
*comment *if (alpha_testing)
*comment        *input_text selected_label
*comment        *gotoref selected_label


*comment /// temp variables and other
*set chapter 3

*comment temp variables

*comment story starts.

*text_image chapter3.png center Chapter-3

*page_break

The sky has darkened from hours passing.

"It is of no use, Sherlock. You, [i]we[/i], will never be able to recover it." Watson points towards the broken window. "[i]That[/i] is our proof of failure. Please, I beg of you, let us abandon this absurd hunt before we appear fools to the entire neighbourhood."

*fake_choice
	# "I never abandon my duty."
		
	# "Where would the sport be in that, Watson?"
		*set optimism + 1
	
	# "Ye of little faith!"
	
	# "I can not believe you dislike this quest?"
		*set optimism + 1
	
	# "I would if I could. But alas, I can not."
		*set optimism - 1

	# "No."

From where you and Watson are standing, you can still see your shared front door and the splintered pieces of glass by the window frame, which also belong to you, [i]or more precisely[/i], Mrs Hudson, the landlady.                

"There! There is the damn bird," Watson shouts. 

By the corner of your eye, in a tree lining the street, you see the white animal. 

*if (haveBirdKnowledge) 
	*if (birdAttitudeStart = "LikeBirds")
		"Pigeon. [i]She's[/i] a pigeon—and a very valuable one, so help me catch the darling pigeon before she decides to fly away again!"

	*if (birdAttitudeStart = "HateBirds")
		"Pigeon. [i]She's[/i] a pigeon—and a [i]frustratingly valuable[/i] one, so help me catch the monster before she decides to fly away again."

	*if (birdAttitudeStart = "")
		"Pigeon. [i]She's[/i] a pigeon—and a very valuable one, so help me catch her before she decides to fly away again."

	And that alluring message on its leg... perhaps it is...

	[i]Never mind it now, Sherlock—focus![/i]


*if (haveBirdKnowledge = false) 
	*if (birdAttitudeStart = "NeedToLearnBirds")
		"Pigeon, I believe—and a very intriguing one, so help me catch it before it decides to fly away again."

	*if (birdAttitudeStart = "HateBirds")
		"Pigeon, I believe—and a [i]frustratingly intriguing[/i] one, so help me catch the monster before it decides to fly away again."

	*if (birdAttitudeStart = "")
		"Pigeon, I believe—and a very intriguing one, so help me catch it before it decides to fly away again."

	There is that confoundingly alluring message on its leg... perhaps...

	[i]Never mind it now, Sherlock—focus![/i]

*page_break

In your quest for the pigeon, you have broken: 
*line_break
- One window
*line_break
- Three branches of Mrs Hudson's prized olive tree 
*line_break
- One pair of Watson's spectacles, 
*line_break
- [i]Nearly[/i] one ankle of a passerby

And yet, you are no closer to catching the elusive creature. 
*if (haveBirdKnowledge)
	Fowl and flying beasts are a part of your repertoire, and yet, this one has escaped you over and over. 
*if (haveBirdKnowledge = false)
	Fowl and flying pests are not one of your strong suits. 

	However, solving any and all puzzles, is. 

This will not be your defeat. 

Perhaps you underestimated the bird. You resolve never to do so again.

Now, determined to be victorious, you decide to make use of your best and most reliable gift:

*label reChooseStat

*set knowledge 30
*set technologyScience 30
*set speedStrength 30
*set charm 30

*set goodAt ""

*fake_choice
	# The pure [b]strength[/b] of my body and the [b]speed[/b] of my reflexes.
		*set speedStrength +20
		*set goodAt "strength and speed"
		Your body is a marvel—speed, strength, and unhindered ability. All exemplary skills. And with these few limitations remain, in your chosen profession.                 
		
		But, it does bring one small problem with it.
		
		For you are now the person who all turn to for physical displays. Besting a prized swordsman, a wager on an arm-wrestle, reaching the hard-reached cabinets. Even opening jars! This all falls to you because of your gifts. 

		Still, you would choose no other talent and skill to put at the top of your repertoire.

		Correct?

	# A curious mind and exceptional [b]knowledge[/b] of diverse subjects.
		*set knowledge +20
		*set goodAt "knowledge"
		Your intellect is singular. 
		
		The understanding you hold encompasses all areas relating to the detecting career and beyond. You would swear up and down all day it has been beyond wonderful in your chosen profession. But, there is [i]one[/i] measly little downside to your intelligence. 
		
		That is, the human reaction to someone who is never mistaken about facts.

		Know-it-all was a common childhood taunt. And such attitudes remain yet today. Despite your reputation of being right, one can not underestimate the determination of the stupid—and their belief in their right to be wrong. 
		
		Still, you do not veer from this path. Absorbing facts is your talent and purpose, and you would never choose another life endeavour.

		Correct??

	# An inherent and studied understanding of [b]technology[/b] and [b]science[/b].
		*set technologyScience +20
		*set goodAt "sciences and technologies"
		Your ability to pick up a new gizmo and know everything after only a shake and a glance is seen, by some, as practically occult. 
		
		The technological know-how you possess has undoubtedly been the reason for many of your career successes. Additionally, your comprehension of science, both a learned and born skill, has made your life fascinating. For example, when you found a well-placed electrical shock to a rat's nerves caused movement in the tail. Though, yes, your experiment also, possibly, caused a great deal of hysteria—the rumours were always unfounded!		
		
		Despite [i]their[/i] claims, reanimating the undead has never been a technique in your toolbox.

		Still, you stay firm against the ordinary man's suspicions. You would choose no other talent as your life's devotion.

		Correct?

	# The ability to [b]charm[/b] and convince anyone of anything.
		*set charm +20
		*set goodAt "charm"

		Your silver tongue [i]never[/i] fails. 

		If you ask a person to jump in the right way, they will ask you how high. Of course, there are some risks of misuse, of misunderstandings. An acquaintance or two has accused you of manipulation and falsehoods. Once. Or, perhaps, twice.

		There was the one time—you simply wanted to borrow Sir Trevance's interplanetary ores. You had absolutely no ill intentions when encouraging Sir Trevance's wife on the subject. However, when she claimed he had stopped such unnecessary spending, that you were wrong, you had to prove her otherwise. And, of course, you did.

		And one thing led to another.

		In the end, your involvement may have also caused her to discover the hidden expenses of Sir Trevance's mistress. Except, at the time, there was no scheme of a grand reveal behind your words. You simply wished to borrow the rocks to do experiments...

		Apparently, there is such a thing as too [i]charming[/i]. And when people know you can play them like a fiddle, they may start to hear a melody when none is performed. 

		Still, you would choose no other talent to put at the top of your repertoire.
		
		Correct?

*fake_choice
	#Yes, this is my main gift and talent.
	#No, no—this is not right!
		*goto reChooseStat

It was always your pillar. However, right next to your strength's strength, there was your failing flaw.

*fake_choice
	*if (goodAt != "strength and speed") # My body was a marvel, except when it wasn't...
		*set badAt "strength and speed"
		*set speedStrength - 20
		You found you could not rely on your body in moments of chaos... or, simply, of minor importance. Your anatomy never acted as you wanted it to, not when it mattered most.

		If an obstacle demanded a move of peak physicality, your body was the first to object—but only once you were already in motion.  Throwing wrong. Falling hard. You never knew in what way your body would surprise you next.

		And it hurt. Every time. In more ways than one.

	*if (goodAt != "knowledge") # Knowledge was my forte, except in moments of importance.
		*set badAt "knowledge"
		*set knowledge - 20
		You have read more, studied better, and observed further than any. 

		But that did not seem to matter to the tip of your tongue, where information often rested far too comfortably.

		When it mattered, when lives or reputation or material things were at stake, you were at your worst. You might remember the name of the wine you smell in the room but not recognise the colouring of its poison. They ask for help, and you offer an anecdote and irrelevant titbit. 

		[i]Stupid[/i]. At those moments you always felt so terribly stupid.

		Perhaps you did recall the name of the toxic plant that only grew in the Appalachians. [i]But[/i], you only remembered it later that night in the bath.

		You tell yourself it happens to everyone.

		But does it?

	*if (goodAt != "sciences and technologies") # The Sciences and technologies were not a strength I dared to lean on—lest they break.
		*set badAt "sciences and technologies"
		*set technologyScience - 20
		Right when it mattered, always at the exact wrong time, contraptions of science and technology seemed to discontinue... to stop existing in your presence.

		Usually, with a bang.

		You are learned, in the sciences, all from botany to engineering. You tinker and experiment. You're a professional. And yet—

		And yet, once the pressure is on, everything seems to break or explode in your face. The machine—is on fire. The experimental poison solution—ablaze. Even the blood test, also, somehow—burning. 

		You build it with your bare hands. You know it. Inside and out. 

		And the betrayal you feel, from life or your hands or the very thing you created when this happens over and over. It makes you feel hopeless. 

		Like a failure.

	*if (goodAt != "charm") # My charm was... found severely lacking at the worst of times.
		*set badAt "charm"
		*set charm -20
		Your social graces were not—rather, are not—perfect.
		
		Or, as someone once said, 'wholly non-existent and shockingly beyond belief.' 

		Except, you find you have cause to object to such words. You are not always quite so imperfect as they implied. It is simply, even if you were to have moments of charm...
		
		The skill simply abandons you when you need it the most. 

		When a clever word stands in the way of a confession or a closed door needs to be opened, your words fail you. 

		Suddenly, not just your speech betrays you, but your smile, posture, and even your hands seem unable to appear natural. And the ruse is up. 

		You have failed.

		And the case is closed. And you feel like a fool.

		Again.

		And again.

		And, again.

*temp counterStatsW 0

*page_break
*temp mediumSkills ""

That was your weakness.

Then there was your
*if (speedStrength = 30)
	*set counterStatsW + 1
	*Set mediumSkills "[b]Speed and Strength[/b],"
*if (charm = 30)
	*set counterStatsW + 1
	*if (counterStatsW = 1)
		*Set mediumSkills (mediumSkills & "[b]Charm[/b]")
	*if (counterStatsW = 2)
		*Set mediumSkills (mediumSkills & " and [b]Charm[/b]")
*if (knowledge = 30)
	*set counterStatsW + 1
	*if (counterStatsW = 1)
		*Set mediumSkills (mediumSkills & "[b]Knowledge[/b]")
	*if (counterStatsW = 2)
		*Set mediumSkills (mediumSkills & " and [b]Knowledge[/b]")
*if (technologyScience = 30)
	*Set mediumSkills (mediumSkills & " and [b]Technology and Sciences[/b]")
${mediumSkills}, in which you held great achievements but were never quite perfect or terribly failing. You were simply good enough for most of your purposes. 

But it was not enough today.
 
None of your more complex or elaborate plans had panned out.

Therefore, you decide to return to your roots and make use of your [b]${goodAt}[/b] to solve this problem.

*choice
	*selectable_if (goodAt = "strength and speed") #I will climb the tree and slowly approach the pigeon. Once in range, I will catch it quickly in my hands and arms

		Your hands are strong, and your legs sturdy. 

		A tree would not get the better of you, far from it. And you believe, if you approach the object of curiosity carefully, you will succeed.

		*line_break

		[b]Commence operation:[/b] Entrap Elusive Feathered Fowl.

		[b]Plan: [/b]
		*line_break
		[b]1. [/b]Ascend tree, however [i]try[/i] not to fall down—at risk of breaking bones.

		[b]2. [/b] Move slowly and steadily towards the object. 

		[i]Addendum.[/i]

		[b]2. A: [/b] [i]Move steady and slowly towards the object[/i]. [b]B:[/b] Involve Watson in an effort to distract the object.

		[b]3.[/b] Catch it with your hands.

		[b]4.[/b] [i]Success.[/i]

		And, [i]yes[/i], perhaps a tad simple for a plan, but, generally, the simplest plans work the best. 
		
		No?

		*fake_choice
			#"Watson! I need your help with my new plan—"
			#"[i]Watsoooon[/i], oh, Watson–you're such a strong and capable ${j_man}—"
				*set friendshipW + 1
			#"Watson, by my side, now! Make haste—"

		But Watson does not hurry to your side. Instead, ${j_he} drags ${j_hi} feet, and ${j_hi} expression is more akin to a grimace than the cheery disposition you are so used to. 
		
		$!{j_hi} words draw heavy from ${j_hi} lips, "what is it you want from me [i]now[/i], Sherlock?"

		[i]Why is ${j_he} so—[/i]

		Oh… You really should have foreseen this. It happens often enough. The doctor has gone too long without a meal—once again, ${j_he} is less than amiable when foregoing the midday tea.

		*fake_choice
			#I keep a small morsel of dried and roasted cocoa, on my person, at all times for this very purpose.
				*set friendshipW + 2
				"Here you go, ${johnName}," you say, handing over the small pouch of emergency sustenance.

				"I would object, but I really am starving." $!{j_he} devours pinches of cocoa bits at an alarming rate. "However, I do not believe it will make me–" As if by magic, ${j_hi} gaze melts and then further melts. "This is really good. You must give me the shop's address. This is—" Once again, a smiling Watson is in front of you. The ever-steadfast companion. "Scrumptious. Thank you, ${mc_name}."

				Excellent, then— 

				Part 2B of your plan is now ready for deployment!
				*page_break

				"Watson, I need you to distract the bird while I climb the tree. Do not startle it. Simply... get its attention. I am counting on you."

				"As I know from experience that nothing I say can deter you, I will. But, be careful? I will only help [i]if[/i] you promise to do so."
			#"Chin up, Watson, this will all soon be over!"
				*set friendshipW + 1
				"Chin up, Watson, this will all soon be over!"

				"You said the same with the last two plans—" ${johnName} says, sighing.

				"Watson—it will take but a second—I need you to distract the bird while I climb the tree. Do not startle it. Simply... get its attention. I am counting on you."

				"As I know from experience that nothing I say can deter you, I will. But, be careful? I will only help [i]if[/i] you promise to do so."
			#"Oh—for goodness sake—get a hold of yourself, Watson! There is not any time for dilly-dallying!"
				*set friendshipW - 2
				"Oh—for goodness sake—get a hold of yourself, Watson! There is not any time for dilly-dallying!"

				$!{johnName} slows ${j_hi} pace further lightly kicks a rock in your direction.

				"Watson! Listen—I need you to distract the bird while I climb the tree. Do not startle it. Simply... get its attention. I am counting on you."

				The doctor sighs. "As I know from experience that nothing I say can deter you, I will. But, you better be careful—I will only do as you ask [i]if[/i] you promise to be careful."
			#"We do not have the time to have tea, Watson!"
				*set friendshipW - 1
				"We do not have the time to have tea, Watson!" 

				${johnName} pouts.

				"Watson—concentrate! I need you to distract the bird while I climb the tree. Except, do not startle it. Simply get its attention. I am counting on you."
				
				The doctor sighs. "As I know from experience that nothing I say can deter you, I will. But, you better be careful—I will only do as you ask [i]if[/i] you promise to be careful."

		*fake_choice
			#"I promise," I say truthfully.
				Another promise, not another day.

				But you intend to keep it. After all, climbing trees can be a risky business.

			#"I promise," I lie.
				Another promise, not another day.

				But, truly, what can go wrong?

		*page_break

		Watson has decided on a plan and walks towards the object. $!{j_he} stops to stand about 7 meters away from the white pigeon if you count the direct diagonal path between the bird and the human.

		The pigeon does not care.

		From your viewpoint, by the base of the tree, you see Watson rubbing ${j_hi} hands together and then cupping them with thumbs facing up. $!{j_he} looks over at you, then puts ${j_hi} lips to the knuckles and blows. Out comes a perfect "coo-coo".

		*if (haveBirdKnowledge)
			You want to tell Watson this is not a wood pigeon and that they do not make the same sounds. But you can not, lest you alert the target. 

			The white bird looks over at ${johnName}. She turns her head, over and over, at the sound.

			[i]Wait—it's working! Well done, Watson.[/i]

			Then your part in all this starts—

		*if (haveBirdKnowledge = false)
			The white bird looks over at ${johnName}. It turns its head, over and over, at the sound.

			[i]Bravo, Watson[/i], superior bird calls. Truly magnificent work.

			Then, time for you to begin the main act—

		*page_break

		You put your bare hands on the bark to feel the texture. But, as you feared, it is unpredictable and like ice from earlier rain.

		Increased risk, increased difficulty...

		What else—that there branch you can reach—is it sturdy?

		You test the branch, hanging your full weight on the tree arm and find it bends. But, not too much. 

		Probably. 

		If you hold your weight somewhat steady, the degree of tension should remain below the breaking point.

		No time like the presence—
		*fake_choice
			#I grab the branch and pull myself up. 

		As you ascend up the tree, your hands feel the pressure of holding on so tight. They are cold and pooling blood. 

		You do not consider it safe to let go or to stand on the slippery surface. 

		There is a next branch to grab; if you can reach it, then hooking your foot on the limb stump, you should be able to get to the trunk's end, where the main branches begin to diverge.

		The next step is right there—

		If you can only—

		Reach—

		A little more—

		*fake_choice
			#I swing harder. Risking it all with a daring leap to reach the next step.

		One final attempt at the action, your shoulders straining by the effort, and your fingers slip at the last moment—

		*page_break

		For a second, you are without any hold. And at best, the distance down is enough to severely hurt an ankle. 

		But your one hand finds grip. Your calculations and strength were strong enough, thankfully. Pulling yourself up by the arm and placing your foot at the outgrowth, you can climb to the intended destination.

		From here, there is only to follow a long, thick, and hopefully less wet tree branch to the object's location.

		*page_break

		Watson's bird call is still heard in your ears.

		And while you can not see the pigeon from here, you assume Watson would not be continuing if it was no longer about.

		Time to end this long overdue quest.

		*page_break

		*if (haveBirdKnowledge)
			[i]The pigeon was on this branch[/i]—if you scoot along the structure, keeping your core steady and your centre of mass aligned to the seat—[i]there she is![/i]

			You close in, getting nearer with every step.

			Approaching the back of the bird, you notice the odd stance and the limp wing. This bird is hurt to some degree. You assume this might have helped your tactic.

			One final move—

			You grab the white animal, pinning the body down towards the tree-branch. Holding the wings carefully against the body. She struggles and makes some rumbling objections but soon calms.

		*if (haveBirdKnowledge = false)
			[i]The bird was on this branch[/i]—if you scoot along the structure, keeping your core steady and your centre of mass aligned to the seat—there it is!

			You close in, getting nearer with every step.

			One final move—

			You grab the white animal, pinning the body down towards the tree branch. Holding the wings carefully against the body. It struggles and makes some rumbling objections but soon calms.

		*fake_choice
			#"I did it, Watson!"
				"I did it, Watson!" you shout.

				"Yes, but, Sherlock... how are we going to get you down?"

				"I did not think of that, Watson. Can't you see I was a little preoccupied with getting what I want?"

				"I can... Would you like me to try and find a ladder?"

			#"Watson... really, you can stop with the bird calls now."
				"Watson... really, you can stop with the bird calls now."

				"Oh, right. Wait—how are we going to get you down?"

				"I assumed we would figure that out after. Is it not clear that I was a little preoccupied with getting what I want?"

				"It is... Would you like me to try and find a ladder?"

			#"Now I only have to get down... somehow..."
				"Now I only have to get down... somehow..."

				"Sherlock, are you telling me there was no plan beyond this?!"

				"Can you not see I was a little preoccupied with getting what I want?"

				"I can... Would you like me to try and find a ladder?"

		*fake_choice
			#"Could you catch me, you think?"
				*if ((romanceW > 0) and (johnAttracted))
					"Catch you?" ${j_hi} voice goes an octave higher. "No, no—that would not, I'll go fetch you a ladder instead—"

					"... Alright then."

				*if ((romanceW < 1) or (johnAttracted = false))
					"That would be... inadvisable, Sherlock. Best not risk crushing the bird."

					"Alright then, fetch me a ladder."

			#"Yes."
		*page_break

		Only minutes pass before Watson returns with a solid looking ladder.

		*if ((romanceW > 0) and (johnAttracted))
			With the bird in one hand and the other carefully holding on, you are able to begin the climb down. 

			Watson stands beneath you, looking forward, and definitely not up, while tightly gripping the rails so the ladder cannot suddenly shift.

			As you get close to the ground, ${j_he} has to shift, lest you both end up in a public embrace by the approaching position. But, in that manoeuvre, somehow, your eyes meet and hold. $!{j_hi} sky-coloured gaze contains flecks of gold in the centre. Framed by long, long lashes.

			There is a small speck of soot on ${j_hi} cheek.

			And the familiar kind eyes now widen, brows lift and curve. 

			Why an expression of surprise?

			At your nearness? At the drawn-out moment? At the clear view of the ${eyeColour} colour of your eyes?

			*fake_choice
				#"What are you thinking about, ${johnName}?"
					"What are you thinking about, ${johnName}?" you ask the person separated from you only by a short distance and cold air.

					"You... I suppose."

					"Me?"

					*if (facialDetailLikeS = "long lashes")
						"I noticed how your eyes, they are framed by such... long lashes."

						[i]So are yours.[/i]
						*goto t2

					*else
						"I simply noticed how your eyes... suit you. Very well."

						*goto t2

					*label t2
					$!{j_he} looks down, away. A simple smile plays on ${j_hi} lips. And even as your soles land on the ground and moments pass, ${j_hi} expression lingers. 

				#My thoughts are interrupted by Watson asking me something—

					"—Are you alright, ${mc_name}?"

					*fake_choice
						#"yes."
						#Nod.
						#"Oh, absolutely perfect, now, ${johnName}."

					$!{j_he} only smiles. A simple smile. Worth far more than any verbal reply ${j_he} might have given. 

		*if ((romanceW < 1) or (johnAttracted = false))
			With a bird in one hand and the other carefully descending, you can climb down without issue. 

			Watson holds the ladder for you, and smiles as you meet on the way down.

		*goto birdCaught












	*selectable_if (goodAt = "knowledge") #I remember that a common tactic is to catch pigeons with a well placed throw of a light blanket
		
		You have an abundance of knowledge on obscure topics.

		A mere pigeon could not get the better of you—never! If you merely approach the object of curiosity with careful methods and study you will definitely succeed.
		
		*line_break

		[b]Commence operation:[/b] Entrap Elusive Feathered Fowl.

		You recall that your remembered source for trapping such creatures, an article you glanced at some years ago, only ever mentioned throwing blankets when the object was on the ground. However, you estimate that with a good throw, it would not matter—not as long as you catch it before it hits the ground.

		[b]Plan: [/b]
		*line_break
		[b]1. [/b]Acquire blanket. Preferably nothing too heavy. Otherwise, it might damage the object or hinder the throw.
		
		[b]2. [/b]Attach weights to the corners of the blanket for an improved throw.
		
		[b]3.[/b] Move slowly and steadily towards the object. 

		[i]Addendum.[/i]

		[b]3. A:[/b] [i]Move steady and slowly towards the object[/i]. [b]B:[/b] Involve Watson in an effort to distract the object.

		[b]4.[/b] Throw blanket.

		[b]5.[/b] [i]Success.[/i]

		And, [i]yes[/i], perhaps a tad simple for a plan, but, generally, the simplest plans work the best. 
		
		No?

		*fake_choice
			#"Watson! I need your help with my new plan—"
			#"[i]Watsoooon[/i], oh, Watson–you're such a strong and capable ${j_man}—"
				*set friendshipW + 1
			#"Watson, by my side, now! Make haste—"

		But Watson does not hurry to your side. Instead, ${j_he} drags ${j_hi} feet, and ${j_hi} expression is more akin to a grimace than the cheery disposition you are so used to. 
		
		$!{j_hi} words draw heavy from ${j_hi} lips, "what is it you want from me [i]now[/i], Sherlock?"

		[i]Why is ${j_he} so—[/i]

		Oh… You really should have foreseen this. It happens often enough. The doctor has gone too long without a meal—once again, ${j_he} is less than amiable when foregoing the midday tea.

		*fake_choice
			#I keep a small morsel of dried and roasted cocoa, on my person, at all times for this very purpose.
				*set friendshipW + 2
				"Here you go, ${johnName}," you say, handing over the small pouch of emergency sustenance.

				"I would object, but I really am starving." $!{j_he} devours pinches of cocoa bits at an alarming rate. "However, I do not believe it will make me–" As if by magic, ${j_hi} gaze melts and then further melts. "This is really good. You must give me the shop's address. This is—" Once again, a smiling Watson is in front of you. The ever-steadfast companion. "Scrumptious. Thank you, ${mc_name}."

				Excellent, then— 

				Part 2B of your plan is now ready for deployment!
				*page_break

				"Watson, I need you to distract the bird while I throw a strategically aimed blanket. Do not startle it. Simply... get its attention. I am counting on you."

				"As I know from experience that nothing I say can deter you, I will. But, be careful with the bird, all right? I will help, [i]if[/i] you promise to do so."
			#"Chin up, Watson, this will all soon be over!"
				*set friendshipW + 1
				"Chin up, Watson, this will all soon be over!"

				"You said the same with the last two plans—" ${johnName} says, sighing.

				"Watson—it will take but a second—I need you to distract the bird while I throw a strategically aimed blanket. Do not startle it. Simply... get its attention. I am counting on you."

				"As I know from experience that nothing I say can deter you, I will. But, be careful with the bird, all right? I will help, [i]if[/i] you promise to do so."
			#"Oh—for goodness sake—get a hold of yourself, Watson! There is not any time for dilly-dallying!"
				*set friendshipW - 2
				"Oh—for goodness sake—get a hold of yourself, Watson! There is not any time for dilly-dallying!"

				$!{johnName} slows ${j_hi} pace further lightly kicks a rock in your direction.

				"Watson! Listen—I need you to distract the bird while I throw a strategically aimed blanket. Do not startle it. Simply... get its attention. I am counting on you."

				The doctor sighs. "As I know from experience that nothing I say can deter you, I will. But, you better be careful with the bird—I will do as you ask, [i]only[/i] if you promise to be careful?!"
			#"We do not have the time to have tea, Watson!"
				*set friendshipW - 1
				"We do not have the time to have tea, Watson!" 

				${johnName} pouts.

				"Watson—concentrate! I need you to distract the bird while I throw a strategically aimed blanket. Do not startle it. Simply... get its attention. I am counting on you."

				The doctor sighs. "As I know from experience that nothing I say can deter you, I will. But, you better be careful with the bird—I will do as you ask, [i]only[/i] if you promise to be careful?!"

		*fake_choice
			#"I promise" I say truthfully.
				Another promise, not another day.

				But you intend to keep it. You see no reason why you should not be careful with the creature.

			#"I promise," I lie.
				Another promise, not another day.

				But, truly, what can go wrong? 
			 
		*page_break

		You break off to find a blanket. Thankfully you know Mrs Hudson keeps a stash in the basement storage closet. Which you easily reach by the kitchen door, usually reserved for the servants to use.

		Avoiding the heaviest wool and the most expensive patterns and dyes, your best candidate is a thin blanket with a dark brown hue.

		*if (acceptedBlanket)
			It reminds you of the one Lestrade lent you only hours past...

			This one feels rougher to the touch. The hairs itch on your skin. $!{l_his} was... soft and warm.

			But you do not have time to humour strange thoughts—

		You grab the blanket and hurry back to ${johnName}.

		On your path back, you tie a few larger pebbles to the corners of the blanket.

		Commence step 3 of your plan—

		*page_break

		As you approach, you see Watson regarding your return. And, by the looks of it, ${j_he} has decided on a method of distraction as ${j_he} nods towards you, then steps forward. $!{j_he} arrives to stand [i]about[/i] seven meters away from the white pigeon if you count the direct diagonal path between the bird and the human.

		Not that the pigeon seems to care. It remains as it were.

		You find yourself the best vantage point, near the base of the tree, with the birds back to you. 

		Watson rubs ${j_hi} hands together and then cups them with thumbs facing up. $!{j_he} looks over at you, puts ${j_hi} lips to the knuckles and blows. Out comes a perfect "coo-coo".

		*if (haveBirdKnowledge)
			You want to tell Watson this is not a wood pigeon and that they do not make the same sounds. But you can not, lest you alert the target. 

			The white bird looks over at ${johnName}. She turns her head, over and over, at the sound.

			[i]Wait—it's working! Well done, Watson.[/i]

			Then, your turn—

		*if (haveBirdKnowledge = false)
			The white bird looks over at ${johnName}. It turns its head, over and over, at the sound.

			[i]Bravo, Watson[/i], superior bird calls. Truly magnificent work.

			Then, time for you to begin step 4—

		You feel the weight of the now heavier fabric in your hands... 

		There is no doubt in your mind that the plan could work, with the right throw, with the right circumstances.

		*if (badAt = "strength and speed")
			But... should you rely on your physicality at a time like this?

		*fake_choice
			*selectable_if (badAt != "strength and speed") #I decide on a projection above the bird at a high angle, hoping to bring the bird and blanket down simultaneously and into my arms.

				You look over at ${johnName} and signal your incoming attempt. You bunch the blanket in your hands in a folded pattern, edge to edge in each hand——

				—and throw.

				The bird notices too late that the sky is gone from view. You see the top of the cover fly higher in the air; the creature tries to escape but only achieves getting more caught. 

				A blanket-covered bird falls slowly across the branch and down towards you.

				You step forward, aiming to catch the falling fowl before it hits the ground. Allowing the bird and blanket to drop between you. Then closing in the fabric towards your front, much like a rucksack, above the captured creature.

				The fabric is rough to the touch, and you hear no objection and feel no struggle from the fowl. You uncover the bundled animal, and it seems content to rest in your arms.


			#I change my mind—Watson should be the thrower.

				*if (haveBirdKnowledge)

					You return to Watson. "I have reconsidered. You shall throw this blanket—high angle—above the bird, and I will do the distraction."

					Getting into place where your companion stood, you perform the call of this particular pigeon breed, which, instead of a soft coo-coo, is a more high-pitched screech. 

					You catch the attention of the pigeon, as you suspected you would, but as a by-product, also the attention of the public walking the street around you.

				*if (haveBirdKnowledge = false)
					You return to Watson. "I have reconsidered. You shall throw this blanket—high angle—above the bird, and I will do the distraction. Also, can you teach me that thing you did with your hands?"

					*if ((romanceW > 0) and (johnAttracted))
						"Of course." $!{j_hi} face brightens as happy lines appear around the edges of ${j_hi} sparkling eyes. "I would love nothing more—but first things first—no gloves." $!{j_he} bites the thumb of the glove to loosen the fabric and soon presents bare hands in front of you with a movement of [i]ta-da[/i] and waving fingers. 

						"Now, ${mc_name}, hold your hands palm-to-palm. Take this hand and hold the other tight—while keeping a pocket of air in the middle, good. Then press your thumbs' sides together, leaving a small, yes, exactly like that. Not too much. It has to let the air in and out. In fact, my grandfather taught me how to do this—see, the trick is—" $!{j_hi} ungloved hands envelop yours, pressing tight. Rough palms and soft fingertips. Warmth seeping into you. 

						"You have to hold tight, to not let the air out except right here—" $!{j_hi} thumb strokes upwards towards yours, at the only place where your own hands do not meet, ${j_hi} finger resting on that edge. "The angle is important, ${mc_name}, and the amount of breath. It has to be just right. Try it, bring it to your lips, and blow."

						*fake_choice
							#"Um..."
								"Is it perhaps unclear how to—" $!{johnName} drops your hands as if on fire and removes ${j_hi} own from view behind ${j_hi} back. Watson seems to finally have realised the situation, and stands stiff and quickly reddening. "—Ahem! Right—"
							#"Hands—Watson—HANDS!"
								$!{johnName} drops your hands as if on fire and removes ${j_hi} own from view behind ${j_hi} back. Watson seems to finally have realised the situation, and stands stiff and quickly reddening.
							#Do as ${j_he} says.
								$!{johnName} drops your hands as you move yours upwards, and you notice ${j_hi} hands disappearing much too quickly behind ${j_hi} back. Now ${j_he} appears stiff and quickly reddening.

						"Try it," ${j_he} says in a pleading tone. "Please."

						You lift your clasped grasp towards your mouth, lips puckered on knuckles and leaning downward, and blow. Out comes a strange low hum of air. 

						"Try it again, it takes time..."

						One other angle, an adjustment of the grip, a little less air—and out of your hands comes a perfect, "coo-coo".

						"There you are, Sherlock—let's, I'm gonna go, do, do the thing... But great work, I'll, yes."


					*if ((romanceW < 1) or (johnAttracted = false))

						$!{j_he} gladly obliges, showing you the trick to the performance, how the thumb needs to be placed tightly with the correct gap. The right angle to blow. How the carpal bones need to press together to align the hard section below the thumbs' muscles. And within half a minute, you too can make pleasant coo-coos to lure birds and passersby to attention.


					*page_break

					You get into place where your companion stood, calling out your practised bird call, and—

					Success! You catch the attention of the pigeon as it turns its head towards you and blinks.


				*page_break

				You see ${johnName} look over and signal. $!{j_he} bunches the blanket in ${j_hi} hands, edge to edge—and throws.

				The bird notices too late, as the sky is gone from view, and as you see the top of the cover flap higher in the air, it tries to escape but only achieves in getting more caught. The blanket-covered bird falls slowly across the branch and away from the thrower.

				Watson utters a swear as ${j_hi} strength must have been too great. Dashing with a hitch to ${j_hi} right leg on the second step, attempting to catch the falling fowl ${j_he} grabs at the edges, gets only two—but with ${j_hi} other hand and arm is able to stop the descent scarcely before it hits the ground.

				$!{j_he} caught it.

				Watson massages ${j_hi} leg as you take the bundled animal away and uncovers it to hold it in your arms. The fabric is rough to the touch, and you hear no objection, and feel no struggle from the fowl. It seems content to rest next to you.

		*goto birdCaught
















	
	*selectable_if (goodAt = "sciences and technologies") #I will re-engineer a blanket to resemble the throw of fish netting

		You have an abundance of know-how about technologies around the world.

		A mere pigeon could not get the better of you—never! If you merely approach the object of curiosity with careful methods and study you will definitely succeed.

		*line_break

		[b]Commence operation:[/b] Entrap Elusive Feathered Fowl.

		You have read about fish netting. How the throw spools out without disturbing its own trajectory. You assume that with a good throw, you may catch it, [i]and[/i] before it hits the ground.
		
		[b]Plan: [/b]
		*line_break
		[b]1.[/b] Get blanket. Preferably not too heavy, might damage object or hinder throw.

		[b]2.[/b] Attach weights to corners of blanket for improved throw.

		[b]3.[/b] Move slowly and steadily towards the object. 

		[i]Addendum.[/i]

		[b]3. A:[/b] [i]Move steady and slowly towards the object[/i]. [b]B:[/b] Involve Watson in an effort to distract object.

		[b]4.[/b] Throw blanket.
		
		[b]5.[/b] Success.

		And, [i]yes[/i], perhaps a tad simple for a plan, but, generally, the simplest plans work the best. 
		
		No?

		*fake_choice
			#"Watson! I need your help with my new plan—"
			#"[i]Watsoooon[/i], oh, Watson–you're such a strong and capable ${j_man}—"
				*set friendshipW + 1
			#"Watson, by my side, now! Make haste—"

		But Watson does not hurry to your side. Instead, ${j_he} drags ${j_hi} feet, and ${j_hi} expression is more akin to a grimace than the cheery disposition you are so used to. 
		
		$!{j_hi} words draw heavy from ${j_hi} lips, "what is it you want from me [i]now[/i], Sherlock?"

		[i]Why is ${j_he} so—[/i]

		Oh… You really should have foreseen this. It happens often enough. The doctor has gone too long without a meal—once again, ${j_he} is less than amiable when foregoing the midday tea.

		*fake_choice
			#I keep a small morsel of dried and roasted cocoa, on my person, at all times for this very purpose.
				*set friendshipW + 2
				"Here you go, ${johnName}," you say, handing over the small pouch of emergency sustenance.

				"I would object, but I really am starving." $!{j_he} devours pinches of cocoa bits at an alarming rate. "However, I do not believe it will make me–" As if by magic, ${j_hi} gaze melts and then further melts. "This is really good. You must give me the shop's address. This is—" Once again, a smiling Watson is in front of you. The ever-steadfast companion. "Scrumptious. Thank you, ${mc_name}."

				Excellent, then— 

				Part 2B of your plan is now ready for deployment!
				*page_break

				"Watson, I need you to distract the bird while I throw a strategically aimed blanket. Do not startle it. Simply... get its attention. I am counting on you."

				"As I know from experience that nothing I say can deter you, I will. But, be careful with the bird, all right? I will help, [i]if[/i] you promise to do so."
			#"Chin up, Watson, this will all soon be over!"
				*set friendshipW + 1
				"Chin up, Watson, this will all soon be over!"

				"You said the same with the last two plans—" ${johnName} says, sighing.

				"Watson—it will take but a second—I need you to distract the bird while I throw a strategically aimed blanket. Do not startle it. Simply... get its attention. I am counting on you."

				"As I know from experience that nothing I say can deter you, I will. But, be careful with the bird, all right? I will help, [i]if[/i] you promise to do so."
			#"Oh—for goodness sake—get a hold of yourself, Watson! There is not any time for dilly-dallying!"
				*set friendshipW - 2
				"Oh—for goodness sake—get a hold of yourself, Watson! There is not any time for dilly-dallying!"

				$!{johnName} slows ${j_hi} pace further lightly kicks a rock in your direction.

				"Watson! Listen—I need you to distract the bird while I throw a strategically aimed blanket. Do not startle it. Simply... get its attention. I am counting on you."

				The doctor sighs. "As I know from experience that nothing I say can deter you, I will. But, you better be careful with the bird—I will do as you ask, [i]only[/i] if you promise to be careful?!"
			#"We do not have the time to have tea, Watson!"
				*set friendshipW - 1
				"We do not have the time to have tea, Watson!" 

				${johnName} pouts.

				"Watson—concentrate! I need you to distract the bird while I throw a strategically aimed blanket. Do not startle it. Simply... get its attention. I am counting on you."

				The doctor sighs. "As I know from experience that nothing I say can deter you, I will. But, you better be careful with the bird—I will do as you ask, [i]only[/i] if you promise to be careful?!"

		*fake_choice
			#"I promise" I say truthfully.
				Another promise, not another day.

				But you intend to keep it. You see no reason why you should not be careful with the creature.

			#"I promise," I lie.
				Another promise, not another day.

				But, truly, what can go wrong? 

		*page_break

		You break off to find a blanket. Thankfully you know Mrs Hudson keeps a stash in the basement storage closet. Which you easily reach by the kitchen door, usually reserved for the servants to use.

		Avoiding the heaviest wool and the most expensive patterns and dyes, your best candidate is a thin blanket with a dark brown hue.

		*if (acceptedBlanket)
			It reminds you of the one Lestrade lent you only hours past...

			This one feels rougher to the touch. The hairs itch on your skin. $!{l_hi} was... soft and warm.

			But you do not have time to humour strange thoughts—

		You grab the blanket and hurry back to ${johnName}.

		On your path back, you find a few larger pebbles in similar weights and tie them to the corners of the blanket. You test the hold with a tug and they hold. 

		Commence step 3 of your plan—

		*page_break

		As you approach, you see Watson regarding your return. And, by the looks of it, ${j_he} has decided on a method of distraction as ${j_he} nods towards you, then steps forward. $!{j_he} arrives to stand [i]about[/i] seven meters away from the white pigeon if you count the direct diagonal path between the bird and the human.

		Not that the pigeon seems to care. It remains as it were.

		You find yourself the best vantage point, near the base of the tree, with the birds back to you. 

		Watson rubs ${j_hi} hands together and then cups them with thumbs facing up. $!{j_he} looks over at you, puts ${j_hi} lips to the knuckles and blows. Out comes a perfect "coo-coo".

		*if (haveBirdKnowledge)
			You want to tell Watson this is not a wood pigeon and that they do not make the same sounds. But you can not, lest you alert the target. 

			The white bird looks over at ${johnName}. She turns her head, over and over, at the sound.

			[i]Wait—it's working! Well done, Watson.[/i]

			Then, your turn—

		*if (haveBirdKnowledge = false)
			The white bird looks over at ${johnName}. It turns its head, over and over, at the sound.

			[i]Bravo, Watson[/i], superior bird calls. Truly magnificent work.

			Then, time for you to begin step 4—

		You feel the weight of the now heavier fabric in your hands... 

		There is no doubt in your mind that the plan could work, with the right throw, with the right circumstances.

		*if (badAt = "strength and speed")
			But... should you rely on your physicality at a time like this?

		*fake_choice
			*selectable_if (badAt != "strength and speed") #I decide on a projection above the bird at a high angle, hoping to bring the bird and blanket down simultaneously and into my arms.

				You look over at ${johnName} and signal your incoming attempt. There are fishing techniques used by sailors—how  they prepare theirs nets for it to unfold uniformly and without weighing itself down. You follow suit. Bunching up the blanket in your hands in a folded zigzag pattern, edge to edge in each hand——

				—and throw.

				The bird notices too late that the sky is gone from view. You see the top of the cover fly higher in the air; the creature tries to escape but only achieves getting more caught. 

				A blanket-covered bird falls slowly across the branch and down towards you.

				You step forward, aiming to catch the falling fowl before it hits the ground. Allowing the bird and blanket to drop between you. Then closing in the fabric towards your front, much like a rucksack, above the captured creature.

				The fabric is rough to the touch, and you hear no objection and feel no struggle from the fowl. You uncover the bundled animal, and it seems content to rest in your arms.
				
				*goto birdCaught

			#I change my mind—Watson should be the thrower.

				*if (haveBirdKnowledge)

					You return to Watson. "I have reconsidered. You shall throw this blanket—high angle—above the bird, and I will do the distraction."

					Getting into place where your companion stood, you perform the call of this particular pigeon breed, which, instead of a soft coo-coo, is a more high-pitched screech. 

					You catch the attention of the pigeon, as you suspected you would, but as a by-product, also the attention of the public walking the street around you.

					*goto aa

				*elseif (haveBirdKnowledge = false)
					You return to Watson. "I have reconsidered. You shall throw this blanket—high angle—above the bird, and I will do the distraction. Also, can you teach me that thing you did with your hands?"

					*if ((romanceW > 0) and (johnAttracted))
						"Of course." $!{j_hi} face brightens as happy lines appear around the edges of ${j_hi} sparkling eyes. "I would love nothing more—but first things first—no gloves." $!{j_he} bites the thumb of the glove to loosen the fabric and soon presents bare hands in front of you with a movement of [i]ta-da[/i] and waving fingers. 

						"Now, ${mc_name}, hold your hands palm-to-palm. Take this hand and hold the other tight—while keeping a pocket of air in the middle, good. Then press your thumbs' sides together, leaving a small, yes, exactly like that. Not too much. It has to let the air in and out. In fact, my grandfather taught me how to do this—see, the trick is—" $!{j_hi} ungloved hands envelop yours, pressing tight. Rough palms and soft fingertips. Warmth seeping into you. 

						"You have to hold tight, to not let the air out except right here—" $!{j_hi} thumb strokes upwards towards yours, at the only place where your own hands do not meet, ${j_hi} finger resting on that edge. "The angle is important, ${mc_name}, and the amount of breath. It has to be just right. Try it, bring it to your lips, and blow."

						*fake_choice
							#"Um..."
								"Is it perhaps unclear how to—" $!{johnName} drops your hands as if on fire and removes ${j_hi} own from view behind ${j_hi} back. Watson seems to finally have realised the situation, and stands stiff and quickly reddening. "—Ahem! Right—"
							#"Hands—Watson—HANDS!"
								$!{johnName} drops your hands as if on fire and removes ${j_hi} own from view behind ${j_hi} back. Watson seems to finally have realised the situation, and stands stiff and quickly reddening.
							#Do as ${j_he} says.
								$!{johnName} drops your hands as you move yours upwards, and you notice ${j_hi} hands disappearing much too quickly behind ${j_hi} back. Now ${j_he} appears stiff and quickly reddening.

						"Try it," ${j_he} says in a pleading tone. "Please."

						You lift your clasped grasp towards your mouth, lips puckered on knuckles and leaning downward, and blow. Out comes a strange low hum of air. 

						"Try it again, it takes time..."

						One other angle, an adjustment of the grip, a little less air—and out of your hands comes a perfect, "coo-coo".

						"There you are, Sherlock—let's, I'm gonna go, do, do the thing... But great work, I'll, yes."

						*goto bb


					*else

						$!{j_he} gladly obliges, showing you the trick to the performance, how the thumb needs to be placed tightly with the correct gap. The right angle to blow. How the carpal bones need to press together to align the hard section below the thumbs' muscles. And within half a minute, you too can make pleasant coo-coos to lure birds and passersby to attention.

						*goto bb

					*label bb       
					*page_break

					You get into place where your companion stood, calling out your practised bird call, and—

					Success! You catch the attention of the pigeon as it turns its head towards you and blinks.

					*goto aa


				*label aa

				*page_break

				You see ${johnName} look over and signal. $!{j_he} bunches the blanket in ${j_hi} hands, edge to edge—and throws.

				The bird notices too late, as the sky is gone from view, and as you see the top of the cover flap higher in the air, it tries to escape but only achieves in getting more caught. The blanket-covered bird falls slowly across the branch and away from the thrower.

				Watson utters a swear as ${j_hi} strength must have been too great. Dashing with a hitch to ${j_hi} right leg on the second step, attempting to catch the falling fowl ${j_he} grabs at the edges, gets only two—but with ${j_hi} other hand and arm is able to stop the descent scarcely before it hits the ground.

				$!{j_he} caught it.

				Watson massages ${j_hi} leg as you take the bundled animal away and uncovers it to hold it in your arms. The fabric is rough to the touch, and you hear no objection, and feel no struggle from the fowl. It seems content to rest next to you.
				*goto birdCaught















	*selectable_if (goodAt = "charm") #I will convince Watson to climb the tree and catch the pigeon.
		Watson's hands are strong, and, well, one leg is sturdy. 

		A tree would not get the better of ${j_him}, far from it. If you steer ${j_him} to approach the object of curiosity with careful methods and study, you will succeed.

		*line_break

		[b]Commence operation:[/b] Entrap Elusive Feathered Fowl.

		[b]Plan: [/b]
		*line_break
		[b]1. [/b] Watson ascends the tree. Recommended to [i]not[/i] fall—at risk of breaking bones.

		[b]2. [/b] Have ${j_him} move slowly and steadily towards the object.

		[i]Addendum.[/i]

		[b]2. A:[/b] [i]Have ${j_him} move steady and slowly towards the object[/i]. [b]B:[/b] while you will make an effort to distract the object.

		[b]3. [/b] Watson catches it with ${j_hi} hands.

		[b]5.[/b] [i]Success.[/i]

		And, [i]yes[/i], perhaps a tad simple for a plan, but, generally, the simplest plans work the best. 
		
		No?

		*page_break

		Although, first, you have to convince ${j_him}.

		But, as it is ${johnName}, you might as well simply... ask?

		*fake_choice
			#"Watson! I need your help with my new plan, and—"
			#"[i]Watsoooon[/i], oh, Watson–you're such a strong and capable ${j_man}—"
				*set friendshipW + 1
			#"Watson, would you come over here? I have an idea, you see—"

		But Watson does not hurry to your side. Instead, ${j_he} drags ${j_hi} feet, and ${j_hi} expression is more akin to a grimace than the cheery disposition you are so used to. 
		
		$!{j_hi} words draw heavy from ${j_hi} lips, "what is it you want from me [i]now[/i], Sherlock?"

		[i]Why is ${j_he} so—[/i]

		Oh… You really should have foreseen this. It happens often enough. The doctor has gone too long without a meal—once again, ${j_he} is less than amiable when foregoing the midday tea.

		That might make convincing ${j_him} a tad more difficult...

		*fake_choice
			#I keep a small morsel of dried and roasted cocoa, on my person, at all times for this very purpose.
				*set friendshipW + 2
				"Here you go, ${johnName}," you say, handing over the small pouch of emergency sustenance.

				"I would object, but I really am starving." $!{j_he} devours pinches of cocoa bits at an alarming rate. "However, I do not believe it will make me–" As if by magic, ${j_hi} gaze melts and then further melts. "This is really good. You must give me the shop's address. This is—" Once again, a smiling Watson is in front of you. The ever-steadfast companion. "Scrumptious. Thank you, ${mc_name}."

				You hope that was enough...
				
				*fake_choice
					#"You see, Watson, I need your help with something..."
						"And with what would that be, Sherlock?" ${j_he} asks, with only a hint of suspicion.
				
				*label charmingWatson

				And what shall your approach be, hmm?
				*fake_choice
					#Excessive flattery
						"${johnName}, you must know what a specimen you are, yes?"

						"What are you—"

						*if (johnMan)
							"Such a man, broad-shouldered, limbs as thick as tree trunks—and twice as sturdy, why... I am sure no one can compare. True, there are the 'strongmen' of renown, except they lack your nimbleness. And your speed. In fact—"

						*if (johnMan = false)
							"Such a woman, broad-shouldered, legs as thick as tree trunks—and twice as sturdy, why... I am sure no one can compare. True, there are the 'strongwomen' of renown, except they lack your nimbleness and grace. And your speed. In fact—"

						Watson reddens more and more. "I—am I dreaming? $!{mc_name}, what is [i]happening[/i] right now? Are you alright—did you hit your head somewhere when you were chasing that bird?"

						"I am alright, Watson. But I am trying to tell [i]you[/i] that you are more than alright. You are an extraordinary physical specimen."

						"Thank you?"

						"And because of that, you would be more than equipped to climb that tree and grab the bird where it sits."

						"You think so?"

						"Oh, I do."

						"I suppose I can try... If you are so sure?"

						"I am." 

						[i]Are you?[/i]

						"Oh, and Watson, do not fall!"

						${johnName} only stares back at you with a regard you can not read well. Although, you think you have seen Mrs Hudson give the same look to her cat.

					#Reverse psychology
						"Oh, never mind. You would not be able to do it anyway..."

						"What—what is it I could not do? Perhaps I would surprise you—I know I am not the detective you are, or, well, many things, but I welcome the chance to try. Would you not let me try, Sherlock?"

						"No, no. You would only hurt yourself. I would not have that on my conscience."

						"${mc_name}, please? I am not as frail as you think I am. Let me prove myself—"

						"I thought you could climb the tree and catch the bird with your hands. [i]But with your injury[/i]—"

						"—But nothing." $!{j_he} starts removing ${j_hi} coat. "I will climb the damn tree, and I'll prove to you that I am not, whatever it is you think I am," ${j_he} says, ${j_hi} eyes bore into you as ${j_he} hands you the garment.

						"I suppose I can not stop you. But be careful, Watson."

						"I always am."

					#Excessive guilt
						"${johnName}, I tried to keep it in and not worry you—as I know you are prone to. But I fear I hurt my wrist earlier when trying to capture the bird..."

						"What!? Oh, why did you not—then there is no time to waste, we really have to go back inside and care for it before—"

						"I have made up my mind, ${johnName}. I shall climb that tree and capture the bird, or die trying—"

						"You shall not do any such thing!"

						"I must—and I will not be convinced otherwise. I only ask that you make sure my final moments are not too painful, and perhaps send in the rebuke of Dewar's research paper on my desk, and burn the papers underneath the floorboards of my bed—"

						"You are being—"

						"—I see no alternative, and tell Mrs Hudson I—"

						"Enough, ${mc_name}. Enough." $!{j_he} sighs, and starts removing ${j_hi} coat. "I will climb the damn tree, and if you as much as touch the bark," ${j_he} says with a steady and low voice, as ${j_he} hands you ${j_hi} warmed outer garment, "[i]I will[/i] make you wish for a swift and painless death, are we clear?"

						"Crystal," you reply.


				"Watson, I am going to distract the bird while you climb the tree. Make sure you do not startle it. Simply... catch it. I am counting on you."

			#"Chin up, Watson, this will all soon be over!"
				*set friendshipW + 1
				"Chin up, Watson, this will all soon be over!"

				"You said the same with the last two plans—" ${johnName} says, sighing.

				*fake_choice
					#"Yes, well—you see, Watson, this time I need your help with something..."
						"And with what would that be, Sherlock?" ${j_he} asks, with a wrinkled brow and narrowing eyes.

				*goto charmingWatson

			#"Oh—for goodness sake—get a hold of yourself, Watson! There is not any time for dilly-dallying!"
				*set friendshipW - 2
				"Oh—for goodness sake—get a hold of yourself, Watson! There is not any time for dilly-dallying!"

				$!{johnName} slows ${j_hi} pace further lightly kicks a rock in your direction.

				*fake_choice
					#"Watson! Listen—this time I need your help with something."
						"Uh-huh. And with what would that be, Sherlock?" ${j_he} asks, not even looking at you.

				*goto charmingWatson

			#"We do not have the time to have tea, Watson!"
				*set friendshipW - 1
				"We do not have the time to have tea, Watson!" 

				${johnName} pouts.

				*fake_choice
					#"Watson—concentrate! This time I need your help with something—"
						"Uh-huh. And with what would that be, Sherlock?" ${j_he} asks, with a wrinkled brow and narrowing eyes.

				*goto charmingWatson

		*page_break

		You have decided on a plan of distraction. You advance towards the object, stopping approximately 7 meters from the target [i]if you count the direct diagonal path[/i] and stare directly at it.

		The pigeon does not seem to care or notice.

		*if (haveBirdKnowledge)
			You perform the call of this particular pigeon breed, which is, instead of a soft coo-coo, more of a high-pitched screech, if you will. 

			Success. 

			You catch the attention of the pigeon, but as a by-product, also the attention of the public walking the street around you.

			Now it is time for Watson's act—

		*if (haveBirdKnowledge = false)
			You lack any knowledge of birds.

			Perhaps whistling would work?

			The white bird looks over at you, turns its head towards you, and blinks.

			Huh. Neat.

			Then, time for Watson's act—

		*page_break

		Watson stands by the base of the tree, rubbing ${j_hi} hands together, only to recoil when ${j_he} puts ${j_hi} bare hands to the bark. As you feared, it is wet, unpredictable, and like ice from the previous rain.

		Increased risk, increased difficulty...

		You see ${j_him} consider other options.

		$!{j_he} tests the only low and sturdy branch, hangs ${j_hi} full weight on the tree arm, and finds that it bends. But perhaps not too much. 

		Hopefully. 

		If ${j_he} holds ${j_hi} weight somewhat steady, the degree of tension should remain below the breaking point.

		$!{j_he} takes that moment to act—
		*page_break
		Watson grabs the branch and manages to pull ${j_himself} up. 

		$!{j_hi} hands must feel the pressure of holding so tight, ascending up the tree. But you see no sign of it. 

		There is the next branch to grab. If only ${j_he} can grab that, then hook ${j_hi} foot on the limb stump, ${j_he} should be able to reach the trunk's end—where the main branches begin to diverge.

		The next branch is right there—

		If ${j_he} can only—

		Reach—

		A little more—

		*page_break
		$!{j_he} swings ${j_hi} body, risking a leap to reach the next step.

		One final attempt at the action, you see neck and arm muscles straining by the effort, and ${j_hi} fingers slip at the last moment—

		*page_break

		For a second, ${j_he} is without any hold. And the distance down is enough to, at best, hurt. At worst— 

		$!{j_hi} other hand finds grip. 

		Watson's strength was enough, thankfully.
		*if ((friendshipW > 80) and (typeOfFriendshipW != "Partnership"))
			And you feel yourself release the breath you held.

		Pulling ${j_himself} up by the arm and placing ${j_hi} foot at the outgrowth, ${j_he} is able to climb to the indented destination.

		From here, there is only to follow a long, thick, and hopefully less wet branch of the tree to the object's location.

		*page_break
		*if (((friendshipW > 80) and (typeOfFriendshipW != "Partnership")) and (haveBirdKnowledge))
			Your bird calls can't drown out the sounds of your own pulse.

		*if (((friendshipW > 80) and (typeOfFriendshipW != "Partnership")) and (haveBirdKnowledge = false))
			Your own whistling can't drown out the sound of your own pulse in your ears.

		*page_break

		You can not see the Watson from here, but you assume ${j_he} is approaching.

		Time for ${j_him} to end this long overdue quest.

		*page_break

		*if (haveBirdKnowledge)
			There ${j_he} is!

			Closing in, only moments now—

			All ${j_he} has to do is capture it now!

			$!{johnName} grabs the white animal, holding the pigeon against ${j_hi} body. She struggles and makes some rumbling objections but soon calms down.

		*if (haveBirdKnowledge = false)
			There ${j_he} is!

			Closing in, only moments now—

			All ${j_he} has to do is capture it now!

			$!{johnName} grabs the white animal, holding the bird against ${j_hi} body. She struggles and makes some rumbling objections but soon calms down.

		*fake_choice
			#"You did it, Watson!"
				"Sherlock... how... am I supposed to get down with this in my hands?"
			#"Now I only have to get you down... somehow..."
				"... There was no plan for that?!"

		"I got a little ahead of myself, this I admit. What if I try and find a ladder?"

		"... I believe that would be best, yes."

		*page_break

		Only minutes pass before you can return to Watson with a solid ladder.


		*if ((romanceW > 0) and (johnAttracted))
			With the bird in one hand and the other carefully holding on, Watson is able to begin the climb down. 

			You stand beneath ${j_him}, careful not to look up, and holding onto the wooden rails so the ladder cannot suddenly shift. 

			As ${j_he} gets close to the ground, you have to shift, lest you both end up in a public embrace by the approaching position. But, in that manoeuvre, somehow, your eyes meet and hold. $!{j_hi} sky coloured gaze contains flecks of gold in the center, Framed by long, long lashes.

			There is a small speck of soot on ${j_hi} cheek.

			And the familiar kind eyes now widen, brows lift and curve. 

			Why an expression of surprise?

			At your nearness? At the drawn-out moment? At the clear view of the ${eyeColour} colour of your eyes?

			*fake_choice
				#"What are you thinking about, ${johnName}?"
					"What are you thinking about, ${johnName}?" you ask the person separated from you only by a short distance and cold air.

					"You... I suppose."

					"Me?"

					*if (facialDetailLikeS = "long lashes")
						"I noticed how your eyes, they are framed by such... long lashes."

						[i]So are yours.[/i]

						*goto t1

					*else

						"I simply noticed how your eyes... suit you. Very well."

						*goto t1

					*label t1

					$!{j_he} looks down, away. A simple smile plays on ${j_hi} lips. And even as ${j_hi} soles land on the ground and moments pass, the expression lingers. 

					You take the animal from ${j_him} as ${j_he} hands it to you and holds it in your arms. From the fowl, you hear no objection, feel no struggle. It seems content to rest next to you.
					
					*goto birdCaught


				#My thoughts are interrupted by Watson asking me something—

					"—Are you alright, ${mc_name}?"

					*fake_choice
						#"yes."
						#Nod.
						#"Oh, absolutely perfect, now, ${johnName}."

					$!{j_he} only smiles. A simple smile. Worth far more than any verbal reply ${j_he} might have given.

					Then, much too soon, Watson's soles land on the ground, and the moment is broken. 

					You take the animal from ${j_him} as ${j_he} hands it to you and holds it in your arms.
					
					*goto birdCaught


		*if ((romanceW < 1) or (johnAttracted = false))
			Watson is able to climb down with the bird in one hand and carefully descend with the other. You hold the ladder and meet the eyes of a pleased ${johnName} on the way down.

			You take the animal from ${j_him} as ${j_he} hands it to you and holds it in your arms. From the fowl, you hear no objection, feel no struggle. It seems content to rest next to you.


		*goto birdCaught


















*goto birdCaught

*label birdCaught
*page_break

"You did it, ${mc_name}!" $!{johnName}'s eyes crinkle, and white teeth sparkle. "Very well done. I must remember not to doubt your expertise again. You really are very seldom wrong."

*fake_choice

	#"Did you ever actually doubt me?"
		"Well, I still have reservations about the once-suggested plan to involve Mrs Hudson's cat. I imagine it could have ended [i]quite[/i] poorly." Watson says, smiling, then speaks again,
	#"What are you insinuating? I've never been wrong in my life."
		"I seem to recall an incident involving a chamberlain, Lestrade, and an expensive bottle of port. By my boots, ${mc_name}—you could have been strung up for that wrongdoing!"
		*fake_choice
			*if (heardScoldingBefore) #"Why are everyone so insistent on reminding me of that incident today?!"
				"If you repeated your previous words to Lestrade, I am far from shocked. In this particular case, I am very much on ${l_hi} side." 
			#"All is well that ends well, ${johnName}."
				Watson gives you a doubtful stare. But soon ${j_he} speaks again,
			#"Ah, that. I'd entirely forgotten; let's never speak of it again."
				Watson gives you a smile and a nod. And soon ${j_he} speaks again,
			#"It was all part of a brilliant plan—Every bit of it—[i]yes[/i], even that."
				Watson gives you a doubtful stare. But soon speaks again,
	#"I couldn't have done it without you, ${johnName}."
		*set friendshipW + 1
		$!{j_he} rubs the back of ${j_hi} neck, a pink tint surfacing on ${j_hi} cheeks. "I'll always help, in any way I can, ${mc_name}. I hope you know that."
		*fake_choice
			#"I know."
				Watson smiles. And then ${j_he} speaks again,
			#"You might regret saying that, [i]chum[/i]."
				Watson laughs. And then ${j_he} speaks again,
			#"You're a true friend. If you need my services, know I will be there for you too."
				Watson smiles warmly. And then ${j_he} speaks again,
			#You observe ${j_hi} flush. It has you strangely fascinated, and your next breath feels heavy. 
				*set romanceW + 1
				You feel... something. And whatever this feeling is, you feel it enough to have it stall your breath. It lingers there in your lungs. Swirling. Warming.

				[i]This is no time for emotions or sentiments, $!{mc_name}—[/i]

				You shake away this unexplored thing. Watson starts talking again, and you force yourself—with great concentration—to listen.
"With that achieved," Watson pauses to inelegantly wipe ${j_hi} hands on ${j_hi} attire, "would you please tell me why we had to spend the whole of an evening chasing after some pigeon?" 

*page_break

Now that the creature is safe and somewhat still in your arms, your companion studies the sight for the first time. "Why, I have never—[i]that beak[/i]. What sort of creature is this, Sherlock?" Watson cringes slightly at the bizarre sight in front of ${j_him}. The neck of the bird stretches far longer than typical. The gaunt shoulders and body give it a sickly appearance. But it is the beak that is the most unusual. Around the brim and a little around the eyes, there is a strange growth. Like flesh and fungus. A crusted tumour of pink matter. 

The pigeon looks between you and Watson, seemingly aware of the scrutiny.

*if (haveBirdKnowledge) 

	*if (birdAttitudeStart = "LikeBirds")

		"It is because of the breeding. Very selective breeding, for only one purpose." You hold up the bird proudly to ${j_him}. "[i]This[/i], Watson, is an authentic English Carrier Pigeon. It never wavers, never stops. And this girl has but a single target, its home. Or, at least, that is the idea. You see, for some reason—I suspect injury—this feathered fowl never did manage to deliver her message. And I intend to solve the case—the case of the missing letter and bird!"

	*if (birdAttitudeStart = "HateBirds")

		"It is because of the breeding. Very selective breeding, for only one purpose." You hold up the bird far away from yourself and towards Watson. "This, Watson, is an authentic English Carrier Pigeon. It never wavers, never stops. And this [i]thing[/i] has but a single target, its home. Or, at least, that is the idea. You see, for some reason—I suspect injury—this feathered fiend never did manage to deliver her message. And, despite my disgust, I intend to solve the case—the case of the missing letter and bird!"

	*if ((birdAttitudeStart != "LikeBirds") and (birdAttitudeStart != "HateBirds"))

		"It is because of the breeding. Very selective breeding, for only one purpose." You hold up the bird to ${j_him}. "[i]This[/i], Watson, is an authentic English Carrier Pigeon. It never wavers, never stops. And this girl has but a single target, its home. Or, at least, that is the idea. You see, for some reason—I suspect injury—this feathered fowl never did manage to deliver her message. And I intend to solve the case—the case of the missing letter and bird!"


*if (haveBirdKnowledge = false) 
	
	"I have absolutely no idea, Watson—none whatsoever. I will have to consult my books..." You hold up the bird in inspection to ${j_him}. "[i]This[/i], Watson, might be a pigeon. That is my first and final theory..."

	"I believe you are right... At further inspection, I believe this to be a carrier pigeon—a female carrier pigeon."

	"What is your assumption based on?"

	"The letter on the leg is a clue, is it not? And I admit to once reading a book on birds at my grandmother's. Such a thin neck and small figure must be a female. I am sure of it."

	*fake_choice
		#"I have taught you well, ${johnName}."
			*set friendshipW + 1
		#"Then I shall refer to your expertise on the matter."
			*set friendshipW + 1
		#"Do not be so sure of an untested hypothesis, Watson."
			*set friendshipW - 1



You manoeuvre to unravel the letter on her leg. 

And once again are reminded that letters never deliver their promise, but this time—this time it could be anything!

A conspiracy, a code, a message of murder meant for—

And—it's gibberish. 

Drivel, blabber, nonsense talk. Just a mess of nothing to decode. Not according to any method you have known.

You had hope for, what? A second, and—

Again, all you keep finding are questions that do not fit, and you can't keep doing this, not again, not—

*if (haveBirdKnowledge) 
	"It could still be something," Watson interrupts, takes the note from you, and views it. "In the meantime, perhaps you could find the pigeon's owner? Is it not exciting, too—there is blood splatter on the feathers. It could be anyone's, really. Perhaps a murder has happened, and they did not have the capacity to write a full reply?"

	"Watson, that is highly unlikely as I suspect the blood belongs to the bird, but... Perhaps..."

*if (haveBirdKnowledge = false) 
	"It could still be something," Watson interrupts, takes the note from you, and views it. "In the meantime, perhaps you could find the pigeon's owner? Is it not exciting, too—there is blood splatter on the feathers. It could be anyone's, really. Perhaps a murder has happened, and they did not have the capacity to write a full reply?"

	"Watson, that is... that is almost a possibility..."

"Good. Then, if you are to be the new temporary owner of a pigeon, perhaps you could give her a name?

*page_break

*label bird

You look down at the white pigeon in your arms. Perhaps you should give her a name?
*choice 
	#How silly. I will call her 'Pigeon'... That will suffice.
		*set birdName "Pigeon"
		*goto bird2
	*disable_reuse #"Perhaps I could call her Watson?"
		"You can't name the bird after me, Sherlock!"

		[i]Spoilsport[/i]...
		*goto bird
	#Pearl.
		*set birdName "Pearl"
		*goto bird2
	#Ghost.
		*set birdName "Ghost"
		*goto bird2
	#Eliza.
		*set birdName "Eliza"
		*goto bird2
	#Creampuff.
		*set birdName "Creampuff"
		*goto bird2
	#Birdy.
		*set birdName "Birdy"
		*goto bird2
	#Coco.
		*set birdName "Coco"
		*goto bird2
	#Lady.
		*set birdName "Lady"
		*goto bird2
	#Meringue.
		*set birdName "Meringue"
		*goto bird2
	#Specify a name.        
		*input_text birdSpecificName
		
		*if (birdSpecificName = "")
			"Could not think of anything, eh?"
			*goto bird

		*if ((birdSpecificName = "${johnName}") or (birdSpecificName = "Watson"))
			"You can't name the bird after me, Sherlock!"
			*goto bird

		*elseif ((birdSpecificName = "Mrs Hudson") or (birdSpecificName = "Hudson"))
			"You would be in a world of trouble if you named the bird that, Sherlock!"
			*goto bird

		*elseif (((((birdSpecificName = "${hName}") or (birdSpecificName = "${adlerName}")) or ((birdSpecificName = "temp11") or (birdSpecificName = "temp22"))) or (((birdSpecificName = "${lestradeName}") or (birdSpecificName = "${mc_name}")) or ((birdSpecificName = "Sherlock") or (birdSpecificName = "Mycroft")))) or ((((birdSpecificName = "dickbutt") or (birdSpecificName = "Lestrade")) or ((birdSpecificName = "Adler") or (birdSpecificName = "Moriarty"))) or (((birdSpecificName = "Moran") or (birdSpecificName = "temp1")) or ((birdSpecificName = "temp2") or (birdSpecificName = "${mc_lastname}")))))

			"That is not a proper name for a bird, Sherlock!"
			*goto bird

		*else
			*set birdName birdSpecificName
			*goto bird2

	*disable_reuse #"I want you to name her, ${johnName}."
		"Me? Why, I—All right..." Scratching ${j_hi} head, eyes studying the bird. "Mary. Call her Mary. Please—do not ask me why I chose that particular name, it simply appeared to me."
		*choice
			#"Mary!? That is a terrible name! I suppose I have no choice but to name her myself."
				*goto bird
			#"Mary? A fitting name for a strange bird, I should think."
				*set birdName "Mary"
				*goto bird2
			#"Mary... What a wonderful name for her!"
				*set birdName "Mary"
				*goto bird2
			#"I really do not care. So, why not?"
				*set birdName "Mary"
				*goto bird2

*label bird2
*page_break

"$!{birdName}... Yes, well suited for that bird, I think," Watson says.

*fake_choice
	#"Watson, you will care for ${birdName}, right? I'm sure she will need some water and care, and you are much better with... things..."
		"Hold on now—you said you would keep the bird! Oh—no, no. Not again—Sherlock?! Not another time where you find some new interest I have to keep alive—not another situation where it is your pet, but because of some ridiculous reason [i]I[/i] have to care for it?" 

		*fake_choice

			#"No. No, of course not. No."
				Watson's eyes thin, and so does ${j_hi} mouth. "Mmhm," Is all ${j_he} says.
			#"Maybe..."
				Watson's eyes thin, and so does ${j_hi} mouth. "Thought so."
			#"Who could say?
				Watson's eyes thin, and so does ${j_hi} mouth. "You could, if you were so inclined..."
			#"No."
				Watson's eyes thin, and so does ${j_hi} mouth. "We will see..."
			#"Yes, probably."
				Watson sighs, "Fine. I've never cared for a bird before, I'll try and help [i]you[/i] in this."
			#"But you are so good at things like that. It suits you!"
				Watson sighs, "I've never cared for a bird before, Sherlock. I will try and assist you in this, alright?"

	#You accept the charge of a new animal to care for with glee.
	#With resigned acceptance you take on the burden of this new animal.

*page_break

*label mrsHudson1
*if (johnMan)
	"Well then, now that that is taken care of—let us return home. I am, frankly, exhausted. Hurrying across London, performing surgery, and chasing a bird. I have never needed a sit-down more in my life."

*if (johnMan = false)
	"Well then, now that that is taken care of—let us return home. I have been wearing these fashionable yet torturous heels while hurrying across London, performing surgery, and chasing a bird. I have never needed a sit-down so much in my life."

You and Watson start strolling back to your separated townhouse. So close now that you can see the splinters of glass from the broken window pane. You are walking alongside the dark metal fence, the white stone facade, and the ill-sweeped street when the door slams open.

"${JohnFullname}! What have you done to my windows?!" Mrs Hudson charges from the entrance. 

Watson gulps at the approach, ${j_hi} voice almost shrill as he begins to defend himself, "Me?! No, it was—"

*choice
	#Use charming words to appease Mrs Hudson.
		"Mrs Hudson, I am terribly sorry. It is entirely my fault. You see, we were trying to protect this lovely bird from an untimely death. Your windows saved her, and I'm sure she would thank you if she could. Truly. A life was spared, all thanks to your windows. Isn't that just wonderful?"

		"Oh! Well then—yes! Wonderful indeed! And what a pretty coat she has. Thank you, Sherlock. Material things should never be as important as life. [i]It's in the Bible[/i]. And even pigeons must have some semblance of a soul, I'm sure. Oh, how nice this is. What a pretty bird. Well done, Sherlock!"
		*goto f1
	
	#Let ${johnName} take the blame, it's easier.
		*set friendshipW - 5
		"All ${johnName}'s fault I'm afraid. You know how clumsy ${j_he} is, with ${j_hi} silly little cane. But it's so sad too, so we can't be too angry at him. Is it not so, Mrs Hudson?"

		"Oh. Oh, yes, [i]terribly sad[/i]. Do not worry about the window, ${johnName}, I won't hold it against you. The Bible says to be great-hearted to all suffering. And, Sherlock, how good you are to your friend. But, ${johnName}, please be mindful in the future, hm?" Mrs Hudson steadies her gaze at Watson, then her eyes turn to you and quickly expand when she looks at what's in your grasp. "Why, that's a pigeon! How charming, how fun, are we to have a bird in the house? I'm quite partial to doves myself. It will fit right in, I'm sure." 
		
		Mrs Hudson starts walking back into the house, still talking loudly, about the bird, dinner, and today's tea-time companion. She assumes you are following both her steps and conversation. Instead, Watson steps close to you and shout-whispers, "I can't believe—what am I saying, of course I can—that was entirely unnecessary! That woman would forgive you for poisoning her tea. I wish you would stop blaming me in situations like this. And, you know very well I never even use that bloody cane!"
		*choice
			#"I know you don't. She does not. It was an easy escape, that is all."
				"Whatever it was, ${mc_name}, I would prefer it if you would abandon that excuse." Watson takes off towards the door of your shared home, not looking back. There is a weight and speed in ${j_hi} step. And after ${j_him}, the door slams shut. 

				Do you feel bad?
				*fake_choice
					#No. I don't understand why ${j_he} seemed so upset.

					#No. I don't care that ${j_he} seemed upset.

					#${johnName} is upset?

					#Yes. I feel slightly regretful, but I don't have time to care about ${j_him}.

					#Yes. I'll apologise as soon as I find the time and place.
						
				With all that, you get into the house a bit after Watson. You go directly to your section of the house and open the door—but before you can fully break away from Mrs Hudson's sphere of notice and enter your own apartment upstairs, she shouts after you, "Oh, and Sherlock—a letter came for you while you were gone, it is on the usual stack. And, don't forget dinner, six sharp!"
				
				*goto homedecoration
				
			#"I am sorry, ${johnName}... It was all I could think of."
				"Ha. I don't believe you. That peculiar brain of yours is more likely to overflow than run dry. In the future, at least be honest with me." Watson takes off towards the door of your shared home, not looking back. There is a weight and speed in ${j_hi} step soon followed by the door slamming shut.
				
				Do you feel bad?
				*fake_choice
					#No. I don't understand why ${j_he} seemed so upset.
						
					#No. I don't care that ${j_he} seemed upset.
						
					#${johnName} is upset?
						
					#Yes. I feel slightly regretful, but I don't have time to care about ${j_him}.
						
					#Yes. I'll apologise as soon as I find the time and place.

				With all that, you get into the house a bit after Watson. You go directly to your section of the house and open the door—but before you can fully break away from Mrs Hudson's sphere of notice and enter your own apartment upstairs, she shouts after you, "Oh, and Sherlock—a letter came for you while you were gone, it is on the usual stack. And, don't forget dinner, six sharp!"

				*goto homedecoration
				
			#"I made a mistake. Whatever I wanted—that was unkind, I'm sorry."
				*set friendshipW + 2
				"It's... Sherlock... I am on your side, you know. Please remember that. And I might not humour ridicule forever." Watson inhales one long breath. "Now—I think we should hurry before Mrs Hudson realises we never accompanied her at all." 

				You both start walking back into the house. Catching up with Mrs Hudson, still blabbering on. She announces she will make a whole roast pheasant to celebrate 'our' new pet. Watson seems reluctant to it, something about the idea being tasteless. But Mrs Hudson assures ${j_him} she can make quite a flavorful pheasant. 

				Before you can fully break away from the party and enter your apartment, the landlady shouts after you, "Oh, and Sherlock, a letter came for you while you were gone, it is on the usual stack. And, don't forget dinner, six sharp!"

				*goto homedecoration


		
	#Say nothing. Let ${johnName} explain.
		Watson continues, "It was Sherlock, ${mc_xhe}—"

		"Oh. It was you, Sherlock? Well, why didn't you say so? Then there must have been some reason for it. Watson, ${mc_name} is such a good ${mc_rude}. The windows breaking can not have been for a naughty or clumsy reason. I am sure it can all be explained. Would you tell me what happened, dear?" 

		Watson decides to answer for you. "Sherlock, and I, were saving that pigeon. The one in ${mc_xir} arms."
		
		"Of course! A capital reason, saving a life. How noble. Very right, life over material things, always the correct way about it, I believe."
		*goto f1




*comment *if (haveBirdKnowledge = false) 
*comment !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ADD THIS IN THE RIGHT PLACE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

*comment "And what a pretty and proper English Carrier Pigeon, Sherlock! Such a well-bred girl—very fine."

*comment!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
*comment!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
*comment!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

*comment!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

*comment!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
*comment!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
*comment!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
*comment!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!




*label f1

You, Watson, and Mrs Hudson start walking back into the house. Like usual, Mrs Hudson is blabbering on, about her day, about the bird, about dinner. And during that transition, she announces she will make a whole roast pheasant to celebrate 'our' new pet. Watson seems reluctant to it, something about the idea being tasteless. But, Mrs Hudson assures ${j_him}, she can make quite a flavourful pheasant. 

Before you can fully break away from the party and enter your apartment, Mrs Hudson shouts after you, "Oh, and Sherlock—a letter came for you while you were gone, it is on the pile. And, don't forget dinner, six sharp!"

*page_break

You break away from the party and enter the door to your section of the house. 

*label homedecoration

*fake_choice
	#I put away my hat on the rack
		*set hasHat true
		*fake_choice
			#My iconic deerstalker hat, of course
			#Which is a top hat, the only acceptable head-wear
			#From my collection of large frilly decorated hats
			#My small discrete bowler hat has my eternal favour
			*if (genderMC != "man") #My bonnet tied with a neat bow
			#But I must be confused because when I reach above my head to remove my hat—there is none.
				*set hasHat false
	#I close the door as—

*label homedecoration1

$!{eyeColour} eyes settle on the familiar domain. This apartment is all yours. Every inch and drop. 

In what style is your home decorated?

*fake_choice 
	#Modern.
		*set appartmentAdjective "modern"
		As is the modern trend, in the 19th century, you follow the influence of Queen Victoria. 

		Your wallpaper is a seamless pattern of gilded flowers and leaves. Burgundy and gold. Your furniture appears rounded with delicate handmade details. And the floor is of dark patterned wood. 

		In the middle of your drawing room lays a sizeable oriental rug. The apartment inspires comfort and soft, warm, costly affluence.	
	#French.
		*set appartmentAdjective "french"
		You decorated your apartment after the French style. 

		White panelled walls, gold angular lines. A chandelier hangs on your high ceiling, casting beautiful light on your grey-mint-coloured divan and chairs. Bergère chairs. The most expensive pieces in the room. You imported them directly from Paris. 

		A few paintings and one large mirror decorate the walls, and a brownish desk and armoire demand the rest of the space. Luxurious and fashionable. That is the impression of the place. That is your home.
	#Futuristic.
		*set appartmentAdjective "futuristic"
		The style of your apartment is your own creation. 

		You believe it to be the style of the future—clean white walls and a few uncluttered pieces lining the room. The drawing room gives a feeling of openness and pure effortlessness. You commissioned a glass table with metal legs and were assured it was a new concept. There is an angular white sofa—a few paintings, but muted in colour and with simple scenery. 

		When people enter your home, they are either confused or horrified. And you like it that way.

	#Vintage.
		*set appartmentAdjective "vintage"
		Dreaming of the past, you have chosen to decorate in baroque decor. Opulent, vibrant, and too much, some might say. But not you, you love it. 

		Gold, black, red, brown, why not—purple. Your apartment has everything—textures of fabric and shiny wood, metals and glass. Details so large they can barely be called details anymore. Fabrics hang from top-to-bottom. And the size of your bed; it could fit multiple people. Although, you would never, of course. 

	#Cosy.
		*set appartmentAdjective "cosy"
		Pillows and fabrics. Warm, soft places to relax. Peaceful imagery on the walls. That is your home. 

		There is no 'style', but there is a feeling. The feeling of a warm bed when the air is cold—or a steaming cup of tea while the rain splatters against the window. Calm. Safe. Yours. And you wouldn't have it any other way.

	#Untidy.
		*set appartmentAdjective "untidy"
		It's not so much a style—as a lifestyle. 

		When you get home, you drop your coat or bag on your sofa or the floor. And after a while, it piled up. News- and research-papers line the ground. Books line the walls. Everything else line whatever it can. 

		Its chaos, but it's [i]your[/i] chaos. And at least this way, you know where everything is—most of the time.

	#Research focused and functional
		*set appartmentAdjective "functional"
		Experiments and equipment line the tables and workstations. Not an inch of your apartment is without use and function. 

		Books and papers have their area, and the rest of the apartment is for the practical sciences. There are two chairs available for guests and clients, and that is all the comforts you offer your guests. The impression of your residence is all work, no play. And you prefer it that way.

	#Eclectic colours and baubles.
		*set appartmentAdjective "eclectic"
		You enjoyed collecting things.

		Trinkets from travels, such as the shells on display and the patterned rug on the wall. Souvenirs and gratitude from cases past, such as the still bloodied wootz blade, the murder weapon and clue displayed proudly in a glass case. Pretty stones. Charming gems. Rare buttons—you never know when a button might come in handy!

		And, next to the chaise lounge, on the table, was your prized possession: the ammonite fossil, unearthed in lime, with its spectacular spiral shape.

		The one negative is that it does get a tad difficult to dig through the treasures when called upon to do so, but you would have it no other way. 

		This is exactly how you want to live.

	#Dark and unearthly
		*set appartmentAdjective "macabre"
		You enjoyed the dim and the comfortable death of leathers. And pelts, and bones. 

		By the near purple, all velvet, deep and comfortable armchair stood a full-length taxidermy peacock in its iridescent beauty. One human skull sat on the bookcase, on top of dusty tomes and papers far older than you. Trailing down the walls hung anatomical studies and pinned butterflies. 

		Dark blues and muted browns. Grey and black, and nothing bright. Shapes and fabrics cloaked the room into night and made shadows by artificial light.

		It was death in its most beautiful. And warm, by fire and feel of textures. 

		But it left visitors... well, they were often much too quick to leave.

		Yet you felt no need to change it.

		This was your natural habitat.

		All perfectly yours.

*choice 
	#No, that is not what I meant!
		*goto homedecoration1
	#Yes, that describes my apartment.
		*goto copeC2

*label copeC2

The piece de resistance of your abode was— 

*fake_choice
	#The beautiful piano in the corner
		The piece de resistance of your abode was the beautiful piano in the corner. With its pretty keys.

	#The grandiose cello on its stand
		The piece de resistance of your abode was the grandiose cello on its stand. With its pretty wooden shine.

	#The impressive violin towards the window
		The piece de resistance of your abode was the impressive violin towards the window. With its pretty wooden shine.

	#The gilded harp by the seating
		The piece de resistance of your abode was the painted harp by the seating. With its shining pillar and beautiful curve.


*if (cope = "eating")
	And hidden deep in a drawer is your collection of imperishables, the food you store for rainy days, sunny days, or any day. Perhaps you should indulge? Take your mind off things for a second—

*if (cope = "taking drugs")
	And hidden deep in a drawer is your collection of medicaments, substances you store for rainy days, sunny days, or any day. Perhaps you should indulge? Take your mind off things for a second— 

*if (cope = "gambling")
	And hidden deep in a drawer is your stash of tokens to dingy gambling dens and the means needed for it—for rainy days, sunny days, or any day. Perhaps you should indulge? Take your mind off things for a second— 

*if (cope = "smoking")
	And hidden deep in a drawer is your collection of tobacco paraphernalia for the inevitable rainy days, sunny days, or any day. Perhaps you should indulge? Take your mind off things for a second— 

*if (cope = "inaction")
	And in the next room is your bed... you long for it. Perhaps a lie down would take your mind off things, if only for a second— 

*if (cope = "berating")
	And you feel your restless nature rise, and you long for imperfect company. Someone you can really put down to take your mind off things, if only for a second— 

*if (cope = "drinking")
	And hidden deep in a drawer is your collection of emergency spirits, of liquids you store for rainy days, sunny days, or any day. Perhaps you should indulge? Take your mind off things for a second— 

*if (cope = "taking risks")
	And you feel your restless nature rise, and you long for a rush of something. Anything. Whatever it takes to take your mind off things, if only for a second— 

*if (cope = "experimenting")
	And hidden deep in a drawer is your collection of the most perilous chemicals and instruments for experiments that give vigour to the mind. The ones you store for rainy days, sunny days, or any day. Perhaps you should indulge? Take your mind off things for a second—

Your thought is interrupted by the bird in your arms. $!{birdName} tries to flap her wings but does not find the room to do so—it seems she is as similarly restless as you are. 

*label birdCage
*fake_choice
	*disable_reuse  #Try and calm her down.
		*set birdFriendship + 1
		You try and speak softly to the bird while carefully petting her. It does not calm her down as she struggles in your arms. 

		Damn.

		*goto birdCage
	*disable_reuse #Hold her with a slightly firmer grip.
		*set birdFriendship + 5
		Your hugging seems to be accepted and has a calming effect on the bird—though a more permanent solution will be necessary.
		*goto birdCage
	*disable_reuse #Coo at her.
		*set birdFriendship - 3
		The bird looks at you, stunned for mere moments—then flaps her arms in extreme agitation—${birdName} took offence at whatever it was you said.

		Worth a try.
		*goto birdCage
	#Place her in her cage.
		While you were admiring your apartment, Watson brought Mrs Hudson's old bird cage and placed it outside your door. It is admirably cleaned—and you pull it inside and place ${birdName} in her new home. She settles down nicely, cooing in approval. 

Then—as Watson extols the virtue of soap, and because of the events of the past few hours, in particular the handling of a pigeon—you feel a need to wash your hands with the tallow and oil brick kept in your bedroom, on the dresser with a bowl of water. 

*page_break

And you scrub, and scrub, and scrub, with the ever boiled-cloth and rancid smells of fat. And the soot of the streets clings to your fingertips more than the blood ever did.

For sparkling hands, you would need stronger stuff—

But you catch your reflection in the large full-length mirror on your right. And the view makes your hands look pristine. 

Your attire is more than muddled, terribly wrinkled, and not at all couth. Stains appear in near all colours. And even a loose thread or two can be seen, signifying a need to mend what has broken.

Mrs Hudson would throw you out of the dining room and demand you change your outfit if you entered like this...

You choose an outfit similar to what you normally wear—
*label fashionchoice1
*set hasDress false
*set hasSuit false
*set hasShirt false
*set hasBlouse false
*set hasSkirt false
*set hasTrousers false
*fake_choice
	*if (genderMC != "man") #A dress—
		*fake_choice
			#An expensive silk and chiffon dress with a high neckline and a tightly corseted waist
				This evening dress would not appear inelegant in any room. With yards of expensive figured silk covered by layers of chiffon, a high upstanding collar and elbow-length sleeves pulled tight around the waist by a whalebone corset.

				It had all the markings of a proper, elegant, and most definitely wealthy wearer.

				*set hasDress true
				*set outfitWord "proper"

				*fake_choice
					#A cream coloured base with gold trimmings and black lace
						*set outfitColour1 "cream"
						*set outfitColour2 "black"
					#Mazarine blue silk with periwinkle chiffon and trim
						*set outfitColour1 "mazarine blue"
						*set outfitColour2 "periwinkle"
					#Layers of scarlet red with highlighted golden accents and embroidery
						*set outfitColour1 "scarlet"
						*set outfitColour2 "gold"
					#This is not the outfit I want—
						*goto fashionchoice1
						
			#A daring silk satin dress, with lace down the low cut front, displaying both collarbone and décolletage
				The silk shimmered around the flattering figure that swayed as one walked. Its tight bodice and enhancing bustle make a distinctly feminine shape, while the trim of lace draws the eyes to the plentiful bare skin on display. The emboldened design was more commonly found in Paris than in London-town.

				It was a dress made to be seen, noticed, and admired. Unless one is in particularly pious gatherings, where one might instead be seen and then quickly shunned.

				*set hasDress true
				*set outfitWord "bold"

				*fake_choice
					#A Paris green sheen with bronze and sparkling highlights
						*set outfitColour1 "vibrant green"
						*set outfitColour2 "bronze"
					#Satin in pale pink and a shade darker in lace and trim 
						*set outfitColour1 "pale pink"
						*set outfitColour2 "rose"
					#Rose red and a hint of black in the lacework
						*set outfitColour1 "rose red"
						*set outfitColour2 "black"
					#This is not the outfit I want—
						*goto fashionchoice1

			#A charming satin and cotton dress trimmed with lace and a soft round neckline
				It was a light dress, which made the skirt lift and flow delicately with the wind. A hugged waist, as is the fashion, was employed, but nothing too tight or constricting. The addition of the trimmings upon trimmings of lace around the sleeves, the rounded neckline, and the skirt created a softened delicate appearance.

				*set hasDress true
				*set outfitWord "delicate"

				*fake_choice
					#Pale peach base and fair cream lace
						*set outfitColour1 "peach"
						*set outfitColour2 "cream"
					#Bleached white cotton and pearly satin
						*set outfitColour1 "white"
						*set outfitColour2 "pearl"
					#Mauve fabrics with lavender lace
						*set outfitColour1 "mauve"
						*set outfitColour2 "lavender"
					#This is not the outfit I want—
						*goto fashionchoice1

			#An airy cotton dress with minimal details, worn comfortably and without a corset, allowing for much movement and ease
				The dress fits you well and is sown to your measurement. But there was no lacing, constricting, or immobility created by the garment. It was comfortable and more than lacking in trimmings. And although Mrs Hudson would nag you about its simplicity, with this dress, errands, work, and life became easier. Much more so than it would be in the constrictions of most fashion today.

				Perhaps it was not a stylish, expensive, or even particularly pretty design. But you would not sacrifice comfort and flexibility for something so silly as what is en vogue.

				*set hasDress true
				*set outfitWord "simple"

				*fake_choice
					#Steel blue fabric throughout
						*set outfitColour1 "blue"
						*set outfitColour2 "more blue"
					#White with small patterns of soft blue
						*set outfitColour1 "white"
						*set outfitColour2 "soft blue"
					#Chestnut dyed cotton with cedar buttons
						*set outfitColour1 "chestnut"
						*set outfitColour2 "cedar"
					#This is not the outfit I want—
						*goto fashionchoice1

	*if (genderMC != "woman") #A suit or coat with trousers—
		*fake_choice
			#Proper wool evening dress suit, lined with satin, and a silk lapel
				The suit and trousers' material, cut, and layers were proper and elegant. The buttons and the cufflinks were expensive and gold-plated. The finishing touch was the smart small bow tie around your neck.

				Without question, your outfit would be welcome at all formal events, theatres, or dinner parties in London.

				*set hasSuit true
				*set hasTrousers true
				*set outfitWord "proper"

				*fake_choice
					#Midnight black with a crisp white waistcoat and tie
						*set outfitColour1 "darkest black"
						*set outfitColour2 "starkest white"
					#Navy blue suit and tie with a white waistcoat 
						*set outfitColour1 "navy blue"
						*set outfitColour2 "white"
					#Mauve base with white waistcoat and steel blue tie
						*set outfitColour1 "mauve"
						*set outfitColour2 "steel blue"
					#This is not the outfit I want—
						*goto fashionchoice1
				*label corset
				And do you wear a corset underneath these clothes?
				*fake_choice
					#No, of course not.
					#Yes—absolutely!
				*goto fashionchoice1_1

			#A short wool and velvet coat displaying a boldly decorated waistcoat and a pair of very tight pants
				The coat's wide collar flaunted the sensational waistcoat, then there were the long tight sleeves and the cut at the hips—it all painted a rather daring and eye-catching figure.

				This outfit was equally likely to cause negative and positive gossip. Either way, they would talk of you.

				*set hasSuit true
				*set hasTrousers true
				*set outfitWord "bold"

				*fake_choice
					#Black wool and velvet with a silky ruby red waistcoat
						*set outfitColour1 "black"
						*set outfitColour2 "ruby red"
					#A wine red coat contrasted with a cream and gold waistcoat, highlighted by a pink cravat
						*set outfitColour1 "wine red"
						*set outfitColour2 "gold"
					#Shades of plum velvet and golden floral brocade all around
						*set outfitColour1 "plum"
						*set outfitColour2 "gold"
					#This is not the outfit I want—
						*goto fashionchoice1

				*goto corset

			#A charming wool morning coat, simple waistcoat, and casual striped trousers
				It was a comfortable outfit with breathable material and friendly air. The cut, fabric, and layers did not fuss nor sweat the details, but still, it managed to escape the label of being too informal for multi-purpose wear.

				*set hasSuit true
				*set hasTrousers true
				*set outfitWord "charming"

				*fake_choice
					#Shades of brown and muted green covering a white shirt underneath 
						*set outfitColour1 "brown"
						*set outfitColour2 "green"
					#Brown coat and copper waistcoat 
						*set outfitColour1 "brown"
						*set outfitColour2 "copper"
					#Light grey coat and dark grey trousers
						*set outfitColour1 "light grey"
						*set outfitColour2 "darker grey"
					#This is not the outfit I want—
						*goto fashionchoice1

			#A plain suit of thin breathable manoeuvrable, possibly unfashionable material.
				The suit covered the important bits and did not hinder you in everyday movement or work; that was all you needed.

				Perhaps Mrs Hudson frequently complained it looked cheap, informal, and boring—but you could not bring yourself to care when you wore such comfort.

				*set hasSuit true
				*set hasTrousers true
				*set outfitWord "simple"

				*fake_choice
					#Brown suit and striped green trousers
						*set outfitColour1 "brown"
						*set outfitColour2 "green"
					#Steel blue suit and grey trousers 
						*set outfitColour1 "steel blue"
						*set outfitColour2 "grey"
					#Black suit and tan trousers
						*set outfitColour1 "black"
						*set outfitColour2 "tan"
					#This is not the outfit I want—
						*goto fashionchoice1

	#Definitely not that—
		*fake_choice
			*if (genderMC != "woman") #An eclectic cotton velveteen coat with a patchwork of colours for a waistcoat and matching trousers.
				The pieces gave off a colourful parade of fantastical colours and fabrics. What fun is there to be had if one's ensemble was not [i]fun[/i]? Really, the populace dressed in their muted greys and once-dyed cotton must be tired of life to dress in things so drab.

				Mrs Hudson does not seem to have come around on the atypical ensemble yet. Apparently, it is causing too much of a stir when you go about town. You really can not see how that is any of your problem.

				*set hasSuit true
				*set hasTrousers true
				*set outfitWord "unique"

				*fake_choice
					#The ensemble consisted [i]mostly[/i] of purples and reds, but many more shades remain 
						*set outfitColour1 "purple"
						*set outfitColour2 "red"
					#The ensemble consisted [i]mostly[/i] of greens and purples, but many more shades remain 
						*set outfitColour1 "green"
						*set outfitColour2 "purple"
					#The ensemble consisted [i]mostly[/i] of blues and browns, but many more shades remain 
						*set outfitColour1 "blue"
						*set outfitColour2 "brown"
					#This is not the outfit I want—
						*goto fashionchoice1

			#Skirt trousers!
				You wore a high-collared blouse trimmed with lightly pleated ruffles, a simple short coat, and a pair of pants that were widened in such a way they fooled most in resembling a skirt. The manoeuvrability—not to mention the airiness of such a trouser invention—simply incredible!

				Even Mrs Hudson has come around on the atypical ensemble. Apparently, it is understated and elegant enough not to cause too much of a stir.

				*set outfitWord "unique"

				*set hasBlouse true
				*set hasSkirt true
				*set hasTrousers true

				*fake_choice
					#White blouse and brown skirt trousers
						*set outfitColour1 "white"
						*set outfitColour2 "brown"
					#White blouse and grey skirt trousers
						*set outfitColour1 "white"
						*set outfitColour2 "grey"
					#Light blue blouse and cream skirt trousers
						*set outfitColour1 "light blue"
						*set outfitColour2 "cream"
					#This is not the outfit I want—
						*goto fashionchoice1

				*goto corset

			*if (genderMC = "woman") #A charming wool morning coat, simple waistcoat, and casual striped trousers
				It was a comfortable outfit with breathable material and friendly air. The cut, fabric, and layers did not fuss nor sweat the details, but still, it managed to escape the label of being too informal for multi-purpose wear.

				Even Mrs Hudson has come around on the more classically masculine ensemble. Apparently, it is understated enough not to cause too much of a stir.

				*set hasSuit true
				*set hasTrousers true
				*set outfitWord "atypical"

				*fake_choice
					#Shades of brown and muted green covering a white shirt underneath 
						*set outfitColour1 "brown"
						*set outfitColour2 "green"
					#Brown coat and copper waistcoat 
						*set outfitColour1 "brown"
						*set outfitColour2 "copper"
					#Light grey coat and dark grey trousers
						*set outfitColour1 "light grey"
						*set outfitColour2 "darker grey"
					#This is not the outfit I want—
						*goto fashionchoice1

			#An elegant dress-like frock with thin pants.
				A frock cinched at the waist and flared at the end just above the knee, giving the silhouette of a short dress worn with matching light trousers. It truly was the best of both the masculine and the feminine—the twirl of a skirt, the cinch of a waist, and the manoeuvrability of pant legs.

				Even Mrs Hudson has come around on the atypical ensemble. Apparently, it is understated and elegant enough not to cause too much of a stir.

				*set outfitWord "atypical"
				*set hasSuit true
				*set hasTrousers true
				*set hasDress true

				*fake_choice
					#Cream-coloured frock and pants with a black cinching belt
						*set outfitColour1 "cream"
						*set outfitColour2 "black"
					#Steel blue frock and dark grey pants
						*set outfitColour1 "steel blue"
						*set outfitColour2 "dark grey"
					#Navy blue frock and black pants
						*set outfitColour1 "navy blue"
						*set outfitColour2 "black"
					#This is not the outfit I want—
						*goto fashionchoice1

				*goto corset


			*if (genderMC != "man") #A vintage design based on the empire waist dress of the early century
				Fitted tightly under the bust and generously lifted by undergarments made the fabric fall loosely and prettily to the toes. The arms were uncovered, except for a sliver of decorated material on the edge of the shoulder. And the sleeves of the dress were embellished by expert thread. 

				It was old-fashioned. 

				But it allowed both a flattering silhouette and unbothered breathing, which was otherwise unlikely today. Not to mention the movability! Why—you could go on walks upon walks—completely unhindered!

				*set hasDress true
				*set outfitWord "demode"

				*fake_choice
					#Embroidered muslin and lace in white
						*set outfitColour1 "white"
						*set outfitColour2 "more white"
					#Soft green silk with faded gold lining
						*set outfitColour1 "green"
						*set outfitColour2 "gold"
					#Pale lilac muslin and silk mauve trim 
						*set outfitColour1 "lilac"
						*set outfitColour2 "mauve"
					#This is not the outfit I want—
						*goto fashionchoice1

*label fashionchoice1_1

Then there were your shoes—

*fake_choice
	#Almost always with some heel 
		*set prefersHeels true
	#Flat, sturdy comfortable bottoms
		*set prefersHeels false

And how you decorate yourself today and most days—

*fake_choice
	#Preferring to be dripping in jewels and pearls from head to toe
		*set hasAccessories true
		*set hasBracelet true
		*set hasEarrings true 
		*set hasNecklace true
		*set hasRings true
		*set amountOfAccessories "draped in accessories"
	#Wearing a wristwatch and on occasion my signet ring
		*set hasAccessories true
		*set hasWatch true
		*set hasRings true
		*set amountOfAccessories "the odd accessory"
	#Wearing the occasional earrings, bracelets, necklaces, or rings—but in moderation
		*set hasAccessories true
		*set hasBracelet true
		*set hasEarrings true 
		*set hasNecklace true
		*set hasRings true
		*set amountOfAccessories "the odd accessory"
	#I do not accessorise
		*set hasAccessories false
		*set amountOfAccessories "without accessories"

*label fashionChoice2

*if (hasDress)
	You make sure to add a hidden pocket in all your dresses, which is where you keep—
	*goto fashionChoice3
*if (hasTrousers)
	In your pockets you always keep—
	*goto fashionChoice3
*if (hasSuit)
	In your suit pockets you always keep—
	*goto fashionChoice3
*if (hasSkirt)
	You make sure to add a hidden pocket in all your skirts, which is where you keep—
	*goto fashionChoice3
*else
	In your coat pockets you always keep—
	*goto fashionChoice3

*label fashionChoice3

*fake_choice
	#A now barely functioning pocket-watch
		*set pocketItemType "pocketWatch"
		*fake_choice
			#From Watson
				*set pocketItemFunction "nostalgic"
				*set pocketItemBackground "Watson"
			#From Mycroft, my brother
				*set pocketItemFunction "nostalgic"
				*set pocketItemBackground "Mycroft"
			#A family heirloom 
				*set pocketItemFunction "nostalgic"
				*set pocketItemBackground "family"
			#I bought it with the first money I earned
				*set pocketItemFunction "nostalgic"
				*set pocketItemBackground "money"
			#You nicked it from [i]him[/i] while the coppers were putting chains on him, simply something to remember it all by
				*set pocketItemFunction "nostalgic"
				*set pocketItemBackground "him"
			#Someone in my past gave it to me as a gift
				*set pocketItemFunction "nostalgic"
				*set pocketItemBackground "past"
			#No, wait, it is—
				*goto fashionChoice2

	#A locket with a broken chain
		*set pocketItemType "locket"
		*fake_choice
			#It holds a small miniature of Watson.
				*set pocketItemFunction "picture"
				*set pocketItemBackground "Watson"
			#It holds a locket of Watson's hair... $!{j_he} does not know I have it.
				*set pocketItemFunction "hair"
				*set pocketItemBackground "Watson"
			#It holds two small miniatures. One of my father and one of my mother.
				*set pocketItemFunction "pictures"
				*set pocketItemBackground "parents"
			#It holds two small miniatures. One of my brother Mycroft in his youth, and one of me as a child. He had one made too.
				*set pocketItemFunction "pictures"
				*set pocketItemBackground "Mycroft"
			#It holds crystal cyanide salt, an effective water-soluble poison. Best to be prepared for anything.
				*set pocketItemFunction "poison"
				*set pocketItemBackground "sherlock"
			*if (cope = "taking drugs") #I put some... helpful medicaments in the compartment.
				*set pocketItemFunction "medicine"
				*set pocketItemBackground "sherlock"
			*if (cope = "smoking") #I put some tobacco snuff in the compartment.
				*set pocketItemFunction "tobacco"
				*set pocketItemBackground "sherlock"
			*if (cope = "eating") #I put some raisins in there.
				*set pocketItemFunction "raisins"
				*set pocketItemBackground "sherlock"
			#No, wait, it is—
				*goto fashionChoice2

	#A ring with a cracked stone and a hidden compartment
		*set pocketItemType "ring"
		*fake_choice
			#It holds crystal cyanide salt, an effective water-soluble poison. Best to be prepared for anything.
				*set pocketItemFunction "poison"
				*set pocketItemBackground "sherlock"
			#It was a gift from Mycroft. It already came prepared with poison—for "self defence".
				*set pocketItemFunction "poison"
				*set pocketItemBackground "Mycroft"
			*if (cope = "taking drugs") #I put some... helpful medicaments in the compartment.
				*set pocketItemFunction "medicine"
				*set pocketItemBackground "sherlock"
			*if (cope = "smoking") #I put some tobacco snuff in the compartment.
				*set pocketItemFunction "tobacco"
				*set pocketItemBackground "sherlock"
			*if (cope = "eating") #I put some raisins in there.
				*set pocketItemFunction "raisins"
				*set pocketItemBackground "sherlock"
			#No, wait, it is—
				*goto fashionChoice2

And in front of your ${eyeColour} eyes is—
*fake_choice
	#Thick-rimmed glasses
		*set hasGlasses true
		*set glassesType "thick"
		*set glassesItem "thick rimmed glasses"
	#Rounded glasses
		*set hasGlasses true
		*set glassesType "round"
		*set glassesItem "rounded glasses"
	#Thin metal framed glasses
		*set hasGlasses true
		*set glassesType "thin"
		*set glassesItem "thin metal framed glasses"
	#Nothing

And that was you.

How you appeared to the people on the streets of London,
*if (hasHat) 
	hat on—like most—on top of your ${hairstyleT} ${hairColourC} hair,
*if (hasHat = false) 
	no hat—unlike most—on top of your ${hairstyleT} ${hairColourC} hair,
*if (hasGlasses) 
	${glassesType} glasses—which was not the norm,
${amountOfAccessories}, 
and
dressed in ${outfitColour1} and ${outfitColour2}, styled in a most ${outfitWord} fashion.

Not that it mattered so very much what you wore—

*if (attractive = 1)
	*comment unattractive
	People habitually diverted their eyes much too quickly from you. As if the sight was painful. And when they did, there was always a small frown at the brow or the mouth, signalling their evident distaste. The behaviour seemed almost instinctual. It happened to the youth, inexperienced in societal ideals, as well as to the mature folks—which one would expect to have more practised and evident designs in disguising their disgust.

	You have been told, by words and actions, that you are unattractive.

	*fake_choice
		#And when I looked at the mirror image, I, too, frowned at the sight.
			*set thinkIsUgly true
			It was not what you wanted—the reflection in front of you.

			And you did not have the words to describe the pain that brought.
		#But what I saw was a pleasing face. One I loved. Even if others did not.
			*set thinkIsPretty true
			The reflection in front of you brought you joy. But others did not—

			And you did not have the words to describe the pain that brought.
		#Except, staring back at me is a gorgeous individual, so there really has to be some other explanation for all that.
			*set thinkIsPretty true
			Perhaps it is an elaborate lie to put down someone so amazingly good-looking? Whatever, or why-ever, you were treated as you are, it had no impact on how you saw yourself. 

			You were exquisite. 

			And that was the truth.
		#It was a face looking back at me. Simply a face. I did not concern myself with any facial function beyond identification and communication.
			*set thinkIsWhatIs true
			What a useless worry to have. Wasting mental effort on something that will, beyond any doubt, fade with time.

			Your appearance was what it was. And for its purpose—

			That would do.


*if (attractive = 2)
	*comment plain
	People had a habit of looking past you. It was as if your countenance and complexion inspired... nothing. No fear, no hate, no love, no awe. You were simply there. And for the most part, you were in the way of more sparkling imagery. Sometimes, at a distance, you think they looked at you and saw someone different. Someone striking. But then you approach, or they would, and soon they too would search for something more interesting to stare at.

	You have been told, by words and actions, that you are average and plain.

	*fake_choice
		#And when I looked at the mirror image, I frowned at the sight.
			*set thinkIsUgly true
			It was not what you wanted—the reflection in front of you.

			And you did not have the words to describe the pain that brought.
		#But what I saw was a very pleasing face. One I loved. Even if others did not.
			*set thinkIsPretty true
			The reflection in front of you brought you joy. But others did not—

			And you did not have the words to describe the pain that brought.
		#Except, staring back at me is a gorgeous individual, so there really has to be some other explanation for all that.
			*set thinkIsPretty true
			Perhaps it is an elaborate lie to put down someone so amazingly good-looking? Whatever, or why-ever, you were treated as you are, it had no impact on how you saw yourself. 

			You were exquisite. 

			And that was the truth.
		#However, meeting my gaze in the mirror is a hideous monster. Therefore, people must have been exercising kindness with such words.
			*set thinkIsUgly true
			Perhaps it is an elaborate lie to humiliate, placate, or pity the poor ghastly beast. Whatever, or why-ever, you were treated as you are, it had no impact on how you saw yourself. 

			You were hideous. 

			And that was the truth.
		#It was a face looking back at me. Simply a face. I did not concern myself with any facial function beyond identification and communication.
			*set thinkIsWhatIs true
			What a useless worry to have. Wasting mental effort on something that will, beyond any doubt, fade with time.

			Your appearance was what it was. And for its purpose—

			That would do.


*if (attractive = 3)
	*comment attractive
	Strangers always seemed... pleasantly surprised, whenever you appeared. They would glance with smiles and brightly wide eyes, yet, should you catch them, they hurriedly averted their view. And when they deemed it safe again to do so, they would return their gaze. This time, lingering a touch too long, travelling your shape and features with impolite manners. Over and over.

	It was as if your face and figure brought value, joy, and interest to a room. Like a pretty painting. Like a flower or a vase. To be displayed and watched. [i]As long as it was still and quiet,[/i] lest it break the fantasy of such decoration.

	You have been told, by words and actions, that you are pleasing to the eye and ideals of the time.

	*fake_choice
		#And staring back at me is a jaw droppingly gorgeous individual, so that all made perfect sense.
			*set thinkIsPretty true
			The reflection in front of you was of someone amazingly good-looking.

			You were exquisite. 

			And that was the truth. In fact, surely others downplay your god-given good looks out of modesty or jealousy...

			Indeed.
		#And what I saw was a very pleasing face. One I loved.
			*set thinkIsPretty true
			The reflection in front of you brought you joy.

			That others thought so too was merely a bonus. [/i]Most of the time...[i]
		#It was a face looking back at me. Simply a face. I did not concern myself with any facial function beyond identification and communication.
			*set thinkIsWhatIs true
			What a useless worry to have. Wasting mental effort on something that will, beyond any doubt, fade with time.

			Your appearance was what it was. And for its purpose—

			That would do.
		#It was a face looking back at me. Simply a face. I... cared for it decently. Flaws, fair features, and all.
			*set thinkIsWhatIs true
			Your appearance was what it was. And for its purpose it did well enough.

			You tried not to worry or fuss. Wasting mental effort on something that will, beyond any doubt, fade with time.

			It... [i]you[/i] would do.
		#But when I looked at the mirror image, I frowned at the sight.
			*set thinkIsUgly true
			It was not what you wanted—the reflection in front of you.

			And you did not have the words to describe the pain that brought.
		#However, meeting my gaze in the mirror is a hideous monster. Therefore, people must have been exercising much kindness with such words.
			*set thinkIsUgly true
			Perhaps this is how most people are looked at, though you have found no proof of it. Perhaps it is an elaborate lie to humiliate, placate, or pity the poor ghastly beast. Whatever, or why-ever, you were treated as you are, it had no impact on how you saw yourself.

			You were hideous. 

			And that was the truth.

*if (attractive = 4)
	*comment Very attractive
	Wherever you went, you were told you were all manner of god-given beauty. Flattery and gifts came often and unprompted. 

	But so did hatred and harsh words from the ones who despised you for what others 'loved' you for. 

	Then there were the stares. Openly. Vulgarly. As if you were a heavy coin purse dangling on a belt, daring to exist in view of the desperate and starving. 

	Boundaries, polite manners, and courtly etiquette flew out the window for anyone with hungry eyes and you in their view. 

	You were wanted for your looks—and you were told, by words and actions, that you are beyond pleasing to the eye and [i]the[/i] ideal in all forms of appearance.

	*fake_choice
		#And staring back at me is a jaw droppingly gorgeous individual, so that all made perfect sense.
			*set thinkIsPretty true
			The reflection in front of you was of someone amazingly good-looking.

			You were exquisite. 

			And that was the truth.
		#And what I saw was a very pleasing face. One I loved.
			*set thinkIsPretty true
			The reflection in front of you brought you joy.

			That others thought so too was... merely a side effect.
		#It was a face looking back at me. Simply a face. I did not concern myself with any facial function beyond identification and communication.
			*set thinkIsWhatIs true
			What a useless worry to have. Wasting mental effort on something that will, beyond any doubt, fade with time.

			Your appearance was what it was. And for its purpose—

			That would do.
		#It was a face looking back at me. Simply a face. I... cared for it decently. Flaws, fair features, and all.
			*set thinkIsWhatIs true
			Your appearance was what it was. And for its purpose it did well enough.

			You tried not to worry or fuss. Wasting mental effort on something that will, beyond any doubt, fade with time.

			It... [i]you[/i] would do.
		#But when I looked at the mirror image, I frowned at the sight.
			*set thinkIsUgly true
			It was not what you wanted—the reflection in front of you.

			And you did not have the words to describe the pain that brought.
		#However, meeting my gaze in the mirror is a hideous monster. Therefore, people must have been exercising much kindness with such words.
			*set thinkIsUgly true
			Perhaps this is how most people are looked at, though you have found no proof of it. Perhaps it is an elaborate lie to humiliate, placate, or pity the poor ghastly beast. Whatever, or why-ever, you were treated as you are, it had no impact on how you saw yourself.

			You were hideous. 

			And that was the truth.


*comment You knew the power of a well placed smile.

*page_break
You straighten out the fabric of your
*if (hasTrousers)
	trousers,
	*goto dressingDone
*elseif (hasDress)
	dress,
	*goto dressingDone
*elseif (hasSkirt)
	skirt,
	*goto dressingDone
*else
	outfit,
*label dressingDone
feeling quite done with self-reflection and ready to move on—

Just as you notice the letter on your dresser. On the usual pile. 

With a blood-red wax seal in the middle. A large red mark holding it shut from view, teasing you. Which would have been more than enough any other day to tear it open.

But, today, letters hold a sense of dread for you. Today, you hesitate.

*fake_choice
	#I need to have reasonable expectations—
	#I must not believe the extraordinary—

You have to get back control.

No more wishing for covert cabals or murder with the perfect penetration.

The master of your fate is [i]you[/i]. No one else.

Therefore—

*fake_choice
	#I, obviously, open the letter.

There is only one page and writing on both the front and back.

The hand in which it is written is not complex nor crude. It twirls slightly on the S's, breaks on the M's, and does not attempt to flatter the reader with particular care or flourish.

But the spacing and margins are without error. Perfect. Tiptoeing the line to the T.

Singular. 

Very little care, yet so exact.

*page_break

The paper stock is thick and white—not cream. 

Expensive enough. Unmarked by a monogram or embellished. Unscented. 

You smell it deep. Not a hint of anything.

Nothing but paper and ink.

*fake_choice
	#The scent brings nothing to the surface but memories of letters in my past.
		So far, it appears to be, simply, a letter. One of many. That is all—
	#I breathe it in again and again.
		*set romanceX + 1
		You must be imagining it. But the air in proximity to the ink is sweet on your tongue, and the bitter aftertaste is quickly forgotten by yet another deep breath.
	#Perhaps yet another sniff would give a clue as to who is the sender—
		*set friendshipX + 1
		Ink of iron and apple of oak... and wine? You have been met with worse ingredients before, much worse indeed.

*fake_choice
	#I take in the words on the front page

[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]

*temp riddle ""

*fake_choice
	#'That oldest riddle'... It must be referring to—
		*label schoolWrong
		You bring the letter with you, to a book pushed aside and behind the stacks.

		Turning the pages quickly to the chapter of ancient Sumer, there is a footnote in the margin—

		[i]The reader might care to know that it is the current opinion, although contested by some, that the oldest riddle was written here. Translated from Sumerian, it reads: 'There is a house. One enters it blind and comes out seeing. What is it?'[/i]

		The answer—
		*page_break
		*goto school

	#It is not the riddle that matters. It is the answer—which you obviously already know—
		*if (goodAt = "knowledge")
			*goto school

		*input_text riddle
		*if ((riddle = "school") or (riddle = "School"))
			You remember reading a book once. Found in the footnotes on the chapter on ancient Sumer—
			*line_break
			[i]The reader might care to know that it is the current opinion, although contested by some, that the oldest riddle was written here. Translated from Sumerian, it reads, 'There is a house. One enters it blind and comes out seeing. What is it?'[/i]

			*label school
			School.

			The answer is: school.

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

			It is true. You spend much time researching and studying—at home or in an institution. Wherever you can, and it has always been so.

			And, apparently, so does this... [i]X[/i].

			[i]Do you know them?[/i]

			*fake_choice
				#You turn the letter page to read the back
			*goto backOfPage
		*else
			No, no—you know for a fact you have seen the answer—
			*page_break
			*goto schoolWrong

	#Read the back of the page

*label backOfPage

In the same manner, as the front page was written, is— 

[i]Only, you and I[/i] 

—at the top, only to be followed by twenty-two lines of a lightly altered hand.

*line_break

From childhood’s hour I have not been

As others were—I have not seen

As others saw—I could not bring

My passions from a common spring—

From the same source I have not taken

My sorrow—I could not awaken

My heart to joy at the same tone—

And all I lov’d—I lov’d alone—

Then—in my childhood—in the dawn

Of a most stormy life—was drawn

From ev’ry depth of good and ill

The mystery which binds me still—

From the torrent, or the fountain—

From the red cliff of the mountain—

From the sun that ’round me roll’d

In its autumn tint of gold—

From the lightning in the sky

As it pass’d me flying by—

From the thunder, and the storm—

And the cloud that took the form

[i]When the rest of Heaven was blue[/i]

Of a demon in my view—

*line_break

And in the corner is [i]'Alone' by Edgar Allan Poe[/i] scribbled. 

*page_break

This was, by far—

*fake_choice
	#The most intriguing yet strange letter I have ever received. 
		It was unusual, true. But you can not help but appreciate the game the writer plays—
		*label letterHowUFeel
		*fake_choice
			#The claimed connection
				Do they know you? Or do they simply wish to? You think, perhaps, you too want—
			#The subtle threat
				The danger—it's all very terrific. It's—
			#The mentioned gift
				What did they give me? Is it what you think it is—
			#The riddle
				The way into your mind is to challenge it—and you appreciate the attempt, you might even—
			#The poem
				The poem. How beautiful it was. Never before have you—
			#The writing style of the author
				Their exactness is more than impressive, it's—
			#The mystery of the letter and its sender
				Dressed in a cape of intrigue, you imagine peeling away such a layer and— 
			#It was all terrible captivating.
				There was not a word wrong. Oh, how you wish—
		
		—but the thought about to leave your lips is held by the sound of the hall clock making its heavy din.

		Putting the letter in your pocket and attempting to put it away from your mind, you head downstairs for dinner.

	#The most fascinating and, frankly, attractive letter I have ever received. 
		*set romanceX + 1
		The words feel engraved on your skin as much as on your mind. In particular—
		*goto letterHowUFeel
	#The most absurd and ridiculous letter I have ever received.
		*set friendshipX - 1
		What in the world—who sends these things?!

		Now you have to tell Watson you have what seems to be another delusional fan on your hands...

		[i]Not again.[/i]

		—but whatever sigh was about to leave your lips is held by the sound of the hall clock making its heavy din.

		Putting the letter aside and away from your mind, you head downstairs for dinner.

	#The most chill-inducing, heart-beating, terrifying thing I have ever received.
		*set friendshipX - 1
		What in the world—who sends these things?!

		Now you have to tell Watson you have what seems to be another delusional fan on your hands...

		[i]Not again.[/i]

		—but whatever curse was close to falling from your lips is held by the sound of the hall clock making its heavy din.

		Putting the letter aside and away from your mind, you head downstairs for dinner.

*page_break

Arriving at the dining room, you notice Mrs Hudson has decorated with the finer porcelain—not the ones saved for the aristocracy. And definitely not the one kept safe should royalty appear at the door. But the current tableware was definitely near the best. Well... the best of her worst. 

Watson does not seem to mind, standing by ${j_hi} seat, awed by the paintings on the tableware. China blue flowers and pretty leaves swirled around the stacked plates. And over them, placed high, was the whole oven-roasted pheasant, surrounded by twigs of thyme. Accompanying it was roast vegetables, a gelatinous fruit affair, mushroom pudding, and a lentil soup. 

For some particular reason, that you have yet to uncover, Mrs Hudson often chose to forego the course structure and plop it all down at once. And Watson would always tell her how fine an idea that was.

It did give the diner more freedom in choice, and you, you sit down and—

*fake_choice
	#Eat from every dish and find it all quite delightful
	#You avoid the meat, as you always do
		*set vegetarian true
	#You avoid the pheasant the whole time. It has a shocking resemblance to your new pet...
	#Push the food around on your plate, finding it particularly unpalatable tonight

The dinner passes in a blur of Watson regaling Mrs Hudson on today's afternoon bird-related affair. Mrs Hudson, in turn, tells you both of her day, which was significantly less interesting. And the doctor at the table, after explaining a rather new and intriguing medical procedure, leads the conversation back to the scene of this morning's murder.

*if (arguedLCh2)
	"You see, Mrs Hudson, there I was, meeting and talking with some very kind and new people—I look over my shoulder to the other side of the crime scene... And would you guess what I see? Yes, you, Mrs Hudson, you are absolutely right. Our very own detective and inspector arguing, once again—in public! Visible anger and frown lines on Lestrade's face from eighty feet. If I am honest, I wish I could have overheard some of the words..."

	Two pairs of eager eyes turn to you, begging and pleading for you to spill any secrets from your rumoured spat with ${lestradeName}.

	*fake_choice
		#"No, absolutely not. I shall not add to your gossip-filled brains with more such nonsense."
			"No, absolutely not. I shall not add to your gossip-filled brains with more such nonsense."

			"Ah—that is a real shame, Sherlock," Watson says with not so much of a trace of genuine sadness. "But do not worry, Mrs Hudson, I was over-hasty, there was much more that happened to-day! It started, you see, when 
			*goto continueDinnerConvo
		#"That—that is private!"
			"That—that is private!"

			"Ah, is that so, Sherlock?" Watson says with more than a trace of genuine amusement and a chuckle to ${j_hi} voice. "If you won't entertain us then there is nothing to talk of... Oh! Do not worry, Mrs Hudson, I was over-hasty. There was much more that happened to-day! It started, you see, when 
			*goto continueDinnerConvo
		#"Lestrade was being a real tyrant right then! You would not believe what ${l_he} said to me—"
			"Lestrade was being a real tyrant right then! You would not believe what ${l_he} said to me—"

			You regal them with the event that occurred—

			"Ah, sadly, it seems we have run out of gossip, Mrs Hudson," Watson chuckles, turning back to the hostess and tapping ${j_hi} finger twice on the table. "No—I was over-hasty. There was much more that happened to-day! It started, you see, when 
		#"... Eh, it was just Lestrade being Lestrade. That's it."
			"... Eh, it was just Lestrade being Lestrade. That's it."

			"Ah—a shame," Watson says with a trace of genuine sadness. "well... what to say... Oh! Mrs Hudson, I was over-hasty in my previous retelling. You see, there was much more that happened to-day! It started when 
		#"No."
			"No."

			"Ah—that is a real shame, Sherlock," Watson says with not so much of a trace of genuine sadness. "But do not worry, Mrs Hudson, I was over-hasty. There was much more that happened to-day! It started, you see, when 
		#"Lestrade and I got into another squabble..." I say with a sigh.
			"Lestrade and I got into another squabble..." You say with a sigh.

			"Ah—a shame," Watson says with more than a trace of genuine sadness. "well... what to say... Oh! Mrs Hudson, I was over-hasty in my previous retelling. You see, there was much more that happened to-day! It started when 
		#"Lestrade and I got into another squabble..." I say with a smile.
			"Lestrade and I got into another squabble..." You say with a smile.

			"Ah—that is a real shame, Sherlock," Watson says with a trace of genuine confusion. "But do not worry, Mrs Hudson, I shall regale us. I was over-hasty before. There was much more that happened to-day! It started, you see, when 

*if (arguedLCh2 = false)
	"You see, Mrs Hudson, 
	*label continueDinnerConvo
	I, too, received the summons from the inspector—only I was in the middle of surgery at the time. So when I finally got down there, it was all but finished! 
	*if (acceptedBlanket)
		I happen on Sherlock wrapped in a blanket, appearing very lost in thought, and the inspector squaring away the suspect. It was all rather anticlimactic. But I had to be there for—well, it would have been rather strange had I not showed. I am the writer of Sherlock's stories, after all."
	*if (acceptedBlanket = false)
		I happen on Sherlock very lost in thought and the inspector leading away the suspect. It was all rather anticlimactic. But I had to be there for—well, it would have been rather strange had I not showed. I am the writer of Sherlock's stories, after all."

*label ChoiceAtDinner

*fake_choice
	#"You do not have to appear [i]every time[/i], Watson. There is such a thing as too much."
	#"I could tell you the stories afterwards if it is too much for you?"
	#"Yes, you have to be there. My mind works much better when you are around."
	#"I much prefer when you are there, ${johnName}. I depend on you."
	#"That is giving yourself rather much credit, don't you think?"

Mrs Hudson chuckles, "Oh, ${johnName}, you do stick to Sherlock as much as glue. Give the poor dear room to breathe! For it's not always best, you know, to have a shoulder to lean on." She pokes the spoon handle in the air at you and shakes her head. "At times, dependencies are a fault. And coddling is detrimental. It's how I always raised my birds. Too fussy, and they eer flew away first moment they could. But, take a step back when you let them explore beyond the room outside the cage, and they remain. And oh, were they better for it! Oh, yes. Indeed, they were. And what pretty happy things they were, one sang such—"

Mrs Hudson continues in detail on the ranking of the singing accomplishment of her past birds. But, you notice Watson is not listening to her. Instead, ${j_he} looks down at ${j_hi} plate. $!{j_hi} brows are deeply furrowed, and the spoon, while still in hand, remains suspended, frozen in place. 

Whatever ${j_he} is thinking, you are not privy to it.

Although... 

You find you wish you were.

*page_break

*comment Either the butler conversation--probably platonic. Or complimenting/commenting outfits. "I am sure I've said so many times now, but I really like that dress" — mc: "I know. That is why I wore it."
*comment or add scene here if you did not get a scene (if you have bird knowledge).

*comment /// Insert possible extra scene? Romance scene?

*comment Do we need one? yes/no? i have an idea.

*comment !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
*comment add famous/infamous before "detective" when the first big case bacground had been added--
*comment !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Dinner over and conversation running dry, the occupants return to their nightly occupations.

And for the detective of London–


*fake_choice
	#The rest of the evening is spent in [i]distraction[/i]
		Distraction is never far, not when you know where to get it.

		But it leads to restless dreary dreaming—
	#You rest early, hoping for a more murderous morning
		You intend to sleep into a better day, but discover your sweet slumber slaughtered by dreary dreaming—



*fake_choice
	#You find yourself sitting at a sunny picnic late at night
		"Tea?" Mrs Hudson thrusts the elephant teapot in your view.

		You nod, agreeing to drink the liquid of a pastel chalk blue. It almost bubbles out of the long snout.

		The happy elephant toots its trunk, happy to pour, happy to be.

		[i]It's a good day. Happy day.[/i]

		"Yes, happy day, happy day," Mrs Hudson concurs, her pink hair bobbing in the soft breeze.

		[i]Pink hair... How does one get pink hair?[/i]

		"Drink your tea now! Otherwise, Mr Hudson will be very cross with you—yes, he will," Mrs Hudson's hair tells you sternly.

		"Mmm, yes, drink it. [i]Before[/i] it turns cold," Mrs Hudson agrees.

		[i]If they both think so... Perhaps you should?[/i]

		*fake_choice
			#I drink it
				You bring the cup to your lips, but the odour of spilt perfume and tangy sea hits you, and you find yourself unable to stomach it.

				"I can not drink this..."

				"How awful you are! Insulting the dear tea, it will most definitely turn cold now. Last time it did not talk to me for a week—"

				[i]Is it the hair that talks now?[/i]
			#I refuse to drink it
				"I can not drink [i]this[/i]!"

				"How awful you are! Insulting the dear tea, it will most definitely turn cold now. Last time it did not talk to me for a week—"

				[i]Is it the hair that talks now?[/i]
			#"What happens if the tea gets cold?"
				"What happens if the tea gets cold?" you ask.

				"Tea does not simply [i]get[/i] cold—it turns cold—if you insult it, of course." 

				[i]Is it the hair that talks now?[/i]

		"Don't be so [i]terribly[/i] rude, Sherlock".

		[i]Perhaps. Both hair and mouth moved... How strange...[/i]

		"Oh—now you've done it! The tea is crying."

		The cup filled to the brim spills over. Pretty blue tears cascade down the side.

		[i]Tea does not cry—it spills...[/i]

		None of this makes any sense. 

		This... this is a dream—


	*if ((romanceW > 0) and (johnAttracted)) #Your vision is filled with a view of eyes so blue—of love so true
		*set romanceW + 1
		You know those eyes, the ones with all the colours of the sky.

		They look into yours with such tender hope. 

		How could you not care—feel close—to the owner... whose name escapes you. The one with the golden heart and familiar golden flecks between iris and soul.

		You know that curve and that line.

		"What are you waiting for?" a voice calls.

		The shapes now stare with some other design, unlike hope—as the sky turns stormy. 

		"Perhaps, I am in your way?" the voice saddens.

		[i]What is this?[/i]

		The eyes turn away. Leaving you cold and alone.

		*fake_choice
			#Reach out to them
				Your hands grab soft silk. [i]Stay[/i], you think or say.

				The figure stills. "Stay?"

				*fake_choice
					#"Is that not what you want?"
					#"It is what I want."

				The figure inches closer, not away.

				"Then. Do you care, as I? Do you love, when I?"

				[i]Love? I never thought of love...[/i]

				This is a dream. I do not have... [i]Love[/i].

				"What are you waiting for?" the voice echoes.

				This dream, you—I need to

				Wake. 

				Wake!

				WAKE!

			#Let them go
		
				They are gone. And the emptiness is a heavy presence.

				But they would never leave, would they?

				[i]They[/i]...

				[i]Have I let them go?[/i]

				[i]Did I want that? Was that my true desire?![/i]

				This is wrong. This is—

				A dream.

				Without them, without anyone—you—I need to.

				Wake. 

				Wake!

				WAKE!


	*if (romanceL > 0) #Dark eyes look into yours, burning bright with desire
		*set romanceL + 1
		You know those eyes, the ones with the colour of night.

		They stare at you and you see yourself.

		In their reflection. With your lines in their scars.

		"You should not be here," a voice calls.

		The darkness of the eyes expands—turns—consuming.

		"Stay away," the voice pleads.

		[i]What is this?[/i]

		The eyes try to close, but black paint pours, puddles, and covers completely.

		[i]Why? How do I—[/i]

		Grasping towards, your fingers become coated, cold and heavy by its pulsating course.

		*fake_choice
			#Reach out further
				Your hands push through and find slick skin beneath.

				[i]I can mend it[/i], you think or say.

				As the figure melts into your touch.

				*fake_choice
					#"And you will help me too?"
					#"I will, I can..."

				The figure inches closer, not away.

				"Will you fade, when I do? As I do?"

				Their skin feels warm to the touch. Strange and soothing.

				"What if I love?"

				[i]Love? I never thought of love...[/i] 

				This must be a dream. I do not have... [i]Love[/i].

				"You and I..." the voice echoes.

				This dream, you—I need to

				Wake. 

				Wake!

				WAKE!
 
			#Run away

				You travel fast. Far from sight. 

				But now, their emptiness is a heavy burden.

				What will happen to them now?

				A chill courses through your blood.

				[i]Did I let them go?[/i]

				[i]Did I want that? Was that my true desire?![/i]

				This is wrong. This is—

				A dream.

				Without them, without anyone—you—I need to.

				Wake. 

				Wake!

				WAKE!



	*if (romanceX > 0) #You feel a feather pen pouring ink on your skin and a pair of alluring red eyes that follows
		*set romanceX + 1
		Of cursive lines, across smooth planes and jagged edges.

		Pools of paint on your paper-thin skin.

		Words of love, understanding, cold, commands.

		You and I, it whispers as the feather traces your shape.

		[i]Only[/i], you and I, it signs as a binding contract.

		And off the knife-like tip drips blood, large drops of ruby red—

		Eyes that stare.

		*line_break

		[i]Sweet dreams,[/i] Sherlock.

	#You awake with no memory of a dream, only a fretful night
		You sleep through the night, discontent and unsettled, but unaffected or wiped clean of any memory that the night might have conjured.





*finish







------------------------------------------


—- small talk for the dinner

Watson mentions that Watson, and technically Sherlock too, got a letter of complaint from the butlers association of Great Britain expressing their displeasure of butlers being mentioned in a negative light in your stories. 
"The stories are not fiction, which makes the whole complaint ridiculous! Besides, we exonerated more butlers than we proved were thugs, accomplices, or thieves. They should be grateful we decreased the amount of newspaper headlines—they should know by now the upperclasses are quick to blame the help, and therefore, the butler does rarely do the crime they are accused of. WHICH WE PROVE! I am sorry Watson, I am simply agitated. But It is as if people do not think at all."



read letter and think you need to get a grip—find "normal but fun" cases and be good again. no chasing waterfalls, and no giving up and giving in.








