tries to speak, but her voice is fair and breathless, "${mc_name}..." She tries to smile, but it is uneven and too plastered on.

			*fake_choice
				#“You do not care for it…” Watson does not say ${j_he} approves, so ${j_he} must hate it.
					This time, ${j_hi} gaze parts from the polite and stumbles down your ${wellDressed} figure. “I…” $!{j_he} swallows again. “Forgive me, it is quite the...” The blue eyes return to yours. ”Opposite...”

					“It is?” you ask softly.
					*if (looks = "looks same")
						*comment looks same but also is attractive
						“${mc_name}, you… I apologise, I did not know I’d be without capable words.” $!{j_he} still blushes, to ${j_hi} own humiliation. And yet still, ${j_hi} gaze explores. “You look much like… you always look."
					
						The ${j_man} pauses and almost sighs, but no air leaves ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look exactly as I have always seen you, and lovelier than I have ever seen you before?”

						[i]Oh.[/i]

					*else
						“${mc_name}, you… I apologise, I did not know I’d be without capable words.” $!{j_he} still blushes, to ${j_hi} own humiliation. And yet still, ${j_hi} gaze explores. “You look just as I… that I expect you hoped that you would look. Radiant. [i]Wonderful[/i]. Trust this—and… beyond, in my eyes.”
					
						The ${j_man} pauses and almost sighs, but no air leaves ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look lovelier than I have ever seen you before, and exactly as I have always seen you?”

						[i]Oh.[/i]

					*page_break

					*if (bAttractive < 4)
						“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} clears ${j_hi} throat and steps further to stand now steady with both feet on the step below you. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind, “If they see your brilliance tonight, ${mc_name}, you will dazzle all of London. And I am simply grateful, to be there... by your side.
					*else
						*if (bBold) or (bAttractive > 4)
							“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} clears ${j_hi} throat and steps further to stand now steady with both feet on the step below you. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind.

							*if (bBold)
								“Sherlock…” It is the barest attempt at chiding. 
							*comment “All of London will see you as I do tonight. 
							“You look remarkable. Always. But now all of London will see it too.
							And, so… perhaps remain by my side? Just for the night. I do not quite know if London is ready for a brilliant ${individual} who shines this bright…" ${j_he} sighs.
						*else
							“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} clears ${j_hi} throat and steps further to stand now steady with both feet on the step below you. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind, “You will dazzle all of London tonight, ${mc_name}. And I am grateful to be there by your side.
					
					"Perhaps if the English language had stronger words—then perhaps I could tell you better, how you appear before me. As you always do… Always have.” 

					"Then... you do not dislike it?" you ask once more, simply because it is all that comes to your mind to ask.

					"No." ${j_he} grins. "No, dislike—dislike could not be a word further from the truth, ${mc_name}. I simply fail at words. Not appreciation," $!{j_he} laughs. It is a warm, happy thing.

					And you smile too; nothing could make you stop.

					

				#“Are you quite alright, ${johnName}?” I smile, a devilish turn of my lips. “Cat got your tongue?”
					This time, ${j_hi} gaze parts from the polite and stumbles down your ${wellDressed} figure. “I…” $!{j_he} swallows again. “Forgive me, yes.” The blue eyes return to yours. ”But you…”

					“Yes?”

					*if (looks = "looks same")
						*comment looks same but also is attractive
						“${mc_name}, you… You must have known that I’d be without capable words, or you would not have asked.” $!{j_he} still blushes, to ${j_hi} own humiliation. And yet still, ${j_hi} gaze explores. “I know that you look much like… that I expect [i]you[/i] know you always look. Radiant. [i]Wonderful[/i]. And… beyond, in my eyes.” 
					
						The ${j_man} pauses and almost sighs, but no air leaves ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look exactly as I have always seen you, and lovelier than I have ever seen you before?”

						[i]Oh.[/i]

					*else
						“${mc_name}, you… You must have known that I’d be without capable words, or you would not have asked.” $!{j_he} still blushes, to ${j_hi} own humiliation. And yet still, ${j_hi} gaze explores. “You look just as I… that I expect [i]you[/i] hoped that you would look. Radiant. [i]Wonderful[/i]. Trust this—and… beyond, in my eyes.” 
					
						The ${j_man} pauses and almost sighs, but no air leaves ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look lovelier than I have ever seen you before, and exactly as I have always seen you?”

						[i]Oh.[/i]

					*page_break

					*if (bAttractive < 4)
						“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} clears ${j_hi} throat and steps further to stand now steady with both feet on the step below you. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind, “If they see your brilliance tonight, ${mc_name}, you will dazzle all of London. And I am simply grateful, to be there... by your side.
					*else
						*if (bBold) or (bAttractive > 4)
							“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} clears ${j_hi} throat and steps further to stand now steady with both feet on the step below you. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind.

							*if (bBold)
								“Sherlock…” It is the barest attempt at chiding. 
							*comment “All of London will see you as I do tonight. 
							“You look remarkable. Always. But now all of London will see it too.
							And, so… perhaps remain by my side? Just for the night. I do not quite know if London is ready for a brilliant ${individual} who shines this bright…" ${j_he} sighs.
						*else
							“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} clears ${j_hi} throat and steps further to stand now steady with both feet on the step below you. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind, “You will dazzle all of London tonight, ${mc_name}. And I am grateful to be there by your side.
					
					"Perhaps if the English language had stronger words—then perhaps I could tell you better, how you appear before me. As you always do… Always have.” 

					I smile. “What a writerly thing to say, [i]$!{j_mister} Watson[/i]. Blaming the lack of words on the words… Perhaps you should simply… take more pride in your words as they are, and say them more often?” 

					“More often?”

					“Yes. Would you mind?”

					“You know I sing your praises each and every day, [i]$!{mc_miss} $!{mc_lastname}[/i]. But [i]more often[/i], you say?”

					“Mmm. I think so. Might help you with your vocabulary. We can practice synonyms for dazzling, ravishing, et cetera.”

					$!{j_he} laughs. It is a warm, happy thing. And you still smile; nothing could make you stop.

					“I would like that,” ${j_he} says. “Very much.”

					*comment “But now all of London will see it too.”
					*comment “Sherlock…” It is the barest attempt at chiding. “All of London will see you as I do tonight.”
					*comment “And, so… perhaps remain by my side? For the night.”
					*comment “Who knows if London is quite ready for a brilliant woman who shines this bright…”

				#“[i]Oh[/i]. Why—how very gallant, ${johnName}.” I hold my hand out and accept ${j_hi} offer of assistance happily.
					You take ${j_hi} hand and descend the few remaining steps. And ${j_he} does not lose your hand, not even when the steps are done. 

					Once below stairs, ${j_hi} gaze parts from the polite and stumbles down your ${wellDressed} figure. “I…” $!{j_he} swallows again. “Forgive me, it is quite the... You look...”

					“Yes?" you ask for clarification. "I look—” 

					*if (looks = "looks same")
						*comment looks same but also is attractive
						“${mc_name}, you… I apologise, I did not know I’d be without capable words.” $!{j_he} still blushes, to ${j_hi} own humiliation. And yet still, ${j_hi} gaze explores. “You look much like… you always look."
					
						The ${j_man} pauses and almost sighs, but no air leaves ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look exactly as I have always seen you, and lovelier than I have ever seen you before?”

						[i]Oh.[/i]

					*else
						“${mc_name}, you… I apologise, I did not know I’d be without capable words.” $!{j_he} still blushes, to ${j_hi} own humiliation. And yet still, ${j_hi} gaze explores. “You look just as I… that I expect you hoped that you would look. Radiant. [i]Wonderful[/i]. Trust this—and… beyond, in my eyes.”
					
						The ${j_man} pauses and almost sighs, but no air leaves ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look lovelier than I have ever seen you before, and exactly as I have always seen you?”

						[i]Oh.[/i]

					*page_break

					*if (bAttractive < 4)
						“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} clears ${j_hi} throat and steps further to stand now steady with both feet on the floorboard beside you. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind, “If they see your brilliance tonight, ${mc_name}, you will dazzle all of London. And I am simply grateful, to be there... by your side.
					*else
						*if (bBold) or (bAttractive > 4)
							“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} clears ${j_hi} throat and steps further to stand now steady with both feet on the floorboard beside you. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind.

							*if (bBold)
								“Sherlock…” It is the barest attempt at chiding. 
							*comment “All of London will see you as I do tonight. 
							“You look remarkable. Always. But now all of London will see it too.
							And, so… perhaps remain by my side? Just for the night. I do not quite know if London is ready for a brilliant ${individual} who shines this bright…" ${j_he} sighs.
						*else
							“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} clears ${j_hi} throat and steps further to stand now steady with both feet on the floorboard beside you. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind, “You will dazzle all of London tonight, ${mc_name}. And I am grateful to be there by your side.
					
					"Perhaps if I had a better grasp of the English language, or it had stronger words—then perhaps I could tell you better, how you appear before me. As you always do… Always have.” 

					You smile. “$!{johnName}, your words are never lacking… Perhaps you should simply, take more pride in your words as they are, and say them more often?” 

					“More often?”

					“Yes. Would you mind?”

					“You know I sing your praises each and every day, [i]${mc_name}[/i]. But [i]more often[/i], you say?”

					“Mmm. I think so.”

					$!{j_he} laughs. It is a warm, happy thing. And you still smile; nothing could make you stop.

					“I would like that,” ${j_he} says. “Very much.”


					*page_break

					And there you stand. In the middle of the somewhat cramped entryway.

					$!{j_hi} gaze seems glued. Unfamiliarly drawn to explore all that you are. How your skirt is flowing, how your ${skinColour} skin is shining.
						*comment How your skirt is flowing, your hair is bouncing/flowing/shining.

					Or perhaps this is how ${j_he} always gazed upon you.

					And you never realised…

					Not the extent.

					Till now.


					*goto skip1
				#I frown. “Don’t be ridiculous, Watson. Do you know how many times I’ve walked these steps in worse contraptions—”
					*set WLookedOnMCAndSmiledCh6 false

					You do not ${j_hi} hand. Instead descend on your own, the few remaining steps.

					Watson quickly steps aside, and only turns ${j_hi} eyes to the wooden, creaking, floorboards. Not to look up at you, for a long moment.

					And when the eyes return on you, it is neither a glare, nor a soft gaze.

					It is simply Watson.

					On you, ${j_hi} detective.

					*goto skip1

			*page_break

			*comment variations on this

			You take ${j_hi} hand and descend the few remaining steps. And ${j_he} does not lose your hand, not even when the steps are done. 

			$!{j_hi} gaze seems glued. Unfamiliarly drawn to explore all that you are. How your skirt is flowing, how your ${skinColour} skin is shining.
			*comment How your skirt is flowing, your hair is bouncing/flowing/shining.

			Or perhaps this is how ${j_he} always gazed upon you.

			And you never realised…

			Not the extent.

			Till now.

		*else


			*if (johnMan)
				Watson remains there, by the bottom landing. His hand, white-gloved, curl around the final newel—and his blue gaze is glued to your expression only by some sheer shaking will.

				He tries to speak, but his voice is husky and broken, "${mc_name}..." He tries to smile, but it is uneven and too plastered on.

			*else
				Watson remains there, by the bottom landing. Her hand, delicately white-gloved, curl around the final newel—and her blue gaze is glued to your expression only by some sheer shaking will.

				She tries to speak, but her voice is fair and breathless, "${mc_name}..." She tries to smile, but it is uneven and too plastered on.

			*fake_choice
				#“You do not care for it…” Watson does not say ${j_he} approves, so ${j_he} must hate it.
					This time, ${j_hi} gaze parts from the polite and stumbles down your ${wellDressed} figure. “I…” $!{j_he} swallows again. “Forgive me, it is quite the...” The blue eyes return to yours. ”Opposite...”

					“It is?” you ask softly.
					*if (looks = "looks same")
						*comment looks same but also is attractive
						“${mc_name}, you… I apologise, I did not know I’d be without capable words.” $!{j_he} still blushes, to ${j_hi} own humiliation. And yet still, ${j_hi} gaze explores. “You look much like… you always look."
					
						The ${j_man} pauses and almost sighs, but no air leaves ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look exactly as I have always seen you, and more handsome than I have ever seen you before?”

						[i]Oh.[/i]

					*else
						“${mc_name}, you… I apologise, I did not know I’d be without capable words.” $!{j_he} still blushes, to ${j_hi} own humiliation. And yet still, ${j_hi} gaze explores. “You look just as I… that I expect you hoped that you would look. Radiant. [i]Wonderful[/i]. Trust this—and… beyond, in my eyes.”
					
						The ${j_man} pauses and almost sighs, but no air leaves ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look more handsome than I have ever seen you before, and exactly as I have always seen you?”

						[i]Oh.[/i]

					*page_break

					*if (bAttractive < 4)
						“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} clears ${j_hi} throat and steps further to stand now steady with both feet on the step below you. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind, “If they see your brilliance tonight, ${mc_name}, you will dazzle all of London. And I am simply grateful, to be there... by your side.
					*else
						*if (bBold) or (bAttractive > 4)
							“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} clears ${j_hi} throat and steps further to stand now steady with both feet on the step below you. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind.

							*if (bBold)
								“Sherlock…” It is the barest attempt at chiding. 
							*comment “All of London will see you as I do tonight. 
							“You look remarkable. Always. But now all of London will see it too.
							And, so… would you remain by my side? Just for the night. I do not quite know if London is ready for a brilliant ${individual} who shines this bright…" ${j_he} sighs.
						*else
							“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} clears ${j_hi} throat and steps further to stand now steady with both feet on the step below you. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind, “You will dazzle all of London tonight, ${mc_name}. And I am grateful to be there by your side.
					
					"Perhaps if the English language had stronger words—then perhaps I could tell you better, how you appear before me. As you always do… Always have.” 

					"Then... you do not dislike it?" you ask once more, simply because it is all that comes to your mind to ask.

					"No." ${j_he} grins. "No, dislike—dislike could not be a word further from the truth, ${mc_name}. I simply fail at words. Not appreciation," $!{j_he} laughs. It is a warm, happy thing.

					And you smile too; nothing could make you stop.

					

				#“Are you quite alright, ${johnName}?” I smile, a devilish turn of my lips. “Cat got your tongue?”
					This time, ${j_hi} gaze parts from the polite and stumbles down your ${wellDressed} figure. “I…” $!{j_he} swallows again. “Forgive me, yes.” The blue eyes return to yours. ”But you…”

					“Yes?”

					*if (looks = "looks same")
						*comment looks same but also is attractive
						“${mc_name}, you… You must have known that I’d be without capable words, or you would not have asked.” $!{j_he} still blushes, to ${j_hi} own humiliation. And yet still, ${j_hi} gaze explores. “I know that you look much like… that I expect [i]you[/i] know you always look. Radiant. [i]Wonderful[/i]. And… beyond, in my eyes.” 
					
						The ${j_man} pauses and almost sighs, but no air leaves ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look exactly as I have always seen you, and more handsome than I have ever seen you before?”

						[i]Oh.[/i]

					*else
						“${mc_name}, you… You must have known that I’d be without capable words, or you would not have asked.” $!{j_he} still blushes, to ${j_hi} own humiliation. And yet still, ${j_hi} gaze explores. “You look just as I… that I expect [i]you[/i] hoped that you would look. Radiant. [i]Wonderful[/i]. Trust this—and… beyond, in my eyes.” 
					
						The ${j_man} pauses and almost sighs, but no air leaves ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look more handsome than I have ever seen you before, and exactly as I have always seen you?”

						[i]Oh.[/i]

					*page_break

					*if (bAttractive < 4)
						“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} clears ${j_hi} throat and steps further to stand now steady with both feet on the step below you. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind, “If they see your brilliance tonight, ${mc_name}, you will dazzle all of London. And I am simply grateful, to be there... by your side.
					*else
						*if (bBold) or (bAttractive > 4)
							“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} clears ${j_hi} throat and steps further to stand now steady with both feet on the step below you. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind.

							*if (bBold)
								“Sherlock…” It is the barest attempt at chiding.
							*comment “All of London will see you as I do tonight. 
							“You look remarkable. Always. But now all of London will see it too.
							And, so… would you remain by my side? Just for the night. I do not quite know if London is ready for a brilliant ${individual} who shines this bright…" ${j_he} sighs.
						*else
							“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} clears ${j_hi} throat and steps further to stand now steady with both feet on the step below you. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind, “You will dazzle all of London tonight, ${mc_name}. And I am grateful to be there by your side.
					
					"Perhaps if the English language had stronger words—then perhaps I could tell you better, how you appear before me. As you always do… Always have.” 

					I smile. “What a writerly thing to say, [i]$!{j_mister} Watson[/i]. Blaming the lack of words on the words… Perhaps you should simply… take more pride in your words as they are, and say them more often?” 

					“More often?”

					“Yes. Would you mind?”

					“You know I sing your praises each and every day, [i]$!{mc_miss} $!{mc_lastname}[/i]. But [i]more often[/i], you say?”

					“Mmm. I think so. Might help you with your vocabulary. We can practice synonyms for dazzling, ravishing, et cetera.”

					$!{j_he} laughs. It is a warm, happy thing. And you still smile; nothing could make you stop.

					“I would like that,” ${j_he} says. “Very much.”

					*comment “But now all of London will see it too.”
					*comment “Sherlock…” It is the barest attempt at chiding. “All of London will see you as I do tonight.”
					*comment “And, so… perhaps remain by my side? For the night.”
					*comment “Who knows if London is quite ready for a brilliant woman who shines this bright…”

				*if (true) #“[i]Oh[/i]. There you are, ${johnName}.”
					*comment Maybe think of an alt
					You descend the few remaining steps.

					Once below stairs, ${j_hi} gaze parts from the polite and stumbles down your ${wellDressed} figure. “I…” $!{j_he} swallows again. “Forgive me, it is quite the... You look...”

					“Yes?" you ask for clarification. "I look—” 

					*if (looks = "looks same")
						*comment looks same but also is attractive
						“${mc_name}, you… I apologise, I did not know I’d be without capable words.” $!{j_he} still blushes, to ${j_hi} own humiliation. And yet still, ${j_hi} gaze explores. “You look much like… you always look."
					
						The ${j_man} pauses and almost sighs, but no air leaves ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look exactly as I have always seen you, and more handsome than I have ever seen you before?”

						[i]Oh.[/i]

					*else
						“${mc_name}, you… I apologise, I did not know I’d be without capable words.” $!{j_he} still blushes, to ${j_hi} own humiliation. And yet still, ${j_hi} gaze explores. “You look just as I… that I expect you hoped that you would look. Radiant. [i]Wonderful[/i]. Trust this—and… beyond, in my eyes.”
					
						The ${j_man} pauses and almost sighs, but no air leaves ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look more handsome than I have ever seen you before, and exactly as I have always seen you?”

						[i]Oh.[/i]

					*page_break

					*if (bAttractive < 4)
						“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} clears ${j_hi} throat and steps further to stand now steady with both feet beside you. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind, “If they see your brilliance tonight, ${mc_name}, you will dazzle all of London. And I am simply grateful, to be there... by your side.
					*else
						*if (bBold) or (bAttractive > 4)
							“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} clears ${j_hi} throat and steps further to stand now steady with both feet beside you. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind.

							*if (bBold)
								“Sherlock…” It is the barest attempt at chiding.
							*comment “All of London will see you as I do tonight. 
							“You look remarkable. Always. But now all of London will see it too.
							And, so… perhaps remain by my side? Just for the night. I do not quite know if London is ready for a brilliant ${individual} who shines this bright…" ${j_he} sighs.
						*else
							“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} clears ${j_hi} throat and steps further to stand now steady with both feet beside you. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind, “You will dazzle all of London tonight, ${mc_name}. And I am grateful to be there by your side.
					
					"Perhaps if I had a better grasp of the English language, or it had stronger words—then perhaps I could tell you better, how you appear before me. As you always do… Always have.” 

					I smile. “ $!{johnName}, your words are never lacking… Perhaps you should simply, take more pride in your words as they are, and say them more often?” 

					“More often?”

					“Yes. Would you mind?”

					“You know I sing your praises each and every day, [i]${mc_name}[/i]. But [i]more often[/i], you say?”

					“Mmm. I think so.”

					$!{j_he} laughs. It is a warm, happy thing. And you still smile; nothing could make you stop.

					“I would like that,” ${j_he} says. “Very much.”


					*page_break

					And there you stand. In the middle of the somewhat cramped entryway.

					$!{j_hi} gaze seems glued. Unfamiliarly drawn to explore all that you are. How your legs extend, or how your ${skinColour} skin glows.

					Or perhaps this is how ${j_he} always gazed upon you.

					And you never realised…

					Not the extent.

					Till now.


					*goto skip1
				#I frown. “You are staring Watson—”
					*set WLookedOnMCAndSmiledCh6 false
					You descend the few remaining steps of the stairs.

					Watson quickly steps aside, and only turns ${j_hi} eyes to the wooden, creaking, floorboards. Not to look up at you, for a long moment.

					And when the eyes return on you, it is neither a glare, a stare, or a soft gaze.

					It is simply Watson.

					On you, ${j_hi} detective.

					*goto skip1

			*page_break

			*comment variations on this

			You descend the few remaining steps.

			$!{j_hi} gaze seems glued. Unfamiliarly drawn to explore all that you are. How your legs extend, or how your ${skinColour} skin glows.

			Or perhaps this is how ${j_he} always gazed upon you.

			And you never realised…

			Not the extent.

			Till now.







*goto skip1

*comment Watson reveal scene



- Watson romance + mc looks better than before

- Watson romance + mc looks the same as before

W when they see MC (if MC doesn't do anything special, unattractive or platonic) they should have a warm smile on their lips. The one that creeps up when you meet a dear friend. the one you can't hold back. the one that just happens because you are so happy to be in their warm presence for now or for the future. (Watson smiles warmly, "Sherlock. Are you excited? I rather believe I am... With a hint of nerves. I do not believe I've gone to such a show before.")

- Watson (romance and not) + mc looks worse than before

- Watson platonic (+ minor variations).


*comment Watson POW
- She (floated/walked/stepped) down the stairs a (bMainColourAdjective "pale pastell") (bMainTrueColour "pink") (styleName-add-variable angel) before my eyes.




*page_break

*label skip1

*temp madeFunOfWDancingBefore false

*if (wRomance)
	*set spokeWithW true
	*comment //
	*comment //
	*comment //Maybe cut this part... it didnt really fit here either.
	*comment //
	*comment "This is invigorating, isn't it, (Name)?—And dressing up like this... I wanted to say, before that, you..."
	*comment 		"Do you think this is as invigorating as I do, (Name)? I have never been to a [i]proper[/i] ball before..." Watson leans forward and speaks so only you may hear. 

	"I will try my best, tonight. By your side. I mean, I... I have never been to a [i]proper[/i] ball before. But I..." ${j_he} admits, then ${j_hi} words once again trail off, just as ${j_he} gazes deeply into your eyes.
	*if (true)
		*fake_choice
			#"Then I will stay close to you tonight—to guide you on the etiquette."
				"I would wish for nothing more, ${mc_name}. And remain very close, the crowds and all," ${j_he} almost smirks as ${j_he} speaks the words. "Treacherous crowds and etiquette-based challenges around every corner, I'm sure."
			#"The only thing that excites me is the prospect of seeing you dance to-night."
				*set madeFunOfWDancingBefore true
				"Whatever your expectations, ill or well, you shall be disappointed, I am sure," ${j_he} chuckles.
			#"I am delighted to share a ballroom with you, ${johnName}."
				"As am I, ${mc_name}. As am I," ${j_he} ends the words with a content sigh. "A moment that I will... remember, very well."
			#"I am simply glad I don't have to be there alone. Thank you for coming with me."
				"Always. [i]Always[/i], ${mc_name}," ${j_he} says with the conviction of a ${j_man} who has forgotten a previous promise of the reverse.

			#"It does not matter. We are not here for the ball—and don't wander. I will need you beside me during the investigation."
				"Of course, Sherlock. Always," ${j_he} says with the conviction of a ${j_man} who has forgotten a previous promise of the reverse.

			#"Excited? Over something so dreadfully dull? I usually bring you to much more interesting places."
				"Is that quite right?" ${j_he} chuckles. "That may very well be true. But rarely does it involve so much fine fabric and proper dancing etiquette.”


*page_break

*comment Watson goes away to get something, and H comes knocking.

*if (true)
	Then, quickly, Watson excuses ${j_himself}, "I forgot—I, I have to fetch something, I shall be right back—" 

	$!{j_he} quickly and carelessly ascends the stairs, skipping every other step. 

	[i]Hmm...[/i]

	It seems Watson is having a rather good leg day. [i]Or perhaps[/i] simply the adrenaline and excitement of the unusual day cause ${j_him} to forget all the usual pain?
*else
	Then, quickly, Watson excuses herself, "I forgot—I, I have to fetch something, I shall be right back—" 

	$!{j_he} too quickly and carelessly ascends the stairs with such a skirt and—

	[i]Hmm...[/i]

	It seems Watson is having a rather good leg day. [i]Or perhaps[/i] simply the adrenaline and excitement of the unusual day cause ${j_him} to forget all the usual pain?

*page_break

*comment H and MC scene.

*label testSkip

*comment (MC PUTS ON A BIG WARM COAT). WRITE THIS. BAG IM GIVING U UR REVEAL MOMENT DONT U WORRY.

You begin to put on your coat, the one that travels
*if (bWearingDress)
	the length of your dress
*else
	the span of your costume
and keeps you well warm on a night like this. And just as Watson is upstairs, and beyond hearing what might occur in the hallway where you stand—

There is a knock at the door.

*page_break

*comment here it can be a driver knocking to saying they are here to pick us up. or it's H themselves.
*if (driver)
	*comment driver

	*comment TODO MAYBE ADD ANOTHER LETTER TO NEGATIVE ROMANCE ROUTE HERE, THAT THE COACHMAN GIVES
	*comment or maybe there's dark roses dressing the carriage and you do not know if its on purpose or not. They are not quite like your bud rose, but there is a similair quality.

	There stands a man in a navy greatcoat and a pristine top hat. He nods deeply and asks in the gravely assured tone of a man who already knows he has the right ${individual} before him. “${mc_miss} ${mc_lastname}, I presume?” Even the shoes are terribly polished for a man who works near mud and horses. “I’ve come to escort your group to the evening’s ball—by the courtesy of $!{h_sir2} ${full_nameH}.”

	The man steps back and to the side. This allows both the cold wind in and you a good view of the large carriage—four horses and a heavy gilded frame. No expenses were spared. None at all…

	Mrs Hudson will be entirely pleased.
	
	*page_break

	Watson’s steps are quick as ${j_he} comes down the stairs. You, in turn, step back and give some room away from the door-frame, just in time for ${j_hi} smile to turn to glare when ${j_he} notices the carriage. 

	“${mc_name}... Tell me if I am far too uninformed on current standards—but are
	*if (hMan)  
		gentlemen
	*else
		gentile women
	not generally thought to seek virtue?” $!{j_he} gives you a passing glance as ${j_he} walks up to your side, then levies ${j_hi} eyes forward, out the door once more. "Is it pride, greed, or gluttony to covet all too much?" ${johnName} whispers in your ear.

	"Greed would be the typical answer,” you return to Watson's complaint about the owner of one extravagant carriage. 

	*comment He only looks at you then. For a long, quiet moment.
	*comment You see him look at you then, from the corner of your eye. For a long, quiet moment.
	You see ${j_him} look at you then, from the corner of your eye. For a too long, quiet moment.


	Until—

	Mrs Hudson clomps into the room and exclaims, “How lovely!” at the sight of the extraordinarily gilded carriage. All the while, she is dressed in something resembling a jewelled bird with too much plume. Each step is a racket of an orchestra. She gazes between you and Watson, and the coachman, without any possible understanding or reading of that same room. “All ready? Off we go?”

	And so you do.

	*page_break

	Before the coachman is able to walk up to the door—

	*fake_choice
		#I step up to the carriage, and hold my hand out to ${johnName}.
			*comment if john , you could bring up leg. tho maybe its overkill? + they wouldnt appreciate it.

			*if (johnMan) and (genderMC = "woman")
				You offer to assist him onto the small step of the carriage, you think of his leg. But he firmly declines, and soon follow you inside the warmer, softer land of the transport.

			*elseif (johnMan)
				*comment You offer to assist him onto the small step of the carriage, you think of his leg. But he begins to decline. You have to once more insist to firmly help him onto the small step of the carriage and then follow him inside this warmer, softer land.

				You offer to assist him onto the small step of the carriage, you think of his leg. But he firmly declines, and soon follow you inside the warmer, softer land of the transport.

			*else
				You firmly assist her onto the small step of the carriage and then follow her inside this warmer, softer land.

		*if ((bWearingDress) or (johnMan)) #${johnName} is there first. $!{j_he} holds ${j_hi} hand out to me, and I take ${j_hi} warm, outstretched hand in mine.
			*if (johnMan = false) and (genderMC = "man")
				You take her heated hand, and you let her support you up the small step of the carriage. Then, together, you have entered a warmer, softer land.

			*else
				You take ${j_hi} firm hand, and let ${j_him} lift you up the small step of the carriage. Then, you have entered a warmer, softer land.

		#No, no, the coachman handles such tasks perfectly well.
			And you soon follow Watson, and Mrs Hudson inside the warmer, softer land of a rolling room with walls of tapestry and finery.


	*comment H holds out his arm to you and manoeuvres so you end up next to one another, facing forward in the direction of the traffic. Usually, the chaperon would sit with their charge but... But there truly were only four seats, so then it could surely be explained away as a matter of necessity?

	*if (wRomance)

		The seating ends up with you and Mrs Hudson facing forward in the direction of the traffic, and the doctor opposite you.

		One ill-laid stone on the road and knees might touch. 
		*if (fellOntoWatson)
			Or a repeat of the moment, the fall, you had the when you were in a carriage together last time...

		But ${j_he} does not seem to mind.

		Not one bit.

		$!{j_he} is all bright smiles, blue eyes, and beaming enthusiasm for it all. And possibly not [i]just[/i] for the seating chart.


	*else
		The seating ends up with you and Mrs Hudson facing forward in the direction of the traffic, and the doctor opposite you.

		It is a little too cramped.

		But ${j_he} do not seem to mind.

		Not one bit.

		$!{j_he} is all bright smiles, blue eyes, and beaming enthusiasm for it all.

	*goto carriageGO
*else
	*if (hMan = false)
		There stands a woman. 
		
		Of little height, yet immense presence. Draped in a gorgeous gown, drawn tight around an already decidedly small waist and a neckline that reaches halfway up to her ears, and wearing a smile so unguarded it melts all that proper firmness and reserve. 

		All distance disappears with a direct gaze that is peering at you with warmth... 
	*else
		There stands a man. 
		
		Of firm height and a stark presence. A presence so impressive, so impassive—all covered in a perfectly tailored suit of black and white—but wearing a smile so unguarded it melts all that proper firmness and reserve. 
		
		All potential distance disappears with a direct gaze that is peering at you with such warmth... 

	*if ((wRomance) and (WLookedOnMCAndSmiledCh6))
		*comment watson romance
		Much like Watson would do. [i]Did[/i], a moment ago.

		*if (romanceL > 1)
			Much like Lestrade never [i]quite[/i] did.

		*if (formerLover != "none")
			Much like the ${loverMan} of your past did...

	*elseif (johnAttracted = false)
		It was unlike Watson's gaze. Far more... burning and bright. Bold. And more emboldened by your acceptance this day.

	*elseif (mcObliviousNr > 2)
		Unlike any you had ever seen, at least that you had ever seen and realised...




	*fake_choice
		#I, in turn, smile with far too much meaning. Just as ${aindividual} should return such a gaze from such a ${h_man}.
			*comment TODO ADJECTIVE below
			*if (hMan)
				His eyes then travel down your coat.
				
				*if (bWearingDress)
					But only the bottom hem and lining peek through the end. His eyes seem to catch there nonetheless. Then, the gaze returns to your ${adjective_Primped} face with newfound curiosity.
				*else
					But only the bottom hem of the pants and the shoes peek through the end. His eyes seem to catch there nonetheless. Then, the gaze returns to your ${adjective_Primped} face with newfound curiosity.
					*comment bWearingSuit 
					*comment bWearingSkirt 
					*comment bWearingPants 

				A gaze of curiosity. Over you.

				“Good evening, ${mc_miss} ${mc_lastname},” he says, almost as amused. Then he bows, as perfectly by the hip and politely bent neck as you had ever seen. Stretches back up, and a green gaze fills your vision once more. “Count the hours, count the minutes… the seconds. You have made me an impatient man.”
			*else
				Her eyes then travel down your coat.

				*if (bWearingDress)
					But only the bottom hem and lining peek through the end. Her eyes seem to catch there nonetheless. Then, the gaze returns to your ${adjective_Primped} face with newfound curiosity.
				*else
					But only the bottom hem of the pants and the shoes peek through the end. Her eyes seem to catch there nonetheless. Then, the gaze returns to your ${adjective_Primped} face with newfound curiosity.
					*comment bWearingSuit 
					*comment bWearingSkirt 
					*comment bWearingPants 

				A gaze of curiosity. Over you.

				“Good evening, ${mc_miss} ${mc_lastname},” she says, almost as amused. Then she curtsies, as perfectly polite, slow, and controlled as you had ever seen. Stretching back up, and a green gaze gazes up at your vision once more. Her voice soft and quiet. “Count the hours, count the minutes… the seconds. You have made me an impatient woman, ${mc_miss} ${mc_lastname}.”

			*fake_choice
				#“[i]Good evening[/i]—and why is that, ${h_sir}? What crime have I committed for spurring such apparent change?”
					“[i]Good evening[/i]—and why is that, ${h_sir}? What crime have I committed for spurring such apparent change?”
					
					*if (hMan)
						*if ((bAttractive > 3) and (genderMC != h_man))
							*comment “Would bringing your beauty into it be tasteless, my lady? 
							“Bringing your 
							*if (genderMC = "woman")
								beauty
							*else
								looks
							into it would be tasteless, would it not? No—you are quite right, I shall have to find some excuse…” He pretends to think, lowered brows and everything. “Perhaps I am impatient to see your brilliance at the scene?”
						*elseif ((bAttractive > 3) and (genderMC = h_man))
							*comment “Would bringing your beauty into it be tasteless, my lady? 
							“If I was a painter I would perhaps mention something of your visage, but I do not wish to be so tasteless, do I? No—you are quite right, I shall have to find some reason…” It is as if he's pretending to think, lowered brows and everything. “Perhaps I am impatient to see your brilliance at the scene?”
						*else
							"I was—am—curious to see you... Your brilliance at the scene, surely you know this?"
					*else
						*if (bAttractive > 3)
							Her eyes are on you something fiercely. "I collect paintings, did you know, ${mc_miss} ${mc_lastname}? Something in your countenance...  You have the most remarkable visage. It reminds me awfully of one of my most cherished paintings... And—I am of course impatient to see your brilliance at the scene—"
						*else
							"I was—am—curious to see you... Your brilliance at the scene, surely you know this?"
				#"Good. You should know I expect nothing less. As a rule. It would be terrible waiting for a coach to arrive—"
					"Good. You should know I expect nothing less. As a rule. It would be terrible waiting for a coach to arrive—"
					
					*if ((bAttractive > 3) and (genderMC != h_man))
						"A terrible thing. However, I do not believe you have had to wait long too often, ${mc_miss}. A 
						*if (genderMC = "woman")
							beauty
						*else
							handsomeness
						that inspires me to impatience may surely lure a coachman?

						"That said… perhaps it is tasteless to bring up such matters? No—you are quite right, I shall have to find some other excuse for my state…” $!{h_he} pretends to think; lowered brows and everything. “Perhaps I am impatient to see your brilliance at the scene?”

					*elseif (bAttractive > 3)
						"A terrible thing I truly do not think you suffer often," ${h_he} says as eyes linger for far too long. "Nor one I would allow—for I am impatient to see your brilliance at the scene—”

					*else
						"A terrible thing I would not allow," ${h_he} says as eyes linger for far too long. "For, I am impatient—to see your brilliance at the scene—”
					
				#"I am sorry for it, ${h_sir}."
					"I am sorry for it, ${h_sir}."
					
					“Don't be. I am both delighted and dreading this as my new normal state of being," ${h_he} begins as ${h_he} gazes at you, then continues.
					
					*if ((bAttractive > 3) and (genderMC != h_man))
						"To carry such 
						*if (genderMC = "woman")
							beauty
						*else
							looks
						which inspires this in a ${h_man} is a boon, a gift, is it not? Or perhaps it is tasteless to bring up such matters? No—you are quite right, I shall have to find some excuse…” ${h_he} pretends to think, lowered brows and everything. “Perhaps I am impatient to see your brilliance at the scene?”
					*elseif (bAttractive > 3)
						"There is something in your countenance...  You have the most remarkable visage. It reminds me awfully of one of my most cherished paintings—but perhaps it is tasteless to bring up such matters? No—you are quite right. The better reasons for my impatience is, I am terribly impatient to see your brilliance at the scene—”
					*else
						"To carry such brilliance which inspires this in a ${h_man} is a boon, a gift, is it not? I am most impatient to see your brilliance at the scene—”

			“What if there is no scene? What then?” you return.

			“With you there? Perish the thought.”

			“No, you are too right. We can’t have that." You step back further into the hall and offer. "Won’t you come in?”

		#“You came… Oh, I—good evening, ${h_sir},” I hurry a greeting and a smile as I feel a warmth coursing through my cheeks.
			“Did you doubt I would, dear ${mc_miss} ${mc_lastname}? Should I be worried my word seems a dishonest thing?” ${h_he} almost… jests. And still smiles. The ${h_man} seems to surprise you more and more. A joke, mild as it was, seems unusual to pair with the perfectly tailored figure before you.

			*if (hMan)
				His eyes then travel down your coat.
				
				*if (bWearingDress)
					But only the bottom hem and lining peek through the end. His eyes seem to catch there nonetheless. 

					Then, the gaze returns to your ${adjective_Primped} face with newfound curiosity.
				*else
					But only the bottom hem of the pants and the shoes peek through the end. His eyes seem to catch there nonetheless. 

					Then, the gaze returns to your ${adjective_Primped} face with newfound curiosity.
					*comment bWearingSuit 
					*comment bWearingSkirt 
					*comment bWearingPants 

				*comment “Good evening, ${mc_miss} ${mc_lastname},” he says, almost as amused. Then he bows, as perfectly by the hip and politely bent neck as you had ever seen. Stretches back up, and a green gaze fills your vision once more. “Count the hours, count the minutes… the seconds. You have made me an impatient man.”
			*else
				Her eyes then travel down your coat.

				*if (bWearingDress)
					But only the bottom hem and lining peek through the end. Her eyes seem to catch there nonetheless. 

					Then, the gaze returns to your ${adjective_Primped} face with newfound curiosity.
				*else
					But only the bottom hem of the pants and the shoes peek through the end. Her eyes seem to catch there nonetheless. 

					Then, the gaze returns to your ${adjective_Primped} face with newfound curiosity.
					*comment bWearingSuit 
					*comment bWearingSkirt 
					*comment bWearingPants 

				*comment A gaze of curiosity. Over you.

				*comment “Good evening, ${mc_miss} ${mc_lastname},” she says, almost as amused. Then she curtsies, as perfectly polite, slow, and controlled as you had ever seen. Stretching back up, and a green gaze gazes up at your vision once more. Her voice soft and quiet. “Count the hours, count the minutes… the seconds. You have made me an impatient woman, ${mc_miss} ${mc_lastname}.”

			“And... Good evening,” ${h_he} says. Softly. Too slowly. With far too much eye contact. Far too much said and implied with too little.
			*if (gotAskedToBall)
				*if (hMan)
					“The hours were long, endless, in your absence. But I am here. At last."
				*else
					“The hours were long, endless, ${mc_madam}. But... Here we are together, at last.”
			*else
				“As I mentioned in the letter—I counted the hours, counted the minutes. The seconds. You have brought me down to the level of an impatient ${h_man}, my ${mc_lady}.”

			“You meant that? Truly, sir?”

			*if (hMan)
				“There you go again, ${mc_madam},” still a smile, and a warm tone. “Imputing my word.” $!{h_he} leans forward. A little. However, far too much for propriety. $!{h_his} voice a conspiratorial whisper, “I swear it… I shall win your trust yet. No matter the bouquets, balls, and letters that it may take.”
			*else 
				“There you go again, ${mc_madam},” still a smile, and a warm tone. “Imputing my word.” $!{h_he} steps forward. A little. However, far too much for propriety. Her chin lifted to meet your gaze and her voice a conspiratorial whisper, “I swear it… I shall earn your trust yet. No matter the bouquets, balls, and letters that it may require.”

			“There's truly no need, I—won’t you come in?” you offer politely as ${h_his} nearness does not end.

		#“Good evening, ${h_sir},” I say a simple greeting and a polite, professional smile as I meet the ${h_man} again.
			*comment TODO ADJECTIVE below
			*if (hMan)
				His eyes then travel down your coat.
				
				*if (bWearingDress)
					But only the bottom hem and lining peek through the end. His eyes seem to catch there nonetheless. Then, the gaze returns to your ${adjective_Primped} face with newfound curiosity.
				*else
					But only the bottom hem of the pants and the shoes peek through the end. His eyes seem to catch there nonetheless. Then, the gaze returns to your ${adjective_Primped} face with newfound curiosity.
					*comment bWearingSuit 
					*comment bWearingSkirt 
					*comment bWearingPants 

				A gaze of curiosity. Over you.

				“Good evening, ${mc_miss} ${mc_lastname},” he says, almost as amused. Then he bows, as perfectly by the hip and politely bent neck as you had ever seen. Stretches back up, and a green gaze fills your vision once more. “Count the hours, count the minutes… the seconds. You have made me an impatient man.”
			*else
				Her eyes then travel down your coat.

				*if (bWearingDress)
					But only the bottom hem and lining peek through the end. Her eyes seem to catch there nonetheless. Then, the gaze returns to your ${adjective_Primped} face with newfound curiosity.
				*else
					But only the bottom hem of the pants and the shoes peek through the end. Her eyes seem to catch there nonetheless. Then, the gaze returns to your ${adjective_Primped} face with newfound curiosity.
					*comment bWearingSuit 
					*comment bWearingSkirt 
					*comment bWearingPants 

				A gaze of curiosity. Over you.

				“Good evening, ${mc_miss} ${mc_lastname},” she says, almost as amused. Then she curtsies, as perfectly polite, slow, and controlled as you had ever seen. Stretching back up, and a green gaze gazes up at your vision once more. Her voice soft and quiet. “Count the hours, count the minutes… the seconds. You have made me an impatient woman, ${mc_miss} ${mc_lastname}.”

			*fake_choice
				#“Oh, and why is that, ${h_sir}? What crime have I committed for spurring such apparent change?”
					“[i]Good evening[/i]—and why is that, ${h_sir}? What crime have I committed for spurring such apparent change?”
					
					*if (hMan)
						*if ((bAttractive > 3) and (genderMC != h_man))
							*comment “Would bringing your beauty into it be tasteless, my lady? 
							“Bringing your 
							*if (genderMC = "woman")
								beauty
							*else
								looks
							into it would be tasteless, would it not? No—you are quite right, I shall have to find some excuse…” He pretends to think, lowered brows and everything. “Perhaps I am impatient to see your brilliance at the scene?”
						*elseif ((bAttractive > 3) and (genderMC = h_man))
							*comment “Would bringing your beauty into it be tasteless, my lady? 
							“If I was a painter I would perhaps mention something of your visage, but I do not wish to be so tasteless, do I? No—you are quite right, I shall have to find some reason…” It is as if he's pretending to think, lowered brows and everything. “Perhaps I am impatient to see your brilliance at the scene?”
						*else
							"I was—am—curious to see you... Your brilliance at the scene, surely you know this?"
					*else
						*if (bAttractive > 3)
							Her eyes are on you something fiercely. "I collect paintings, did you know, ${mc_miss} ${mc_lastname}? Something in your countenance...  You have the most remarkable visage. It reminds me awfully of one of my most cherished paintings... And—I am of course impatient to see your brilliance at the scene—"
						*else
							"I was—am—curious to see you... Your brilliance at the scene, surely you know this?"
				#"Good. You should know I expect nothing less. As a rule. It would be terrible waiting for a coach to arrive—"
					"Good. You should know I expect nothing less. As a rule. It would be terrible waiting for a coach to arrive—"
					
					*if ((bAttractive > 3) and (genderMC != h_man))
						"A terrible thing. However, I do not believe you have had to wait long too often, ${mc_miss}. A 
						*if (genderMC = "woman")
							beauty
						*else
							handsomeness
						that inspires me to impatience may surely lure a coachman?

						"That said… perhaps it is tasteless to bring up such matters? No—you are quite right, I shall have to find some other excuse for my state…” $!{h_he} pretends to think; lowered brows and everything. “Perhaps I am impatient to see your brilliance at the scene?”

					*elseif (bAttractive > 3)
						"A terrible thing I truly do not think you suffer often," ${h_he} says as eyes linger for far too long. "Nor one I would allow—for I am impatient to see your brilliance at the scene—”

					*else
						"A terrible thing I would not allow," ${h_he} says as eyes linger for far too long. "For, I am impatient—to see your brilliance at the scene—”
					
				#"I... am surprised to hear it, ${h_sir}."
					"I... am surprised to hear it, ${h_sir}."
					
					“You are? May I assume then that there is no nefarious plan to wrap me tightly around your finger?" ${h_he} begins as ${h_he} gazes at you, then continues.
					
					*if ((bAttractive > 3) and (genderMC != h_man))
						"Perhaps I may also assume that to carry such 
						*if (genderMC = "woman")
							beauty
						*else
							an appearance
						which inspires impatience in a ${h_man} is not a gift? Or perhaps it is tasteless to bring up such matters? No—you are quite right, I shall have to find some better words…” ${h_he} pretends to think, lowered brows and everything. “Perhaps I am impatient to see your brilliance at the scene? That shall be the better wording of it.”
					*elseif (bAttractive > 3)
						"There is something in your countenance...  You have the most remarkable visage. It reminds me awfully of one of my most cherished paintings—but perhaps it is tasteless to bring up such matters? No—you are quite right. The better reasons for my impatience is, I am terribly impatient to see your brilliance at the scene—”
					*else
						"Perhaps I may also assume that to carry such brilliance which inspires impatience in a ${h_man} is not wholly a gift? But I truly am most impatient to see your brilliance at the scene—”

			“What if there is no scene? What then?” you return.

			“With you there? Perish the thought.”

			“No, you are too right. We can’t have that." You step back further into the hall and offer. "Won’t you come in?”



	*page_break
	
	Not many moments past—
	
	*page_break

	Not many moments past—come descending steps from the stairs that are quick and loud. 

	A fair warning. 

	Right before Watson reaches the hallway where you stand, you step back and give some room away from the distinguished ${h_gentleman}, just in time to catch Watson’s smile turning to glare. 

	*if (McLiedToWatsonAboutHCh5)
		It seems your little lie concerning ${hName} was caught all too quick.

		Your writer gives you too a passing glare as ${j_he} walks up to your side, then levies ${j_hI} eyes forward towards the comparative stranger once more. 

	*else
		Your writer gives you a passing glance as ${j_he} walks up to your side, then levies ${j_hI} eyes forward towards the comparative stranger once more. 

	*if (hMan)
		"Sir."
	*else
		"Lady Hawthorne."

	“Doctor.”

	“How lovely!” Mrs Hudson exclaims as she saunters into the room, dressed in something resembling a jewelled bird with too much plume. Each step is a racket of an orchestra. She gazes between us all without any possible understanding or reading of that same room. “All ready? Off we go?”

	And, so you do.

*page_break


*comment Add version of going with H, or going only with Mrs H and W, or all of them.




*comment H suggests MC and H take his first carriage and Mrs Hudson and W takes the second one.


As soon as you leave the townhouse steps,
*if (hMan)
	the gentleman,
*else
	the gentlewoman,
as is ${h_his} right as the owner of the transport, turns to you and suggests an order of seating: for you and ${h_him} to take the first carriage and for Mrs Hudson and the doctor to follow in the second carriage.

Mrs Hudson remains thrilled. A satisfied smirk across her lips.

However... 

Watson's expression contorts immediately at the mention of this travel plan. You swear you can hear ${j_hi} teeth grinding...

And so you have but a moment, as tension once again rises, to look between the two—

*temp crossWithWatson false

*fake_choice
	#"That sounds like a marvellous idea," I agree because I wish it.
		*set travellsWith "H"
		*goto jumpIntoCarriage
	#"That sounds like a marvelous idea," I agree because I know it will irk Watson and I remain cross with ${j_him}.
		*set travellsWith "H"
		*set crossWithWatson true
		*label jumpIntoCarriage
		*if (h_man = j_man)
			Before Watson is able to interrupt, you speak up and turn your gaze to the newer ${h_man}. "That sounds like a marvellous idea," you agree, and take a step towards the carriage—to be swept away to the ball in comfort and style.
		*else
			Before Watson is able to interrupt, you speak up and turn your gaze to the ${h_man}. "That sounds like a marvellous idea," you agree, and take a step towards the carriage—to be swept away to the ball in comfort and style.

		*if (crossWithWatson)
			And you do not spare Watson a glance while doing so.

			No, you merely—

		*fake_choice
			*if ((hMan) and (genderMC = "woman")) #I step up to the outstretched hand of Hamish.
				You take ${h_his} firm hand, and let ${h_him} lift you up the small step of the carriage. And there, you have entered a warmer, softer land.
			*if ((genderMC = h_man) or (genderMC = "them")) #I step up to the outstretched hand of ${hName}.
				You take ${h_his} hand, and let ${h_him} assist you up the small step of the carriage. And there, you have entered a warmer, softer land.
			*if ((hMan = false) and (genderMC = "man")) #I step up to the carriage and hold my hand out to Helena.
				You firmly assist ${h_him} onto the small step of the carriage and then follow ${h_him} inside this warmer, softer land.

			*if ((genderMC = h_man) or (genderMC = "them"))  #I step up to the carriage and hold my hand out to ${hName}.
				You firmly assist ${h_him} onto the small step of the carriage and then follow ${h_his} inside this warmer, softer land.



		*comment 			You take his firm hand. 
		*comment 			And you let him lift and stable you with that very hand, your glove upon his glove. And as you step up the small foothold of the carriage, your hand has to hold up the long heavy skirt of your dress. And [i]your[/i] eyes do not meet Hamish's, the eyes that you feel more than see, so locked on you. 

		Then, so very quickly, the door closes. ${johnName}, and Mrs Hudson, just beyond the window pane.
		
		*if (crossWithWatson) or (wRomance)
			And Watson's gaze meet yours across it. A strange lifting and tilt to ${j_hi} brow, paired with a look of disappointment in ${j_hi} eyes. A look reminiscent of a ${j_man} shot… Or a ${j_man} familiarized with a knife unseen, and close to the spine.

		*page_break

		${hName} easily settles in ${h_his} seat, and manoeuvred it so you did the same, right next to ${h_him}. 
		
		*if (genderMC = h_man)
			$!{h_he} and you facing forward in the direction of the traffic. Usually, with a carriage of this size and setting, and with two people of... unspoken relations of any sort, one would not sit so close...

		*else
			$!{h_he} and you facing forward in the direction of the traffic. Usually, with a carriage of this size and setting, and with two people of... both unspoken and non-public relations of any sort, one would not sit so close...

		*comment maybe only if not oblivious?
		*if (mcOblivious)
			But.

			It might be a manner of the rich?

			[i]Perhaps.[/i]
			
		*else
			But.
			
			You were not sure you minded.
			
			Did you?


	#Watson interjects before I am able to speak up.
		*set travellsWith "W&H"
		*goto skipToDeclineCarriage
	#Watson interjects before I am able to decline such a particular proposition.
		*set travellsWith "W&H"
		*label skipToDeclineCarriage
		*set SermonBroughtUp true

		Before you are able to utter your thoughts on such a matter, Watson beats you to the punch, "No—that's—that's entirely unacceptable!" 

		"And, pray tell, [i]why[/i] is it unacceptable, doctor?"

		"Mrs Hudson is ${mc_xir} chaperon. And I am ${mc_xir} companion—it would not be proper!"

		"I've never heard of such a strict rule of society, I really must insist—"

		"It's in Fordyce's Sermons!"

		"I'm sure I've once skimmed even this tome and—"

		*if (hMan)
			"Do you know it by heart, Sir?"
		*else
			"Do you know it by heart, Lady Hawthorne?"

		You think ${hName} almost grits ${h_his} teeth. "[i]You expect me to[/i]—it's not even the most palatable conduct book that came out of that century—"

		*if (hMan)
			"It's in there, sir. I swear it is."
		*else
			"It's in there, madam. I swear it is."

		"Are you—"

		"Are you doubting my word and honour?" 

		"Of course I do no such thing, [i]doctor[/i], it is only—" 
		*comment (will double check it in the library, see it is not true and then later bring it up, to either mc or W).

		"Good."

		${hName} almost snorts, a heavy breath from ${h_his} nostrils, accompanied by a sneering smile on ${h_his} lips. "Well then. We take [i]one[/i] carriage. [i]All four of us[/i]…”

		*if (((genderMC = "woman") and (h_man = "man")) or ((genderMC = "man") and (h_man = "woman")))
				$!{h_sir2} Hawthorne 
				*if ((genderMC = "woman") and (h_man = "man"))
					holds out ${h_his} arm to you and manoeuvres so you end up next to one another, 
				*else
					manoeuvres so you end up next to one another in the carriage, 
				facing forward in the direction of the traffic. Usually, only a married couple or family would sit next to one another if one was a man and the other a woman. But there were only four seats, and it could surely be explained away as a matter of necessity...
		*else
			$!{h_sir2} Hawthorne 
			*if (h_man = "man")
				holds out ${h_his} arm to you and manoeuvres so you end up next to one another
			*else
				manoeuvres so you end up next to one another in the carriage, 
			facing forward in the direction of the traffic. Usually, the chaperon would sit by their charge, but... But there truly were only four seats, so it could surely be explained away as a matter of necessity?

		*comment(if ??? mc not oblivious?) 
		*if (mcOblivious = false)
			But it is impressive, even in failure ${h_he} makes sure to prevail, does ${h_he} not...


*page_break
*label carriageGO

The carriage rolls over slick stone in the direction of the ball.

*page_break

From the sanctuary of a soft seat and warm company, the moon greets you in the night sky. The sight is accompanied by the sound of spinning wheels over stone which were previously wet with rain. 

The town almost glitters.

It is beautiful...

And despite the less graceful hurried shouts of the driver to the horses, it is a moment of something rare. This night holds a promise. Of intrigue, secrets, perhaps an opponent worth beating? This writer of letters and player of games, who are they? Who is daring you into a battle of wits? 

And dare they by well-earned confidence or fearless stupidity?

How do you really feel about tonight's summons and the mysterious writer?
*comment TODO maybe too many choices?

*comment
*comment And here [i]you[/i] are.

*comment You followed a letter into a new scene of someone else's design,

*fake_choice
	#I feel positively elated at the chance of a decent match.
		*set feelAboutBallPre "and yet you feel ready to fight this new challenge."
		You are ready to meet this contender, hoping they will be a worthy rival.
	#I feel ready—come what may.
		*set feelAboutBallPre "and yet you feel ready to confront this new challenge."
		Whatever happens will happen. You are ready to meet this unknown opponent.
	#I feel unprepared—unsure of what is to come.
		*set feelAboutBallPre "and so you feel unsteady... to confront this vague new challenge."
		You do not feel ready to meet this letter-writer. Let's hope the night favours you and not your opponent.
	#I am intrigued by the creator of the letter.
		*set feelAboutBallPre "and so you feel... naturally curious of the one who called you here."
		Why did they write a letter, beckoning you, here, to this ball? A true mystery—how fascinating!
	#I am only here for the ball and a promise of a good time.
		*set feelAboutBallPre "and you hardly care for the paper now—truly not at all why you are here. A ball is to be had!"
		You do not care for this mysterious letter-writer, much preferring the ball and the marvellous time you will have there.
	#I feel nervous about the prospect of a ball in general—
		*set feelAboutBallPre "and so you feel unsteady. Not for the challenge of the letter, mind you... But a [i]ball[/i]... A harrowing thought all on its own."
		The unfamiliarity of the scene, the expectations on your shoulders, the sheer volume of the crowds–it is all rather nerve-wracking.
	#I am here on a mission. There are no feelings involved. 
		*set feelAboutBallPre "and you know you are more than enough to confront this challenge."
		This is a case—feelings are unnecessary here.
	#I despise whoever wrote the letter—the nerve.
		*set feelAboutBallPre "and so you feel, naturally, furious at the one who called you here! You! How, you ask, dare they? Foolish imp. Scoundrel and scallywag—way beyond their own depths. Plainly, an arse. You will find them and tell them to shove off and not bother you again."
		How dare they, [i]them[/i], this 'mysterious letter-writer' call on you?! 
	#I am worried that I am knowingly stepping into a lion's den.
		*set feelAboutBallPre "and so you feel unsteady... to confront this vague new challenge set on someone else's terms."
		You feel apprehensive. This could be a trap. Why else would this 'mysterious letter-writer' call on you? 






*page_break

Still, what do you know of tonight:
*comment TODO

There is to be a ball. 

${hName} is the ball's host, through a foundation seat, it said in the papers you received and the work you peered over the last few days. The ${h_man} may have won such a thing over cards or excessive charity. It hardly matters.

What matters is—

*goto skip2

*if (mcIsGuestOfHonour) 
	
*else 
	Furthermore, the ${h_sir2} is also some version of the ball's guest of honour. $!{h_he} had a letter telling ${h_him} the 'mystery letter-writer M' would steal this splendid ruby ${h_he} was showcasing and donating. But, even stranger is that the letter addressed you—*you*—daring you to appear tonight. 
*if (true)
	(How marvellous—).
*elseif (false)
	(How curious—).
*elseif (false)
	(How dare this—).
*elseif (false)
	(How troubling—).
*elseif (false)
	(How uninteresting—).
*elseif (false) 
	(No matter—).

*label skip2

Your recollection is interrupted by your fellow passenger's question:


*temp ballWatsonIsSad false

*comment 
*comment 
*comment 
*comment  HAVE W BRING UP IF U LIED ABOUT H BEING YOUR COMPANION TO THE BALL! No wait let's just do the thing i did before.
*comment 	Maybe have W bring up how theyre thankful you turned it down too? ... hmmm. If someone sees this, let me know if that would be fun.
*comment 
*comment 

*comment 
*comment 	Make it more clear H and MC are whispering so i don't have to change too much if W is right across...
*comment 

*comment 
*comment  Have mc be able to think on the ROs not present.
*comment  Maybe. or maybe not... cant decide.

*comment 

*temp counterCarriage 0

*temp teasedH false

*temp hasTalkedWithW false

*temp hasTalkedWithH false

*if (travellsWith = "W")
	*set hasTalkedWithH true

*temp hasTalkedWithMrsH false
*if (travellsWith = "H")
	*set hasTalkedWithMrsH true
	*set hasTalkedWithW true

*label carriageBranch

*fake_choice

	*if ((travellsWith != "H") and (hasTalkedWithW = false)) #Watson
		*set hasTalkedWithW true

		*if (spokeWithW) 
			Watson leans forward and speaks so only you may hear. "Having never been to a ball quite like this before, I find myself... Do you think this is as invigorating as I do, ${mc_name}?" 
		*else
			"Do you think this is as invigorating as I do, ${mc_name}? I have never been to a [i]proper[/i] ball before..." Watson leans forward and speaks so only you may hear. 

		*fake_choice
			#"I am not here for a ball, Watson."
				"I know that, Sherlock—I am well aware," ${j_hi} voice a little firmer now, yet not well heard over the hum of the carriage. "But the fact remains... Playacting as we may be, at such a place, I've always..." $!{j_he} swallows, ${j_hi} eyes remain on you, then darts down to your shoes, where they remain pressed tip to tip. "I hope it will be an experience not soon forgotten..." 

				$!{j_hi} gaze returns to yours. "That is all, Sherlock. Something to remember."

				*comment *goto watsonSkipToSadWatson

			#"I am very invigorated. Dancing and delightful company, what more could one ask for?"
				*if (travellsWith = "W")
					"Quite right. Nothing finer than good company," ${j_he} says with a smile. But then continues, "Except, of course..."

					"What?"

					*if (wRomance)
						"No...I—not all company is as delightful as you, ${mc_name}. None, in fact. But one is rather... quite..."
					*else
						"No...I—not all company is quite so delightful company, ${mc_name}. One I find rather..."

					You swear Watson bites ${j_hi} lip to hold back some scoff or phrase. $!{j_hi} eyes searching your expression for your immediate understanding of ${j_hi} vague meaning. "I could have done without the host of this ball," ${j_he} clarifies ${j_hi} wording instead of waiting. 

					"Do you know that ${h_man} appears in near all the papers, about ${h_his} charitable givings? $!{h_him}, charity—I simply—I can't for the life of me believe that ${h_man}, Hawthorne, has ever done anything out of the kindness of ${h_his} heart."

					*goto WatsonComplainsAboutH


				*if (travellsWith != "W")
					"Quite right. Nothing finer than good company," ${j_he} says with a smile. But then continues, "Except, of course..."

					"What?"

					*if (wRomance)
						"Not all company is as delightful as you, ${mc_name}. None, in fact. But one is rather... quite..."
					*else
						"Not all company is quite so delightful company, ${mc_name}. One I find rather..."

					You swear Watson bites ${j_hi} lip to hold back some scoff or phrase. $!{j_hi} eyes searching your expression for your immediate understanding of ${j_hi} vague meaning. "You accepted ${h_his} offer," ${j_he} clarifies ${j_hi} wording instead of waiting. 

					"Do you know that ${h_man} appears in near all the papers, spouting about all ${h_his} charitable givings? $!{h_him}, charity—I simply can't for the life of me believe that ${h_man}, Hawthorne, has ever done anything out of the kindness of ${h_his} heart.

					"Do you truly think that well of ${h_him}, ${mc_name}? That this is all for kindness?"

					"And why should I not?" you ask.

					*goto WatsonComplainsAboutH

			#"Heavens, are you truly excited over a ball? Watson, that is [i]not[/i] why we are here—"
				

				"I know—Sherlock—I am well aware," ${j_hi} voice a little louder now, not quite drowned out by the hum of the carriage. "But the fact remains... Playacting as we may be, at such a place, I've always..." $!{j_he} swallows, ${j_hi} eyes remain on you, then darts down to your shoes, where they remain pressed tip to tip. "I believe it will be an experience not soon forgotten. That is all, Sherlock. Something to remember."

				*label watsonSkipToSadWatson
				*set ballWatsonIsSad true

				*if (johnMan)
					He says nothing more, and leans back. Arms crossed and straining over a broad chest. His eyes, normally so bright. They merely look out the window, appearing dimmed in this low light.
				*else
					She says nothing more, and leans back. Arms crossed tightly under her corseted, lifted chest. Her eyes, normally so bright. They merely look out the window, appearing dimmed in this low light.

				*if (badAt = "knowledge")
					You are reminded of the time Watson told you that you remember everything... Everything but what [i]${j_he}[/i] wishes for you to remember.

					Not that you know what ${j_he} was talking about then, you remembered even that the clock struck two that afternoon, just as ${j_he} spoke those very words. Your memory is in [i]perfect[/i] condition, [i]except those times it isn't but that's hardly the point[/i]... In fact, that weakness of yours is rather painful to mildly remember, so it was rather rude of ${j_him} to say such a thing, wasn't it?

					... What point were you pondering again?

					Eh. It probably wasn't of any importance if you forgot.

				*else
					You are reminded of the time Watson told you that you remember everything... Everything but what [i]${j_he}[/i] wishes for you to remember.

					Not that you know what ${j_he} was talking about then, you remembered even that the clock struck two that afternoon, just as ${j_he} spoke those very words. Your memory is in [i]perfect[/i] condition.
			*if (madeFunOfWDancingBefore = false) #"What excites me is I will finally catch you dancing—I'm hoping for a frightful display that I can lord over you for years."
				*set ballWatsonIsSad true

				To display any prowess before you was always a weakness of ${johnName}. So ${j_he} can not but take such bait—

				Watson scoffs and grins. "I am a very good dancer—" ${j_he} hurries the words to prove you wrong. "I was always the best at our school dances, the teacher always spoke highly of both my form and my quick..." ${j_hi} words taper out then, all too sudden. All too strangely. Eyes widened. "But I, um... I might sit it out, tonight. We have work to do. Do we not, ${mc_name}? Important. Work..."

				$!{j_he} says nothing more, and leans back. A frown across ${j_hi} brow. $!{j_hi} eyes, normally so bright, they merely look out the window, appearing dimmed in this low light.

				*comment TODO (something short here for the flow)
			#"I am delighted. It was very kind of ${hName} to invite us all."
				You swear Watson bites ${j_hi} lip to hold back some scoff or phrase. $!{j_hi} eyes searching your expression for the honesty in your words, or some interpretation of your meaning. "Do you truly think so? Kindness."

				"Should I not?" you return.

				*label WatsonComplainsAboutH

				*if (travellsWith != "W")
					$!{j_he} glances to your side, to the ${h_gentleman} paying no visible attention to you, and seemingly out of earshot. "I hardly think that ${h_man} would know kindness even if it took the form of a glove and struck ${h_his} cheek—"
				*else
					$!{j_he} glances to your side, to the woman paying no visible attention to you and more to her skirt. "I hardly think that ${h_man} would know kindness even if it took the form of a glove and struck ${h_his} cheek—"

				*fake_choice
					#"My word. Watson, you really are being rather dramatic..."
						"My word. Watson, you really are being rather dramatic..." you say.

						"I do not think I am at all," ${j_he} counters.

						"No one ever thinks they are, though, do they?"

						"I... I'm sure there has been someone... at some point."

						"Watson—"

						"Yes, yes, I do see your point. I won't truly allow the hearing of it. But I do see it."
					#"Do you have proof of it, ${johnName}?"
						"Do you have proof of it, ${johnName}?" I ask.

						"Proof? How would I have proof, I've met the ${h_man} the once. For a matter of a few god-awful minutes."

						"I would have found proof before I spoke aloud such assumptions. For your own sake. If you are wrong, you would be wrong, and if you are right, it would not have helped—[i]and you've made a powerful enemy[/i]. Do remember that."
					#"This again? How many times do I tell you to base your deductions on more than gut feelings—"
						"This again? How many times do I tell you to base your deductions on more than gut feelings—"

						"And how would I have, Sherlock?"

						"I would have found proof before I spoke aloud such assumptions. Anything less is simply unprofessional."

					#"Truly?"
						"Truly?"

						"Wholeheartedly."

			#"More worried than excited. I hope I won't have to dance..."
				*set ballWatsonIsSad true
				"Not to worry, I can assist you, ${mc_name}—" $!{j_he} jumps at the chance to display any prowess before you. It has always been a weakness of ${johnName}'s.

				Watson grins widely. "I am a very good dancer—I was always the best at our school dances! The teacher always spoke highly of both my form and my quick..." $!{j_hi} words taper out then, all too sudden. All too strangely. Eyes widened. "But I, well, you see. Um... I might, in fact, sit this one out, tonight. Because, we have work to do. Do we not, ${mc_name}? Important. Work..."

				$!{j_he} slowly leans back against ${j_hi} seat. A frown across ${j_hi} brow. ${j_hi} eyes, normally so bright, they merely turn from you and look out the window, appearing dimmed in this low light.

				And ${j_he} says nothing more. 

		*comment //
		*comment "This is invigorating, isn't it, (Name)?—And dressing up like this... I wanted to say, before that, you..."
		*comment 		"Do you think this is as invigorating as I do, (Name)? I have never been to a [i]proper[/i] ball before..." Watson leans forward and speaks so only you may hear. 
		*if (false)
			*fake_choice
				#Romance options:
					Romance options:
					*fake_choice
						#"We are not here for the ball—and don't wander. I will need you beside me during the investigation."
						#"Then I will stay very close to you tonight—to guide you on ball etiquette."
						#"Excited? Over something so dreadfully dull? I usually bring you to much more interesting places."
						#"The only thing that excites me is the prospect of seeing you dance to-night."
						#"I am delighted to share a ballroom with you, John/Jane."
						#"I am simply glad I don't have to be there alone. Thank you for coming with me."




	*if ((travellsWith != "W") and (hasTalkedWithH = false)) #${hName} 
		*set hasTalkedWithH true
		*comment (romance scene... wait they cant even be here if not romance i don't know what i was thinking...)
		*comment def romance coded.
		${hName}'s words come close to your left ear, "Any particular hopes, ${mc_miss} ${mc_lastname}? For tonight's ball," ${h_his} soft voice trails off while you feel ${h_his} heavy gaze upon your cheek. "Of this evening, or of its potential for mystery. Any preferences spoken and I may be able to offer my assistance."
		*comment , if you care to tell me, // at granting the wish...

		*fake_choice
			#"Only the pleasure of your company, ${h_myLady}."
				"I may be able to fulfil such a hope, ${mc_miss}." A small smile tugs on  ${h_his} self-satisfied lips. 

				*goto borrowHHandInCarriage
			#"A dance, I wish for a dance."
				"I... may be able to assist on that matter." You swear you feel ${h_his} breath for a paused moment. "Do you know the waltz, ${mc_miss} ${mc_lastname}?" 

				*goto skipDiscussingDanceH1

			#"Our dance, I have high hopes for our dance."
				*comment "I... may be able to assist on that matter." -> / "Do you know the waltz, ${mc_miss} ${mc_lastname}?" 
				"Our dance," ${h_he} almost whispers, then lets out a soft hum. "Do you know the waltz, ${mc_miss} ${mc_lastname}?" 

				*label skipDiscussingDanceH1

				$!{h_he} voice is a little lower. "It's still seen as rather... tawdry, by the old guard. But I assure you, it is proper. A tad more intimate—one on one—hand in hand—but we'd survive it together, ${mc_miss}, I'm sure."

				*page_break

				*label borrowHHandInCarriage

				$!{h_he} suddenly holds ${h_his} hand out to you.
				*if (letHborrowYourHand = "yes")
					"May I borrow your hand, yet again, ${mc_miss}?"
				*elseif (letHborrowYourHand = "no")
					"May I borrow your hand, this time, ${mc_miss}?"
				*else
					"May I borrow your hand, ${mc_miss}?"

				*fake_choice
					#"I am unsure.. will I get it back?" My tone balancing between teasing and utmost sincerity.

						"I am unsure.. will I get it back?" you say, your tone balancing between teasing and utmost sincerity.

						$!{h_he} looks amused at that. A turn of the lip, a searching gaze. "You have my word. If I were to break or fail to return it, you may have anything you desire of me."

						*fake_choice
							#"A country estate, a hundred yards of lace, a jewel the size of my closed fist?"
								"A country estate, a hundred yards of lace, a jewel the size of my closed fist?"

								"That can be arranged."

								"Good." You lift your brows expectantly as you hold your hand out. "Then?" 
							#"Anything? Even a kiss?" I smirk.
								"Anything? Even a kiss?"

								"Careful," ${h_he} warns coolly. "One may offer a hand, another may take it. But that is not to say it is kept for long..."

								*comment (Bag / should i do this one, or smth like it for half simp?)

								*comment "Careful," he warns coolly. "Your stipulation includes breaking, or indefinite restraining of a hand... Throw in a kiss, and you wish for something rather... criminal."


								*comment maybe make choice or smth i don't know...
								You keep your hand where it is, firmly placed by your side, ignoring ${h_his} request. "This hypothetical person sounds quite rude and, frankly, a bit of a prude." 

								"[i]Hypothetically[/i], that may be so... But, nevertheless, may I?" ${h_he} says and holds ${h_hi} hand out.

								*fake_choice
									#"Oh, why not."
										"Oh, why not," you say.
										*goto giveHand
									#"Very well—"
										*goto giveHand
									#"No. I think not."
										*goto doNotGiveHand
							#"It is simply rather a strange thing to ask, the hand of a stranger..."
								"It is simply rather a strange thing to ask, the hand of a stranger..."

								"Nevertheless, may I?"

								*fake_choice
									#"Oh, why not."
										"Oh, why not," you say.
										*goto giveHand
									#"Very well—"
										*goto giveHand
									#"No. I think not."
										*goto doNotGiveHand

						*label giveHand
						*fake_choice
							#I give my hand.
								*comment You do as he asked, and hand him your hand.
								*if (bodyDetailT = "hands")
									You comply with ${h_his} request and lift your ${bodyDetailT} appendage towards ${h_him}.
								*else
									You comply with ${h_his} request and lift your appendage towards ${h_him}.

								*comment Ask bag about this. I cant decide if the kiss should be able to happen in front of W... 

								*comment *if (genderMC != h_man)
								*if (travellsWith = "H")
									$!{h_he} takes your hand in ${h_his} and brings it towards ${h_his} lips. But, narrowly, ${h_he} misses to grace your knuckles with a kiss. Yet you sense ${h_his} smile grow over them. $!{h_his} thumb drawing circles on your hand.

									Subjects kiss the hand of their sovereign.

									Lovers kiss the hand of their lover.

									Then there's the kiss of the damned.

									Which one are you?

								*else
									*comment $!{h_he} holds the hand up to you, nearly ${h_his} heart, where ${h_he} holds it. And ${h_his} eyes remain on you.

									$!{h_he} takes your hand in ${h_his} and brings it towards ${h_his} heart. Yet... ${h_he} does not press your hand against ${h_his} chest. You do not feel ${h_his} furiously beating blood, that begins in the upper right chamber, the atrium of the heart. Nay, ${h_he} lets it linger only near. 

									Yet you sense the beat all the same.

									And you feel, how ${h_his} thumb draw lazy, soft circles against your glove where your own pulse quickens.

									And you see, how ${h_his} eyes remain so firmly on you, as if confirming that very fact for ${h_himself}.


								*comment He takes your hand in his, and takes it to his lips, which barely grace your knuckles. You feel his smile grow over them. His thumb drawing circles on your hand.

								*comment if gay maybe not the kiss...? atleast not if W is there.
								*comment maybe ask fab. cause like, it would clash with W knowing whats going on right? and their own emotions. hmm

								*comment Done.
								

								*comment TODO pair it also with the secondary colour ?

								*page_break
								*set wasGivenBracelet true

								And there you sit. You hand in ${h_his}.

								*if (bodyDetailT = "hands")
									$!{h_he} lowers it. Looks at it. "You really do have perfect hands..."
								*else 
									$!{h_he} lowers it. Looks at it. "You really do have lovely hands..."

								*if (travellsWith != "H")

									*comment interlude of jealousy

									*comment Does watson shout? pull them apart?
									*comment Lol, maybe W presses their head in between them basically --
									*comment Probably calls on mrs H to stop them being so "unchaperoned."
									*comment - we do need -- as kirky said -- for H to start "fighting back" in this LT.


									"—That's enough of that—" Watson interjects, and harshly pushes forward to invade the space shared between you and ${hName}, hands held up as if ready to separate you two. "Mrs Hudson, are you not supposed to be [i]chaperoning[/i]—" ${johnName} criticizes to the landlady, then glares back at the ${h_man} holding your hand.

									The landlady, with some surprising action, or some surprising strength, pulls the doctor back in ${j_hi} seat.

									"Mrs Hudson—"

									"Do behave,
									*if (johnMan)
										boy,"
									*else
										girl,"
									she retorts, as if scolding a child.
									*if (genderMC != h_man)
										"The pair can hardly behave improper in carriage of this size. And—your expectation of propriety is staggering if you think hand holding is untoward—there are many good reasons for doing so, is that not so, ${h_sir2} Hawthorne?" She gives ${h_him} a chance to explain.
									*else
										"What impropriety exists between the pair? Your expectation of propriety is staggering if you think hand holding is untoward—there are many good reasons for doing so, is that not so, ${h_sir2} Hawthorne?" She gives ${h_him} a chance to explain.

									"Indeed," ${hName} confirms, ${h_his} gaze not wavering from yours. Never sparing them a glance. But perhaps the small smirk at the corner of ${h_his} lips conveys some small amusement.
									*comment enjoyment, of some kind. 
									"Nothing any sermon would preach against—"



								*if (bWearingDress)
									The ${gentlewoman} brings out a bracelet, 
									and somehow ${h_he} knew exactly what to pair your dress with—as the jewellery wears, spectacularly,
									*if (bMainTrueColour = "gold")
										a clear diamond inlaid in gold.
									*else
										*if (bMainTrueColour = "black")
											a polished obsidian inlaid in metal. 
										*elseif (bMainTrueColour = "brown")
											a smoky quartz inlaid in metal.
										*elseif (bMainTrueColour = "white")
											a polished moonstone inlaid in metal.
										*elseif (bMainTrueColour = "red")
											a red ruby inlaid in metal.
										*elseif (bMainTrueColour = "orange")
											an apricot agate inlaid in metal.
										*elseif (bMainTrueColour = "green")
											a shimmering emerald inlaid in metal.
										*elseif (bMainTrueColour = "blue")
											a deep sapphire inlaid in metal.
										*elseif (bMainTrueColour = "purple")
											a rich amethyst inlaid in metal.
										*elseif (bMainTrueColour = "pink")
											a rose quartz inlaid in metal.
										*elseif (bMainTrueColour = "grey")
											a smokey diamond inlaid in metal.
										*else
											a shimmering ${bMainTrueColour} gem inlaid in metal.
								*else
									The ${gentlewoman} brings out a pair of cuff links, 
									and somehow ${h_he} knew your previous were an ill match for your costume, and these new ones instead matches with stones of 
									*comment (stone colour of outfit) bracelet / cuff links (u didn't previously have a good matching bracelet nor cuff-links). 
									*if (bMainTrueColour = "gold")
										diamond inlaid in gold.
									*else
										*if (bMainTrueColour = "black")
											deep obsidian. 
										*elseif (bMainTrueColour = "brown")
											smoky quartz.
										*elseif (bMainTrueColour = "white")
											polished moonstone.
										*elseif (bMainTrueColour = "red")
											red ruby.
										*elseif (bMainTrueColour = "orange")
											apricot agate.
										*elseif (bMainTrueColour = "green")
											shimmering emerald.
										*elseif (bMainTrueColour = "blue")
											deep sapphire.
										*elseif (bMainTrueColour = "purple")
											rich amethyst.
										*elseif (bMainTrueColour = "pink")
											rose quartz.
										*elseif (bMainTrueColour = "grey")
											smokey diamond.
										*else
											shimmering ${bMainTrueColour}.


								*if (eyeColour = bMainTrueColour)
									*set talkedOfModiste true
									"I've had this piece for three, far too tedious, days. I thought perhaps I should have to reconsider, once the ${modiste} informed me of your colour choices. However—" $!{h_he} gazes at you and smiles. "I was delighted to learn I did not have to choose between matching with your eyes or your
									*if (bWearingDress)
										dress. 
									*else
										costume.
									Or, perhaps... this means I may owe you another, in this very same shade, at a later meeting between us?"

									*comment bSecondaryTrueColour

								*else
									"I would have brought
									*if (eyeColour = "black")
										obsidian, as it has always been a dear favourite..." $!{h_he} stares deep into your black eyes.
									*elseif (eyeColour = "brown")
										smoky quartz, as it has always been a dear favourite..." $!{h_he} stares deep into your brown eyes.
									*elseif (eyeColour = "hazel")
										opals, as its iridescence has always been a dear favourite..." $!{h_he} stares deep into your hazel eyes.
									*elseif (eyeColour = "green")
										emeralds, as it has always been a dear favourite..." $!{h_he} stares deep into your green eyes.
									*elseif (eyeColour = "blue")
										sapphire, as it has always been a dear favourite..." $!{h_he} stares deep into your blue eyes.
									*elseif (eyeColour = "grey")
										labradorite, as it has always been a dear favourite..." $!{h_he} stares deep into your grey eyes.
									*elseif (eyeColour = "red")
										rubies, as it has always been a dear favourite..." $!{h_he} stares deep into your red eyes.
									*elseif (eyeColour = "purple")
										amethyst, as it has always been a dear favourite..." $!{h_he} stares deep into your purple eyes.
									*else
										a stone matching $!{eyeColour}, as it has always been a dear favourite..." $!{h_he} stares deep into your eyes.

									*set talkedOfModiste true
									"But, once the ${modiste} informed me of your colour choices—I thought, perhaps, I should reconsider. There is also the alternative, that this means I owe you another? At a later meeting between us." $!{h_he} looks at you and smiles. "Another, in the very same shade as your eyes..."

								*if (travellsWith != "H")
									You hear from beyond your vision filled of green eyes, "Oh for god's sake—" and a quickly followed, "Hush—" and a slap against an arm with some unnecessary force.

									$!{hName} clears ${h_his} throat and leans back as ${h_he} fastens the gift upon you. "Think of it as a thank you, for accepting my invitation... And I know I've yet to see your costume in full, perhaps the shade is off..." The ${gentlewoman} leans once more in enough for a conspiratorial shared confidence, and lowers a voice to only the two of you. "But I hope you find it satisfactory."
								*else 
									$!{h_he} clears ${h_his} throat and leans back as ${h_he} fastens the gift upon you. "Think of it as a thank you, for accepting my invitation... And I know I've yet to see your costume in full, perhaps the shade is off... but I hope you find it satisfactory."

								*fake_choice
									#"You asked the modiste about my choices?"
										"You asked the ${modiste} about my choices?" you question.

										"To tell the truth, I was sent a detailed report. I got rather a return on my investment..." $!{h_he} clears ${h_his} throat again. "I would apologise for knowing more of your... [i]sizing[/i] than is proper, but knowing your abilities. Well. I assume you know much more of me than I care to admit freely, in turn."

										$!{h_he} would not be [i]entirely[/i] wrong. You could make some decent assessments yourself... Sizing isn't the hardest guesstimate in your repertoire.

										Although, you had, at times, stopped yourself from calculating such things.

										Not always better to know it all...

								*fake_choice
									#"I'll admit to all measurements. I assure you, they are all true," I say with a small, cheeky wink.
										$!{h_he} shakes ${h_his} head. And sighs. but there is... a hint of a smile. A tug on one corner of a lip.
									#"I do not mind. Nor am I ashamed, ${h_myLady}."
										"You shouldn't be." $!{h_his} eyes speak some definitive truth.
									*if (skinBlushes) #"Oh?" I blush. "[i]Oh[/i]. I get your meaning, ${h_myLady}..."
										"I can speak plainer..." ${h_his} eyes travel your visage. "[i]No[/i]... I fear I'd then be remiss in my duty. I'd not seek to scandalize you further." Something in ${h_his} small smile and too direct stare makes you feel as if ${h_he}'d want nothing more.
									*if (skinBlushes = false) #"Oh?" My cheeks warm. "[i]Oh[/i]. I get your meaning, ${h_myLady}..."
										"I can speak plainer..." ${h_his} eyes travel your visage. "[i]No[/i]... I fear I'd then be remiss in my duty. I'd not seek to scandalize you further." Something in ${h_his} small smile and too direct stare makes you feel as if ${h_he}'d want nothing more.
									#"I am hardly ashamed. Knowing is not entirely so scandalous, is it, ${h_myLady}? It's not as if you were in the room with us." I give a small, direct, yet almost innocent smile.
										$!{h_he} swallows. "That is true. Very true." $!{h_he} inhales-exhales. "That is not a pleasure I [i]have had[/i]."

								*if (bWearingDress)
									"It has its perks. Me [i]knowing[/i] you well. If you are ever in need of another ballgown for some great crime, then I have the means to assist you most swiftly. And it would give me yet another excuse to linger in your life—could it not, ${mc_miss}?"
								*else
									"It has its perks. Me [i]knowing[/i] you well. If you are ever in need of another costume or suit, for some great crime, then I have the means to assist you most swiftly. And it would give me yet another excuse to linger in your life—could it not, ${mc_miss}?"

								"Another?"

								"We are sharing a carriage towards my previous destination, and I came to you for tea the other day to deliver a letter—all these could have been easily accomplished without me, I'm sure we both know this... Don't pretend you do not know I have some intentions here—"

								"Which are?"

								"To know you better, ${mc_name} ${mc_lastname}," ${h_he} speaks so plainly. "I have no want to hide this, surely it did not escape you?"

								*fake_choice
									#"Yes..." I admit.
										"Yes..." you admit.

										"Why, detective... Have I uncovered a chink in your armour?" an upward twitch of one side of ${h_his} lips. "Brilliantly clever, in all, but... what may we call it? [i]Personal intent[/i]?
										[i]How interesting[/i]." $!{h_he} leans back in ${h_his} seat, towards the door, and studies you further.

										For a long, frozen, drawn-out moment.

										Paired with a twitch of a smile.

										And green shimmering eyes.

										All on you.
									#"No, indeed it had not. But I rather enjoy hearing it out loud," I quip.
										"Indeed?" $!{h_he} matches your smile. "I shall have to endeavour to do so more often, ${mc_miss}..." $!{h_he} leans back in ${h_his} seat, towards the door, and studies you further.

										For a long, frozen, drawn-out moment.

										Paired with that small, lingering thing of a smile.

										And green shimmering eyes.
									#"—Why—why is it so warm in here—${h_sir2} Hawthorne, perhaps we should open a hatch—"
										"Why, detective... Have I uncovered a chink in your armour?" an upward twitch of one side of ${h_his} lips. "Brilliantly clever and decently bold in all, but... what may we call it? [i]Personal intent[/i]? [i]How interesting[/i]." $!{h_he} leans back in ${h_his} seat, towards the door, and studies you further.

										For a long, frozen, drawn-out moment.

										Paired with a twitch of a smile.

										And green shimmering eyes.

										All on you.



					#"Why?"
						"Why?" you question.

						"For a perfectly good reason."

						"Which is?"

						$!{h_he} smirks further or scowls; it is rather hard to tell. "A perfectly good surprise, one that is yet to be revealed, ${mc_miss}. I thought you cared for mysteries—"

						*fake_choice
							#"Oh, why not."
								"Oh, why not," you say.

								*goto giveHand
							#"No. I think not."
								*goto doNotGiveHand

					#"Very Well. I trust you."
						"Very Well. I trust you," you say.

						What harm could there be?

						$!{h_he} pauses for a moment too long at your words, contemplation written on a now more wrinkled brow. "I… Yes. Please—be so good as to hold your hand up for me?"
						*goto giveHand
					#"No. I think not."
						*label doNotGiveHand

						*if (flowersWhite)
							*set goAgainstWhiteFlowerRoute + 1
							$!{h_he} pauses for a moment too long at your words, contemplation written on a now more wrinkled brow. "I thought you to be more... Accepting."

							$!{h_he} drops ${h_his} outstretched hand.

							And, after a moment, turns away. Back to the window. And away from your conversation.

							*goto carriageBranch
						*elseif (halfSimpH)
							"You rather enjoy turning me down, do you, ${mc_madam}? It's becoming rather a pattern—"

							"I am here, now. Am I not? Therefore, I accepted your invitation, in the end."

							"Then may I implore you, once more, to accept? [i]After[/i] you so have refused me now, as is the elegant, modern manner, I am sure—" $!{h_he} presses the words. "[i]Do you accept?"[/i]

							$!{h_he} remains holding ${h_his} hand out to you; as if urging it. 

							As if asking. 

							As if nearly begging.

							"I..." ${h_his} voice more vulnerable than soft. "Believe you will care for it. I would not ask if not so..."

							*comment "Then may I implore you, once more, to accept, in the end. [i]After[/i] you so have refused me now, as is the elegant, modern manner, I am sure. 

							*comment "according to the usual practice of elegant females". -- jane austen. I'll add this to a glossary at some point lol. Find all the jane austen references in the game. Never mind the line doesnt workkkkkk dang. I wanted it to work
						*else
							$!{h_he} remains holding his hand out to you; as if urging it. 

							As if asking. 

							As if nearly pleading.

							"I..." ${h_his} voice begins again, nearer vulnerable than the usual soft. "I believe you will care for it. I would not ask if not so."

						*fake_choice 
							#"Oh, alright—"
								"Oh, alright—"
							#"If it's so important to you..."
								"If it's so important to you..."
							#"You should know, I was merely teasing, ${h_myLady}."
								"You should know, I was merely teasing, ${h_myLady}."

								*if (teasedH)
									"I shall have to remember, you seem to do it a lot, ${mc_madam}."
							#I nod.
								You nod.
							#"No," I firmly decline once more.
								The ${gentlewoman} pauses for a moment too long at your words, contemplation written on a now more wrinkled brow. "Very well."

								$!{h_he} drops his outstretched hand.

								And, after a moment, turns away. Back to the window. And away from your conversation.
								*goto carriageBranch
						*goto giveHand
			#"Abject professionalism, ${h_myLady}." My harder tone is only lightly betrayed by a late smirk. "And, perhaps, if we must—a terribly scandalous dance."
				You swear the ${h_man} almost, [i]almost[/i], scoffs. But, by some grace, ${h_he} holds it in. 

				"Do you mean to sound so... Would it surprise you to know the word contempt has a word origin near [i]temptation[/i]?"

				However, instead of waiting for your inevitable answer, ${h_he} takes a deep inhale followed by an exhale through flaring nostrils. "Either way, I fear I may be able to assist you in this matter."

				[i]$!{h_his} eyes, you notice once more, so strongly you think it, they are the very shade of emeralds in this low light.[/i]

				"... Do you know the waltz, ${mc_miss}?" 

				$!{h_his} voice dips a little. "As much as I do not wish to invite or encourage scandal... Partaking in the waltz is still seen as rather... tawdry, by the old guard. It is a tad more intimate—one on one—hand in hand—but you would survive it, ${mc_madam}, I am sure. And it is enough for some to call it scandalous when done with enough vigour."
				
				*comment bag helppp, i don't know which one...

				*comment His voice is a little lower. "As much as I do not wish to scandalize you..." Something in his tone and too direct stare makes you feel as if he'd at least be more than capable, more than willing, if the circumstances were right. "Partaking in the waltz is still seen as rather... tawdry, by the old guard. It is a tad more intimate—one on one—hand in hand—but you would survive it, madam, I am sure. And it is enough for some to call it scandalous when done with enough vigour."
				
				*comment Their voice is a little lower. "As much as I do not wish to invite or encourage scandal..." Something in their tone and too-direct stare makes you question some part of that statement's truth, but which part... you are quite unsure of.

				*fake_choice
					#"To think you would subject me to scandal at your own ball, ${h_sir2} Hawthorne—" I pretend in a voice aghast.
						Once more, ${h_he} sighs, "Should it come to that, my reputation shall be an involuntary shield."

						*if ((genderMC = "woman") and (hMan))
							"Involuntary? Is a gentleman's duty not to protect a woman's virtue in their company, at all cost? Is that not so?"
						*else
							"Involuntary? Is a 
							*if (hMan)
								gentleman's 
							*else
								host's
							duty not to protect
							*if (genderMC = "woman")
								a woman's ${virtue} 
							*else
								an honoured guest's ${virtue}
							in their company, at all cost? Is that not so?"

						*if (genderMC = "woman")
							"We must, ${mc_madam}. [i]As well as we are able[/i]. The ${individual}, too, of course, holds some responsibility. And any remaining ${virtue} is left up to women such as your Mrs Hudson."
						*else 
							"We must, ${mc_madam}. [i]As well as we are able[/i]. The ${individual}, too, of course, holds some responsibility. And any remaining ${virtue} is left up to individuals such as your Mrs Hudson."

						*if (travellsWith != "H")
							You look to the woman who sits across from you, at only a small distance, who's gleefully and perhaps purposefully talking Watson's ear off and paying you two no mind.
						*else
							You think of your "chaperon". The one who lets you enter a carriage alone with the ball's host when under the guise of attending that very same ball for that very same purpose...

						Perhaps little assistance can be given there.


					#"And what shall I have to accomplish to inspire enough [i]vigour[/i]?" 
						"I am sure I could not say, ${mc_madam}."

						"That is quite alright, ${h_myLady}. I rather should prefer the discovery of it."

						In the low light and roar of roads, ${h_he} swallows a little more clearly and audibly than before. "Your Mrs Hudson might object to you gambling with her position and reputation as a chaperone."

						*if (travellsWith != "H")
							You look to the woman who sits across from you, at only a small distance, who's gleefully and perhaps purposefully talking Watson's ear off and paying you two no mind.
						*else
							You think of your "chaperon", in a different transport altogether, who let you enter this carriage alone, with the ball's host, when under the guise of attending that very same ball for that very same purpose.
						"There seems no danger of that, sir."

					*if (false) #"My, you really are accommodating, ${h_myLady}."
						"As I must, ${mc_madam}."

					#"No need to fret so, ${h_myLady}, I merely jest."
						*set teasedH true
						"Ah." In the low light and roar of roads, ${h_he} swallows a little more clearly and audibly than before. "I am glad to hear it, ${mc_madam}. But. Nevertheless, my offer stands..."

						Those words simply hang there, in the air.

						An offer.

						*if (hMan)
							From a gentleman.
						*else
							By a lovely lady.

				*page_break
				*goto borrowHHandInCarriage


			*if (true) #"Further professionalism, ${h_myLady}." My voice is politely firm, my gaze direct. $!{h_his} offer, and ${h_him}, all seem a little more than I realised and wished for. For now.
				*set turnedDownHInTheCarriage true
				*comment TODO maybe... but if i do, then i also need to add a bunch to make it make sense. Where H interaccts less in the carriage, and then not at the end, and then at the ball.

				$!{h_his} lean towards you disappears in the blink of an eye and with the quietest yet audible tsk. "[i]Ah[/i]," ${h_he} says, followed by a pause as ${h_his} lips frown further into what must be the straightest, most unamused line. 

				"Yes." $!{h_he} takes a deep inhale, then exhales. "I suppose I misread this situation. Consider my assistance rescinded. I won't trouble you further, Detective, not beyond the professional nor that of the utmost pertinence."

				*fake_choice
					#"No, I—" I hurry to interject, "Perhaps we may begin with professionalism, ${h_sir}? And a friendship may come. With time." (warning: removes your romance points, for now)
						*set turnDownHHow "friendship"
						*set hRomancePoints 0
						Another sigh, now from ${h_his} sculpted lips. "Of course. I apologise, ${mc_madam}. I seem entirely unable to read you as well as I should like. I shall... I will do better."

						$!{h_his} eyes look entirely sincere, gazing upon yours.

						Emerald green and all...

						You nod with a small smile.

						And so do they.

						[i]With time it may come.[/i]

					#"No need to apologise. I find you fascinating, too, if it is of any consolation. [i]Any ${h_man} who brings me strange cases are[/i]. It is simply..." [i]The haste of it all.[/i] (warning: removes your romance points, for now)
						*set hRomancePoints 0
						*set turnDownHHow "speed"
						"No need to apologise. I find you fascinating, too, if it is of any consolation. [i]Any ${h_man} who brings me strange cases are[/i]. It is simply..."

						"Yes?"

						"The pace, ${h_sir}. I am unused to any pace which moves with such haste."

						You think ${h_he} almost smiles. Almost. When a second ago you were rather sure ${h_he} may never smile again. Not towards you. "I believe I explained you inspire impatience in me," he says.

						"Well, I advise you to restrain yourself better," I offer as an alternative.

						Further, a smile upon ${h_his} sculpted lips. "I shall."

						$!{h_his} eyes look entirely sincere, gazing upon yours.

						Emerald green and all...

					*if (true) #"No need to be so hasty, so put out," I huff. "You simply behaved improperly—" (warning: changes your dynamic)
						*set turnDownHHow "harsh"
						*set SimpH false
						*set H_Approval - 2
						*comment TODO ADD NEW STATS HERE
						"No need to be so hasty, so put out," you huff. "You simply behaved improperly—"

						"[i]I[/i] behaved improperly?" ${h_his} voice cuts in, in a lowered, yet further soft, velvety tone. A small smile across lips. "How. Amusing."

						[i]Rather strange reaction...[/i]

						"However you wish to see it, ${h_sir2} Hawthorne," you lean further away too.

						"I think I see it clearly now. Do not worry yourself over it."

						[i]You notice ${h_he} looks rather far from amused for the rest of the carriage ride.[/i]

			*if (true) #"Extreme professionalism, ${h_myLady}." My voice is firm, my gaze a glare. $!{h_his} offer, and ${h_him}, seems all of a sudden a thing I wish to avoid. (removes romance points, and changes dynamic)
				*set turnedDownHInTheCarriage true
				*set turnDownHHow "harsh"
				*set hRomancePoints 0
				*set SimpH false
				*set H_Approval - 2

				*comment TODO maybe... but if i do, then i also need to add a bunch to make it make sense. Where H interaccts less in the carriage, and then not at the end, and then at the ball.

				$!{h_his} lean towards you disappears in the blink of an eye and with the quietest yet audible tsk. "[i]Ah[/i]," ${h_he} says, followed by a pause as ${h_his} lips frown further into what must be the straightest, most unamused line. 

				"Yes." $!{h_he} takes a deep inhale, then exhales. "I suppose I misread this situation. Consider my assistance rescinded. I won't trouble you further, Detective, not beyond the professional nor that of the utmost pertinence."

				[i]And so, ${h_he} does not bother you for the rest of the carriage ride.[/i]




	*if ((MrsHDialogueCounterCarriage < 2) and (travellsWith != "H")) #Mrs Hudson
		*set hasTalkedWithMrsH true
		*if (MrsHDialogueCounterCarriage = 1)
			*goto mrsHDialogueCarriageSkip
		*set MrsHDialogueCounterCarriage 1

		*if (((looks = "same") and (attractive < 3)) or ((looks = "worse") or (turnedDownHInTheCarriage)))
			*label mrsHDialogueCarriageSkip
			*set MrsHDialogueCounterCarriage 2 
			*comment (if mc isnt looking good...)

			*comment
			*comment
			*comment make this part be able to come up even if youre attractive maybe, after? if u didnt get it here??
			*comment
			*comment

			*comment cut content -- "What is so special about this case, Sherlock?" Lestrade nods at Hamish. "No offence, My Lord."

			*if (travellsWith = "W&H")
				"And—what is it again that makes this case so special, Sherlock?" The landlady asks you. "Except the presence of our lovely host, of course," she then easily offers the ${gentlewoman} a compliment and a smile.
			*else
				"And—what is it again that makes this case so special, Sherlock?" The landlady asks you. "Except the presence of our lovely host, of course," she says and smiles at Watson—who does not smile back.

			"The letter, Mrs Hudson," you give the easy answer. "The letter is what makes it the most peculiar."

			"I should think you would already get the strangest letters, Sherlock. Most days—most days, your pile is practically overflowing."

			*fake_choice
				#"Well, perhaps lately, letters have taken on a new strangeness."
				#"No. Most are harmless."
				#"Flattery, and questions about Watson and, I most days. Not much mystery."
				#"... There have been a few."

			"Oh?" The landlady fiddles with her heavy jewelry around her neck. "Is that so? Perhaps you should let ${Anne} and I read them for you—"

			Watson interjects, "No—no, I think that's quite alright. Sherlock can always ask me if such matters are necessary. Even if I should think they are not."

			"Pish posh. My word, ${johnName}, you speak so decidedly [i]to me[/i] as of late. I really don't think you should have all the fun—"

			"Mrs Hudson. You should not have to read all about criminal matters in their raw form. You could barely get through the story with that, the one with the carcass that—"

			"Oh—do not bring up such awful things to me!"

			The doctor sighs, a heavy, commonly heard, resigned sound, "Well... Case closed, I should think."




		*else


			*temp gentlemen ""
			*if ((hMan) and (johnMan))
				*set gentlemen ", gentlemen"
			*elseif (h_man != j_man)
				*set gentlemen ", everyone"
			*else
				*set gentlemen ", ladies"

			*if (travellsWith != "W&H")
				*set gentlemen ""


			"${mc_name}, you look marvellous tonight.
			*if (genderMC = "them")
				Don't ${mc_xhe}${gentlemen}?"
			*else
				Doesn't ${mc_xhe}${gentlemen}?"
			Mrs Hudson speaks to the whole carriage
			*if (travellsWith = "W&H")
				which consists of you, and her... and Watson, and ${hName}.
			*else
				which consists of you, and her... and Watson.
			
			Eyes widen.

			Truly a new level of subtlety.

			*if (travellsWith = "W&H")
				"Y—Yes, yes, of course," Watson hastens. "$!{mc_name} always looks wonderful. You know that—"

				"It never hurts to say it, Doctor," ${hName} gives ${j_him} a glance and a barely existent smirk in turn. "I think our dear detective looks positively [i]radiant[/i] tonight."

				"And I've said as much—"

				"Have you?" The ${h_sir2} asks, less in surprise than some baiting, mocking thing.

				"Of course—"

				"I do wonder what Fordyce's Sermon would speak on such matters?" The words linger in the air, furthered by ${h_his} lips lifting further, so subtly. "Between a writer and their subject. Between a doctor and their patient. Living under one roof... Do you remember, Doctor Watson, if such matters appeared in it? I have to ask, as you remembered the previous rule [i]so perfectly[/i]," the final word is said with such spitting clarity and enunciation it breaks the soft tone he always keeps.

				Mrs Hudson decides that is the perfect time to interject with, "And what of me? No one so far has spoken of my radiance!" Which begins a verbal battle with all involved to politely assure even the landlady that she looks absolutely radiant, too.

			*else
				"Y—Yes, yes, of course," Watson hastens. "$!{mc_name} always looks wonderful. You know that I think so—"

				Mrs Hudson then interjects with, "And what of me? No one so far has spoken of [i]my[/i] radiance—" Which begins a verbal battle to politely assure the landlady that she looks absolutely radiant, too.


	*selectable_if ((((hasTalkedWithMrsH) or (hasTalkedWithH)) or ((hasTalkedWithW) and (true))) and (true)) #After that, you think of someone not here—
		*if (counterCarriage != 0)
			Your mind can not help but drift.

			*goto skipYouThinkOfIntro
		Your mind can not help but drift.

		Everything reminds you of them.

		To the one not here, just as you notice:
		*label skipYouThinkOfIntro
		*fake_choice
			*disable_reuse *selectable_if (romanceL > 1) #The streets outside the carriage remind you of Lestrade.
				It was not that the street's crevices were coal-dark in this part of London.

				Or that the people who walked them appeared tall, morose, and of a smouldering temperament.

				Neither was it the darkening night, which would have brought you a pair of impossible dark eyes; in this light, on the threshold of afternoon and eve, where iris and pupil might appear indistinguishable.

				All darkness, black and burning, when in your view...

				No.

				It was it all. [i]All of London, always, reminded you of ${l_him}.[/i]

				*fake_choice
					#Which is, of course, entirely nonsensical, and confusing, to me.
						Why—Why at the strangest times, far too often—

						At surely the worst times.

						Did $!{l_he} appear in your mind?
					#It pains me, now.
						At the worst times.

						At surely the worst times.

						$!{l_he} will appear in your mind.

					#It is what it is. $!{l_he} has played a part in my life. It is only natural.
						At frequent times.

						At ever increasing frequent times.

						$!{l_he} will appear in your mind.
					#Infuriating. But nonetheless, true.
						At the worst times.

						At surely the worst times.

						$!{l_he} will appear in your mind.

				*if (wasCryingCH5)
					You see the cases, the late nights, the kindness... And the painful lack of it.

					That which occurred the last time you saw ${l_him}... 
				*elseif (wasImpressedAtL)
					You see the cases, the late nights, the kindness... And the occasional lack of it.

					Then there was what occurred last time you saw ${l_him}. Which, despite being a tad impressive...
				*else
					You see the cases, the late nights, the kindness... And the occasional lack of it.
					
					Then there was what occurred last time you saw ${l_him}... 

				*fake_choice
					#I will not avoid ${l_him}. Nothing will change.
						*set avoidingL false
						*set seekingL false
						*set angryWithL false
						*if (wasImpressedAtL = false)
							Despite what occurred last time you saw ${l_him},
							nothing will change.
						*else
							Nothing will change.

						If nothing else, you need ${l_him} for cases, do you not?

						Perhaps you can both pretend it never occurred?

						Just as you do with so many things.

						*fake_choice
							#But I know it will never truly be the same (remove all romance points and clear the romance)
								*label clearLRomance
								*set romanceL 0
								*goto carriageBranch
							#But I wonder... [i]I can't help[/i] but wonder what's in store for us now. (keep romance points)
								*goto carriageBranch

						*goto carriageBranch
					#I will interact. But only the minimal, professionally needed.
						*if (wasImpressedAtL = false)
							Despite what occurred last time you saw ${l_him},
							little will change.
						*else
							Little will change.

						At least not professionally. You still need ${l_him} for cases, do you not?

						But there are things you won't be able to forget.

						To forgive.

						*fake_choice
							#And I know it will never truly be the same (remove all romance points and clear the romance)
								*goto clearLRomance

							#But I wonder... [i]I can't help[/i] but wonder what is in store for us now. (keep romance points)
								*goto carriageBranch
						*goto carriageBranch
					#I will keep away as much as I can. This is my vow—anything else is too painful.
						*set avoidingL true
						*set seekingL false
						*set angryWithL false
						*if (wasImpressedAtL = false)
							Because of what occurred last time you saw ${l_him},
							it will all change.
						*else
							It will all change.

						Even the professional. It will have to.

						There are too many things you aren't able to forget.

						To forgive.

						*fake_choice
							#And I know it will never truly be the same (remove all romance points and clear the romance)
								*goto clearLRomance

							#But I wonder... [i]I can't help[/i] but wonder what might be in store for us now. (keep romance points)
								*goto carriageBranch
						*goto carriageBranch
					#I will keep away as much as I can. Or I may be too tempted to skewer ${l_him} with a fork from the night's inevitable buffet.
						*set avoidingL true
						*set seekingL false
						*set angryWithL true
						*if (wasImpressedAtL = false)
							Because of what occurred last time you saw ${l_him},
							it will all change.
						*else
							It will all change.

						Even the professional. It will have to.

						There are too many things you aren't able to forget.

						To forgive.

						*fake_choice
							#And I know it will never truly be the same (remove all romance points and clear the romance)
								*goto clearLRomance

							#But I wonder... [i]I can't help[/i] but wonder what might be in store for us now. (keep romance points)
								*goto carriageBranch
						*goto carriageBranch
					#I will hunt ${l_him} down, and make ${l_him} talk—
						*set avoidingL false
						*set seekingL true
						*set angryWithL true
						*if (wasImpressedAtL = false)
							Because of what occurred last time you saw ${l_him},
							you need to talk.
						*else
							You need to talk.

						And you will make ${l_him} talk. 

						Whether ${l_he} likes it or not.

						*fake_choice
							#But no matter what is said, I know it will never truly be the same (remove all romance points and clear the romance)
								*goto clearLRomance

							#And I wonder... [i]I can't help[/i] but wonder what might be in store for us now. (keep romance points)
						*goto carriageBranch
					#I will seek ${l_him} out, and have us talk—
						*set avoidingL false
						*set seekingL true
						*set angryWithL false
						*if (wasImpressedAtL = false)
							Because of what occurred last time you saw ${l_him},
							you need to talk.
						*else
							You need to talk.

						And you will talk. 

						Whether ${l_he} seemingly wants to or not.

						*fake_choice
							#But no matter what is said, I know it will never truly be the same (remove all romance points and clear the romance)
								*goto clearLRomance

							#And I wonder... [i]I can't help[/i] but wonder what might be in store for us now. (keep romance points)
						*goto carriageBranch




			*disable_reuse *selectable_if (((someKindOfSimp = false) and (hRomancePoints > 0)) and (travellsWith = "W")) #Bud roses line the carriage.
				Bud roses line the carriage. 

				Red roses, unbloomed. In a shade not scarlet, crimson, nor maroon. But a dark mahogany. A puddle of death in mud mixed with the faintest hint of wine.

				They decorate alongside the crown moulding and litter the ceiling.

				Sharp thorns.

				Red velvet petals.

				It looks rather...

				*fake_choice
					#Pretty.
						It wasn't lost on you; the meaning ${hName} might wish to impart to you with the display.

						But you wondered if ${h_he} was aware how much it showed a...

						A preoccupation, an obsession, with you.

						[i]To do so much, after so little.[/i]
					#Abhorrent.
						You would rip the flowers off, were you not too aware they were anchored with steel thread, and littered with thorns.

						Such a strange thing to do. To you.

						Nor was the meaning not lost on you, the meaning ${hName} might wish to impart on you with the display.

						But you wondered if ${h_he} was aware how much it showed a...

						A preoccupation, an obsession, with you.

						[i]To do so much, after so little.[/i]
					#Time-consuming.
						It would have taken someone quite a lot of time to fasten these flowers with steel thread, along these lengths.

						Nor was the meaning not lost on you, the meaning ${hName} might wish to impart on you with the display.

						But you wondered if ${h_he} was aware how much it showed a...

						A preoccupation, an obsession, with you.

						[i]To do so much, after so little.[/i]


				*fake_choice
					#Not that it mattered. From now on, I would avoid the ${h_man} as much as possible.
					#I could not help but be a little curious. A smidgen...
					#I was having too much fun to stop now. I will have the ${h_gentleman} wrapped around my finger in less time than this night.
					#I found it all far too abhorrent. I wish it would all stop. (Remove all romance points and clear the romance)
						*set hRomancePoints 0


			*disable_reuse *selectable_if (((flowersRed) or (flowersWhite)) and (travellsWith = "W")) #$!{typeOfFlowers} roses decorate the carriage.
				$!{typeOfFlowers} roses line the carriage. 

				$!{typeOfFlowers} roses, in full bloom.

				They decorate alongside the crown moulding and litter the ceiling.

				Cut thorns.

				$!{typeOfFlowers} velvet petals.

				It looks rather...

				*fake_choice
					#Pretty.
						It wasn't lost on you; the meaning ${hName} might wish to impart to you with the display.

						But you wondered if ${h_he} was aware how much it showed a...

						A preoccupation, an obsession, with you.

						[i]To do so much, after so little.[/i]
					#Too much.
						You would rip the flowers off, were you not too aware they were anchored with sharp steel thread.

						Such a strange thing to do. To you.

						Nor was the meaning not lost on you, the meaning ${hName} might wish to impart on you with the display.

						But you wondered if ${h_he} was aware how much it showed a...

						A preoccupation, an obsession, with you.

						[i]To do so much, after so little.[/i]
					#Time-consuming.
						It would have taken someone quite a lot of time to fasten these flowers with steel thread, along these lengths.

						Nor was the meaning not lost on you, the meaning ${hName} might wish to impart on you with the display.

						But you wondered if ${h_he} was aware how much it showed a...

						A preoccupation, an obsession, with you.

						[i]To do so much, after so little.[/i]


				*fake_choice
					#I am charmed, thoroughly so.
					#${h_he} is charming enough, you suppose. But you are not quite sure yet... of any of it.
					#I was having too much fun to stop now. I will have the ${h_gentleman} wrapped around my finger in less time than this night ends.
					#Not that it mattered. I declined ${h_his} invitation, and I would continue to avoid being alone with the ${h_man} in the future.
					#I found it all far too much. I wish it would all stop. (Remove all romance points and clear the romance)
						*set hRomancePoints 0



			*disable_reuse *selectable_if (((wRomance) and (loneWolf = false)) and (travellsWith = "H")) #There is a distinct lack of Watson in my carriage.
				It's simply odd, is what it is. To not have ${j_him} there, right next to you, by your side. As always...

				Well, [i]almost.[/i]

				Perhaps it is but a matter one gets used to? With time.

				*fake_choice
					#Not that I ever want to be used to such a horrid thing!
						To be without Watson... Forever...

						Perish the thought!

						No, no. This is simply a small reprieve, and you will soon return to full strength.
					#If distance is what ${j_he} wishes, I will show ${j_him} distance.
						The mixed signals that ${johnName} gives you, the push and the pull—you won't be played for a fool.

						You will require an apology and some damn good answers before you let things return to normal.

					#Perhaps Watson was right. Perhaps some time apart, some distance is... healthy.
						Distance may make the heart fonder. Or, it may be, simply... the right path.

						For you two.

						To be apart.

						For a while. Or forevermore.

				*fake_choice
					#Besides, things have been strange lately. I wish that strangeness would end. (Remove all W romance points and clear the romance)
					#I spend the moments after wondering if things will ever return to the way they had been.


			*disable_reuse *selectable_if (((wRomance) and (loneWolf)) and (travellsWith = "H")) #How good it feels to be without Watson. (Remove all W romance points and clear the romance)

				Watson was right. Some time apart, some distance is... it will do you good.

				You are sure of it.


			*disable_reuse #The letter in your pocket. The one that called you to this scene, the one given by ${hName}, it reminds you of another...
				There was one letter before all this.

				Where you had previously complained that letters came with no proper mystery, now there was nothing but.

				And it all began with that one letter.

				For some peculiar reason, you already know it by heart...

				[i]My dear Sherlock,[/i]

				[i]You and I share sentiments.[/i]

				[i]Understanding always more, making a home of that oldest riddle.[/i]

				[i]Unearthing that which we have not yet begun to grasp.[/i]

				[i]Tell me, did you enjoy my gift?[/i]

				[i]You will.[/i]

				[i]Yet, beware, detective.[/i]

				[i]When it rains, it pours.[/i]

				[i]– Faithfully yours[/i]

				[i]– X[/i]

				*line_break

				[i]P.s. You will know me by the mask I wear.[/i]

				*fake_choice
					#Never again do I wish for a letter. (Remove all forms of X relationship points)
						*set romanceX 0
						*set friendshipX 0
					#Letters are my new favourite things. 
					#I do not know why it is on my mind, but there is... [i]something[/i] there. Something I can't forget.

			*disable_reuse *selectable_if ((hRomancePoints < 1) and (travellsWith = "W")) #For some strange reason... ${hName} appears in your mind.

				${hName} appears in your mind, and you do not even know why.

				Of course, it could be perfectly natural? You are travelling to ${h_his} ball.

				After all, you sit in ${h_his} very carriage. Perhaps ${h_his} scent is within—

				Why can I recall ${h_his} scent to such detail?

				*fake_choice
					#I suppose... ${h_he} was rather fetching...
						*set hRomancePoints + 1
						$!{h_his} eyes were a particular shade, of grass that stays green in cold temperatures and survives with a hidden vibrancy...

						And ${h_his} voice soft.

						Almost gentle...

						You shake your mind of these unsolicited thoughts of [i]${h_him}[/i]. Hardly the time.

					#Why do I... remember ${h_his} emerald eyes so clearly...
						*set hRomancePoints + 1
						They were a particular shade, of grass that stays green in cold temperatures and survives with a hidden vibrancy...

						Why is this upon your mind?

						It is barely tangentially related to the work...

						Get it together, ${mc_name}.

						No more unsolicited thoughts of... [i]${h_him}[/i].
					#I even recall the sight of ${h_his} infuriatingly emerald eyes! 
						*set hRomancePoints + 1
						They were a particular shade, of grass that stays green in cold temperatures and survives with a hidden vibrancy...

						Why—THIS IS HARDLY RELEVANT!

						Not even tangentially related to the work!

						Get it together, ${mc_name}.

						No more unsolicited thoughts of... [i]${h_him}[/i].

					*if (false) #False alarm. The scent was merely that we drove by a an upper-class Maison de Tolérance, a house with particularly well repute, if I am honest.
					
					#False alarm. The scent was merely that we drove by parliament, and apparently every rich bore smells the same.


			#Never-mind... You do not know what you were thinking.
			



	*if (((hasTalkedWithMrsH) and (hasTalkedWithW)) and (hasTalkedWithH)) #And then, you arrive—  
		*goto afterCarriage



*goto carriageBranch



*label afterCarriage

The wheels of the coach slow before a sprawling building.

And two footmen come out as if from the shadows and open the carriage door.

Stepping outside, into the cold air that strikes your skin with ease, past the steps of the transport and the built warmth, you come to stand before the towering stone structure of the British Museum of Natural History. 

Torches illuminate the facade and the stone steps. Flames upon flames line the road you are to pass, an allée ushering you into the prettiest purgatory.

Such glowing embers could warm a room... or lit it all ablaze.

*comment TODO add mention of the mask here. That it is a distance of sort, between the stares.

*page_break

*temp dressOrCostume ""
*if (bWearingDress)
	*set dressOrCostume "dress"
*else
	*set dressOrCostume "costume"


*if (((travellsWith != "W") and (h_man != genderMC)) and (turnedDownHInTheCarriage = false))
	*set onArm "holdsH"
	You look just behind you, and there is your host for the evening. With an equally warm smile in the orange hue,
	*if (hMan)
		he holds out his arm for you to take,
	*else
		she takes your arm,
	and you enter the establishment together.

	[i]This is what notoriety feels like[/i], you think to yourself, as all eyes by the door turn to you, at the first heavy step past the threshold. 

	No turning back.

	Nowhere to run now.

	No disguise but a gilded mask in hand, a peculiar plan, and a ${dressOrCostume} the colour of ${bMainColourOf}.
	*comment TODO

*elseif ((travellsWith != "W") and (turnedDownHInTheCarriage = false))
	*set onArm "holdsH"
	You look just behind you, and there is your host for the evening. With an equally warm smile in the orange hue,
	*if (hMan)
		*set onArm "walksNextToH"
		he walks up to your side, lingering shoulder to shoulder,
	*else
		she takes your arm,
	and you enter the establishment together.

	[i]This is what notoriety feels like[/i], you think to yourself, as all eyes by the door turn to you, at the first heavy step past the threshold. 

	No turning back.

	Nowhere to run now.

	No disguise but a gilded mask in hand, a peculiar plan, and a ${dressOrCostume} the colour of ${bMainColourOf}.

*elseif ((travellsWith != "W") and (turnedDownHInTheCarriage = true))
	*set onArm "EntersAloneWithH"
	You look just behind you, and there is your host for the evening.

	But you ignore ${h_him} and enter the establishment alone.

	[i]This is what notoriety feels like[/i], you think to yourself, as all eyes turn to you at the first heavy step past the threshold. 

	No turning back.

	Nowhere to run now.

	No disguise but a gilded mask in hand, a peculiar plan, and a ${dressOrCostume} the colour of ${bMainColourOf}.

*else
	*if (loneWolf)
		*set onArm "EntersAloneWithW"
		You look just behind you, and there is your near constant companion.

		But you ignore ${j_him} and enter the establishment alone.

		[i]This is what notoriety feels like[/i], you think to yourself, as all eyes turn to you at the first heavy step past the threshold. 

		No turning back.

		Nowhere to run now.

		No disguise but a gilded mask in hand, a peculiar plan, and a ${dressOrCostume} the colour of ${bMainColourOf}.
	*else
		*set onArm "holdsW"
		You look just behind you, and there is your near constant companion. With an equally warm smile in the orange hue,
		*if ((johnMan) and (genderMC = "woman"))
			he holds out his arm for you to take,
		*elseif (johnMan)
			*set onArm "walksNextToW"
			he walks up to your side, lingering shoulder to shoulder,
		*else
			she takes your arm,
		and you enter the establishment together.

		[i]This is what notoriety feels like[/i], you think to yourself, as all eyes by the door turn to you, at the first heavy step past the threshold. 

		No turning back.

		Nowhere to run now.

		No disguise but a gilded mask in hand, a peculiar plan, and a ${dressOrCostume} the colour of ${bMainColourOf}.

*page_break
*comment end
*label endCh6

*fake_choice
	#Do you wish to read the W Pow (romance) "mini-game", of the moment you descended the stairs?
		*goto WPow
	#No. Go to the next chapter—
		*finish

[b]The next chapter will include:[/b]
*line_break
The ball!

It's a lot, like a lot, a lot.

But there's dancing, crime, romance, new people, and all sorts of things!

[i]If you liked the demo or have any thoughts you would like to share, I would love to hear from you in the forum thread or on tumblr/discord/patreon :)[/i]








*label WPow
*comment bMainColour "iridescent green"
*comment bSecondaryColour "pale gold"

*temp StyleDescription ""
*if (bSimple)
		*set StyleDescription "in a simple style that brough ${mc_xim} out"
*if (bBold)
	*if (bWearingDress)
		*set StyleDescription "in a tight laced dress, scandalous and bold"
	*else
		*set StyleDescription "in a drawn on figure, scandalous and bold"
*if (bCharming)
	*set StyleDescription "in a warm style that brough ${mc_xim} out"
*if (bProper)
	*set StyleDescription "in an expensive, well cut style that brough ${mc_xim} out"
*if (bDelicate)
	*set StyleDescription "in a delicate style that brough ${mc_xim} out"


*temp ThemeWord ""

*if (BrideOfDraculaStyle)
	*set ThemeWord "A dark bride"
*elseif (AphroditeStyle)
	*set ThemeWord "Aphrodite"
*elseif (AngelStyle)
	*set ThemeWord "An angel"
*elseif (StarlightStyle)
	*set ThemeWord "A night sky"
*elseif (ZeusStyle)
	*set ThemeWord "A god"
*elseif ((GalahadStyle) or (Knightstyle))
	*set ThemeWord "A knight, as ${j_he} was"
*elseif (DraculaStyle)
	*set ThemeWord "An alluring beast"
*else
	*set ThemeWord "A ${bTheme}"


*temp lovelier "lovelier"
*if (bWearingDress = false)
	*set lovelier "more handsome"



*if (genderMC = "them")
	*goto nonbinaryVersionWPov

*elseif (genderMC = j_man)
	*goto samesexVersionWPov

*else

Watson had seen the detective walk down these same stairs in many disguises, on many different days, in many different manners of dress.

And yet, nothing had prepared ${j_him}.

Nothing [i]could[/i] prepare ${j_him}.

Not for this.

Not for ${mc_xim}.

*page_break

To say Watson was nervous was an understatement. Of course, Watson was nervous about many things tonight, few of which were under ${j_hi} definitive control, but all of them involved [i]${mc_xim}[/i].

*if (bWearingDress)
	But when ${j_he} saw ${mc_xim}, [i]there[/i], as ${mc_xhe} floated down to the landing of the stairs... The nerves all melted away, much like ${j_hi} blood pooled at ${j_hi} now heavy feet. And, soon, followed ${j_hi} sense—
*else
	But when ${j_he} saw ${mc_xim}, [i]there[/i], as ${mc_xhe} walked down to the landing of the stairs... The nerves all melted away, much like ${j_hi} blood pooled at ${j_hi} now heavy feet. And, soon, followed ${j_hi} sense—

Both laid out on the wooden floor.

*if (prefersHeels)
	As if ${j_he} stood on them, unsteady and unsure. Somehow, ${j_he} swore ${j_he} could feel the beat of ${j_hi} blood, that damning loud pulse, as if below [i]${mc_xir}[/i] heels. 
*else
	As if ${j_he} stood on them, unsteady and unsure. Somehow, ${j_he} swore ${j_he} could feel the beat of ${j_hi} blood, that damning loud pulse, as if below [i]${mc_xir}[/i] sole.

As if ${j_hi} heart was bare by ${mc_xir} feet, snared or trampled.

Yet, ${j_he} did not mind such ownership.

$!{mc_xhe} may take it all.

*page_break

Watson and ${j_hi} detective stood there for many moments too long. $!{j_him}, gazing at ${mc_xim}. At ${mc_xir} ${eyeColour} eyes and familiar visage. But ${j_he} did not notice the breach of time-gated etiquette by ${j_hi} stares at that moment. No, ${j_he} noticed more how ${mc_xhe} looked and, how dry ${j_hi} mouth was and how little ${j_he} had said when ${j_he} wanted to...

How ${j_he} wished to tell ${mc_xim}...

Tell ${mc_xim}...

[i]$!{j_he} mustn't tell ${mc_xim}[/i]. And time simply flew by as ${j_he} stood there, frozen. 

*if (bWearingDress)
	Thankfully, appearing more thawed than ${johnName} was, as ${j_he} saw it—${mc_xir} feet moved. At that moment, Watson finally found that edge of resolve, that courage ${j_he} always found under fire, and ${j_hi} feet moved too, by whatever blood and sense had finally found its way there.

	$!{j_he} held ${j_hi} hand out. A steady hand, by some god-given grace.

	It did not flutter; it remained unpanicked, unlike ${j_hi} heart and blood.
*else
	Thankfully, appearing more thawed than ${johnName} was, as ${j_he} saw it—${mc_xir} feet moved, as ${j_hi} refused to.

God, ${j_he} was known to be strong. But ${mc_xhe} made ${j_him} so weak...  

Did ${mc_xhe} truly not know how much?

*fake_choice
	#'$!{mc_xhe} knew more than ${mc_xhe} said.'
	#'$!{mc_xhe} had no clue. Despite Watson's less than subtle stumbles.'
	#'$!{mc_xhe} knew yet never understood.'

The doctor, in turn, knew ${j_hi} eyes were glued to ${mc_xir} face.

But it was a damn better option than the alternative. $!{j_hi} eyes, forced by all the politeness ${j_he} may muster to not travel a gaze downwards where it may linger in places one may lose oneself for good.

*if (johnMan)
	It was at this time ${j_he} had first tried to truly speak, but ${j_hi} voice came out horrifyingly husky and broken, "${mc_name}..." $!{j_he} had tried to smile, but it was uneven and too plastered on.
*else
	It was at this time ${j_he} had first tried to truly speak, but ${j_hi} voice came out horrifyingly breathless and broken, "${mc_name}..." $!{j_he} had tried to smile, but it was uneven and too plastered on.

$!{j_he} cursed ${j_himself} for that. Inaudibly, yet in ${j_hi} mind loudly and vulgarly, with words ${j_he} only recalled from ${j_hi} youth.

The polite tongue ${j_he} always held felt as if it was slipping by the day.

$!{j_he} did not know how to cease such moral descent.

Not with ${mc_xim} around.

*if (hRomancePoints > 0)
	And all the additional interlopers abound.
*else
	And all these moments too close and with such longed-for comforts.

*fake_choice
	#“You do not care for it…” ${mc_xhe} had said.
		“You do not care for it…” ${mc_xhe} had said.

		That had caused one more curse to not be uttered but entirely heard in ${j_hi} mind.

		'Not... [i]care[/i] for it?'

		How could ${j_he} not, ${j_he} thought as ${j_hi} eyes roamed down by some allowance in those words, and ${j_he} drank every penny worth of the sight.

		*if (bMainTrueColour = bSecondaryTrueColour)
			$!{ThemeWord}, ${StyleDescription} in ${bMainColour} and further ${bSecondaryTrueColour}.
		*else
			$!{ThemeWord}, ${StyleDescription} in ${bMainColour} and ${bSecondaryColour}.

		[i]How could ${j_he} not...[/i]

		$!{mc_xhe} was...

		“I…” $!{j_he} swallowed again. “Forgive me, it is quite the...”

		$!{j_he} forced ${j_himself} back into more polite gazing, rather than leering, and found some final word as ${j_he} met ${mc_xir} eyes, ”Opposite...”

		$!{mc_xir} ${eyeColour} eyes had more punch than gun powder, ${j_he} thought then—and had, many times before—but ${j_he} only ever thought it. $!{j_he} did not write such truths in their stories or even in ${j_hi} journal. 

		No, for ${j_he} feared putting pen to paper of such hidden truths would uncover them enough for deduction to discover.

		*comment TODO FIX FAIR/DARK
		*comment Little was ever hidden from beyond ${mc_xir} fair, dark lashes and ${eyeColour} eyes.

		*if (facialDetailLikeS = "long lashes")
			Little was ever hidden from beyond ${mc_xir} fair, long lashes and ${eyeColour} eyes.
		*else
			Little was ever hidden from beyond ${mc_xir} fair, alluring lashes and ${eyeColour} eyes.

		$!{j_he} knew that...

		$!{j_he} knew that far too well.

		*fake_choice
			#“It is?” ${mc_xhe} had asked so softly.

		“It is?” ${mc_xhe} had asked so softly.

		[i]Did ${mc_xhe} know how soft ${mc_xir} voice could be?[/i] When ${j_he} spoke sweet words to ${mc_xim}, or ${mc_xhe} felt unguarded or weak, then ${mc_xhe} returned with a voice that ${j_he} was sure must be reserved for only ${j_him}.

		Nonetheless, ${j_he} did not wish for ${mc_xim} to doubt. Not ever.

		So ${j_he} had said, in words ${j_he} thought would come out in order, “${mc_name}, you… I apologise." 

		But the words did not. [i]Could not[/i]. Not by a tongue as knotted as ${j_hi} heart.

		Watson further blushed, as ${j_he} had been, and ${j_he} knew as such, and ${j_hi} mind found further curses inside for that. "I did not know I’d be without capable words.”

		But ${j_he} did know.

		Of course ${j_he} knew.

		$!{mc_xhe} was ${j_hi} undoing. $!{mc_xhe} was ${j_hi} weakness. $!{j_hi} main motivation and ${j_hi} fatal flaw. 

		And ${j_he} would not change it for the world. Not if it killed ${j_him}. 

		*if (looks = "looks same")
			“You look much like…" ${j_he} attempted words once more, "You always look.”
				
			The ${j_man} paused and almost sighed, but no air left ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look exactly as I have always seen you, and ${lovelier} than I have ever seen you before?”

		*else
			“You look just as I…" ${j_he} attempted words once more. "that I expect you hoped that you would look. Radiant. [i]Wonderful[/i]. Trust this—and… beyond, in my eyes.”
				
			The ${j_man} paused and almost sighed, but no air left ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look ${lovelier} than I have ever seen you before, and exactly as I have always seen you?”

		*page_break

		$!{mc_xhe} had always been radiant in ${j_hi} eyes. From that first glowing moment to all the blinding moments since. But ${j_he} did not wish for ${mc_xim} to doubt. $!{j_he} fears ${j_hi} words will cause harm unless ${j_he} clarifies—

		*if (bWearingDress)
			“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} cleared ${j_hi} throat and stepped further to stand now steady with both feet on the step below ${mc_xim}. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind.
		*else
			“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} cleared ${j_hi} throat and stepped further to stand now closer with both feet on the floorboards beside ${mc_xim}. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind.

		*if (bBold)
			“Sherlock…” It is the barest attempt at chiding.
		*if (bAttractive < 4)
			“If they see your brilliance tonight, ${mc_name}, you will dazzle all of London. And I am simply grateful, to be there... by your side."
		*else 
			“You look remarkable. Always. But now all of London will see it too.
			And, so… perhaps remain by my side? Just for the night. I do not quite know if London is ready for a brilliant ${individual} who shines this bright…" ${j_he} sighed. 

		*if (bBold)
			Dressed as ${mc_xhe} was, all that loveliness on display... $!{j_he} did not want to share that vision with others. $!{j_he} knew too well what it would inspire in others, what they would imagine.

		"Perhaps if the English language had stronger words—then perhaps I could tell you better, how you appear before me. As you always do… Always have.” 

		*fake_choice
			#"Then... you do not dislike it?" ${mc_xhe} had asked once more.
		"Then... you do not dislike it?" ${mc_xhe} had asked once more.

		How... how does ${mc_xhe} doubt this? How does ${mc_xhe} still? 

		Beautiful, wonderful, ${mc_name}... 

		"[i]No[/i]," ${j_he} had answered with a grin, as the question felt so far removed from ${j_hi} feelings that it was practically comical.

		"No, dislike—dislike could not be a word further from the truth, ${mc_name}. I simply fail at words. Not appreciation," $!{j_he} laughed. 

		It felt a warm, happy thing. And ${mc_xhe} had smiled, too, and ${j_he} wished nothing would ever make ${mc_xim} stop.

	#“Are you quite alright, ${johnName}?” ${mc_xhe} had asked with a devilish smirk.
		“Are you quite alright, ${johnName}?” ${mc_xhe} had asked with a devilish smirk. The one ${j_he} knew too well. "Cat got your tongue?"

		[i]Fuck.[/i]

		How could ${mc_xhe} expect ${j_him} to speak?! [i]To function at all[/i]—${j_he} thought this as ${j_hi} eyes roamed down by some assumed allowance in those words, and ${j_he} drank every penny worth of the sight.

		With ${mc_xim} there...

		*if (bMainTrueColour = bSecondaryTrueColour)
			$!{ThemeWord}, ${StyleDescription} in ${bMainColour} and further ${bSecondaryTrueColour}.
		*else
			$!{ThemeWord}, ${StyleDescription} in ${bMainColour} and ${bSecondaryColour}.

		[i]How could ${j_he} ever...[/i]

		$!{mc_xhe} was...

		“I…” $!{j_he} swallowed again. “Forgive me, yes.”

		$!{j_he} forced ${j_himself} back into more polite gazing, rather than leering, and found some final word as ${j_he} met ${mc_xir}  eyes, "But you...”

		$!{mc_xir} ${eyeColour} eyes had more punch than gun powder, ${j_he} thought then—and had, many times before—but ${j_he} only ever thought it. $!{j_he} did not write such truths in their stories or even in ${j_hi} journal. 

		No, for ${j_he} feared putting pen to paper of such hidden truths would uncover them enough for deduction to discover.

		*if (facialDetailLikeS = "long lashes")
			Little was ever hidden from beyond ${mc_xir} fair, long lashes and ${eyeColour} eyes.
		*else
			Little was ever hidden from beyond ${mc_xir} fair, alluring lashes and ${eyeColour} eyes.

		$!{j_he} knew that...

		$!{j_he} knew that far too well.

		*fake_choice
			#“Yes?” ${mc_xhe} had urged, still with a far too knowing smirk.

		“Yes?” ${mc_xhe} had urged, still with a far too knowing smirk.

		[i]Did ${mc_xhe} know how ${j_he} felt ${mc_xir} teasing tone down ${j_hi} spine?[/i] It fluttered through ${j_hi} synapses, lower and lower, and felt warm and nerve-wracking the whole way. It was as electrocution when ${mc_xhe} spoke with that voice that ${j_he} hoped was reserved for only ${j_him}.

		Yet, nonetheless, ${j_he} could not falter. Not this far. Not so ${mc_xhe} might know... Not ever.

		Not if it meant...

		Therefore ${j_he} had said, in words ${j_he} thought would come out in order, “${mc_name}, you…" 

		But the words did not. [i]Could not[/i]. Not by a tongue as knotted as ${j_hi} heart.

		Watson further blushed, as ${j_he} had been, and ${j_he} knew as such, and ${j_hi} mind found further curses inside for that. "You must have known that I’d be without capable words, or you would not have asked.”

		$!{mc_xhe} knew.

		But did ${mc_xhe} know how far? What it meant?

		$!{mc_xhe} was ${j_hi} undoing. $!{mc_xhe} was ${j_hi} weakness. $!{j_hi} main motivation and ${j_hi} fatal flaw. 

		And ${j_he} would not change it for the world. Not if it killed ${j_him}. But...

		*if (looks = "looks same")
			“You look much like…" ${j_he} attempted words once more, "You always look.”
				
			The ${j_man} paused and almost sighed, but no air left ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look exactly as I have always seen you, and ${lovelier} than I have ever seen you before?”

		*else
			“You look just as I…" ${j_he} attempted words once more. "that I expect you hoped that you would look. Radiant. [i]Wonderful[/i]. Trust this—and… beyond, in my eyes.”
				
			The ${j_man} paused and almost sighed, but no air left ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look ${lovelier} than I have ever seen you before, and exactly as I have always seen you?”

		*page_break

		$!{mc_xhe} had always been radiant in ${j_hi} eyes. From that first glowing moment to all the blinding moments since. But ${j_he} did not wish for ${mc_xim} to doubt. $!{j_he} fears ${j_hi} confounding words will cause harm unless ${j_he} clarifies—

		*if (bWearingDress)
			“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} cleared ${j_hi} throat and stepped further to stand now steady with both feet on the step below ${mc_xim}. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind.
		*else
			“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} cleared ${j_hi} throat and stepped further to stand now closer with both feet on the floorboards beside ${mc_xim}. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind.

		*if (bBold)
			“Sherlock…” It is the barest attempt at chiding.
		*if (bAttractive < 4)
			“If they see your brilliance tonight, ${mc_name}, you will dazzle all of London. And I am simply grateful, to be there... by your side."
		*else 
			“You look remarkable. Always. But now all of London will see it too.
			And, so… perhaps remain by my side? Just for the night. I do not quite know if London is ready for a brilliant ${individual} who shines this bright…" ${j_he} sighed. 

		*if (bBold)
			Dressed as ${mc_xhe} was, all that loveliness on display... $!{j_he} did not want to share that vision with others. $!{j_he} knew too well what it would inspire in others, what they would imagine.

		"Perhaps if the English language had stronger words—then perhaps I could tell you better, how you appear before me. As you always do… Always have.” 

		*fake_choice
			#$!{mc_xhe} had smiled then and said, "What a writerly thing to say,"

		$!{mc_xhe} had smiled then and said, “What a writerly thing to say, [i]$!{j_mister} Watson[/i]. Blaming the lack of words on the words… Perhaps you should simply… take more pride in your words as they are, and say them more often?”

		“More often?” $!{j_he} had asked, at first with confusion, then followed understanding as the words left ${j_hi} lips.

		“Yes. Would you mind?”

		No... $!{j_he} did not mind.

		Not one speck of matter in ${j_hi} mind minded.

		And so ${j_he} smiles. “You know I sing your praises each and every day, [i]$!{mc_miss} $!{mc_lastname}[/i]. But [i]more often[/i], you say?”

		“Mmm. I think so. Might help you with your vocabulary. We can practice synonyms for dazzling, ravishing, et cetera.”

		[i]Beautiful, wonderful—[/i]

		$!{j_he} laughed. It felt a warm, happy thing. And ${mc_xhe} had smiled too, and ${j_he} wished nothing would ever make ${mc_xim} stop.

		“I would like that,” ${j_he} revealed, in words insufficient, “Very much.”

	#“[i]Oh[/i]. Why—how very gallant, ${johnName}." $!{mc_xhe} held ${mc_xir} hand out, to accept ${j_hi} offer of assistance gracefully.
		
		“[i]Oh[/i]. Why—how very gallant, ${johnName}." $!{mc_xhe} held ${mc_xir} hand out, to accept ${j_hi} offer of assistance gracefully.

		$!{mc_name} took ${j_hi} hand. 

		[i]$!{j_he} held ${mc_xir} hand.[/i]

		And they descend the few remaining steps. And ${j_he} did not lose ${mc_xir} hand, not even once the steps were done.

		$!{j_he} was conscious of ${j_hi} own wish of never letting go. And ${j_he} was aware ${j_he} had not [i]when ${j_he} should[/i].
		
		But how could ${j_he}?

		Not when ${mc_xir} hand remained in ${j_his}—and ${j_he} feared ${mc_xhe} expected ${j_him} to function, to speak, whilst?! [i]To function at all[/i]—${j_he} feared this as ${j_hi} eyes roamed down by some assumed allowance by ${mc_xir} nearness, and ${j_he} drank every penny worth of the sight.

		*if (bMainTrueColour = bSecondaryTrueColour)
			$!{ThemeWord}, ${StyleDescription} in ${bMainColour} and further ${bSecondaryTrueColour}.
		*else
			$!{ThemeWord}, ${StyleDescription} in ${bMainColour} and ${bSecondaryColour}.
			
		[i]How could ${j_he} ever...[/i]

		$!{mc_xhe} was...

		“I…” $!{j_he} swallowed again. “Forgive me, it is quite the...”

		$!{j_he} forced ${j_himself} back into more polite gazing, rather than leering, and found some final word as ${j_he} met ${mc_xir}  eyes, "You look...”

		$!{mc_xir} ${eyeColour} eyes had more punch than gun powder, ${j_he} thought then—and had, many times before—but ${j_he} only ever thought it. $!{j_he} did not write such truths in their stories or even in ${j_hi} journal. 

		No, for ${j_he} feared putting pen to paper of such hidden truths would uncover them enough for deduction to discover.

		*if (facialDetailLikeS = "long lashes")
			Little was ever hidden from beyond ${mc_xir} fair, long lashes and ${eyeColour} eyes.
		*else
			Little was ever hidden from beyond ${mc_xir} fair, alluring lashes and ${eyeColour} eyes.


		$!{j_he} knew that...

		$!{j_he} knew that far too well.

		*fake_choice
			#“Yes?" ${mc_xhe} had asked softly for clarification. "I look—” 
				[i]Did ${mc_xhe} know how soft ${mc_xir} voice could be?[/i] When ${j_he} spoke sweet words to ${mc_xim}, or ${mc_xhe} felt unguarded or weak, then ${mc_xhe} returned with a voice that ${j_he} was sure must be reserved for only ${j_him}.

			#“Yes?" ${mc_xhe} had asked teasingly for clarification. "I look—”
				[i]Did ${mc_xhe} know how ${j_he} felt ${mc_xir} teasing tone down ${j_hi} spine?[/i] It fluttered through ${j_hi} synapses, lower and lower, and felt warm and nerve-wracking the whole way. It was as electrocution when ${mc_xhe} spoke with that voice that ${j_he} hoped was reserved for only ${j_him}.

			#“Yes?" ${mc_xhe} had asked confoundingly, mock innocently, for clarification. "I look—” 
				[i]Did ${mc_xhe} know how captivating ${mc_xir} voice could be?[/i] When ${mc_xhe} spoke sweetly, or ${mc_xhe} whispered words to ${j_him}, when ${mc_xhe} used that voice that ${j_he} was sure must be reserved for only ${j_him}.

		$!{j_he} did not wish to keep ${mc_xim} in suspense. Or to doubt. Not ever.

		So ${j_he} roused and said, in words ${j_he} thought would come out in order, “${mc_name}, you… I apologise." 

		But the words did not come in order. [i]Could not[/i]. Not by a tongue as knotted as ${j_hi} heart.

		Watson further blushed at this, as ${j_he} had been, and ${j_he} knew as such, and ${j_hi} mind found further curses inside for that. "I did not know I’d be without capable words.”

		But ${j_he} did know.

		Of course ${j_he} knew.

		$!{mc_xhe} was ${j_hi} undoing. $!{mc_xhe} was ${j_hi} weakness. $!{j_hi} main motivation and ${j_hi} fatal flaw. 

		And ${j_he} would not change it for the world. Not if it killed ${j_him}. 

		*if (looks = "looks same")
			“You look much like…" ${j_he} attempted words once more, "You always look.”
				
			The ${j_man} paused and almost sighed, but no air left ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look exactly as I have always seen you, and ${lovelier} than I have ever seen you before?”

		*else
			“You look just as I…" ${j_he} attempted words once more. "that I expect you hoped that you would look. Radiant. [i]Wonderful[/i]. Trust this—and… beyond, in my eyes.”
				
			The ${j_man} paused and almost sighed, but no air left ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look ${lovelier} than I have ever seen you before, and exactly as I have always seen you?”

		*page_break

		$!{mc_xhe} had always been radiant in ${j_hi} eyes. From that first glowing moment to all the blinding moments since. But ${j_he} did not wish for ${mc_xim} to doubt. $!{j_he} fears ${j_hi} words will cause harm unless ${j_he} clarifies—

		*if (bWearingDress)
			“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} cleared ${j_hi} throat and stepped further to stand now steady with both feet on the step below ${mc_xim}. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind.
		*else
			“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} cleared ${j_hi} throat and stepped further to stand now closer with both feet on the floorboards beside ${mc_xim}. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind.

		*if (bBold)
			“Sherlock…” It is the barest attempt at chiding.
		*if (bAttractive < 4)
			“If they see your brilliance tonight, ${mc_name}, you will dazzle all of London. And I am simply grateful, to be there... by your side."
		*else 
			“You look remarkable. Always. But now all of London will see it too.
			And, so… perhaps remain by my side? Just for the night. I do not quite know if London is ready for a brilliant ${individual} who shines this bright…" ${j_he} sighed. 

		*if (bBold)
			Dressed as ${mc_xhe} was, all that loveliness on display... $!{j_he} did not want to share that vision with others. $!{j_he} knew too well what it would inspire in others, what they would imagine.

		"Perhaps if the English language had stronger words—then perhaps I could tell you better, how you appear before me. As you always do… Always have.” 


		*fake_choice
			#$!{mc_xhe} had smiled then, and said, "$!{johnName}, your words are never lacking..."

		$!{mc_xhe} had smiled then, and said, “$!{johnName}, your words are never lacking… Perhaps you should simply, take more pride in your words as they are, and say them more often?” 

		“More often?” $!{j_he} had asked, at first with confusion, then followed understanding as the words left ${j_hi} lips.

		“Yes. Would you mind?”

		No... $!{j_he} did not mind.

		Not one speck of matter in ${j_hi} mind minded.

		And so ${j_he} smiles. “You know I sing your praises each and every day, [i]$!{mc_miss} $!{mc_lastname}[/i]. But [i]more often[/i], you say?”

		[i]Beautiful, wonderful, dazzling—[/i]

		“Mmm. I think so.”

		$!{j_he} laughed. It felt a warm, happy thing. And ${mc_xhe} had smiled too; and ${j_he} wished nothing would ever make ${mc_xim} stop.

		“I would like that,” ${j_he} revealed, in words insufficient, “Very much.”







	##“[i]Oh[/i]. There you are, ${johnName}.”
		
		Did ${mc_xhe} expect ${j_him} to speak? [i]To function at all[/i]—${j_he} thought this as ${j_hi} eyes roamed down by some assumed allowance in those words, and ${j_he} drank every penny worth of the sight.

		With ${mc_xim} there...

		*if (bMainTrueColour = bSecondaryTrueColour)
			$!{ThemeWord}, ${StyleDescription} in ${bMainColour} and further ${bSecondaryTrueColour}.
		*else
			$!{ThemeWord}, ${StyleDescription} in ${bMainColour} and ${bSecondaryColour}.
			
		[i]How could ${j_he} ever...[/i]

		$!{mc_xhe} was...

		“I…” $!{j_he} swallowed again. “Forgive me, it is quite the...”

		$!{j_he} forced ${j_himself} back into more polite gazing, rather than leering, and found some final word as ${j_he} met ${mc_xir}  eyes, "You look...”

		$!{mc_xir} ${eyeColour} eyes had more punch than gun powder, ${j_he} thought then—and had, many times before—but ${j_he} only ever thought it. $!{j_he} did not write such truths in their stories or even in ${j_hi} journal. 

		No, for ${j_he} feared putting pen to paper of such hidden truths would uncover them enough for deduction to discover.

		*if (facialDetailLikeS = "long lashes")
			Little was ever hidden from beyond ${mc_xir} fair, long lashes and ${eyeColour} eyes.
		*else
			Little was ever hidden from beyond ${mc_xir} fair, alluring lashes and ${eyeColour} eyes.


		$!{j_he} knew that...

		$!{j_he} knew that far too well.

		*fake_choice
			#“Yes?" ${mc_xhe} had asked softly for clarification. "I look—” 
				[i]Did ${mc_xhe} know how soft ${mc_xir} voice could be?[/i] When ${j_he} spoke sweet words to ${mc_xim}, or ${mc_xhe} felt unguarded or weak, then ${mc_xhe} returned with a voice that ${j_he} was sure must be reserved for only ${j_him}.


			#“Yes?" ${mc_xhe} had asked teasingly for clarification. "I look—”
				[i]Did ${mc_xhe} know how ${j_he} felt ${mc_xir} teasing tone down ${j_hi} spine?[/i] It fluttered through ${j_hi} synapses, lower and lower, and felt warm and nerve-wracking the whole way. It was as electrocution when ${mc_xhe} spoke with that voice that ${j_he} hoped was reserved for only ${j_him}.

			#“Yes?" ${mc_xhe} had asked confoundingly, mock innocently, for clarification. "I look—” 
				[i]Did ${mc_xhe} know how captivating ${mc_xir} voice could be?[/i] When ${mc_xhe} spoke sweetly, or ${mc_xhe} whispered words to ${j_him}, when ${mc_xhe} used that voice that ${j_he} was sure must be reserved for only ${j_him}.

		$!{j_he} did not wish to keep ${mc_xim} in suspense. Or to doubt. Not ever.

		So ${j_he} roused and said, in words ${j_he} thought would come out in order, “${mc_name}, you… I apologise." 

		But the words did not come in order. [i]Could not[/i]. Not by a tongue as knotted as ${j_hi} heart.

		Watson further blushed at this, as ${j_he} had been, and ${j_he} knew as such, and ${j_hi} mind found further curses inside for that. "I did not know I’d be without capable words.”

		But ${j_he} did know.

		Of course ${j_he} knew.

		$!{mc_xhe} was ${j_hi} undoing. $!{mc_xhe} was ${j_hi} weakness. $!{j_hi} main motivation and ${j_hi} fatal flaw. 

		And ${j_he} would not change it for the world. Not if it killed ${j_him}. 

		*if (looks = "looks same")
			“You look much like…" ${j_he} attempted words once more, "You always look.”
				
			The ${j_man} paused and almost sighed, but no air left ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look exactly as I have always seen you, and ${lovelier} than I have ever seen you before?”

		*else
			“You look just as I…" ${j_he} attempted words once more. "that I expect you hoped that you would look. Radiant. [i]Wonderful[/i]. Trust this—and… beyond, in my eyes.”
				
			The ${j_man} paused and almost sighed, but no air left ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look ${lovelier} than I have ever seen you before, and exactly as I have always seen you?”

		*page_break

		$!{mc_xhe} had always been radiant in ${j_hi} eyes. From that first glowing moment to all the blinding moments since. But ${j_he} did not wish for ${mc_xim} to doubt. $!{j_he} fears ${j_hi} words will cause harm unless ${j_he} clarifies—

		*if (bWearingDress)
			“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} cleared ${j_hi} throat and stepped further to stand now steady with both feet on the step below ${mc_xim}. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind.
		*else
			“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} cleared ${j_hi} throat and stepped further to stand now closer with both feet on the floorboards beside ${mc_xim}. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind.

		*if (bBold)
			“Sherlock…” It is the barest attempt at chiding.
		*if (bAttractive < 4)
			“If they see your brilliance tonight, ${mc_name}, you will dazzle all of London. And I am simply grateful, to be there... by your side."
		*else 
			“You look remarkable. Always. But now all of London will see it too.
			And, so… perhaps remain by my side? Just for the night. I do not quite know if London is ready for a brilliant ${individual} who shines this bright…" ${j_he} sighed. 

		*if (bBold)
			Dressed as ${mc_xhe} was, all that loveliness on display... $!{j_he} did not want to share that vision with others. $!{j_he} knew too well what it would inspire in others, what they would imagine.

		"Perhaps if the English language had stronger words—then perhaps I could tell you better, how you appear before me. As you always do… Always have.” 


		*fake_choice
			#$!{mc_xhe} had smiled then, and said, "$!{johnName}, your words are never lacking..."

		$!{mc_xhe} had smiled then, and said, “$!{johnName}, your words are never lacking… Perhaps you should simply, take more pride in your words as they are, and say them more often?” 

		“More often?” $!{j_he} had asked, at first with confusion, then followed understanding as the words left ${j_hi} lips.

		“Yes. Would you mind?”

		No... $!{j_he} did not mind.

		Not one speck of matter in ${j_hi} mind minded.

		And so ${j_he} smiles. “You know I sing your praises each and every day, [i]$!{mc_miss} $!{mc_lastname}[/i]. But [i]more often[/i], you say?”

		[i]Beautiful, wonderful, dazzling—[/i]

		“Mmm. I think so.”

		$!{j_he} laughed. It felt a warm, happy thing. And ${mc_xhe} had smiled too; and ${j_he} wished nothing would ever make ${mc_xim} stop.

		“I would like that,” ${j_he} revealed, in words insufficient, “Very much.”


*goto endCh6














*label nonbinaryVersionWPov


Watson had seen the detective walk down these same stairs in many disguises, on many different days, in many different manners of dress.

And yet, nothing had prepared ${j_him}.

Nothing [i]could[/i] prepare ${j_him}.

Not for this.

Not for ${mc_xim}.

*page_break

To say Watson was nervous was an understatement. Of course, Watson was nervous about many things tonight, few of which were under ${j_hi} definitive control, but all of them involved [i]${mc_xim}[/i].

*if (bWearingDress)
	But when ${j_he} saw ${mc_xim}, [i]there[/i], as ${mc_xhe} floated down to the landing of the stairs... The nerves all melted away, much like ${j_hi} blood pooled at ${j_hi} now heavy feet. And, soon, followed ${j_hi} sense—
*else
	But when ${j_he} saw ${mc_xim}, [i]there[/i], as ${mc_xhe} walked down to the landing of the stairs... The nerves all melted away, much like ${j_hi} blood pooled at ${j_hi} now heavy feet. And, soon, followed ${j_hi} sense—

Both laid out on the wooden floor.

*if (prefersHeels)
	As if ${j_he} stood on them, unsteady and unsure. Somehow, ${j_he} swore ${j_he} could feel the beat of ${j_hi} blood, that damning loud pulse, as if below [i]${mc_xir}[/i] heels. 
*else
	As if ${j_he} stood on them, unsteady and unsure. Somehow, ${j_he} swore ${j_he} could feel the beat of ${j_hi} blood, that damning loud pulse, as if below [i]${mc_xir}[/i] sole.

As if ${j_hi} heart was bare by ${mc_xir} feet, snared or trampled.

Yet, ${j_he} did not mind such ownership.

$!{mc_xhe} may take it all.

*page_break

Watson and ${j_hi} detective stood there for many moments too long. $!{j_him}, gazing at ${mc_xim}. At ${mc_xir} ${eyeColour} eyes and familiar visage. But ${j_he} did not notice the breach of time-gated etiquette by ${j_hi} stares at that moment. No, ${j_he} noticed more how ${mc_xhe} looked and, how dry ${j_hi} mouth was and how little ${j_he} had said when ${j_he} wanted to...

How ${j_he} wished to tell ${mc_xim}...

Tell ${mc_xim}...

[i]$!{j_he} mustn't tell ${mc_xim}[/i]. And time simply flew by as ${j_he} stood there, frozen. 

*if (bWearingDress)
	Thankfully, appearing more thawed than ${johnName} was, as ${j_he} saw it—${mc_xir} feet moved. At that moment, Watson finally found that edge of resolve, that courage ${j_he} always found under fire, and ${j_hi} feet moved too, by whatever blood and sense had finally found its way there.

	$!{j_he} held ${j_hi} hand out. A steady hand, by some god-given grace.

	It did not flutter; it remained unpanicked, unlike ${j_hi} heart and blood.
*else
	Thankfully, appearing more thawed than ${johnName} was, as ${j_he} saw it—${mc_xir} feet moved, as ${j_hi} refused to.

God, ${j_he} was known to be strong. But ${mc_xhe} made ${j_him} so weak...  

Did ${mc_xhe} truly not know how much?

*fake_choice
	#'$!{mc_xhe} knew more than ${mc_xhe} said.'
	#'$!{mc_xhe} had no clue. Despite Watson's less than subtle stumbles.'
	#'$!{mc_xhe} knew yet never understood.'

The doctor, in turn, knew ${j_hi} eyes were glued to ${mc_xir} face.

But it was a damn better option than the alternative. $!{j_hi} eyes, forced by all the politeness ${j_he} may muster to not travel a gaze downwards where it may linger in places one may lose oneself for good.

*if (johnMan)
	It was at this time ${j_he} had first tried to truly speak, but ${j_hi} voice came out horrifyingly husky and broken, "${mc_name}..." $!{j_he} had tried to smile, but it was uneven and too plastered on.
*else
	It was at this time ${j_he} had first tried to truly speak, but ${j_hi} voice came out horrifyingly breathless and broken, "${mc_name}..." $!{j_he} had tried to smile, but it was uneven and too plastered on.

$!{j_he} cursed ${j_himself} for that. Inaudibly, yet in ${j_hi} mind loudly and vulgarly, with words ${j_he} only recalled from ${j_hi} youth.

The polite tongue ${j_he} always held felt as if it was slipping by the day.

$!{j_he} did not know how to cease such moral descent.

Not with ${mc_xim} around.

*if (hRomancePoints > 0)
	And all the additional interlopers abound.
*else
	And all these moments too close and with such longed-for comforts.

*fake_choice
	#“You do not care for it…” ${mc_xhe} had said.
		“You do not care for it…” ${mc_xhe} had said.

		That had caused one more curse to not be uttered but entirely heard in ${j_hi} mind.

		'Not... [i]care[/i] for it?'

		How could ${j_he} not, ${j_he} thought as ${j_hi} eyes roamed down by some allowance in those words, and ${j_he} drank every penny worth of the sight.

		*if (bMainTrueColour = bSecondaryTrueColour)
			$!{ThemeWord}, ${StyleDescription} in ${bMainColour} and further ${bSecondaryTrueColour}.
		*else
			$!{ThemeWord}, ${StyleDescription} in ${bMainColour} and ${bSecondaryColour}.
			
		[i]How could ${j_he} not...[/i]

		$!{mc_xhe} were...

		“I…” $!{j_he} swallowed again. “Forgive me, it is quite the...”

		$!{j_he} forced ${j_himself} back into more polite gazing, rather than leering, and found some final word as ${j_he} met ${mc_xir} eyes, ”Opposite...”

		$!{mc_xir} ${eyeColour} eyes had more punch than gun powder, ${j_he} thought then—and had, many times before—but ${j_he} only ever thought it. $!{j_he} did not write such truths in their stories or even in ${j_hi} journal. 

		No, for ${j_he} feared putting pen to paper of such hidden truths would uncover them enough for deduction to discover.

		*comment TODO FIX FAIR/DARK
		*comment Little was ever hidden from beyond ${mc_xir} fair, dark lashes and ${eyeColour} eyes.

		*if (facialDetailLikeS = "long lashes")
			Little was ever hidden from beyond ${mc_xir} fair, long lashes and ${eyeColour} eyes.
		*else
			Little was ever hidden from beyond ${mc_xir} fair, alluring lashes and ${eyeColour} eyes.

		$!{j_he} knew that...

		$!{j_he} knew that far too well.

		*fake_choice
			#“It is?” ${mc_xhe} had asked so softly.

		“It is?” ${mc_xhe} had asked so softly.

		[i]Did ${mc_xhe} know how soft ${mc_xir} voice could be?[/i] When ${j_he} spoke sweet words to ${mc_xim}, or ${mc_xhe} felt unguarded or weak, then ${mc_xhe} returned with a voice that ${j_he} was sure must be reserved for only ${j_him}.

		Nonetheless, ${j_he} did not wish for ${mc_xim} to doubt. Not ever.

		So ${j_he} had said, in words ${j_he} thought would come out in order, “$!{mc_name}, you… I apologise." 

		But the words did not. [i]Could not[/i]. Not by a tongue as knotted as ${j_hi} heart.

		Watson further blushed, as ${j_he} had been, and ${j_he} knew as such, and ${j_hi} mind found further curses inside for that. "I did not know I’d be without capable words.”

		But ${j_he} did know.

		Of course ${j_he} knew.

		$!{mc_xhe} were ${j_hi} undoing. $!{mc_xhe} were ${j_hi} weakness. $!{j_hi} main motivation and ${j_hi} fatal flaw. 

		And ${j_he} would not change it for the world. Not if it killed ${j_him}. 

		*if (looks = "looks same")
			“You look much like…" ${j_he} attempted words once more, "You always look.”
				
			The ${j_man} paused and almost sighed, but no air left ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look exactly as I have always seen you, and ${lovelier} than I have ever seen you before?”

		*else
			“You look just as I…" ${j_he} attempted words once more. "that I expect you hoped that you would look. Radiant. [i]Wonderful[/i]. Trust this—and… beyond, in my eyes.”
				
			The ${j_man} paused and almost sighed, but no air left ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look ${lovelier} than I have ever seen you before, and exactly as I have always seen you?”

		*page_break

		$!{mc_xhe} had always been radiant in ${j_hi} eyes. From that first glowing moment to all the blinding moments since. But ${j_he} did not wish for ${mc_xim} to doubt. $!{j_he} fears ${j_hi} words will cause harm unless ${j_he} clarifies—

		*if (bWearingDress)
			“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} cleared ${j_hi} throat and stepped further to stand now steady with both feet on the step below ${mc_xim}. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind.
		*else
			“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} cleared ${j_hi} throat and stepped further to stand now closer with both feet on the floorboards beside ${mc_xim}. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind.

		*if (bBold)
			“Sherlock…” It is the barest attempt at chiding.
		*if (bAttractive < 4)
			“If they see your brilliance tonight, ${mc_name}, you will dazzle all of London. And I am simply grateful, to be there... by your side."
		*else 
			“You look remarkable. Always. But now all of London will see it too.
			And, so… perhaps remain by my side? Just for the night. I do not quite know if London is ready for a brilliant ${individual} who shines this bright…" ${j_he} sighed. 

		*if (bBold)
			Dressed as ${mc_xhe} were, all that loveliness on display... $!{j_he} did not want to share that vision with others. $!{j_he} knew too well what it would inspire in others, what they would imagine.

		"Perhaps if the English language had stronger words—then perhaps I could tell you better, how you appear before me. As you always do… Always have.” 

		*fake_choice
			#"Then... you do not dislike it?" ${mc_xhe} had asked once more.
		"Then... you do not dislike it?" ${mc_xhe} had asked once more.

		How... how do ${mc_xhe} doubt this? How do ${mc_xhe} still? 

		Beautiful, wonderful, ${mc_name}... 

		"[i]No[/i]," ${j_he} had answered with a grin, as the question felt so far removed from ${j_hi} feelings that it was practically comical.

		"No, dislike—dislike could not be a word further from the truth, ${mc_name}. I simply fail at words. Not appreciation," $!{j_he} laughed. 

		It felt a warm, happy thing. And ${mc_xhe} had smiled, too, and ${j_he} wished nothing would ever make ${mc_xim} stop.

	#“Are you quite alright, ${johnName}?” ${mc_xhe} had asked with a devilish smirk.
		“Are you quite alright, ${johnName}?” ${mc_xhe} had asked with a devilish smirk. The one ${j_he} knew too well. "Cat got your tongue?"

		[i]Fuck.[/i]

		How could ${mc_xhe} expect ${j_him} to speak?! [i]To function at all[/i]—${j_he} thought this as ${j_hi} eyes roamed down by some assumed allowance in those words, and ${j_he} drank every penny worth of the sight.

		With ${mc_xim} there...

		*if (bMainTrueColour = bSecondaryTrueColour)
			$!{ThemeWord}, ${StyleDescription} in ${bMainColour} and further ${bSecondaryTrueColour}.
		*else
			$!{ThemeWord}, ${StyleDescription} in ${bMainColour} and ${bSecondaryColour}.
			
		[i]How could ${j_he} ever...[/i]

		$!{mc_xhe} were...

		“I…” $!{j_he} swallowed again. “Forgive me, yes.”

		$!{j_he} forced ${j_himself} back into more polite gazing, rather than leering, and found some final word as ${j_he} met ${mc_xir}  eyes, "But you...”

		$!{mc_xir} ${eyeColour} eyes had more punch than gun powder, ${j_he} thought then—and had, many times before—but ${j_he} only ever thought it. $!{j_he} did not write such truths in their stories or even in ${j_hi} journal. 

		No, for ${j_he} feared putting pen to paper of such hidden truths would uncover them enough for deduction to discover.

		*if (facialDetailLikeS = "long lashes")
			Little was ever hidden from beyond ${mc_xir} fair, long lashes and ${eyeColour} eyes.
		*else
			Little was ever hidden from beyond ${mc_xir} fair, alluring lashes and ${eyeColour} eyes.

		$!{j_he} knew that...

		$!{j_he} knew that far too well.

		*fake_choice
			#“Yes?” ${mc_xhe} had urged, still with a far too knowing smirk.

		“Yes?” ${mc_xhe} had urged, still with a far too knowing smirk.

		[i]Did ${mc_xhe} know how ${j_he} felt ${mc_xir} teasing tone down ${j_hi} spine?[/i] It fluttered through ${j_hi} synapses, lower and lower, and felt warm and nerve-wracking the whole way. It was as electrocution when ${mc_xhe} spoke with that voice that ${j_he} hoped was reserved for only ${j_him}.

		Yet, nonetheless, ${j_he} could not falter. Not this far. Not so ${mc_xhe} might know... Not ever.

		Not if it meant...

		Therefore ${j_he} had said, in words ${j_he} thought would come out in order, “${mc_name}, you…" 

		But the words did not. [i]Could not[/i]. Not by a tongue as knotted as ${j_hi} heart.

		Watson further blushed, as ${j_he} had been, and ${j_he} knew as such, and ${j_hi} mind found further curses inside for that. "You must have known that I’d be without capable words, or you would not have asked.”

		$!{mc_xhe} knew.

		But did ${mc_xhe} know how far? What it meant?

		$!{mc_xhe} were ${j_hi} undoing. $!{mc_xhe} were ${j_hi} weakness. $!{j_hi} main motivation and ${j_hi} fatal flaw. 

		And ${j_he} would not change it for the world. Not if it killed ${j_him}. But...

		*if (looks = "looks same")
			“You look much like…" ${j_he} attempted words once more, "You always look.”
				
			The ${j_man} paused and almost sighed, but no air left ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look exactly as I have always seen you, and ${lovelier} than I have ever seen you before?”

		*else
			“You look just as I…" ${j_he} attempted words once more. "that I expect you hoped that you would look. Radiant. [i]Wonderful[/i]. Trust this—and… beyond, in my eyes.”
				
			The ${j_man} paused and almost sighed, but no air left ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look ${lovelier} than I have ever seen you before, and exactly as I have always seen you?”

		*page_break

		$!{mc_xhe} had always been radiant in ${j_hi} eyes. From that first glowing moment to all the blinding moments since. But ${j_he} did not wish for ${mc_xim} to doubt. $!{j_he} fears ${j_hi} confounding words will cause harm unless ${j_he} clarifies—

		*if (bWearingDress)
			“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} cleared ${j_hi} throat and stepped further to stand now steady with both feet on the step below ${mc_xim}. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind.
		*else
			“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} cleared ${j_hi} throat and stepped further to stand now closer with both feet on the floorboards beside ${mc_xim}. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind.

		*if (bBold)
			“Sherlock…” It is the barest attempt at chiding.
		*if (bAttractive < 4)
			“If they see your brilliance tonight, ${mc_name}, you will dazzle all of London. And I am simply grateful, to be there... by your side."
		*else 
			“You look remarkable. Always. But now all of London will see it too.
			And, so… perhaps remain by my side? Just for the night. I do not quite know if London is ready for a brilliant ${individual} who shines this bright…" ${j_he} sighed. 

		*if (bBold)
			Dressed as ${mc_xhe} were, all that loveliness on display... $!{j_he} did not want to share that vision with others. $!{j_he} knew too well what it would inspire in others, what they would imagine.

		"Perhaps if the English language had stronger words—then perhaps I could tell you better, how you appear before me. As you always do… Always have.” 

		*fake_choice
			#$!{mc_xhe} had smiled then and said, "What a writerly thing to say,"

		$!{mc_xhe} had smiled then and said, “What a writerly thing to say, [i]$!{j_mister} Watson[/i]. Blaming the lack of words on the words… Perhaps you should simply… take more pride in your words as they are, and say them more often?”

		“More often?” $!{j_he} had asked, at first with confusion, then followed understanding as the words left ${j_hi} lips.

		“Yes. Would you mind?”

		No... $!{j_he} did not mind.

		Not one speck of matter in ${j_hi} mind minded.

		And so ${j_he} smiles. “You know I sing your praises each and every day, [i]$!{mc_miss} $!{mc_lastname}[/i]. But [i]more often[/i], you say?”

		“Mmm. I think so. Might help you with your vocabulary. We can practice synonyms for dazzling, ravishing, et cetera.”

		[i]Beautiful, wonderful—[/i]

		$!{j_he} laughed. It felt a warm, happy thing. And ${mc_xhe} had smiled too, and ${j_he} wished nothing would ever make ${mc_xim} stop.

		“I would like that,” ${j_he} revealed, in words insufficient, “Very much.”

	#“[i]Oh[/i]. Why—how very gallant, ${johnName}." $!{mc_xhe} held ${mc_xir} hand out, to accept ${j_hi} offer of assistance gracefully.
		
		“[i]Oh[/i]. Why—how very gallant, ${johnName}." $!{mc_xhe} held ${mc_xir} hand out, to accept ${j_hi} offer of assistance gracefully.

		$!{mc_name} took ${j_hi} hand. 

		[i]$!{j_he} held ${mc_xir} hand.[/i]

		And they descend the few remaining steps. And ${j_he} did not lose ${mc_xir} hand, not even once the steps were done.

		$!{j_he} was conscious of ${j_hi} own wish of never letting go. And ${j_he} was aware ${j_he} had not [i]when ${j_he} should[/i].
		
		But how could ${j_he}?

		Not when ${mc_xir} hand remained in ${j_his}—and ${j_he} feared ${mc_xhe} expected ${j_him} to function, to speak, whilst?! [i]To function at all[/i]—${j_he} feared this as ${j_hi} eyes roamed down by some assumed allowance by ${mc_xir} nearness, and ${j_he} drank every penny worth of the sight.

		*if (bMainTrueColour = bSecondaryTrueColour)
			$!{ThemeWord}, ${StyleDescription} in ${bMainColour} and further ${bSecondaryTrueColour}.
		*else
			$!{ThemeWord}, ${StyleDescription} in ${bMainColour} and ${bSecondaryColour}.
			
		[i]How could ${j_he} ever...[/i]

		$!{mc_xhe} were...

		“I…” $!{j_he} swallowed again. “Forgive me, it is quite the...”

		$!{j_he} forced ${j_himself} back into more polite gazing, rather than leering, and found some final word as ${j_he} met ${mc_xir}  eyes, "You look...”

		$!{mc_xir} ${eyeColour} eyes had more punch than gun powder, ${j_he} thought then—and had, many times before—but ${j_he} only ever thought it. $!{j_he} did not write such truths in their stories or even in ${j_hi} journal. 

		No, for ${j_he} feared putting pen to paper of such hidden truths would uncover them enough for deduction to discover.

		*if (facialDetailLikeS = "long lashes")
			Little was ever hidden from beyond ${mc_xir} fair, long lashes and ${eyeColour} eyes.
		*else
			Little was ever hidden from beyond ${mc_xir} fair, alluring lashes and ${eyeColour} eyes.


		$!{j_he} knew that...

		$!{j_he} knew that far too well.

		*fake_choice
			#“Yes?" ${mc_xhe} had asked softly for clarification. "I look—” 
				[i]Did ${mc_xhe} know how soft ${mc_xir} voice could be?[/i] When ${j_he} spoke sweet words to ${mc_xim}, or ${mc_xhe} felt unguarded or weak, then ${mc_xhe} returned with a voice that ${j_he} was sure must be reserved for only ${j_him}.

			#“Yes?" ${mc_xhe} had asked teasingly for clarification. "I look—”
				[i]Did ${mc_xhe} know how ${j_he} felt ${mc_xir} teasing tone down ${j_hi} spine?[/i] It fluttered through ${j_hi} synapses, lower and lower, and felt warm and nerve-wracking the whole way. It was as electrocution when ${mc_xhe} spoke with that voice that ${j_he} hoped was reserved for only ${j_him}.

			#“Yes?" ${mc_xhe} had asked confoundingly, mock innocently, for clarification. "I look—” 
				[i]Did ${mc_xhe} know how captivating ${mc_xir} voice could be?[/i] When ${mc_xhe} spoke sweetly, or ${mc_xhe} whispered words to ${j_him}, when ${mc_xhe} used that voice that ${j_he} was sure must be reserved for only ${j_him}.

		$!{j_he} did not wish to keep ${mc_xim} in suspense. Or to doubt. Not ever.

		So ${j_he} roused and said, in words ${j_he} thought would come out in order, “${mc_name}, you… I apologise." 

		But the words did not come in order. [i]Could not[/i]. Not by a tongue as knotted as ${j_hi} heart.

		Watson further blushed at this, as ${j_he} had been, and ${j_he} knew as such, and ${j_hi} mind found further curses inside for that. "I did not know I’d be without capable words.”

		But ${j_he} did know.

		Of course ${j_he} knew.

		$!{mc_xhe} were ${j_hi} undoing. $!{mc_xhe} were ${j_hi} weakness. $!{j_hi} main motivation and ${j_hi} fatal flaw. 

		And ${j_he} would not change it for the world. Not if it killed ${j_him}. 

		*if (looks = "looks same")
			“You look much like…" ${j_he} attempted words once more, "You always look.”
				
			The ${j_man} paused and almost sighed, but no air left ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look exactly as I have always seen you, and ${lovelier} than I have ever seen you before?”

		*else
			“You look just as I…" ${j_he} attempted words once more. "that I expect you hoped that you would look. Radiant. [i]Wonderful[/i]. Trust this—and… beyond, in my eyes.”
				
			The ${j_man} paused and almost sighed, but no air left ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look ${lovelier} than I have ever seen you before, and exactly as I have always seen you?”

		*page_break

		$!{mc_xhe} had always been radiant in ${j_hi} eyes. From that first glowing moment to all the blinding moments since. But ${j_he} did not wish for ${mc_xim} to doubt. $!{j_he} fears ${j_hi} words will cause harm unless ${j_he} clarifies—

		*if (bWearingDress)
			“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} cleared ${j_hi} throat and stepped further to stand now steady with both feet on the step below ${mc_xim}. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind.
		*else
			“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} cleared ${j_hi} throat and stepped further to stand now closer with both feet on the floorboards beside ${mc_xim}. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind.

		*if (bBold)
			“Sherlock…” It is the barest attempt at chiding.
		*if (bAttractive < 4)
			“If they see your brilliance tonight, ${mc_name}, you will dazzle all of London. And I am simply grateful, to be there... by your side."
		*else 
			“You look remarkable. Always. But now all of London will see it too.
			And, so… perhaps remain by my side? Just for the night. I do not quite know if London is ready for a brilliant ${individual} who shines this bright…" ${j_he} sighed. 

		*if (bBold)
			Dressed as ${mc_xhe} were, all that loveliness on display... $!{j_he} did not want to share that vision with others. $!{j_he} knew too well what it would inspire in others, what they would imagine.

		"Perhaps if the English language had stronger words—then perhaps I could tell you better, how you appear before me. As you always do… Always have.” 


		*fake_choice
			#$!{mc_xhe} had smiled then, and said, "$!{johnName}, your words are never lacking..."

		$!{mc_xhe} had smiled then, and said, “$!{johnName}, your words are never lacking… Perhaps you should simply, take more pride in your words as they are, and say them more often?” 

		“More often?” $!{j_he} had asked, at first with confusion, then followed understanding as the words left ${j_hi} lips.

		“Yes. Would you mind?”

		No... $!{j_he} did not mind.

		Not one speck of matter in ${j_hi} mind minded.

		And so ${j_he} smiles. “You know I sing your praises each and every day, [i]$!{mc_miss} $!{mc_lastname}[/i]. But [i]more often[/i], you say?”

		[i]Beautiful, wonderful, dazzling—[/i]

		“Mmm. I think so.”

		$!{j_he} laughed. It felt a warm, happy thing. And ${mc_xhe} had smiled too; and ${j_he} wished nothing would ever make ${mc_xim} stop.

		“I would like that,” ${j_he} revealed, in words insufficient, “Very much.”







	##“[i]Oh[/i]. There you are, ${johnName}.”
		
		Did ${mc_xhe} expect ${j_him} to speak? [i]To function at all[/i]—${j_he} thought this as ${j_hi} eyes roamed down by some assumed allowance in those words, and ${j_he} drank every penny worth of the sight.

		With ${mc_xim} there...

		*if (bMainTrueColour = bSecondaryTrueColour)
			$!{ThemeWord}, ${StyleDescription} in ${bMainColour} and further ${bSecondaryTrueColour}.
		*else
			$!{ThemeWord}, ${StyleDescription} in ${bMainColour} and ${bSecondaryColour}.
			
		[i]How could ${j_he} ever...[/i]

		$!{mc_xhe} were...

		“I…” $!{j_he} swallowed again. “Forgive me, it is quite the...”

		$!{j_he} forced ${j_himself} back into more polite gazing, rather than leering, and found some final word as ${j_he} met ${mc_xir}  eyes, "You look...”

		$!{mc_xir} ${eyeColour} eyes had more punch than gun powder, ${j_he} thought then—and had, many times before—but ${j_he} only ever thought it. $!{j_he} did not write such truths in their stories or even in ${j_hi} journal. 

		No, for ${j_he} feared putting pen to paper of such hidden truths would uncover them enough for deduction to discover.

		*if (facialDetailLikeS = "long lashes")
			Little was ever hidden from beyond ${mc_xir} fair, long lashes and ${eyeColour} eyes.
		*else
			Little was ever hidden from beyond ${mc_xir} fair, alluring lashes and ${eyeColour} eyes.


		$!{j_he} knew that...

		$!{j_he} knew that far too well.

		*fake_choice
			#“Yes?" ${mc_xhe} had asked softly for clarification. "I look—” 
				[i]Did ${mc_xhe} know how soft ${mc_xir} voice could be?[/i] When ${j_he} spoke sweet words to ${mc_xim}, or ${mc_xhe} felt unguarded or weak, then ${mc_xhe} returned with a voice that ${j_he} was sure must be reserved for only ${j_him}.


			#“Yes?" ${mc_xhe} had asked teasingly for clarification. "I look—”
				[i]Did ${mc_xhe} know how ${j_he} felt ${mc_xir} teasing tone down ${j_hi} spine?[/i] It fluttered through ${j_hi} synapses, lower and lower, and felt warm and nerve-wracking the whole way. It was as electrocution when ${mc_xhe} spoke with that voice that ${j_he} hoped was reserved for only ${j_him}.

			#“Yes?" ${mc_xhe} had asked confoundingly, mock innocently, for clarification. "I look—” 
				[i]Did ${mc_xhe} know how captivating ${mc_xir} voice could be?[/i] When ${mc_xhe} spoke sweetly, or ${mc_xhe} whispered words to ${j_him}, when ${mc_xhe} used that voice that ${j_he} was sure must be reserved for only ${j_him}.

		$!{j_he} did not wish to keep ${mc_xim} in suspense. Or to doubt. Not ever.

		So ${j_he} roused and said, in words ${j_he} thought would come out in order, “${mc_name}, you… I apologise." 

		But the words did not come in order. [i]Could not[/i]. Not by a tongue as knotted as ${j_hi} heart.

		Watson further blushed at this, as ${j_he} had been, and ${j_he} knew as such, and ${j_hi} mind found further curses inside for that. "I did not know I’d be without capable words.”

		But ${j_he} did know.

		Of course ${j_he} knew.

		$!{mc_xhe} were ${j_hi} undoing. $!{mc_xhe} were ${j_hi} weakness. $!{j_hi} main motivation and ${j_hi} fatal flaw. 

		And ${j_he} would not change it for the world. Not if it killed ${j_him}. 

		*if (looks = "looks same")
			“You look much like…" ${j_he} attempted words once more, "You always look.”
				
			The ${j_man} paused and almost sighed, but no air left ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look exactly as I have always seen you, and ${lovelier} than I have ever seen you before?”

		*else
			“You look just as I…" ${j_he} attempted words once more. "that I expect you hoped that you would look. Radiant. [i]Wonderful[/i]. Trust this—and… beyond, in my eyes.”
				
			The ${j_man} paused and almost sighed, but no air left ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look ${lovelier} than I have ever seen you before, and exactly as I have always seen you?”

		*page_break

		$!{mc_xhe} had always been radiant in ${j_hi} eyes. From that first glowing moment to all the blinding moments since. But ${j_he} did not wish for ${mc_xim} to doubt. $!{j_he} fears ${j_hi} words will cause harm unless ${j_he} clarifies—

		*if (bWearingDress)
			“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} cleared ${j_hi} throat and stepped further to stand now steady with both feet on the step below ${mc_xim}. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind.
		*else
			“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} cleared ${j_hi} throat and stepped further to stand now closer with both feet on the floorboards beside ${mc_xim}. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind.

		*if (bBold)
			“Sherlock…” It is the barest attempt at chiding.
		*if (bAttractive < 4)
			“If they see your brilliance tonight, ${mc_name}, you will dazzle all of London. And I am simply grateful, to be there... by your side."
		*else 
			“You look remarkable. Always. But now all of London will see it too.
			And, so… perhaps remain by my side? Just for the night. I do not quite know if London is ready for a brilliant ${individual} who shines this bright…" ${j_he} sighed. 

		*if (bBold)
			Dressed as ${mc_xhe} were, all that loveliness on display... $!{j_he} did not want to share that vision with others. $!{j_he} knew too well what it would inspire in others, what they would imagine.

		"Perhaps if the English language had stronger words—then perhaps I could tell you better, how you appear before me. As you always do… Always have.” 


		*fake_choice
			#$!{mc_xhe} had smiled then, and said, "$!{johnName}, your words are never lacking..."

		$!{mc_xhe} had smiled then, and said, “$!{johnName}, your words are never lacking… Perhaps you should simply, take more pride in your words as they are, and say them more often?” 

		“More often?” $!{j_he} had asked, at first with confusion, then followed understanding as the words left ${j_hi} lips.

		“Yes. Would you mind?”

		No... $!{j_he} did not mind.

		Not one speck of matter in ${j_hi} mind minded.

		And so ${j_he} smiles. “You know I sing your praises each and every day, [i]$!{mc_miss} $!{mc_lastname}[/i]. But [i]more often[/i], you say?”

		[i]Beautiful, wonderful, dazzling—[/i]

		“Mmm. I think so.”

		$!{j_he} laughed. It felt a warm, happy thing. And ${mc_xhe} had smiled too; and ${j_he} wished nothing would ever make ${mc_xim} stop.

		“I would like that,” ${j_he} revealed, in words insufficient, “Very much.”


*goto endCh6



























*label samesexVersionWPov


Watson had seen the detective walk down these same stairs in many disguises, on many different days, in many different manners of dress.

And yet, nothing had prepared ${j_him}.

Nothing [i]could[/i] prepare ${j_him}.

Not for this.

Not for ${mc_name}.

*page_break

To say Watson was nervous was an understatement. Of course, Watson was nervous about many things tonight, few of which were under ${j_hi} definitive control, but all of them involved [i]${mc_name}[/i].

*if (bWearingDress)
	But when the doctor saw ${mc_xim}, [i]there[/i], as ${mc_xhe} floated down to the landing of the stairs... The nerves all melted away, much like ${j_hi} own blood pooled at ${j_hi} now heavy feet. And, soon, followed ${j_hi} sense—
*else
	But when the doctor saw ${mc_xim}, [i]there[/i], as ${mc_xhe} walked down to the landing of the stairs... The nerves all melted away, much like ${j_hi} own blood pooled at ${j_hi} now heavy feet. And, soon, followed ${j_hi} sense—

Both laid out on the wooden floor.

*if (prefersHeels)
	As if ${j_he} stood on them, unsteady and unsure. Somehow, ${j_he} swore ${j_he} could feel the beat of ${j_hi} blood, that damning loud pulse, as if below [i]${mc_xir}[/i] heels. 
*else
	As if ${j_he} stood on them, unsteady and unsure. Somehow, ${j_he} swore ${j_he} could feel the beat of ${j_hi} blood, that damning loud pulse, as if below [i]${mc_xir}[/i] sole.

As if ${j_hi} heart was bare by ${mc_name} feet, snared or trampled.

Yet, ${j_he} did not mind such ownership.

$!{mc_name} may take it all.

*page_break

Watson and ${j_hi} detective stood there for many moments too long. $!{j_him}, gazing at ${mc_name}. At ${mc_xir} ${eyeColour} eyes and familiar visage. But Watson did not notice the breach of time-gated etiquette by ${j_hi} stares at that moment. No, ${j_he} noticed more how the other looked and, how dry ${j_hi} mouth was and how little ${j_he} had said when ${j_he} wanted to...

How ${j_he} wished to tell ${mc_name}...

Tell ${mc_name}...

[i]$!{j_he} mustn't tell ${mc_name}[/i]. And time simply flew by as ${j_he} stood there, frozen. 

*if (bWearingDress)
	Thankfully, appearing more thawed than ${johnName} was, as ${j_he} saw it—${mc_name}'s feet moved. At that moment, Watson finally found that edge of resolve, that courage ${j_he} always found under fire, and ${j_hi} feet moved too, by whatever blood and sense had finally found its way there.

	$!{j_he} held ${j_hi} hand out. A steady hand, by some god-given grace.

	It did not flutter; it remained unpanicked, unlike ${j_hi} heart and blood.
*else
	Thankfully, appearing more thawed than ${johnName} was, as ${j_he} saw it—${mc_name}'s feet moved, as ${j_hi} own refused to.

God, ${j_he} was known to be strong. But ${mc_name} made ${j_him} so weak...  

Did ${mc_name} truly not know how much?

*fake_choice
	#'$!{mc_xhe} knew more than ${mc_xhe} said.'
	#'$!{mc_xhe} had no clue. Despite Watson's less than subtle stumbles.'
	#'$!{mc_xhe} knew yet never understood.'

The doctor, in turn, knew ${j_hi} eyes were glued to the detective's face.

But it was a damn better option than the alternative. $!{j_hi} eyes, forced by all the politeness ${j_he} may muster to not travel a gaze downwards where it may linger in places one may lose oneself for good.

*if (johnMan)
	It was at this time ${j_he} had first tried to truly speak, but ${j_hi} voice came out horrifyingly husky and broken, "${mc_name}..." $!{j_he} had tried to smile, but it was uneven and too plastered on.
*else
	It was at this time ${j_he} had first tried to truly speak, but ${j_hi} voice came out horrifyingly breathless and broken, "${mc_name}..." $!{j_he} had tried to smile, but it was uneven and too plastered on.

$!{j_he} cursed ${j_himself} for that. Inaudibly, yet in ${j_hi} mind loudly and vulgarly, with words ${j_he} only recalled from ${j_hi} youth.

The polite tongue ${j_he} always held felt as if it was slipping by the day.

$!{j_he} did not know how to cease such moral descent.

Not with ${mc_name} around.

*if (hRomancePoints > 0)
	And all the additional interlopers abound.
*else
	And all these moments too close and with such longed-for comforts.

*fake_choice
	#“You do not care for it…” ${mc_xhe} had said.
		“You do not care for it…” ${mc_xhe} had said.

		That had caused one more curse to not be uttered but entirely heard in ${j_hi} mind.

		'Not... [i]care[/i] for it?'

		How could ${j_he} not, ${j_he} thought as ${j_hi} eyes roamed down by some allowance in those words, and ${j_he} drank every penny worth of the sight.

		*if (bMainTrueColour = bSecondaryTrueColour)
			$!{ThemeWord}, ${StyleDescription} in ${bMainColour} and further ${bSecondaryTrueColour}.
		*else
			$!{ThemeWord}, ${StyleDescription} in ${bMainColour} and ${bSecondaryColour}.
			
		[i]How could ${j_he} not...[/i]

		$!{mc_xhe} was...

		“I…” $!{j_he} swallowed again. “Forgive me, it is quite the...”

		$!{j_he} forced ${j_himself} back into more polite gazing, rather than leering, and found some final word as ${j_he} met ${mc_name}'s eyes, ”Opposite...”

		$!{mc_xir} ${eyeColour} eyes had more punch than gun powder, ${j_he} thought then—and had, many times before—but ${j_he} only ever thought it. $!{j_he} did not write such truths in their stories or even in ${j_hi} journal. 

		No, for ${j_he} feared putting pen to paper of such hidden truths would uncover them enough for deduction to discover.

		*comment TODO FIX FAIR/DARK
		*comment Little was ever hidden from beyond ${mc_xir} fair, dark lashes and ${eyeColour} eyes.

		*if (facialDetailLikeS = "long lashes")
			Little was ever hidden from beyond ${mc_xir} fair, long lashes and ${eyeColour} eyes.
		*else
			Little was ever hidden from beyond ${mc_xir} fair, alluring lashes and ${eyeColour} eyes.

		The doctor knew that...

		The doctor knew that far too well.

		*fake_choice
			#“It is?” ${mc_xhe} had asked so softly.

		“It is?” ${mc_xhe} had asked so softly.

		[i]Did ${mc_xhe} know how soft ${mc_xir} voice could be?[/i] When ${johnName} spoke sweet words to ${mc_xim}, or ${mc_xhe} felt unguarded or weak, then ${mc_name} returned with a voice that Watson was sure must be reserved for only ${j_himself}.

		Nonetheless, ${j_he} did not wish for ${mc_name} to doubt. Not ever.

		So ${j_he} had said, in words ${j_he} thought would come out in order, “${mc_name}, you… I apologise." 

		But the words did not. [i]Could not[/i]. Not by a tongue as knotted as ${j_hi} heart.

		Watson further blushed, as ${j_he} had been, and ${j_he} knew as such, and ${j_hi} mind found further curses inside for that. "I did not know I’d be without capable words.”

		But ${j_he} did know.

		Of course ${j_he} knew.

		$!{mc_name} was ${j_hi} undoing. $!{mc_name} was ${j_hi} weakness. $!{j_hi} main motivation and ${j_hi} fatal flaw. 

		And ${j_he} would not change it for the world. Not if it killed ${j_him}. 

		*if (looks = "looks same")
			“You look much like…" ${j_he} attempted words once more, "You always look.”
				
			The ${j_man} paused and almost sighed, but no air left ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look exactly as I have always seen you, and ${lovelier} than I have ever seen you before?”

		*else
			“You look just as I…" ${j_he} attempted words once more. "that I expect you hoped that you would look. Radiant. [i]Wonderful[/i]. Trust this—and… beyond, in my eyes.”
				
			The ${j_man} paused and almost sighed, but no air left ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look ${lovelier} than I have ever seen you before, and exactly as I have always seen you?”

		*page_break

		$!{mc_name} had always been radiant in ${j_hi} eyes. From that first glowing moment to all the blinding moments since. But ${j_he} did not wish for $!{mc_name} to doubt. $!{j_he} fears ${j_hi} words will cause harm unless ${j_he} clarifies—

		*if (bWearingDress)
			“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} cleared ${j_hi} throat and stepped further to stand now steady with both feet on the step below $!{mc_name}. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind.
		*else
			“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} cleared ${j_hi} throat and stepped further to stand now closer with both feet on the floorboards beside $!{mc_name}. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind.

		*if (bBold)
			“Sherlock…” It is the barest attempt at chiding.
		*if (bAttractive < 4)
			“If they see your brilliance tonight, ${mc_name}, you will dazzle all of London. And I am simply grateful, to be there... by your side."
		*else 
			“You look remarkable. Always. But now all of London will see it too.
			And, so… perhaps remain by my side? Just for the night. I do not quite know if London is ready for a brilliant ${individual} who shines this bright…" ${j_he} sighed. 

		*if (bBold)
			Dressed as ${mc_xhe} was, all that loveliness on display... $!{j_he} did not want to share that vision with others. $!{j_he} knew too well what it would inspire in others, what they would imagine.

		"Perhaps if the English language had stronger words—then perhaps I could tell you better, how you appear before me. As you always do… Always have.” 

		*fake_choice
			#"Then... you do not dislike it?" ${mc_xhe} had asked once more.
		"Then... you do not dislike it?" ${mc_xhe} had asked once more.

		How... how does ${mc_xhe} doubt this? How does ${mc_xhe} still? 

		Beautiful, wonderful, ${mc_name}... 

		"[i]No[/i]," Watson had answered with a grin, as the question felt so far removed from ${j_hi} feelings that it was practically comical.

		"No, dislike—dislike could not be a word further from the truth, ${mc_name}. I simply fail at words. Not appreciation," $!{j_he} laughed. 

		It felt a warm, happy thing. And $!{mc_name} had smiled, too, and Watson wished nothing would ever make $!{mc_name} stop.

	#“Are you quite alright, ${johnName}?” ${mc_xhe} had asked with a devilish smirk.
		“Are you quite alright, ${johnName}?” ${mc_xhe} had asked with a devilish smirk. The one ${j_he} knew too well. "Cat got your tongue?"

		[i]Fuck.[/i]

		How could ${mc_xhe} expect ${j_him} to speak?! [i]To function at all[/i]—${j_he} thought this as ${j_hi} eyes roamed down by some assumed allowance in those words, and ${j_he} drank every penny worth of the sight.

		With $!{mc_name} there...

		*if (bMainTrueColour = bSecondaryTrueColour)
			$!{ThemeWord}, ${StyleDescription} in ${bMainColour} and further ${bSecondaryTrueColour}.
		*else
			$!{ThemeWord}, ${StyleDescription} in ${bMainColour} and ${bSecondaryColour}.
			
		[i]How could ${j_he} ever...[/i]

		$!{mc_name} was...

		“I…” $!{j_he} swallowed again. “Forgive me, yes.”

		$!{j_he} forced ${j_himself} back into more polite gazing, rather than leering, and found some final word as ${j_he} met ${mc_name}'s eyes, "But you...”

		$!{mc_xir} ${eyeColour} eyes had more punch than gun powder, ${j_he} thought then—and had, many times before—but ${j_he} only ever thought it. $!{j_he} did not write such truths in their stories or even in ${j_hi} journal. 

		No, for ${j_he} feared putting pen to paper of such hidden truths would uncover them enough for deduction to discover.

		*if (facialDetailLikeS = "long lashes")
			Little was ever hidden from beyond ${mc_xir} fair, long lashes and ${eyeColour} eyes.
		*else
			Little was ever hidden from beyond ${mc_xir} fair, alluring lashes and ${eyeColour} eyes.

		The doctor knew that...

		The doctor knew that far too well.

		*fake_choice
			#“Yes?” ${mc_xhe} had urged, still with a far too knowing smirk.

		“Yes?” ${mc_xhe} had urged, still with a far too knowing smirk.

		[i]Did ${mc_xhe} know how ${johnName} felt ${mc_xir} teasing tone down the spine?[/i] It fluttered through ${j_hi} synapses, lower and lower, and felt warm and nerve-wracking the whole way. It was as electrocution when ${mc_xhe} spoke with that voice that ${j_he} hoped was reserved for only ${j_him}.

		Yet, nonetheless, ${j_he} could not falter. Not this far. Not so ${mc_name} might know... Not ever.

		Not if it meant...

		Therefore ${j_he} had said, in words ${j_he} thought would come out in order, “${mc_name}, you…" 

		But the words did not. [i]Could not[/i]. Not by a tongue as knotted as ${j_hi} heart.

		Watson further blushed, as ${j_he} had been, and ${j_he} knew as such, and ${j_hi} mind found further curses inside for that. "You must have known that I’d be without capable words, or you would not have asked.”

		${mc_name} knew.

		But did ${mc_xhe} know how far? What it meant?

		$!{mc_name} was ${j_hi} undoing. $!{mc_name} was ${j_hi} weakness. $!{j_hi} main motivation and ${j_hi} fatal flaw. 

		And ${j_he} would not change it for the world. Not if it killed ${j_him}. But...

		*if (looks = "looks same")
			“You look much like…" ${j_he} attempted words once more, "You always look.”
				
			The ${j_man} paused and almost sighed, but no air left ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look exactly as I have always seen you, and ${lovelier} than I have ever seen you before?”

		*else
			“You look just as I…" ${j_he} attempted words once more. "that I expect you hoped that you would look. Radiant. [i]Wonderful[/i]. Trust this—and… beyond, in my eyes.”
				
			The ${j_man} paused and almost sighed, but no air left ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look ${lovelier} than I have ever seen you before, and exactly as I have always seen you?”

		*page_break

		$!{mc_name} had always been radiant in ${j_hi} eyes. From that first glowing moment to all the blinding moments since. But ${j_he} did not wish for $!{mc_name} to doubt. $!{j_he} fears ${j_hi} words will cause harm unless ${j_he} clarifies—

		*if (bWearingDress)
			“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} cleared ${j_hi} throat and stepped further to stand now steady with both feet on the step below ${mc_xim}. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind.
		*else
			“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} cleared ${j_hi} throat and stepped further to stand now closer with both feet on the floorboards beside ${mc_xim}. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind.

		*if (bBold)
			“Sherlock…” It is the barest attempt at chiding.
		*if (bAttractive < 4)
			“If they see your brilliance tonight, ${mc_name}, you will dazzle all of London. And I am simply grateful, to be there... by your side."
		*else 
			“You look remarkable. Always. But now all of London will see it too.
			And, so… perhaps remain by my side? Just for the night. I do not quite know if London is ready for a brilliant ${individual} who shines this bright…" ${j_he} sighed. 

		*if (bBold)
			Dressed as ${mc_xhe} was, all that loveliness on display... $!{j_he} did not want to share that vision with others. $!{j_he} knew too well what it would inspire in others, what they would imagine.

		"Perhaps if the English language had stronger words—then perhaps I could tell you better, how you appear before me. As you always do… Always have.” 

		*fake_choice
			#$!{mc_xhe} had smiled then and said, "What a writerly thing to say,"

		$!{mc_xhe} had smiled then and said, “What a writerly thing to say, [i]$!{j_mister} Watson[/i]. Blaming the lack of words on the words… Perhaps you should simply… take more pride in your words as they are, and say them more often?”

		“More often?” $!{j_he} had asked, at first with confusion, then followed understanding as the words left ${j_hi} lips.

		“Yes. Would you mind?”

		No... $!{j_he} did not mind.

		Not one speck of matter in ${j_hi} mind minded.

		And so ${j_he} smiles. “You know I sing your praises each and every day, [i]$!{mc_miss} $!{mc_lastname}[/i]. But [i]more often[/i], you say?”

		“Mmm. I think so. Might help you with your vocabulary. We can practice synonyms for dazzling, ravishing, et cetera.”

		[i]Beautiful, wonderful—[/i]

		Watson laughed. It felt a warm, happy thing. And ${mc_name} had smiled too, and the doctor wished nothing would ever make the other stop.

		“I would like that,” ${j_he} revealed, in words insufficient, “Very much.”

	#“[i]Oh[/i]. Why—how very gallant, ${johnName}." $!{mc_xhe} held ${mc_xir} hand out, to accept ${j_hi} offer of assistance gracefully.
		
		“[i]Oh[/i]. Why—how very gallant, ${johnName}." $!{mc_xhe} held ${mc_xir} hand out, to accept Watson's offer of assistance gracefully.

		$!{mc_name} took ${j_hi} hand. 

		[i]$!{j_he} held $!{mc_name} hand.[/i]

		And they descend the few remaining steps. And ${j_he} did not lose ${mc_xir} hand, not even once the steps were done.

		$!{j_he} was conscious of ${j_hi} own wish of never letting go. And ${j_he} was aware ${j_he} had not [i]when ${j_he} should[/i].
		
		But how could ${j_he}?

		Not when $!{mc_name}'s hand remained in ${j_his}—and ${j_he} feared the detective expected ${j_him} to function, to speak, whilst?! [i]To function at all[/i]—${j_he} feared this as ${j_hi} eyes roamed down by some assumed allowance by $!{mc_name}'s nearness, and ${j_he} drank every penny worth of the sight.

		*if (bMainTrueColour = bSecondaryTrueColour)
			$!{ThemeWord}, ${StyleDescription} in ${bMainColour} and further ${bSecondaryTrueColour}.
		*else
			$!{ThemeWord}, ${StyleDescription} in ${bMainColour} and ${bSecondaryColour}.
			
		[i]How could ${j_he} ever...[/i]

		$!{mc_name} was...

		“I…” $!{j_he} swallowed again. “Forgive me, it is quite the...”

		$!{j_he} forced ${j_himself} back into more polite gazing, rather than leering, and found some final word as ${j_he} met ${mc_name}'s  eyes, "You look...”

		$!{mc_xir} ${eyeColour} eyes had more punch than gun powder, ${j_he} thought then—and had, many times before—but ${j_he} only ever thought it. $!{j_he} did not write such truths in their stories or even in ${j_hi} journal. 

		No, for ${j_he} feared putting pen to paper of such hidden truths would uncover them enough for deduction to discover.

		*if (facialDetailLikeS = "long lashes")
			Little was ever hidden from beyond ${mc_xir} fair, long lashes and ${eyeColour} eyes.
		*else
			Little was ever hidden from beyond ${mc_xir} fair, alluring lashes and ${eyeColour} eyes.


		The doctor knew that...

		The doctor knew that far too well.

		*fake_choice
			#“Yes?" ${mc_xhe} had asked softly for clarification. "I look—” 
				[i]Did ${mc_xhe} know how soft ${mc_xir} voice could be?[/i] When ${johnName} spoke sweet words to ${mc_xim}, or ${mc_xhe} felt unguarded or weak, then ${mc_name} returned with a voice that Watson was sure must be reserved for only ${j_himself}.

			#“Yes?" ${mc_xhe} had asked teasingly for clarification. "I look—”
				[i]Did ${mc_xhe} know how ${johnName} felt ${mc_xir} teasing tone down the spine?[/i] It fluttered through ${j_hi} synapses, lower and lower, and felt warm and nerve-wracking the whole way. It was as electrocution when ${mc_xhe} spoke with that voice that ${j_he} hoped was reserved for only ${j_him}.

			#“Yes?" ${mc_xhe} had asked confoundingly, mock innocently, for clarification. "I look—” 
				[i]Did ${mc_xhe} know how captivating ${mc_xir} voice could be?[/i] When ${mc_name} spoke sweetly, or ${mc_xhe} whispered words to ${johnName}, when ${mc_xhe} used that voice that the doctor was sure must be reserved for only ${j_himself}.

		$!{j_he} did not wish to keep ${mc_name} in suspense. Or to doubt. Not ever.

		So ${j_he} roused and said, in words ${j_he} thought would come out in order, “${mc_name}, you… I apologise." 

		But the words did not come in order. [i]Could not[/i]. Not by a tongue as knotted as ${j_hi} heart.

		Watson further blushed at this, as ${j_he} had been, and ${j_he} knew as such, and ${j_hi} mind found further curses inside for that. "I did not know I’d be without capable words.”

		But ${j_he} did know.

		Of course ${j_he} knew.

		$!{mc_name} was ${j_hi} undoing. $!{mc_name} was ${j_hi} weakness. $!{j_hi} main motivation and ${j_hi} fatal flaw. 

		And ${j_he} would not change it for the world. Not if it killed ${j_him}. 

		*if (looks = "looks same")
			“You look much like…" ${j_he} attempted words once more, "You always look.”
				
			The ${j_man} paused and almost sighed, but no air left ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look exactly as I have always seen you, and ${lovelier} than I have ever seen you before?”

		*else
			“You look just as I…" ${j_he} attempted words once more. "that I expect you hoped that you would look. Radiant. [i]Wonderful[/i]. Trust this—and… beyond, in my eyes.”
				
			The ${j_man} paused and almost sighed, but no air left ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look ${lovelier} than I have ever seen you before, and exactly as I have always seen you?”

		*page_break

		$!{mc_name} had always been radiant in ${j_hi} eyes. From that first glowing moment to all the blinding moments since. But ${j_he} did not wish for $!{mc_name} to doubt. $!{j_he} fears ${j_hi} words will cause harm unless ${j_he} clarifies—

		*if (bWearingDress)
			“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} cleared ${j_hi} throat and stepped further to stand now steady with both feet on the step below ${mc_xim}. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind.
		*else
			“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} cleared ${j_hi} throat and stepped further to stand now closer with both feet on the floorboards beside ${mc_xim}. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind.

		*if (bBold)
			“Sherlock…” It is the barest attempt at chiding.
		*if (bAttractive < 4)
			“If they see your brilliance tonight, ${mc_name}, you will dazzle all of London. And I am simply grateful, to be there... by your side."
		*else 
			“You look remarkable. Always. But now all of London will see it too.
			And, so… perhaps remain by my side? Just for the night. I do not quite know if London is ready for a brilliant ${individual} who shines this bright…" ${j_he} sighed. 

		*if (bBold)
			Dressed as ${mc_name} was, all that loveliness on display... $!{j_he} did not want to share that vision with others. $!{j_he} knew too well what it would inspire in others, what they would imagine.

		"Perhaps if the English language had stronger words—then perhaps I could tell you better, how you appear before me. As you always do… Always have.” 


		*fake_choice
			#$!{mc_xhe} had smiled then, and said, "$!{johnName}, your words are never lacking..."

		$!{mc_xhe} had smiled then, and said, “$!{johnName}, your words are never lacking… Perhaps you should simply, take more pride in your words as they are, and say them more often?” 

		“More often?” $!{j_he} had asked, at first with confusion, then followed understanding as the words left ${j_hi} lips.

		“Yes. Would you mind?”

		No... $!{j_he} did not mind.

		Not one speck of matter in ${j_hi} mind minded.

		And so ${j_he} smiles. “You know I sing your praises each and every day, [i]$!{mc_miss} $!{mc_lastname}[/i]. But [i]more often[/i], you say?”

		[i]Beautiful, wonderful, dazzling—[/i]

		“Mmm. I think so.”

		Watson laughed. It felt a warm, happy thing. And ${mc_name} had smiled too; and the doctor wished nothing would ever make the other stop.

		“I would like that,” ${johnName} revealed, in words insufficient, “Very much.”







	##“[i]Oh[/i]. There you are, ${johnName}.”
		
		Did ${mc_name} expect ${j_him} to speak? [i]To function at all[/i]—${j_he} thought this as ${j_hi} eyes roamed down by some assumed allowance in those words, and ${j_he} drank every penny worth of the sight.

		With ${mc_xim} there...

		*if (bMainTrueColour = bSecondaryTrueColour)
			$!{ThemeWord}, ${StyleDescription} in ${bMainColour} and further ${bSecondaryTrueColour}.
		*else
			$!{ThemeWord}, ${StyleDescription} in ${bMainColour} and ${bSecondaryColour}.
			
		[i]How could Watson ever...[/i]

		${mc_name} was...

		“I…” $!{j_he} swallowed again. “Forgive me, it is quite the...”

		${johnName} forced ${j_himself} back into more polite gazing, rather than leering, and found some final word as ${j_he} met ${mc_name}'s eyes, "You look...”

		$!{mc_xir} ${eyeColour} eyes had more punch than gun powder, ${j_he} thought then—and had, many times before—but ${j_he} only ever thought it. $!{j_he} did not write such truths in their stories or even in ${j_hi} journal. 

		No, for ${j_he} feared putting pen to paper of such hidden truths would uncover them enough for deduction to discover.

		*if (facialDetailLikeS = "long lashes")
			Little was ever hidden from beyond ${mc_xir} fair, long lashes and ${eyeColour} eyes.
		*else
			Little was ever hidden from beyond ${mc_xir} fair, alluring lashes and ${eyeColour} eyes.


		The doctor knew that...

		The doctor knew that far too well.

		*fake_choice
			#“Yes?" ${mc_xhe} had asked softly for clarification. "I look—” 
				[i]Did ${mc_xhe} know how soft ${mc_xir} voice could be?[/i] When ${johnName} spoke sweet words to ${mc_xim}, or ${mc_xhe} felt unguarded or weak, then ${mc_name} returned with a voice that Watson was sure must be reserved for only ${j_himself}.


			#“Yes?" ${mc_xhe} had asked teasingly for clarification. "I look—”
				[i]Did ${mc_xhe} know how ${johnName} felt ${mc_xir} teasing tone down the spine?[/i] It fluttered through ${j_hi} synapses, lower and lower, and felt warm and nerve-wracking the whole way. It was as electrocution when ${mc_xhe} spoke with that voice that ${j_he} hoped was reserved for only ${j_him}.

			#“Yes?" ${mc_xhe} had asked confoundingly, mock innocently, for clarification. "I look—” 
				[i]Did ${mc_xhe} know how captivating ${mc_xir} voice could be?[/i] When ${mc_xhe} spoke sweetly, or ${mc_xhe} whispered words to ${j_him}, when ${mc_xhe} used that voice that ${j_he} was sure must be reserved for only ${j_him}.

		$!{j_he} did not wish to keep ${mc_name} in suspense. Or to doubt. Not ever.

		So ${j_he} roused and said, in words ${j_he} thought would come out in order, “${mc_name}, you… I apologise." 

		But the words did not come in order. [i]Could not[/i]. Not by a tongue as knotted as ${j_hi} heart.

		Watson further blushed at this, as ${j_he} had been, and ${j_he} knew as such, and ${j_hi} mind found further curses inside for that. "I did not know I’d be without capable words.”

		But ${j_he} did know.

		Of course ${j_he} knew.

		$!{mc_name} was ${j_hi} undoing. $!{mc_name} was ${j_hi} weakness. $!{j_hi} main motivation and ${j_hi} fatal flaw. 

		And ${j_he} would not change it for the world. Not if it killed ${j_him}. 

		*if (looks = "looks same")
			“You look much like…" ${j_he} attempted words once more, "You always look.”
				
			The ${j_man} paused and almost sighed, but no air left ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look exactly as I have always seen you, and ${lovelier} than I have ever seen you before?”

		*else
			“You look just as I…" ${j_he} attempted words once more. "that I expect you hoped that you would look. Radiant. [i]Wonderful[/i]. Trust this—and… beyond, in my eyes.”
				
			The ${j_man} paused and almost sighed, but no air left ${j_hi} lungs or parted lips. “But how do I say this—I do not know how to say that… that you look ${lovelier} than I have ever seen you before, and exactly as I have always seen you?”

		*page_break

		$!{mc_name} had always been radiant in ${j_hi} eyes. From that first glowing moment to all the blinding moments since. But ${j_he} did not wish for $!{mc_name} to doubt. $!{j_he} fears ${j_hi} words will cause harm unless ${j_he} clarifies—

		*if (bWearingDress)
			“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} cleared ${j_hi} throat and stepped further to stand now steady with both feet on the step below ${mc_xim}. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind.
		*else
			“I swear, I must be making a fool of us both. My words carry no sense whatsoever—“ ${j_he} cleared ${j_hi} throat and stepped further to stand now closer with both feet on the floorboards beside ${mc_xim}. Once again, that polite pause as ${j_he} tries to explain, to formulate ${j_hi} heart from ${j_hi} mind.

		*if (bBold)
			“Sherlock…” It is the barest attempt at chiding.
		*if (bAttractive < 4)
			“If they see your brilliance tonight, ${mc_name}, you will dazzle all of London. And I am simply grateful, to be there... by your side."
		*else 
			“You look remarkable. Always. But now all of London will see it too.
			And, so… perhaps remain by my side? Just for the night. I do not quite know if London is ready for a brilliant ${individual} who shines this bright…" ${j_he} sighed. 

		*if (bBold)
			Dressed as ${mc_xhe} was, all that loveliness on display... $!{j_he} did not want to share that vision with others. $!{j_he} knew too well what it would inspire in others, what they would imagine.

		"Perhaps if the English language had stronger words—then perhaps I could tell you better, how you appear before me. As you always do… Always have.” 


		*fake_choice
			#$!{mc_xhe} had smiled then, and said, "$!{johnName}, your words are never lacking..."

		$!{mc_xhe} had smiled then, and said, “$!{johnName}, your words are never lacking… Perhaps you should simply, take more pride in your words as they are, and say them more often?” 

		“More often?” $!{j_he} had asked, at first with confusion, then followed understanding as the words left ${j_hi} lips.

		“Yes. Would you mind?”

		No... $!{j_he} did not mind.

		Not one speck of matter in ${j_hi} mind minded.

		And so ${j_he} smiles. “You know I sing your praises each and every day, [i]$!{mc_miss} $!{mc_lastname}[/i]. But [i]more often[/i], you say?”

		[i]Beautiful, wonderful, dazzling—[/i]

		“Mmm. I think so.”

		Watson laughed. It felt a warm, happy thing. And ${mc_name} had smiled too; and the doctor wished nothing would ever make the other stop.

		“I would like that,” ${johnName} revealed, in words insufficient, “Very much.”


*goto endCh6






















































*page_break


*comment OLD TEXT
Past the gate—

The many candles inside—give bright, melodious light. Approaching the museum's halls, you enter fairyland. The high arches make dancing shadows and spectacles unique to you, and as the heavy door closes behind your party, a final glimpse of moonlight contrasts the warm orange hue with the starved white. 

It is altogether a new world. A new realm with colours and masks, citrusy scents, and music tinged with blues—a mid-fall-night dream of eerie pixie dust and gold.

You followed a letter into a new scene of someone's design, and you feel (Before option). 
Stay alert in this new world. /// No need to fear this new world.




The grand hall ceiling was fabulously domed and so high a songbird could well soar. Windows were in yellow and green, bending the moonlight into something divine. The rooms' walls were cloaked in a buttery beige tapestry, lined with many marble pillars. It would appear excessive, yet for some indescribable balance. Instead, it gave a quality of demure richness that fills the spaces. And much like the museum's contents, the building's details are old and carved to last.

Hung by the foyer is a portrait of a woman with a peculiar glare. Her small eyes follow you across the entrance as masked men and women of flesh stare at you as you step further and further in. 

Even this first room proves that people who believe themselves to be anonymous abandon decorum and study all details of their surroundings with abandon. Few hold your skill of absorbing details at a glance.  

A porter by the door studies your group and reappears with four beautifully crafted masks, each matching the colours of your fabrics and threads. 

The piece handed to you is a half-face mask, a 'Colombina', a Venetian mascarade mask, and ties with a ribbon at the back. 
The mask:

-> Frail and gilded and light, the royal designs favour the affluent and fair. The mask lifts the corners high and gives the wearer a smouldering or bashful impression depending on the angle it is in sight. And if one gets close, the small diamonds reveal the true cost of such an item and the one adorned with its price.

-> Magically mysterious, the iridescent shades shimmer, its eyes cut out in fascinating cat-like windows. This mask reveals no hint of clear expression, no truth from the wearer. In its opaline hues, it carries the secrets of the wearer better than any friend, closer than the grave. 

-> In the true spirits of Carnivale, the wearer shows pomp and pride. Feathers at the top follow the face, and stones and gems shine in the light. Colours rich and opulent. All textures and forms transform this one object into a being of pleasure and play of indisputable delight.

-> A dark, shaded mask of an angry appearance. The eyes and bridge of the nose curve in a sneer, the cheek high and sharp. Intense intimidation, for none but the wearer will see this in a pleasant light to wield such a ferocious sight.

-> The duality of two sides arises in this one disguise. One sight light, another night. Happy, mad—sanity, sad. The ideal cover from enemies and friends alike.

-> A mixture of thin metal, thread, and lace—slithers close to your features, enveloping but still showing all you are. Nothing is hidden, but the game is played, and your veneer is perfected.







