*set implicit_control_flow true



*temp Miss "Mixter"

*temp ser "ser"

*temp person "person"
*if (genderMC = "man")
	*set ser "man"
	*set person "man"
	*set Miss "Mister"
*if (genderMC = "woman")
	*set ser "woman"
	*set person "woman"
	*set Miss "Miss"

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


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

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

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





*temp bStyleAdjective1 ""
*if (bProper)
	*set bStyleAdjective1 "elegant and expensive"
*if (bDelicate)
	*set bStyleAdjective1 "adorable"
*if (bCharming)
	*set bStyleAdjective1 "charmingly dressed"
*if (bBold)
	*set bStyleAdjective1 "bold"
*if (bSimple)
	*set bStyleAdjective1 "simply dressed"










*temp modisteIsATraitor false



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

*temp HRomance false
*if (romanceW > 0)
	*set HRomance true



*temp dress "dress"
*if (bWearingDress = false)
	*set dress "suit"
*elseif (ZeusStyle)
	*set dress "costume"


*temp mo_woman "woman"
*temp mo_female "female"
*temp moName "???"

*temp mo_madam "madam"

*temp mo_she "she"
*temp mo_hers "hers"
*temp mo_herm "her"
*temp mo_her "her"
*temp mo_herself "herself"
*temp mo_s "s"
*temp mo_es "es"

*temp fille "gentille fille"

*temp mo_callsMC ""
*temp mo_girl ""


*if (isModiste = false)
	*set modiste "tailor"

	*temp mo_woman "man"
	*temp mo_female "male"
	*temp moName "???"

	*set fille "gentil garçon"

	*temp mo_madam "mister"

	*temp mo_she "he"
	*temp mo_hers "his"
	*temp mo_herm "him"
	*temp mo_her "his"
	*temp mo_herself "himself"
	*temp mo_s "s"
	*temp mo_es "es"




*temp hWanderedOffAtIntro false



*temp usedHsName false


*goto startofCH62


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


OLD TEXT


The grand hall ceiling was fabulously domed and stretched so high a songbird could very well soar. Windows were in yellow and green, bending the moonlight into something divine. The rooms' walls were cloaked in a buttery beige tapestry, lined with many marble pillars. It would appear excessive, yet for some indescribable balance—instead, it gave a quality of demure richness that fills the spaces. Moreover, much like the museum's contents and many current inhabitants, the building's details are old and carved to last.

Hung by the foyer is a portrait of a woman with a peculiar glare. Her small eyes follow you across the entrance as masked men and women of flesh, rather than paint strokes, stare at you as you step further and further in. 

It was peculiar…

Even this, the first room, proves that people who believe themselves to be anonymous abandon decorum and study all details of their surroundings with abandon. Evidently, few hold your skill of absorbing details at a glance.

They all look, and leer, and glare and gaze longingly at everyone and everything.

A porter by the door studies your group and reappears with four beautifully crafted masks, each matching the colours of your fabrics and threads. 

The piece handed to you is a half-face mask, a 'Colombina', a Venetian masquerade mask, and tied with a ribbon at the back. 
The mask:

-> Frail and gilded and light, the royal designs favour the affluent and fair. The mask lifts the corners high and gives the wearer a smouldering or bashful impression, depending on the angle it is in sight. And if one gets close, the small diamonds reveal the true cost of such an item and the one adorned with its price.

-> Magically mysterious, the iridescent shades shimmer, its eyes cut out in fascinating cat-like windows. This mask reveals no hint of clear expression, no truth from the wearer. In its opaline hues, it carries the secrets of the wearer better than any friend, closer than the grave. 

-> In the true spirit of Carnivale, the wearer shows pomp and pride. Feathers at the top follow the face, and stones and gems shine in the light. Colours rich and opulent. All textures and forms transform this one object into a being of pleasure and play of indisputable delight.

-> A dark, shaded mask of an angry appearance. The eyes and bridge of the nose curve in a sneer, the cheek high and sharp. Intense intimidation, for none but the wearer will see this in a pleasant light to wield such a ferocious sight.

-> The duality of two sides arises in this one disguise. One sight light, another night. Happy, mad—sanity, sad. The ideal cover from enemies and friends alike.

-> A mixture of thin metal, thread, and lace—slithers close to your features, enveloping but still showing all you are. Nothing is hidden, but the game is played, and your veneer is perfected.













*comment Build up the location.
*comment a final glimpse of moonlight contrasts the warm orange hue with the starved white. 


*label startofCH62

*if (travellsWith = "W")
	The heavy door creaks close behind your party of Mrs Hudson, Watson, and you. And as the gate shuts, there is a final glimpse of moonlight opposing the warm orange hue with the stark, starved, white stone. Natural colours. Natural shapes. 
*else
	The heavy door creaks close behind your party of Mrs Hudson, Watson, Hawthorne, and you. And as the gate shuts, there is a final glimpse of moonlight opposing the warm orange hue with the stark, starved, white stone. Natural colours. Natural shapes. 

All that you know.

And then.

You turn and face... an altogether new world. 

A new realm. Too loud, in all the ways. With glitter and masks, a myriad of heady scents, and music tinged with gaiety—a mid-fall-night dream of eerie pixie dust and gold.

There is a woman who's wearing a donkey's head, and you see a man with whiskers glued upon his cheeks.

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

Feeling... well...

You followed a letter into a new scene of someone else's design, ${feelAboutBallPre}

*comment "and yet you feel extremely ready to fight this new challenge."
*comment "and yet you feel ready to confront this new challenge."
*comment "and so you feel unsteady... to confront this vague new challenge."
*comment "and so you feel... naturally curious of the one who called you here."
*comment "and you hardly care for the paper now—truly not at all, why you are here. A ball is to be had!"
*comment "and so you feel unsteady. Not for the challenge of the letter, mind you... But a [i]ball[/i]... A harrowing thought all on its own."
*comment "and you know you are more than enough to confront this challenge."
*comment "and so you feel, naturally, furious at the one who called you here! You! How, you ask, dare they? Foolish imp. Scoundrel and scallywag—way beyond their own depths. Plainly, an arse. You will find them and tell them to shove off and not bother you again."
*comment "and so you feel unsteady... to confront this vague new challenge set on someone else’s terms."

*comment Cut: Stay alert in this new world. /// No need to fear this new world.

*page_break

*if (bPrettied = "none")
	There are mirrors in this greeting hall. Large, heavy, gilded things that could fall and flatten a large person, as well as a smaller one. Could [i]maybe[/i] get two, if timed right.

	Polished though.

	Pretty too.

	And you catch a glimpse of your figure in a reflection in one of them, the silver glass a ${bMainColour} display as you walk past.

	But you do not look too closely. 
	For you look, in many ways, just like yourself tonight.

	There's no change to gaze or gawk at now.



*elseif (bPrettied = "less") 
	There are mirrors in this greeting hall. Large, heavy, gilded things that could fall and flatten a large person, as well as a smaller one. Could [i]maybe[/i] get two, if timed right.

	Polished though.

	Pretty too.

	And you catch a glimpse of your figure in a reflection in one of them, the silver glass a ${bMainColour} display as you walk past. And a new sight, quite unlike yourself... for it is simply [i]less[/i].

	*fake_choice
		#It is strange to catch oneself looking back... and not look like one imagines or remembers.
			Your features appear as if lightly distorted through clever painted shadows. Shades somewhat ill and off. 

			It is as if looking at the mirror image of a dream, or a nightmare.

			Off... just enough to be truly unbalancing to the senses.

			Eerie, in a most primal sense.
		#It is a disguise as any other; I do not mind it.
			Your features appear as if lightly distorted through clever painted shadows. Shades somewhat ill and off. 

			It is as if looking at the mirror image of a dream, or a nightmare.

			Off... just enough to be truly unbalancing to the senses.

			Good, you think. Then it will appear the same to others. Perhaps you will escape much notice now.
		#Perhaps... the plan was ill-planned... Slightly.
			Your features appear as if lightly distorted through clever painted shadows. Shades somewhat ill and off... 

			It is as if looking at the mirror image of a dream, or a nightmare.

			Off... just enough to be truly unbalancing to the senses.

			You wonder perhaps now, if you truly did with to appear this way to all? 

			All here tonight...
		#My eyes remain on the reflection, studying the sight.
			Your features appear as if lightly distorted through clever painted shadows. Shades somewhat ill and off. 

			It is as if looking at the mirror image of a dream, or a nightmare.

			Off... just enough to be truly unbalancing to the senses.


*else
	There are mirrors in this greeting hall. Large, heavy, gilded things that could fall and flatten a large person, as well as a smaller one. Could [i]maybe[/i] get two, if timed right.

	Polished though.

	Pretty too.

	And you walk another step and catch a glimpse of your whole figure in a reflection in one of them, the silver glass a ${bMainColour} display as you walk past...

	Oh.

	It is a polished sight, quite unlike yourself. How it is... simply [i]more[/i].

	*fake_choice
		#And yet... I do not look like myself.
			You do not know what everyone was fawning over. This is not you... 

			Is that the preference? 

			What is... not you?

			How eerie it all is, you think, as you turn your head to look at yet another angle. At yet another sight that is you and yet not at all.
		#I wish, wish, wish—that this could be the sight I wake up each morning with.
			*if (wasUgly)
				You knew more than most, that looks change. But how cruel it all is, you think, as you turn your head to look at yet another angle. That this is not your everyday.
			*else
				How cruel it all is, you think, as you turn your head to look at yet another angle. That this is not your everyday.

			That one can look so much... more, with the right polish.

			The very sigh of it has your heart soaring, and some relief settles in your shoulders.

			... Perhaps if this is what you woke up to every morning, you'd find the world a different place?

		*if (thinkIsPretty) #It is unusually hard to tear my eyes away from my gorgeous visage tonight.
			How unfair it is, you think, as you turn your head to look at yet another angle. That others do not see what you see each day in the mirror.

			And now this!

			Oh, my.

			The world is surely not ready. And yet here you shall come.

		*if (thinkIsPretty = false) #It is strangely difficult to tear my eyes away from my visage tonight.
			How strange it all is, you think, as you turn your head to look at yet another angle.

			That one can look so... changed, with the right polish.

			The sight is... it is almost... pleasing?

			Perhaps... if this is what you woke up to every morning, you'd find the world a different place?
		#... I appear different. Not better, do I?
			*comment wasUgly false
			*comment alwaysWasPretty false

			*if (thinkIsUgly)
				You do not know what everyone was fawning over. All it is, is that it... isn't you.

				And a fabric dyed red or blue is still...

			*else
				You do not know what everyone was fawning over. This is very much the same thing that you always see, merely in a different shade.

				A fabric dyed red or blue is still...

			*if (wasUgly)
				Hmm...

				Then, of course, there are those who are colour blind. 

				How strange it all is, you think, as you turn your head to look at yet another angle. To change. 

				Again and again.
			*else
				Hmm...

				Then, of course, there are those who are colour blind. 

				How strange it all is, you think, as you turn your head to look at yet another angle.
















*page_break

*temp flirtyWithHScanadlously false

*comment There is no need to fear this new world.
You leave your mirror reflection and your ${shoes} carry you further into this new world.

*if (onArm = "walksNextToW")
	Watson steps away to find a coat closet—entirely missing the assistant who stands a little away, helping all the guests with their coats.

	As the doctor said, they haven't been to anything like this before.

	And you can see ${johnName}'s nerves in ${j_hi} every move. Attempting to pacify it by acting quick, and not appearing too lost, but... $!{j_he} is.

	Before you can speak up and guide ${j_him} the right way—
	*goto hComesUp
*elseif (onArm = "walksNextToH")
	Watson heads to find a coat closet—entirely missing the assistant who stands a little away, helping all the guests with their coats.

	The doctor hasn't been to anything like this before... And it is evident in ${j_hi} every move. It is as if, in attempting to pacify ${j_hi} own nerves, ${j_he} acts too quick, and force ${j_himself} to not appear too lost, but... 

	$!{j_he} is.

	Before you can speak up and guide ${j_him} the right way, you hear a soft voice in your ear.

	*goto hSpeaksInYourEar
*elseif ((onArm = "holdsW") and (johnMan))
	Watson lowers ${j_hi} arm and your connection, and heads to find a coat closet—entirely missing the assistant that stands a little away, helping all the guests with their coats.

	As the doctor said, ${j_he} hasn't been to anything like this before.

	And you can see ${johnName}'s nerves in ${j_hi} every move. Attempting to pacify it by acting quick, and not look too lost, but... $!{j_he} is.

	Before you can speak up and guide ${j_him} the right way—

	*goto hComesUp
*elseif ((onArm = "holdsW") and (johnMan = false))
	Watson releases your arm and your connection, and heads herself to find a coat closet—entirely missing the assistant that stands a little away, helping all the guests with their coats.

	As the doctor had said, she hasn't been to anything like this before.

	And you can see Jane's nerves in her every move. Attempting to pacify it by acting quickly, and to not appear too lost, but... She is.

	There is even uncertainty in her usually elegant, dexterous hands.

	Before you can speak up and guide her the right way—

	*goto hComesUp
*elseif ((onArm = "holdsH") and (hMan))
	Watson heads to find a coat closet—entirely missing the assistant who stands a little away, helping all the guests with their coats.

	The doctor hasn't been to anything like this before... And it is evident in ${j_hi} every move. It is as if, in attempting to pacify ${j_hi} nerves, ${j_he} act too quick, and force ${j_himself} to not look too lost, but... 

	$!{j_he} is.

	Before you can speak up and guide ${j_him} the right way—Hamish's arm tenses under yours, his side presses up against yours, and his soft voice is in your ear.

	*goto hSpeaksInYourEar
*elseif ((onArm = "holdsH") and (hMan = false))
	Watson heads to find a coat closet—entirely missing the assistant who stands a little away, helping all the guests with their coats.

	The doctor hasn't been to anything like this before... And it is evident in ${j_hi} every move. It is as if, in attempting to pacify ${j_hi} nerves, ${j_he} act too quick, and force ${j_himself} to not look too lost, but... 

	$!{j_he} is.

	Before you can speak up and guide ${j_him} the right way—Helena's hand on your arm tenses, the side of her small figure presses up against yours, and her soft voice breathes against your neck.
	*goto hSpeaksInYourEar
*elseif (onArm = "EntersAloneWithW")
	Watson steps away to find a coat closet—entirely missing the assistant who stands a little away, helping all the guests with their coats.

	As the doctor said, ${j_he} hadn't been to anything like this before.

	And you notice ${johnName}'s nerves in ${j_hi} every move.

	But... well. That's ${j_hi} lot in life, is it not? Little you can do about it now.

	You step forward and—

	*goto hComesUp
*elseif (onArm = "EntersAloneWithH")
	Watson steps away to find a coat closet—entirely missing the assistant who stands a little away, helping all the guests with their coats.

	As the doctor said, ${j_he} hadn't been to anything like this before.

	And you can see ${johnName}'s nerves in ${j_hi} every move. Attempting to pacify it by acting quick, and not appear too lost, but... $!{j_he} is.

	Before you can speak up and guide ${j_him} the right way—
	*goto hComesUp

*else
	Something went wrong... (This is about the "enter with H or W" section).

	-----
	Watson steps away to find a coat closet—entirely missing the assistant who stands a little away, helping all the guests with their coats.

	As the doctor said, they haven't been to anything like this before.

	And you can see their nerves in their every move. Attempting to pacify it by acting quick, and not appear too lost, but... They are.

	Before you can speak up and guide them the right way—

	*page_break
	*goto hComesUp


*label hSpeaksInYourEar
*if (hMan)
	*if (flowersWhite)
		"Must I share your attention with the doctor, too?" How warm his voice is in your ear. "There is the ball. And the case. And all these people... Allow me at least the moment to orient you, hm? Once you've been given the proper introduction to tonight, I shall let you roam as you like."

		His breath pauses to breathe in, and your scent is a welcome, yet startling companion to the air.

	*elseif ((flowersRed) and (halfSimpH = false))
		"Must I share your attention with the doctor, too?" How warm his voice is in your ear. "There is the ball. And the case. And all these people... Allow me at least the moment to orient you, hm? Once you've been given the proper introduction to tonight, I shall watch you roam as you like."

		His breath pauses to breathe in, and your scent is a welcome companion to the air.

		"But please, until then. Give me a moment of your time."

	*else
		"Must I really share your attention with the doctor, too?" His voice is warm and so soft. Almost teasing. Luring. "There is the ball. And the case. And all these people... Allow me at least the moment to orient you, hm? Once you've been given the proper introduction to tonight, I shall watch you roam as you like."

		His breath pauses to breathe in, and your scent seems a startlingly pleasant companion to the air.

		*if ((h_man != genderMC) and (genderMC = "woman"))
			"But please, my little hellion. Until such a time, give me yourself—for now."
		*else
			"But please, my stubborn hellion. Until such a time, give me yourself—for now."

	Clearing his throat, the gentleman leans back and offers, "May I take your coat?" he continues, "We can't keep your adoring crowd waiting too long."

*else
	*comment HELENA
	*if (flowersWhite)
		"Must I share your attention with the doctor, too, hmm?" How warm her voice is against you. "There is this ball. And the case. And all these people... I should at least be given the right to orient you. Once I've given the proper introductions for tonight, I shall allow you to roam as you like."

		You hear a smile on her lips as she speaks.

	*elseif ((flowersRed) and (halfSimpH = false))
		"Must I share your attention with the doctor, too, hmm?" How warm her voice is against you. "There is this ball. And the case. And all these people... I should at least be given the right to orient you. Once I've given the proper introductions for tonight, I shall be content to watch you roam as you like."

		You hear a smile on her lips as she speaks again,
		"But please, until then. Borrow me a moment of your time."

	*else
		"Must I share your attention with the doctor, too, hmm?" How warm her voice is against you. And an almost... teasing, luring tone. "There is this ball. And the case. And all these people... I should at least be given the right to orient you. Once I've given the proper introductions for tonight, I shall be content to watch you roam as you like."

		You hear a smile on her lips as she speaks again,
		*if (((bodyType = "lanky") or (genderMC = "man")) and ((bodyType != "small") and (bodyType != "petite")))
			"I only ask, my towering hellion, that until such a time that you remain mine."
		*else
			"I only ask, my stubborn hellion, that until such a time that you remain mine."

	The lady distances herself then, to a proper place by your side, and offers, "May I assist you with your coat? It looks awfully heavy," she continues, "And we can't keep your adoring crowd waiting too long."

*goto coatDialogue

*label hComesUp

*if (travellsWith != "W")

	*if (turnedDownHInTheCarriage = true)
		*comment TODO ? AND NO ROMANCE? NO?

		*comment *if turnDownHHow "harsh" / speed / friendship
		*comment *if romance = 0 etc

		*if (hMan)
			The rich voice of Hamish comes from your side with tempered excitement and a gentle, careful tone. "Well now, here we are."

			Clearing his throat, the gentleman leans back so as not to stand too close and offers, "May I take your coat?" he continues, "We can't keep your adoring crowd waiting too long."

			There is a hesitation and a distance now to the man.

			It feels rather a rare thing.
		*else
			The gentle voice of Helena comes from your side with tempered excitement and a soft, careful tone. "And, here we are."

			Smoothing down her own coat, the Lady steps back, so as  not to stand too close and offers, "Do you require assistance with your coat?" she continues, "We shouldn't keep your adoring crowd waiting too long..."

			There is a hesitation and a distance now to the woman.

			It feels rather a rare thing.


	*else
		This shouldn't happen... ERROR. I can never remember if error is spelled like this... is it? Oh well.

	*goto coatDialogue
	*page_break

*else

	*if (someKindOfSimp)
		*if (hMan)
			"Ah, the ${individual} of the hour," a rich voice comes from your side with tempered excitement and a gentle, warm tone.
			*comment woman/man/individual
		*else
			"Ah, the ${individual} of the hour," a light voice comes from your side with tempered excitement and a gentle, warm tone.
			*comment woman/man/individual

		*if (hMan = false)
			You turn to face the familiar voice and see that a woman is walking towards you. 
			
			*comment damn i just realised she will have to wear a coat sometimes... fck

			*comment Of little height, yet immense presence. Draped in a gorgeous gown, drawn tight around an already decidedly small waist and a neckline that reaches halfway up to her ears, and wearing a smile so unguarded, and a voice so soft, it melts all that proper firmness and reserve. 

			Of little height, yet immense presence. She, too, had recently arrived, still draped in a gorgeous dark coat, drawn tight around an already decidedly small waist and a peeking neckline that reaches halfway up to her ears, and wearing a smile so unguarded, and a voice so soft, it melts all that proper firmness and reserve. 

			All distance disappears with a direct gaze that is peering at you with warmth... 
		*else
			You turn to face the familiar voice and see that a man is walking towards you.
			
			Of firm height and a stark presence. A presence so impressive, so impassive—all covered in a perfectly tailored suit of black and white—but wearing a smile so unguarded, and a voice so soft, it melts all that proper firmness and reserve. 
			
			All potential distance disappears with a direct gaze that is peering at you with such warmth... 

		*if (HRomance)
			*if (wRomance)
				*comment watson romance
				Much like Watson would do. 
				*if (WLookedOnMCAndSmiledCh6)
					[i]Did[/i], by the stairs.

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

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

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

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

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

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

		*else
			It is much like the sight of seeing a dear friend.


		*if (hMan) 
			Clearing his throat, the gentleman offers, "May I take your coat?" he continues, "We can't keep your adoring crowd waiting too long."
		*else
			Clearing her throat, the lady offers, "May I assist you with your coat? It looks awfully heavy," she continues, "And we can't keep your adoring crowd waiting too long."

		*goto coatDialogue

	*elseif (HRomance)
		"Ah, the ${individual} of the hour," a familiar voice comes from your side with firmly tempered excitement and a soft, yet reserved tone.
		*comment woman/man/individual

		[i]${hName}.[/i]

		You turn to face the ${h_man}.
		
		*if (hMan = false)
			*comment she has to wear a coat right now, for reasons. 
			Of little height, yet immense presence. She, too, had recently arrived, still draped in a gorgeous dark coat, drawn tight around an already decidedly small waist and a peeking neckline that reaches halfway up to her ears, and wearing a smile so solely polite, yet a voice so soft, it contrasts all that proper firmness and reserve. 

			All distance disappears with a direct gaze that is peering at you with such strange heat.
		*else			
			Of firm height and a stark presence. A presence so impressive, so impassive—all covered in a perfectly tailored suit of black and white—and wearing a smile so solely polite, yet a voice so soft, it contrasts the proper firmness and reserve. 
			
			All potential distance disappears with a direct gaze that is peering at you with such strange heat.

		It is striking.

		And all the more that distance diminishes, as ${h_he} comes closer, and closer.

		As ${h_he} stands just before you, a hair closer than you'd... 

		*fake_choice
			#Wish.
				It was too much. As it seemingly always was with ${h_him}.

				Too much indifference, paired with something far too similar to the opposite. You hardly knew where to place it, except to place it far, far away.

				"$!{h_sir2} Hawthorne," you say with a formal address.

				"${Miss} ${mc_lastname}," ${h_his} smile does not widen, and ${h_he} returns your distant greeting.

				*comment I think this transition works... right?
			#Ever expect.
				So much for propriety.

				In front of plenty of people, no less.

				Perhaps ${h_he} is not aware of the message it sends? Or, perhaps ${h_he} knows ${h_he} may get away with it?

				"$!{h_sir2} Hawthorne," you say with a smile and a polite, formal address. 

				"${Miss} ${mc_lastname}," ${h_his} smile only slightly widens, and ${h_he} returns your distant enough greeting.
				
				*comment I think this transition works... right?

			#Ever expect. Yet you find you do not... mind. Not at all.
				How close ${h_he} is...

				So much for propriety.

				In front of plenty of people, no less.

				Perhaps ${h_he} is not aware of the message it sends? Perhaps ${h_he} knows ${h_he} may get away with it? Perhaps ${h_he} knows you do not mind...

				"$!{h_sir2} Hawthorne," you say with a smile and a polite, warm address.

				"${Miss} ${mc_lastname}," ${h_his} smile slightly widens, and ${h_he} returns your manner of address.

			#[i]Hell[/i], come closer.
				*set flirtyWithHScanadlously true
				"$!{h_sir2} [i]$!{hName}[/i]," you say with a smirk and a tad too friendly an address as you lean into ${h_his} figure and first name at already a short distance. 

				"${Miss} [i]${mc_lastname}[/i]," ${h_his} smile widens, harshly, and ${h_he} does not repeat the too friendly address and instead does the opposite.

				"Ah, still so impervious to my advances—[i]of friendship[/i], $!{h_sir2}?"

				"Detective, you know as well as I that I am much less immune than I could ever wish. Truly."

				"They say exposure therapy works wonders. We can practice."

				"I am sure we could..." as ${h_his} words taper off, ${h_his} eyes still linger on you, in that way where it travels across your visage but never far from your eyes.

				You could be wrong, for the ${h_man} is a strange mixture of glass and stone, but you think you see inside ${h_him} and see... amusement. $!{h_he} enjoys it; you. 

				And it bothers ${h_him} beyond belief that ${h_he} does.

				*fake_choice
					#"I will break through those walls one day. Mark my words."
						"I will make you smile, a true smile. Laugh, even, perhaps."

						"An optimist [i]and[/i] ambitious. Do not let this crowd hear you, ${Miss} ${mc_lastname}. They would accuse you of being industrious."

						"And that is... bad, yes?"

						"The worst. A working ${person}. Imagine."

						"Awful," you quip in equally dampened tone in return.

						"Yes. You know, they would consider us both..." ${h_his} lips quirk at some thought—but something stops ${h_him} from continuing. A parted lip closes. And the stone wall, the polite facade, returns.
					#"... Well," I hardly know what to say to that. "Yes."
						"... Well," you taper off, your voice a quieter thing that for once lacks the improper response for a riposte. "Yes."
					#"I wish it," my voice is softer now.
						"I wish it," your voice holds a remarkable honesty to that.

						And ${hName} has no defence for such sweet sincerity.


		*if (hMan) 
			Clearing his throat, the gentleman offers, "May I take your coat?" he continues, "We can't keep your adoring crowd waiting too long."
		*else
			Clearing her throat, the lady offers, "May I assist you with your coat? It looks awfully heavy," she continues, "And we can't keep your adoring crowd waiting too long."


	*else
		*comment nonromance and nonsimp

		"Ah, the ${individual} of the hour," a familiar voice comes from your side with firmly tempered excitement and a soft, yet reserved tone.
		*comment woman/man/individual

		[i]${hName}.[/i]

		You turn to face the ${h_man}.
		
		*if (hMan = false)
			*comment she has to wear a coat right now, for reasons. 
			Of little height, yet immense presence. She, too, had recently arrived, still draped in a gorgeous dark coat, drawn tight around an already decidedly small waist and a peeking neckline that reaches halfway up to her ears, and wearing a smile so solely polite, yet a voice so soft, it contrasts all that proper firmness and reserve.

			All distance disappears with her direct, heeled steps towards you.

			You are her target.

			The only one within her sights.
		*else			
			Of firm height and a stark presence. A presence so impressive, so impassive—all covered in a perfectly tailored suit of black and white—and wearing a smile so solely polite, yet a voice so soft, it contrasts the proper firmness and reserve. 

			He is striking.
			
			All distance disappears with his direct steps towards you.

			You are his target.

			The only one within his sights.

		*page_break

		"$!{h_sir2} Hawthorne," you say with a simple address.

		*if (hMan) 
			And, "${Miss} ${mc_lastname}," he returns it. 

			After a small break where no one talks, there is a clearing of his throat, and the gentleman offers, "May I take your coat? We can't keep your adoring crowd waiting *too* long."

		*else
			And, "${Miss} ${mc_lastname}," she returns it. 

			After a small break where no one talks, there is a light clearing of her throat, and the lady offers, "May I assist you with your coat? It looks awfully heavy," she continues, "And we can't keep your adoring crowd waiting too long."

*label coatDialogue

*temp coatDialogue "You should know,"
*if (genderMC = "woman")
	*set coatDialogue "Perhaps, but you should know"


*if (someKindOfSimp)
	*fake_choice
		*disable_reuse *if (travellsWith != "W") #"${coatDialogue}I am mostly here for the work—"
			"${coatDialogue}I am mostly here for the work—" you say, clipped.

			*label coatForWork1

			"As opposed to?" 

			"The crowds," you reply.

			"Ah, yes. Of course... Your feral followers, and your clamouring critics."

			"You should also know, I favour 'fans'."

			"I shall endeavour to remember, as I count myself among of them." $!{h_he} smiles warmly. "Now—about that coat?"
			*goto coatDialogue

		*disable_reuse *if (travellsWith = "W") #"${coatDialogue}I am only here for the work—"
			"${coatDialogue}I am only here for the work—" you say, clipped.
			*goto coatForWork1

		*disable_reuse #"Do you not have people for that?"
			"Do you not have people for that?" you question the ${h_man}'s offer of assistance with your coat, with the assistant standing right there. 
			*comment and frankly, her short height.

			"I have people for a great many things," ${h_he} returns in a very easy tone. "But if you wish something done right..."

			"Is that why I am here today?"

			$!{h_his} mouth quirks into something almost classically warm. Almost. "Perhaps it is why we both are here tonight."

			*goto coatDialogue

		*disable_reuse *selectable_if (halfSimpH) #"You'd trouble yourself over a coat? Or just me?" A scandalous smile appears upon my lips as I speak it.
			"You'd trouble yourself over a coat? Or just me?" A scandalous smile appears upon your lips as you speak it.

			"I..." Rarely has this ${h_man} been on the back foot. But here it was. You've... surprised ${h_him}. 
			*if (travellsWith != "W")
				"[i]I have[/i], gone to trouble over you? More than I should've—I thought it obvious. Meeting you in person, inviting you as I did, collecting you—I..."
			*else
				"[i]I have[/i], gone to trouble over you? More than I should've—I thought it obvious. Meeting you in person the other day, inviting you, tonight—I..."
			
			$!{hName}'s eyes narrow on you in a tricky, heated look that is rather disarming, and near overpowering.
			"You, $!{Miss} ${mc_lastname}, have me acting all too irrationally. And you are well aware. Furthermore, I do a disservice if I did not remind—us both—that you are here for a purpose. To safeguard a ruby. Not to hear me swear how far I go for a ${person} I hardly know nor should..." $!{h_he} catches himself, and begins again, "All that to say, with you finally among us, that might make all the trouble worth it."

			"Of course, $!{h_sir}... The [i]stone[/i]. How silly of me. It must be priceless to you?"

			*if (hMan)
				"Nonsense. It has a price. Very few things are priceless in this world, and I will begrudgingly count you among them."
			*else
				"Nonsense," she scoffs. "It has a price. Very few things are priceless in this world, and I count you among them."

			[i]Oh?[/i]
			
			"Are you without a price, $!{h_sir}?" you ask then.

			*if (hMan)
				A long gaze of green lingers on you for a very long moment. Then ${h_he} clears ${h_his} throat again, and asks, "What of it, ${mc_madam}? The coat?"
			*else
				A long gaze of green lingers on you for a very long moment. Then ${h_he} scoffs again, and asks, "What of it, ${mc_madam}? The coat?"
			
			*fake_choice
				#Yes
					*goto yesNonSimp
				#No
					*goto noNonSimp

		*disable_reuse *selectable_if (halfSimpH = false) #"You'd trouble yourself over a coat? Or just me?" A wide smile appears upon my lips as I speak it.
			"You'd trouble yourself over a coat? Or just me?" A wide smile appears upon your lips as you speak it.

			"I..." Rarely has this ${h_man} been on the back foot. But here it was. You've... surprised ${h_him}. 
			*if (travellsWith != "W")
				"I have. Gone to trouble over you. I thought it obvious? Meeting you in person, inviting you as I did, collecting you—I..."
			*else
				"I have. Gone to trouble over you. I thought it obvious? Meeting you in person the other day, inviting you, tonight—I..."

			$!{hName}'s eyes crinkle in the corners with a happy expression that is rather disarming, and near overpowering.
			"You, $!{Miss} ${mc_lastname}, have me acting all too irrationally. Furthermore, I do a disservice if I do not remind—us both—that you are here for a purpose. I believe the intention was for you here to safeguard a ruby? Not to hear me sing your praises... All there is to say is, with you, here, that might make all the trouble worth it."

			"Ah. Of course. The stone. How silly of me. It must be priceless to you?"

			"Nonsense. It has a price. Very few things are priceless in this world, and I should hope to count you among them."

			[i]Oh?[/i]
			
			"Are you without a price, $!{h_sir}?" you ask.

			A long gaze of green lingers on you for a very long moment. Then ${h_he} clears ${h_his} throat again, and asks, "What of it, ${mc_madam}? The coat?"

			*fake_choice
				#Yes
					*goto yesNonSimp
				#No
					*goto noNonSimp


			*disable_reuse #"My coat? Why—you'd really trouble yourself over that?" I ask, with widened eyes.
			"My coat? Why—you'd really trouble yourself over that?" you ask, with widened eyes.

			Few things melt a ${h_man} of such firmness.

			*if (flowersWhite)
				But your words, it seems, often do the trick.
			*else
				But your words, it seems, have done the trick.

			*if (travellsWith != "W")
				"I would. A thousand times over. I thought it obvious? Have I not gone over a lot of trouble over you, meeting you, inviting you, collecting you—I..."
			*else
				"I would. A thousand times over. I thought it obvious? Have I not gone over a lot of trouble over you, meeting you, inviting you, tonight—I..."
			$!{hName}'s eyes crinkle in the corners with a happy expression that is rather disarming, and near overpowering.
			"You, $!{Miss} ${mc_lastname}, have me acting all too irrationally. Furthermore, I do a disservice if I do not remind—us both—that you are here for a purpose. I believe the intention was for you here to safeguard a ruby? Not to hear me sing your praises... All there is to say is, with you, here, that might make all the trouble worth it."

			"Ah... Yes, of course! The stone, that is the matter at hand... It must be something rather priceless to you?"

			"No. It has a price. Very few things are priceless in this world, I would only count you among them."
			
			"Oh? Only I, sir? But... what of yourself?"

			A long gaze of green lingers on you for a very long moment. Then ${h_he} clears ${h_his} throat again and asks, "Please, what of the coat?"

			*fake_choice
				#Yes
					*goto yesNonSimp
				#No
					*goto noNonSimp


		#Yes
			*goto yesNonSimp
		#No
			*goto noNonSimp


*elseif (someKindOfSimp = false)
	*fake_choice
		*disable_reuse #"$!{h_sir} Hawthorne, you should know I am only here for the work."
			"As opposed to?"

			"The crowds."

			"Ah, yes. Of course... Your feral followers, and your clamouring critics."

			"You should also know, I favour 'fans'."

			*if (hMan)
				"Naturally." ${h_he} smiles politely. "Now—about that coat?"
			*else
				"Naturally." ${h_he} smiles politely. "And—about your coat, ${Miss}?"
			*goto coatDialogue

		*disable_reuse #"Do you not have people for that?"
			"Do you not have people for that?" you question the ${h_man}'s offer of assistance with your coat, with the assistant standing right there. 
			*comment and frankly, her short height.

			"I have people for a great many things," ${h_he} returns in a very easy tone. "But if you wish something done right..."

			"Is that why I am here today?"

			$!{h_his} mouth quirks into something almost warm. Almost. "Perhaps it is why we both are here tonight."

			*if (flirtyWithHScanadlously)
				"All that trouble over a coat? Or just me?" you ask.

				"A ruby, $!{Miss} ${mc_lastname}. I believe the intention was to safeguard a ruby?"

				"Ah. Of course... The stone. How silly of me. It must be priceless."

				*if (H_Approval > 2)
					"Nonsense. It has a price. Very few things are priceless in this world, and you should count yourself among them." 

					"Oh? And you? Are you not too without a price, $!{h_sir}?"

					A long gaze of green lingers on you for a very long moment. Then ${h_he} clears ${h_his} throat again and asks, "What of it, ${mc_madam}? The coat?"
				*else
					"Nonsense. It has a price. Very few things are priceless in this world. Any creature with a mind should surely think themselves so—yet be ready to calculate the cost of it all the same."

					"And you? Are you without a price, $!{h_sir}?"

					A long glare of green lingers on you for a very long moment. Then ${h_he} clears ${h_his} throat again and asks, "What of it, ${mc_madam}, your coat?"

				*fake_choice
					#Yes
						*goto yesNonSimp
					#No
						*goto noNonSimp

			*goto coatDialogue

		*disable_reuse #"You'd trouble yourself over a coat? Or just me?" A scandalous smile appears upon my lips as I speak it.
			*set hRomancePoints + 1
			"I..." Rarely has this ${h_man} been on the back foot. But here it was. You've... surprised ${h_him}. "I seem to have made a lot of trouble over you, haven't I? In some sense. But. You are here for a purpose, $!{Miss} ${mc_lastname}. I believe the intention was for you here to safeguard a ruby? And so, with you among us here, that might make all the trouble worth it."

			"Ah. Of course. The stone. How silly of me. It must be priceless?"

			*if (hRomancePoints > 1)
				"No, it has a price. Very few things are priceless in this world..." A glare of green lingers on you for a very long moment.

				"Are you without a price, $!{h_sir}?" you ask.

				$!{h_he} simply clears ${h_his}  throat again, and asks, "What of it, ${mc_madam}? The coat?"
			*else
				"No, it has a price. Very few things are priceless in this world..."

				"Are you without a price, $!{h_sir}?" you ask.

				A long glare of green lingers on you for a too drawn moment. Then ${h_he} clears ${h_his} throat again, and asks, "What of it, ${mc_madam}? The coat?"

			*fake_choice
				#Yes
					*goto yesNonSimp
				#No
					*goto noNonSimp


		#Yes
			*label yesNonSimp

			*if (bBold)

				You are wearing a ${dress} that was made to be seen.

				*if (bTheme = "Zeus") or (bWearingDress)
					It clings to you, it promised skin beneath fair ${bMainColourAdjective} layers with sheer deception.
				*else
					It clings to you, with well cut layers which frame all that you are.

				And here comes the moment of truth. If you are, at sight, quite as revolutionary as promised by the ${modiste}.

				*page_break

				*if (hMan)

					*if (bTheme = "Zeus") or (bWearingDress)
						${hName} steps behind you, hands firmly guiding the warm, soft coat down the sensitive skin of your shoulders.

						Your shoulders bare, soon your arms free of the weight. ${hName} says nothing. And you do not see ${h_him} fully when you look over you shoulder. And so you step out of the material, and turn to ${h_him}, and intend to meet ${h_his} gaze with a smirk.
					*else
						${hName} steps behind you, hands firmly guiding the warm, soft coat down the sensitive skin of your neck and back.

						Your shoulders appear, soon your arms free of the weight. $!{hName} says nothing. And you do not see ${h_him} fully when you look over you shoulder. And so you step out of the material, and turn to ${h_him}, and intend to meet ${h_his} gaze with a smirk.
				*else
					*if (bTheme = "Zeus") or (bWearingDress)
						${hName} steps behind you, surely standing on the tip of heeled shoes, hands gently guiding the warm, soft coat down the sensitive skin of your shoulders.

						Your shoulders bare, soon your arms free of the weight. ${hName} says nothing. And you do not see ${h_him} fully when you look over you shoulder. And so you step out of the material, and turn to ${h_him}, and intend to meet ${h_his} gaze with a smirk.
					*else
						${hName} steps behind you, surely standing on the tip of heeled shoes, hands gently guiding the warm, soft coat down the sensitive skin of your neck and back.

						Your shoulders appear, soon your arms free of the weight. $!{hName} says nothing. And you do not see ${h_him} fully when you look over you shoulder. And so you step out of the material, and turn to ${h_him}, and intend to meet ${h_his} gaze with a smirk.

				But you find ${h_him} only a rigid, frozen form.

				The figure before you is still, and solid stone. Not even a breath.

				No shock. No awe. Only... 

				*if (hMan)
					*if (bTheme = "Zeus") or (bWearingDress)
						Firmness. Firm lips. Hard eyes where you bare shoulders were, which, now as you turned—is very near your clavicle. Unmoving gaze. Unmoving for far too long on such a mark...
					*else
						Firmness. Firm lips. Hard eyes where your form fits you too perfectly, which, now as you turned—is very near your exposed clavicle. Unmoving gaze. Unmoving for far too long on such a mark...

					Your own breath, stirring the sight, bring his back visibly.

					Sir Hawthorne sighs, and, with his own gloved hand, rub at his brows and eyes which shut firmly, as if having seen too much—as if having looked too directly at a chemical fire, or at the most alluring eclipse.

					"$!{Miss} ${mc_lastname}," he mutters towards the ground a pained chide and further pained grimace. “You purposefully torment me. You do. Is it meant to—the way you wield your [i]charms[/i]. I am not sure you know how much a danger it makes you."
				*else
					*if (bTheme = "Zeus") or (bWearingDress)
						Ice. Pursed lips. Fixed eyes where your shoulders were, which, now as you turned—is very near your clavicle. Unmoving gaze. Unmoving for far too long on such a mark...
					*else
						Ice. Pursed lips. Fixed eyes where your form fits you too perfectly, which, now as you turned—is very near your exposed clavicle. Unmoving gaze. Unmoving for far too long on such a mark...

					Your own breath, stirring the sight, bring hers back visibly.

					Lady Hawthorne sighs, and, with her own gloved hand, gently run circles at her pretty brows and down her eyes, which shut firmly. Closing as if having seen too much—as if having looked too directly at a chemical fire, or at a alluring eclipse.

					"$!{Miss} ${mc_lastname}," she sighs towards the ground a pained chide and further pained gentle frown. “You purposefully do this, to me. You do. Is it meant to—the way you wield your [i]charms[/i]... I am not sure you know how much a danger it makes you."

				*set modisteIsATraitor true
				*page_break

				*fake_choice
					*if (talkedOfModiste) #"[i]Me?[/i] Did you not say you were informed of my every-move at the ${modiste}? Surely [i]this[/i] does not have you outmatched, ${h_sir}?"
						"[i]Me?[/i] Did you not say you were informed of my every-move at the ${modiste}? Surely [i]this[/i] does not have you outmatched, ${h_sir}?"
					*if (talkedOfModiste = false) #"[i]Me?[/i] I am sure you were informed of my every-move at the ${modiste}? She was yours after all. Surely [i]this[/i] does not have you outmatched, ${h_sir}?"
						"[i]Me?[/i] I am sure you were informed of my every-move at the ${modiste}? She was yours after all. Surely [i]this[/i] does not have you outmatched, ${h_sir}?"

				"I had rather hoped I'd enjoy being outwitted by you," ${h_he} returns.

				"And you find you do not?"

				"... I suppose we shall see, won't we?" And only that brings a modicum of a smile and amusement back to the ${h_gentleman}.
				*if ((AphroditeStyle) and (outfitWord = "bold"))
					“I suppose you have a better excuse to dress in this manner, this time…” $!{h_his} eyes begin to trail down your figure and form. “Compared to the last. A masquerade offers... some leeway in life. But do not be so foolish as some here are. The mask hides very little,” ${h_he} says, as green eyes turn further downwards, as if to say that what you wear hides equally little—and that the sight is—

					You think perhaps ${h_he} would hope ${h_his} eyes were merely scolding.

					But they are not.

					What is the phrase... fire and brimstone?

					"It couldn't have been Athena? If you had to dress a goddess. I do rather admire her clever charms more.
					*if (bAttractive > 3)
						But Aphrodite... She is beautiful. And so are you. But I had hoped you knew you were more than just that."
					*else 
						But Aphrodite... You are more than her mere beauty."

					With a sigh.
				*elseif ((ZeusStyle) and (outfitWord = "bold"))
					“I suppose you have a better excuse to dress in this manner, this time…” $!{h_his} eyes begin to trail down your figure and form. “Compared to the last. A masquerade offers... some leeway in life. But do not be so foolish as some here are. The mask hides very little,” ${h_he} says, as green eyes turn further downwards, as if to say that what you wear hides equally little—and that the sight is...

					Well, you think perhaps ${h_he} would hope ${h_his} eyes were merely scolding.

					But they are not.

					What is the phrase... fire and brimstone?

					"It couldn't have been some version of Athena? If you had to dress a god. I do rather admire those clever charms more.
					But Zeus... You appear as Dionysus more."

					With a sigh.
				*if (ApprovesOfColourH)
					"Nevertheless—you wear," ${hName} pauses as ${h_his} eyes trail down once more. "I must applaud you for the choice of shade. The ${bMainColour}..."

					*fake_choice
						#"Yes?"
							"Well I..." ${h_he} attempts again, "I merely wished to say that the ${bMainTrueColour} does suit your ${skinColour} complexion—very well, ${mc_madam}." $!{h_his} eyes trail down your figure and form. "Very well, indeed."
						#"Terribly fetching, is it not? All bought with your name and credit too."
							"... Of course. Well it," ${h_he} attempts again, "It does suit your ${skinColour} complexion—very well, ${mc_madam}." $!{h_his} eyes trail down your figure and form. "Very well, indeed..."
						#"${bMainColourSynonym}," I correct.
							"${bMainColourSynonym}," you correct.

							"${bMainColourSynonym}, of course... Well it, it does suit your ${skinColour} complexion—very well, ${mc_madam}." $!{h_his} eyes trail down your figure and form. "Very well, indeed..."

				*elseif (outfitWord = "bold")
					“I suppose you have a better reason to dress in this manner this time…” $!{h_his} eyes trail down your figure and form. “Compared to the last.”
				*else
					“I suppose you have an excuse to dress in this…” $!{h_his} eyes trail down your figure and form. “Manner, tonight.”

				*if (hMan)
					If you did not know the man to be laced tighter than a debutante mother's corset, you'd say the tone was almost salacious. 
				*else
					If you did not know the lady to be laced tighter than a debutante mother's corset, you'd say the tone was almost salacious.

				But, of course. You did know better. 

				*page_break


				*goto endOfFirstClothingTalkH


			*else
				
				*if (bProper)
					You wear a ${dress} that was made to be admired. To shimmer and shock by the pure art of the handiwork and perfection.

					And here comes the moment of truth. Are you, at sight, quite as impressive as promised by the ${modiste}?
				*elseif (bDelicate)
					You wear a gently flowing dress. One that shifts and charms at each turn, by nothing but the pure art of each layer of the skirt.

					Its image was made for adoration. 

					And here comes the moment of truth. Are you, at sight, quite as sweet as promised by the ${modiste}?
				*elseif (bCharming)
					You wear a well-fitting suit that was made to be admired. To soothe and charm by the clever, gentle cuts of the handiwork and fabric.

					And here comes the moment of truth. Are you, at sight, quite as pleasing as promised by the ${modiste}?
				*else
					*comment bSimple
					You wear a ${dress} that was made to be practical. That it may lull and dull by the pure functionality is a feature, not a fault.

					You only wonder perhaps, if, at sight, you will appear quite as horrific as promised by the ${modiste}?

					Could it be? 

					Would you truly care?

				*if (hMan)
					*if (bTheme = "Zeus") or (bWearingDress)
						${hName} steps behind you, hands firmly guiding the warm, soft coat down the sensitive skin of your shoulders.

						Your shoulders revealed, soon your arms free of the weight. 

						${hName} says nothing. And you do not see ${h_him} fully when you look over you shoulder. And so you step out of the material, and turn to ${h_him}, hoping to meet a reaction.
					*else
						${hName} steps behind you, hands firmly guiding the warm, soft coat down the sensitive skin of your neck and back.

						Your shoulders appear, soon your arms free of the weight. 

						$!{hName} says nothing. And you do not see ${h_him} fully when you look over you shoulder. And so you step out of the material, and turn to ${h_him}, hoping to meet a reaction.
				*else
					*if (bTheme = "Zeus") or (bWearingDress)
						${hName} steps behind you, surely standing on the tip of heeled shoes, hands gently guiding the warm, soft coat down the sensitive skin of your shoulders.

						Your shoulders bare, soon your arms free of the weight. 

						${hName} says nothing. And you do not see ${h_him} fully when you look over you shoulder. And so you step out of the material, and turn to ${h_him}, hoping to meet a reaction.
					*else
						$${hName} steps behind you, surely standing on the tip of heeled shoes, hands gently guiding the warm, soft coat down the sensitive skin of your neck and back.

						Your shoulders appear, soon your arms free of the weight. 

						$!{hName} says nothing. And you do not see ${h_him} fully when you look over you shoulder. And so you step out of the material, and turn to ${h_him}, hoping to meet a reaction.

				But you find ${h_him} only a rigid, frozen form.

				The figure before you is still, and solid stone. Not even a breath.

				No clear shock. Nor awe. Only... 

				*temp lovely "lovely"
				*temp loveliness "loveliness"
				*if (bPrettied = "less")
					*set lovely "charming"
					*set loveliness "charm"
					*if (someKindOfSimp)
						*goto schockedHAtSight
					*goto schockedHAtSightWithSlightDissaproval
				*elseif (bWearingDress = false)
					*if (bAttractive > 3)
						*if (genderMC = "man")
							*set lovely "terribly handsome"
							*set loveliness "handsomeness" 
						*elseif (genderMC != "woman")
							*set lovely "terribly charming"
							*set loveliness "charm" 
					*else
						*if (genderMC != "woman")
							*set lovely "charming"
							*set loveliness "charm"
						*else
							*set lovely "perfect"
							*set loveliness "perfection"


				*if ((someKindOfSimp) and (bSimple = false))
					*label pleasedAtSightSimp

					*if (hMan)
						Unmoving gaze. Unmoving for far too long...

						Your own breath brings his back, visibly.

						Sir Hawthorne smiles then. A warm thing. And, with his own gloved hand, he folds your coat and echoes, "$!{Miss} ${mc_lastname}," and he... chuckles. “You look ${lovely}. Well done. Once again, you have found ways to transcend even my high set expectations.”

					*else
						Unmoving gaze. Unmoving for far too long...

						Your own breath brings hers back, visibly.

						Lady Helena Hawthorne smiles then. A warm thing. And, with her own gloved hand, she folds your coat and echoes, "$!{Miss} ${mc_lastname}," and she... shakes her head and laughs. “You look ${lovely}. Well done. Once again, you have found ways to transcend even my high set expectations.”

					*fake_choice
						#I merely smile.
							You smile.

							And ${h_he} continues to offer the same in turn. 

							After a time ${h_he} clarifies ${h_his} previous reaction as if it needs one. "I swear... The way you wield your [i]${loveliness}[/i], $!{Miss} ${mc_lastname}. It rather makes you a danger, don't you know? A ${h_man} can hardly prepare ${h_himself} for all things. No matter how much one might try.”
						#"Hardly my intent."
							"Hardly my intent," you say.

							"Nevertheless," ${h_he} offers with a continued smile. 

							After a time ${h_he} clarifies ${h_his} previous reaction, as if it must surely need one. "I swear... The way you wield your [i]${loveliness}[/i], $!{Miss} ${mc_lastname}. It rather makes you a danger, don't you know? A ${h_man} can hardly prepare ${h_himself} for all things. No matter how much one might try.”
						#"So I succeeded?" I ask, smiling.
							"So I succeeded?" you ask with your own amusement.

							"Yes," ${h_his} laugh subsides, but the smile lingers. "Most definitely."

							After a time ${h_he} clarifies ${h_his} previous reaction, as if it must be explained. "I swear... The way you wield your [i]${loveliness}[/i], $!{Miss} ${mc_lastname}. It rather makes you a danger, don't you know? A ${h_man} can hardly prepare ${h_himself} for all things. No matter how much one might try.”
						#"Rather horrid thing to imply—that my ${loveliness} is such a surprise? And to laugh!"
							"Rather horrid thing to imply—that my ${loveliness} is such a surprise?" you question. "And to laugh!"

							"Oh, no," ${h_his} laugh subsides, but the smile lingers. "You are not the surprise."

							But ${h_he} does not further clarify until your lingering eyes demand it. "I find it hard to believe you do not... The way you wield your [i]charms[/i], $!{Miss} ${mc_lastname}. It rather makes you a danger, don't you know? A ${h_man} can hardly prepare ${h_himself} for all things. No matter how much one might try.”

				*elseif (((someKindOfSimp) and (bSimple)) or ((true) and (bSimple = false)))
					*label schockedHAtSight
						*comment shocked at sight with approval or pleased with non simp.

					*if (hMan)
						Unmoving gaze. Unmoving for far too long...

						Your own breath brings his back, visibly.

						Sir Hawthorne smiles then. A pained thing. And, with his own gloved hand, he folds your coat and echoes, "$!{Miss} ${mc_lastname}," and he... chuckles. “You look ${lovely}. Well done. Once again, you find ways to shock me in new and innovative ways.”

					*else
						Unmoving gaze. Unmoving for far too long...

						Your own breath brings hers back, visibly.

						Lady Helena Hawthorne smiles then. A slightly grimaced thing. And, with her own gloved hand, she folds your coat and echoes, "$!{Miss} ${mc_lastname}," and she... laughs. “You look ${lovely}. Well done. Once again, you find ways to shock me in new and innovative ways.”

					*fake_choice
						#I merely smile.
							You smile.

							And ${h_he} offers the same in turn. 

							After a time ${h_he} clarifies ${h_his} previous reaction. "The way you wield your [i]${loveliness}[/i], $!{Miss} ${mc_lastname}. It rather makes you a danger, don't you know? A ${h_man} can hardly prepare ${h_himself} for all things. No matter how much one might try.”
						#"Hardly my intent."
							"Hardly my intent," you say.

							"Nevertheless," ${h_he} offers politely. After a time ${h_he} clarifies ${h_his} previous reaction. "The way you wield your [i]${loveliness}[/i], $!{Miss} ${mc_lastname}. It rather makes you a danger, don't you know? A ${h_man} can hardly prepare ${h_himself} for all things. No matter how much one might try.”
						#"So it worked?" I ask, amused.
							"So it worked?" you ask with your own amusement.

							"Yes," ${h_his} laugh subsides, but the smile lingers. "Very well."

							After a time ${h_he} clarifies ${h_his} previous reaction. "The way you wield your [i]${loveliness}[/i], $!{Miss} ${mc_lastname}. It rather makes you a danger, don't you know? A ${h_man} can hardly prepare ${h_himself} for all things. No matter how much one might try.”
						#"Rather horrid thing to imply—is my ${loveliness} such a surprise? And to laugh!"
							"Rather horrid thing to imply—is my ${loveliness} such a surprise?" you question. "And to laugh!"

							"Oh, no," ${h_his} laugh subsides, but the smile lingers. "You are not the surprise."

							But ${h_he} does not clarify until your lingering eyes demand it. "I find it hard to believe you do not... The way you wield your [i]charms[/i], $!{Miss} ${mc_lastname}. It rather makes you a danger, don't you know? A ${h_man} can hardly prepare ${h_himself} for all things. No matter how much one might try.”

				*else
					*label schockedHAtSightWithSlightDissaproval
					*if (hMan)
						Unmoving gaze. Unmoving for far too long...

						Your own breath brings his back, visibly.

						Sir Hawthorne smiles then. A put on thing thing. And, with his own gloved hand, he folds your coat and echoes, "$!{Miss} ${mc_lastname}," and he tries so very hard. “You look... ${lovely}. Well done. Once again, you find ways to shock me in new and innovative ways.”

					*else
						Unmoving gaze. Unmoving for far too long...

						Your own breath brings hers back, visibly.

						Lady Helena Hawthorne smiles then. A put on, slightly grimaced thing. And, with her own gloved hand, she folds your coat and echoes, "$!{Miss} ${mc_lastname}," and she tries so very hard. “You look...  ${lovely}. Well done. Once again, you find ways to shock me in new and innovative ways.”

					*fake_choice
						#I merely smile.
							You smile.

							And ${h_he} offers the same with an impressive attempt at politeness.
						#"Hardly my intent."
							"Hardly my intent," you say.

							"Nevertheless," ${h_he} offers with the attempt of politeness.
						#"So it worked?" I ask, amused.
							"So it worked?" you ask with your own amusement.

							"Yes," ${h_his} face terribly impassive. "Very well."
						#"Rather horrid thing to imply—is my ${loveliness} such a surprise?"
							"Rather horrid thing to imply—is my ${loveliness} such a surprise?" you question.
							
							But ${h_he} does not clarify until your lingering eyes demand it. $!{h_he} seems truly uncomfortable by how ${h_he} shifts on ${h_his} feet. "I find it hard to believe you do not... $!{Miss} ${mc_lastname}. It rather makes you a danger, don't you know? Your... ${loveliness}. A ${h_man} can hardly prepare ${h_himself} for all things. No matter how much one might try.”

					*if (ApprovesOfColourH)
						"Nevertheless—you wear," ${hName} pauses as ${h_his} eyes trail down once more. "I must applaud you for the choice of shade. The ${bMainColour}..."

						*fake_choice
							#"Yes?"
								"Well I..." ${h_he} attempts again, "I merely wished to say that the ${bMainTrueColour} does suit your ${skinColour} complexion—very well, ${mc_madam}." $!{h_his} eyes trail down your figure and form. "Very well, indeed."
							#"Terribly fetching, is it not? All bought with your name and credit too."
								"... Of course. Well it," ${h_he} attempts again, "It does suit your ${skinColour} complexion—very well, ${mc_madam}." $!{h_his} eyes trail down your figure and form. "Very well, indeed..."
							#"${bMainColourSynonym}," I correct.
								"${bMainColourSynonym}," you correct.

								"${bMainColourSynonym}, of course... Well it, it does suit your ${skinColour} complexion—very well, ${mc_madam}." $!{h_his} eyes trail down your figure and form. "Very well, indeed..."

					*if (hMan)
						If you did not know the man to be laced tighter than a debutante mother's corset, you'd say the tone was almost salacious. 
					*else
						If you did not know the lady to be laced tighter than a debutante mother's corset, you'd say the tone was almost salacious.

					But, of course. You did know better. 

					*goto endOfFirstClothingTalkH

				*if (ApprovesOfColourH)
					*comment approving and approving of colour
					$!{h_he} is quiet another moment, then,
					"And, I must impress—you wear," ${hName} pauses as ${h_his} eyes trail down once more. "I must applaud you on the choice of shades. The ${bMainColour}..."

					*fake_choice
						#"Yes?"
							"Well I..." ${h_he} attempts again, "I merely wished to say that the ${bMainTrueColour} does suit your ${skinColour} complexion—very well, ${mc_madam}." $!{h_his} eyes trail down your figure and form. "Very well, indeed."
						#"Terribly fetching, is it not? All bought with your name and credit too."
							"... Of course. Well it," ${h_he} attempts again, "It does suit your ${skinColour} complexion—very well, ${mc_madam}." $!{h_his} eyes trail down your figure and form. "Very well, indeed..."
						#"${bMainColourSynonym}," I correct.
							"${bMainColourSynonym}," you correct.

							"${bMainColourSynonym}, of course... Well it, it does suit your ${skinColour} complexion—very well, ${mc_madam}." $!{h_his} eyes trail down your figure and form. "Very well, indeed..."

					*goto endOfFirstClothingTalkH
							
				*if (hMan)
					If you did not know the man to be laced tighter than a debutante mother's corset, you'd say the tone was almost salacious. 
				*else
					If you did not know the lady to be laced tighter than a debutante mother's corset, you'd say the tone was almost salacious.

				But, of course. You did know better. 

				*goto endOfFirstClothingTalkH
		#No
			*comment test
			*goto noNonSimp

*comment *if (someKindOfSimp) and (samesex)
*comment "Now, now. I do not stand on precedence... not always. You are my honoured guest. If I do not mind on a matter of principle or status, then I hardly think... Surely it is more proper that a man assists you than any woman? Would you ask it of Mrs Hudson? So please, let me. I wish to," he says, as he begins to reach for you, to help you out of your coat.

*goto endOfFirstClothingTalkH
*comment Maybe just make em the same tbh and change it in the code?
*comment *label yesSimp
*comment *label noSimp

*label noNonSimp
You decline ${hName}'s politeness and assistance and manage very well yourself, thank you very much. And so your coat is removed and handed off.

*label endOfFirstClothingTalkH

There you stand in the entry hall, as newcomers crowd around you like school of fish but you are the predators they swim around.

*if ((modisteIsATraitor) or (hMan = false))
	And you speak up,
	*fake_choice
		*selectable_if (((modisteIsATraitor) and (talkedOfModiste)) and (false)) #"Have I truly shocked you too much tonight? I thought you had received a detailed report, from the ${modiste}, ${h_sir2}," I offer with a smirk at ${h_his} previous reaction.
			"Have I shocked you too much tonight? I thought you had received a detailed report, from the ${modiste}, ${h_sir2}," you offer with a smirk at ${h_his} previous reaction.

			*goto modisteIsTraitor
		*if (((modisteIsATraitor) and (talkedOfModiste = false)) and (false)) #"Have I truly shocked you too much tonight? I assumed you had received a detailed report, from the ${modiste}, ${h_sir2}," I offer with a smirk at ${h_his} previous reaction.
			Have I shocked you too much tonight? I assumed you had received a detailed report, from the ${modiste}, ${h_sir2}," you offer with a smirk at ${h_his} previous reaction.
			*label modisteIsTraitor
			A clench of a gloved hand and a sharp jaw. "I was not informed of all [i]that[/i], no.”

			“Oh?" your smirk can't help but grow further. "It is understandable, ${mo_she} did seem rather on my side on the matter—“
			
			“Is that so? Then perhaps ${mo_her} use won’t be necessary again. What a shame.”

			*fake_choice
				#“What? Please don’t stop employing ${mo_her} services over something I did—“ I plead with the ${h_man}.
					“—What? Please don’t stop employing ${mo_her} services over something I did—“

					“Don't trouble yourself—it was not over what [i]you did[/i]. I simply place all too much importance on loyalty, ${Miss}.”

					“Please," you plead, looking up / down at the (man). “I would feel absolutely terrible…”

					*if (flowersWhite) 
						Your wanting voice seems to strike a cord. Or perhaps it is your gentle gaze. Despite all that firmness that had returned at your little reveal moments before, the man—now not for the first time today—melts, by you. Hands unclench. His posture returns to that infinitesimal lean towards you. 

						"As you wish."

					*elseif (someKindOfSimp)

						Your suddenly wanting voice seems to strike a cord. Or perhaps it is your firm gaze. Despite all that ice that had returned at your little reveal moments before, the man—unused to considering other's requests that contradict his own—melts, by you. Hands unclench. His posture returns to that infinitesimal lean towards you. 

						"Very well." With a deep rousing exhale through his nose comes, in a too serious tone, "Your wish shall be my... command, madam."

					*else
						*comment todo

						*if (H_Approval < 3)

							"Oh? You would feel terrible, would you, miss?" he seems to take some pleasure in you asking something from him. "How... Amusing."

							A pause and his lingering gaze and new smirk.

							"But," with a deep rousing exhale through his nose comes, in a too serious tone, "Very well. Your wish shall be my command, madam." He gives a bow, mockingly low and a smirk equally low in it's respect and meaning. His eyes never leaving yours.

						*else

							By how he reacts you'd think you—asking him for anything—was beyond his entire understanding. Beyond any plan, reality, or potential.

							"You..." (he seems rather surprised at how he surrenders and want to)


				#BLABLA OTHER VERSION
					*comment //"I do recall giving express instructions of what the ball would be and what would be appropriate—"




		*if (((hMan = false) and (travellsWith != "W")) and (HRomance)) #"Would you allow me to take [i]your[/i] coat?" I ask, my eyes quickly lingering on her, and her figure beneath, which I saw earlier.
			"Would you allow me to take [i]your[/i] coat?" you ask, your eyes quickly lingering on her, and her figure beneath, which you saw earlier.
			*goto helenaCoat

		*if (((hMan = false) and (travellsWith = "W")) and (HRomance)) #"Would you allow me to take [i]your[/i] coat?" I ask, my eyes quickly lingering on the figure I've yet to see as of today.
			"Would you allow me to take [i]your[/i] coat?" you ask, your eyes quickly lingering on the figure you've yet to see as of today.

			*label helenaCoat
			"There are attendants for that," she matches, her eyes batting up at you. "You need not bother, ${Miss}."

			You find... A hint of coyness in her tone you've not heard before. Were she any other woman she might have played it up further, or even asked—begged—for your assistance; the lady is far too proud for such an act. 

			But not above tricks entirely, it seems.

			"And what if I wish to, hmm?" you ask.

			"[i]If[/i], detective?" and her lips seem to move in an entirely new manner, slower. Then, her gaze so firmly upon yours, you swear you might drown in green should she lean in any further.

			*fake_choice
				#All I can do is to smile at her, my very best one. "I very much wish to, my lady."
					All you can do is to smile at her, your very best one. "I very much wish to, my lady."

					"Good," she hums the words at your agreeing, the tone quiet in the little distance you stand. Her hands lift to the buttons of her coat, lithe fingers unhook one clasp, then another. "I do prefer a man who takes orders."

					She turns her back to you. "Go on then." Her head turned to her shoulder, her eyes seeking you. "If you [i]must[/i]," her voice silken soft, as you bring her coat down lithe shoulders.

					*label didHelpHelenaCoat

					Easily soft fabrics comes off her.

					You find, at this distance, that you've misjudged something in her small frame. She holds herself with not just a strength of mind but her body is...

					Strangely agile, in a manner that a trapeze artist might be. Or a woman who does nothing but ride her horses. Not the soft, genteel woman who plays the public part of an innocent flower perfectly.

					Shoulders squared, spine straight, curves cinched firmly between bone, and a neck... peeking under her high set hair and high collar.

					"There," you say, as you hold her coat in your arms. It still lingering of her scent and seeping warmth.

					"Thank you," she breathes, and turns to you with a smile.

					*fake_choice
						#"Of course..."
						#I nod.
						#"Oh, my pleasure, my lady."

				#"Indeed... [i]If[/i]. Perhaps we shall never know," I muse aloud, my tone only betrayed by a hint of a smirk.
					"Indeed... [i]If[/i]. Perhaps we shall never know," you muse aloud, your tone only betrayed by a hint of a smirk.

					Her lips part then to—you assume—return with a harsh scolding, or to then roll eyes at your manner—but apparently that assumption is an underestimate of the woman before you.
					
					"It is a yes or no question, ${Miss}," her voice remains silken soft, yet now also sharpened edged and near freezing. She is an icicle and you wonder now if any startling touch would leave you rather awake and alert. 

					But her eyes never leave yours. "Well?" she asks.

					*fake_choice
						#Yes
							"Good," she hums the words at your agreeing, the tone quiet in the little distance you stand. Her hands lift to the buttons of her coat, lithe fingers unhook one clasp, then another. "I do prefer a man who takes orders."

							She turns her back to you. "Go on then," she says, as if she did not ask for. Her head turned to her shoulder, her eyes seeking you. "If you [i]must[/i]," her voice silken soft, as you bring her coat down lithe shoulders.

							*goto didHelpHelenaCoat
						#No

							"Do be careful, detective," she hums the words at your decline, the tone quiet in the little distance you stand. Her hands lift to the buttons of her coat, lithe fingers unhook one clasp, then another. "I do not put up with insubordination."

							*goto didntHelpHelenaCoat


				#"Do you plan to act this coy all night, madam?" I chide lightly.
					"Do you plan to act this coy all night, madam?" you chide.

					You thought her lips part then to return the insult, or to gasp at your manner—but apparently that assumption is to underestimate the woman before you.

					"Do be careful, detective," she hums the words, the tone silk smooth and quiet in the little distance you stand. Her hands lift to the buttons of her coat, lithe finger unhook one clasp, then another. "I do not put up with insubordination."

					*label didntHelpHelenaCoat
					*set hWanderedOffAtIntro true

					Soon she shrugs her way out of the heavy fabric and pools it in her arms—only to shove it into yours, yours to have and to hold.
					*comment to hold and to handle.
					*comment to hold and handle.
					"Do be good, and take care of that for me." 

					Not of a hint of a request in that demand. Not in her words, her narrowed gaze, or in the very manner her warmth seeps into your hands through her cloak as she turns and leaves you there.

					What can you do but watch her walk away?

					[i]Slowly.[/i]

					*page_break

					Lady Hawthorn's coat is soon handed off to some attendant that quickly appears by your side. A quick explanation where none is seemingly needed and your hands are once again freed.

					But...

					Lifting your gaze across the room, you see her there.

					And even without her burden she...

					Lingers on your mind.

					*fake_choice
						#There was no excuse you could tell yourself—she was striking and strange in the most spellbinding way.
						#I swear I do not know what is going on... at all.
						#Simply because she is so ridiculous, of course. That is all.

		#On second thought... I do not.





	

*if (hWanderedOffAtIntro)
	Then, minutes pass as all is done and readied, and masks are fastened properly. And it is time to walk in—

	Back in the room you came, among the heavy crowds, you spot, in your peripheral, Watson on the route of finding ${j_hi} way back to you, now without ${j_hi} own coat—${j_hi} noble disguise a glimmering sight. And Mrs Hudson comes your way too, only watching—and waiting to be introduced to everyone, everywhere.

	You imagine the landlady's hands trembling at the thought of some proper connections.

	Your whole group reconvenes, even Helena returns, as you stand at the vaulted arch that leads into the main hall.

*else
	*comment There you stand in the entry hall, as newcomers crowd around you like school of fish but you are the predators they swim around.

	*comment Now you stand at the vaulted arch that leads into the main hall. The, the whole of your group reconvenes. 

	Back in the room you came, among the heavy crowds, you spot—in your peripheral that Watson finds ${j_hi} way back to you, now without ${j_hi} own coat—${j_hi} noble disguise a glimmering sight. Hawthorne, in turn, linger still by your side. And Mrs Hudson remains there too, only watching—and waiting to be introduced to everyone, everywhere.

	You imagine the landlady's hands trembling at the thought of some proper connections.

*temp eyesSearch 0
*label eyesSearchBallRoom1
Your own eyes travel beyond this first room. Searching...
*fake_choice
	*disable_reuse #For Lestrade.
		*set eyesSearch + 1
		You do not not see Lestrade here. But ${l_he} should be [i]here somewhere[/i]. Mustn't ${l_he}? 

		$!{l_he} had sent all the material you had requested promptly over these last few days. There was not even a prissy, prompt, yet customary, 'is that all?' written on top of the files.

		It was all terribly professional and thorough.

		... Sometimes you wonder if hard work is how the ${l_man} apologises.

		*fake_choice
			#Not that I require it
			#Little good it does...
			#It will take more that that, of course. A proper apology would be a start.
			#Not that it would make a dent in my current low opinion of the ${l_man}

		*comment (Reference some variable about L).
		*comment TODO
		*comment Not that you require it
		*comment Not that it would make a dent in your low current opinion of the man
		*comment Little good that does

		*goto eyesSearchBallRoom1
	*disable_reuse #For anyone you know.
		*set eyesSearch + 1

		Looking at the mirage of people before you... It is, actually, rather hard to pinpoint anyone.

		And you typically pride yourself on such a skill.

		But with everyone dressed up as they are, moving about as they are, perhaps there is some truth to the anonymity of a masquerade. Anonymity not to be unrecognizable when face to face—but to be able to disappear in a crowd.

		One moment you think you see a familiar face... 

		The next it is a court jester in a pale, painted-crimson mask.

		*goto eyesSearchBallRoom1
	*disable_reuse #For anything out of the ordinary in the room...
		*set eyesSearch + 1

		The hall before you is large. Still cold but it will warm soon with the fires and the people. 

		*if (bBold)
			And if does not, you and many here are under-dressed in your layers...
		*else
			And if does not, many here are under-dressed in their layers...

		Then there was the design—the ballroom is decorated to the schematics and the drawings you were supplied. It all looked right from a quick glance.

		It is only...

		You wonder perhaps if the ballroom seems more full than you had been told by the guest list? But it could simply be that a surprising amount of people arrived on time. It was the event of the season, after all.

		You'll have to ask for a proper head count later...

		*goto eyesSearchBallRoom1
	*if (eyesSearch = 3) #You've seen all you can from here
	*if (((eyesSearch = 2) or (eyesSearch = 1)) and (false)) #You've seen all you wish from here



*comment Introduce what W and Mrs H will do.


*comment Mrs H ---
*comment MC to mrs H about H
*comment "They... they move very quick—" mc says
*comment "That is the way of courting, is it not?"
*comment - "Is it? i would not know."




*if (johnMan)
	*fake_choice
		*if ((true) and (johnMan)) #I turn to John to inform him of my thoughts of the scene, when—
			*comment 	Watson comes back wearing a mustache (cause they didnt have a mask) they borrowed it from a friend who does theater. 
			*comment 	Jane puts on extravagant makeup? heck if i know. Maybe skip this. it doesnt work as well...
			*comment 	--
			*comment 	THEN have the facial hair convo
			*comment 	“Take that silly thing off.”
			*comment 	/ “I prefer you without it John.”
			*comment 	/ “I do like a man with a moustache.”
			You turn fully to your companion, Watson, to inform ${j_him} of your thoughts of the scene when—

			*if (johnMan)
				*comment moustache version:
				John stands there, in his normally clean-shaven skin, with what looks like a sudden moustache on his upper lip.

				It had not been there just minutes ago, when we walked into the building...

				*temp moustacheMCReaction ""
				

				*fake_choice
					#"Good god, what is that [i]thing[/i] on your face, Watson?!"
						*temp moustacheMCReaction "shocked"
						"Good god, what is that [i]thing[/i] on your face, Watson?!"

						"Oh! I—I did not have a mask, is all," your tone of shock has shocked him in turn, "And I did find this in the attic—"
					#I simply lift my brows and gaze down at the thing pointedly, expecting an explanation.
						*temp moustacheMCReaction "neutral"
						You lift your brows and gaze down at the moustache pointedly, expecting an explanation.

						"Oh! The moustache? I did not have a mask, is all," your direct stare has him a little flustered, "And I did find this in the attic—"
					#"I feel less informed than I usually am... Would you enlighten me, John?"
						*temp moustacheMCReaction "neutral"
						"I feel less informed than I usually am... Would you enlighten me, John?"

						"Oh? Oh—the moustache! Yes, well, I did not have a matching mask, you see," your attentions have him a little flustered at the very idea of the disguise now, "And so when I did find this in the attic—"
					#"[i]Oh?[/i] Well now... That's new."
						*temp moustacheMCReaction "neutral"
						"[i]Oh?[/i] Well now... That's new."

						"Oh? What is—OH—the moustache! Yes, I did not have a matching mask, you see," your tone has him a little flustered at the very idea of the disguise now, "And so when I did find this in the attic—"
					#"Brilliant disguise, Watson! Simple enough for this matter, explainable, [i]and[/i] removable to make an exit. I've taught you well."
						*temp moustacheMCReaction "approving"
						"Brilliant disguise, Watson! Simple enough for this matter, explainable, [i]and[/i] removable to make an exit. I've taught you well."

						"You think so, Sherlock?" he smiles at that, always one for praise—even if a little flustered now. "I did not have a mask, is all, and so when I did find this in the attic—"

				*fake_choice
					*if (moustacheMCReaction = "shocked") #"Is that what you had to go upstairs to get before we left?! Trickster!"
						"Is that what you had to go upstairs to get before we left?! Trickster!" you accuse.
						
						"Y—yes? But that is your issue? I'd like to think I have been able to keep better secrets than that..."
						
						"You're an awful liar, Watson."
						
						Like with most things, he merely laughs. "I suppose if you say so, I must be."
					*if (moustacheMCReaction = "approving") #"Is that what you had to go upstairs to get before we left? Oh, what a trickster you are!"
						"Is that what you had to go upstairs to get before we left? Oh, what a trickster you are!" you accuse lightheartedly.
						
						"I did, but I'd like to think I have been able to keep better secrets than that before—"
						
						"Hardly. You're a debutante of a liar, Watson."
						
						Like with most things, he merely laughs. "I suppose if you say so, I must be."
					*if (moustacheMCReaction = "neutral") #"Is that what you had to go upstairs to get before we left? Such trickery."
						"Is that what you had to go upstairs to get before we left? Such trickery," you accuse softly.
						
						"Yes, I did, but I'd like to think I have been able to keep better secrets than that before?"
						
						"Afraid not, Watson. You're a bit of a debutante with lying, sir."
						
						Like with most things, he merely laughs. "I suppose if you say so, I must be."

				*set watsonTrickery + 1
				*if (watsonTrickeryCab)
					Watson does seem to enjoy playing little pranks on you. Second one in a few days... First the cabs, and now this.


				*fake_choice 
					*if (moustacheMCReaction != "shocked") #“Now take that silly thing off.”
						“Now take that silly thing off,” you say.
						*if moustacheMCReaction = "approving"
							Watson's blue eyes widen, and melt into something rather sad, like a puppy who's told to give up its toy. "But... I thought you approved?"

							"Come now, doctor. A good disguise is a good disguise. That does not mean I approve of having to stare it in the face all night," you say, looking at the thing as one might look upon a puzzle with a missing piece.

							And with that, Watson removes it.

							It really did not suit him at all.

					*if (moustacheMCReaction = "shocked") #“Take that silly thing off.”
							“Take that silly thing off,” you say.

							And nothing more needs to be said, for with that, Watson removes it.

							It really did not suit him at all.

					#"I prefer you without it, John.”
						"I prefer you without it, John.”

						And nothing more needs to be said, for with that, Watson quickly removes it. The glue is still fresh enough to peel off cleanly.

						It did not suit him, sadly.
					#"Keep it if you wish. I'd not mind you either way, Sir."
						*set hasMoustacheAtBall true
						*set growMoustache false
						"Keep it if you wish. I'd not mind you either way, Sir."

						Watson's blue eyes linger on you, as if to figure out if there's a hidden option that is the right one, then settles on you speaking your honest, noncommittal truth.

						"Then," he says, "I shall keep it [i]for the night[/i]. I do rather thing it adds... something to the disguise. Feels rather right."
					#“I do like a man with a moustache.”
						*set hasMoustacheAtBall true
						*set growMoustache true
						*if (genderMC = "man")
							“I do like a man with a moustache,” you say.

							*if (johnAttracted = false)
								And you'd think you'd have said something a lot braver, or remarkable, with how his eyes widen and jaw drops. "As in—that it is fashionable, ${mc_name}? As it is fashionable?" he presses, rather insisting to know what you mean properly. 

								Desperately, he wishes to know if you'd think he should grow one... 

								"It is a good look, Watson," you say simply. Leaving him to ponder for the rest of the night, whether it was a good look on him, or on others.
							*else
								And you'd think you'd have said something a lot braver, or remarkable, with how his eyes widen and jaw drops. "As in—that it is fashionable, ${mc_name}? As it is fashionable?" he presses, rather insisting to know what you mean properly with a small lean in your direction. 

								That you, a man... may [i]like[/i]... another man with a moustache... 

								"It is a good look, Watson," you say simply. Leaving him to ponder for the rest of the night, whether it was a good look on him, or on others.

								[i]And if you think he should grow one.[/i]

						*else
							“I do like a man with a moustache,” you say.

							*if (johnAttracted = false)
								And you'd think you'd have said something a lot braver, or remarkable, with how his eyes widen and jaw drops. "As in—that it is fashionable, ${mc_name}? As it is fashionable on a man?" he presses, rather insisting to know what you mean properly. 

								Desperately, he wishes to know if you'd think he should grow one... 

								"It is a good look, Watson," you say simply. Leaving him to ponder for the rest of the night, whether it was a good look on him, or on others.

							*else
								And you'd think you'd have said something a lot braver, or remarkable, with how his eyes widen and jaw drops. "As in—that it is fashionable, ${mc_name}? As it is fashionable on a man?" he presses, rather insisting to know what you mean properly with a small lean in your direction. 

								That you prefer it... in an aesthetic, trendy manner? Or...

								"It is a good look, Watson," you say simply. Leaving him to ponder for the rest of the night, whether it was a good look on him, or on others.

								[i]And if you think he should grow one.[/i]


			*else
				*comment makeup version:
				Jane stands there with a face of colour and bold, yet delicate paint. A reddened lip, more than one could pretend to be natural. Cheeks rouged. Eyes bolder by some darkened kohl.

				It had not been there just minutes ago...


				*comment She wore some makeup, at times. The proper amount that one could pretend was not at all. Or a pinch of a cheek and a curl of hair. But this?
				*fake_choice
					#TODO
*if (travellsWith = "W")
	*fake_choice		
		*if ((true) and (travellsWith = "W")) #I turn to ${hName}. "The carriage you sent was terribly gaudy, $!{h_sir2} Hawthorne," I dare utter as I look out at the room.
			*comment WHEN U MEET H AGAIN, IF U KNOW THE CARRIAGE IS HEAVY AND GUILDED, MAKE IT SO YOU CAN BRING IT UP. AND HAVE THEM SAY THEY HATE HOW GILDED IT IS. MAYBE MRS H BRINGS UP ITS SPLENDOR, AND H APOLOGISES FOR ITS EXCESS.

			"The carriage you sent was terribly gaudy, $!{h_sir2} Hawthorne."

			"Ah, yes. It was, wasn't it?" Hawthorne agrees, just as—you notice—Watson was about to do the same, ${j_hi} lips parted and everything.

			But, "No, it—not at all!" Mrs Hudson disagrees vehemently. "It was the most perfect level of sophistication, $!{h_sir}! Stop putting such nonsense on the poor ${h_man}, ${mc_name}."

			Watson's lips remain lightly parted, as if ${j_he} can't decide if insulting the ${h_gentleman} is worth agreeing with that very same ${h_man}.
			*comment Truly... ${johnName} looks... positively lost, poor thing. (Maybe remove the poor thing? Not sure the vibe is right for all mcs).

			The conversation continues in very much the same manner, ${hName} and Hudson disagreeing most politely.

			*comment You decide answers is rather more interesting then, "Yes, well, if you *do* agree, sir, why have such a thing in the first place?"

			Finally, someone, most likely Watson, asks why ${h_he} keeps such a thing in the first place, if ${h_he} disagrees with it. And the answer is simple there too, "I'd not mind if it were set ablaze, truth be told. But, something of a family heirloom now... I've kept it as a... a spare. It felt fitting."

			The ${h_gentleman} smiles at you all then. Why, you can only guess.
		*if ((true) and (travellsWith = "W")) #Watson turns to ${hName}. "The carriage you sent was rather gaudy, wasn't it, $!{h_sir2} Hawthorne?" Watson dares to utter as you all survey the room.
			"The carriage you sent was rather gaudy, wasn't it, $!{h_sir2} Hawthorne?" Watson dares utter as you all survey the room.

			"Ah, yes. It was, wasn't it?" Hawthorne agrees, managing to stump Watson who was quite ready for the counterargument, ${j_hi} lips parted and everything.

			But, "No, it—not at all!" Mrs Hudson disagrees vehemently. "It was the most perfect level of sophistication, ${h_sir}! Stop putting such nonsense on the poor ${h_man}, ${johnName}!"

			Watson's lips remain lightly parted, as if ${j_he} can't decide if further insulting the ${h_gentleman} is worth agreeing with that very same ${h_man}.

			*comment ${johnName} looked positively lost, poor thing.

			The conversation continues in very much the same manner, ${hName} and Hudson disagreeing most politely.

			*comment You decide answers is rather more interesting then, "Yes, well, if you *do* agree, sir, why have such a thing in the first place?"

			Finally, someone, [i]Watson[/i], asks why the ${h_gentleman} keeps such a thing in the first place, if ${h_he} so disagrees with it. And the answer is simple there too, "I'd not mind if it were set ablaze, truth be told. But, something of a family heirloom now... I've kept it as a... a spare. It felt fitting."

			The ${h_gentleman} smiles at you all then. Why, you can only guess.

*page_break
*if (false)


	*comment can't make this flow right here, might reuse some other place.
	*if ((travellsWith != "W") and (turnedDownHInTheCarriage = false))

		*if (bPrettied = "less")
			"You do look rather-interesting tonight, my dear,” Hamish leans in and easily compliments your (outfit/dress/disguise).
		*else
			"You do look radiant/rather-interesting tonight, my dear,” Hamish leans in and easily compliments your (outfit/dress/disguise).

		“Why—" Watson interjects. "You should not speak to them in that manner—"

		At that, you rack your brain... There is perhaps a taboo of being too complementary on subjects of vanity in this day and age but, truth be told, very few were held to that standard.

		“Should I not?" The gentleman counters, "Would your precious sermon book object? Heaven forbid. Now—MC—may I steal you away? For a dance.” / I would ask for a dance but we have business matters to attend to.

		*comment Watson, once again, having preemptively used his objection remains standing by the threshold of the party as 

	*elseif (((travellsWith != "W") and (someKindOfSimp)) and ((bPrettied = "more") and (attractive > 2)))


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

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


		"${mc_name}, you look marvellous/perfect tonight.
		*if (genderMC = "them")
			Don't ${mc_xhe}${gentlemen}?"
		*else
			Doesn't ${mc_xhe}${gentlemen}?"
		Mrs Hudson speaks to the whole group
		*if (travellsWith = "W&H")
			which consists of you, and her... and Watson, and ${hName}.
		*else
			"Oh, I very well agree," Hamish's eyes travel your entire frame as if it is no bother nor anything too bold, and easily compliments your (outfit/dress/disguise), "You do look radiant tonight/perfectly-interesting-tonight, my dear."

		*if (wRomance)
			*set SermonBroughtUp true
			Before you are able to utter your thoughts on such a compliment, Watson beats you to the punch, "That's—" Watson interjects, "Hardly proper, sir," he chides.

			The gentleman simply lifts a brow at John, as if the other  was a very small/high-pitched dog suddenly barking at them in the middle of a dinner service. "And why ever not? Do you disagree with my assessment?"

			"N—no, no, of course not," Watson hastens. "$!{mc_name} always looks perfect. Nevertheless—I, um, I read so Fordyce's Sermon! A host, of a ball, should not speak excessively of a patron's appearance..."

			"Then I shall keep it to under excess, Doctor," ${hName} gives ${j_him} a glance and a barely existent smirk in turn. "I believe our dear detective looks so positively [i]radiant[/i] tonight, that excess in relation to their image would be difficult to achieve."

			You wrack your brain... There is perhaps a taboo of being too complementary on subjects of vanity in this day and age but, truth be told, very few were held to that standard. 

			To place further burden on a host... You can not recall such a thing.

			And neither had Hawthorne. "Furthermore, I've never heard of such a strict rule of society?"

			"I tell you, it's in Fordyce's Sermons."

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

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

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

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

			"Are you—"

			"Are you doubting my word and honour?" 

			"Of course I do no such thing, [i]doctor[/i], it is only—" 

			"Good."

			${hName} almost snorts, a heavy breath from ${h_his} nostrils, accompanied by a sneering smile on ${h_his} lips. "Very well, I'll refrain from excessive compliments in your nearness... Do not worry."

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

			*page_break

			Hamish leans in towards you, to be heard over the roar of the crowds, of course. "Now—MC—may I steal you away? We have some business matters to attend to, quite on our own."


	*else
		*comment if traveled with but basically pushed em away, I think... Not sure the degree of coldness here... Maybe skip entirely 

		Hamish leans in the smallest of measures, to be heard over the roar of the crowds, "Now—MC—may I steal you away? We have some business matters to attend to, before I set you free."


*else
	*if (HRomance)
		$!{hName} leans in towards you, to be heard over the roar of the crowds, of course. "Now—${mc_madam}—may I steal you away? We have some business matters to attend to," looking at the other and then, "Quite on our own..."

	*else
		${hName} leans in the smallest of measures, to be heard over the roar of the crowds, "Now—${mc_madam}—may I steal you away? We have some business matters to attend to, before I set you free."

	The ${h_gentleman} begins to lead you forward, and away from your companions.
	*if (wRomance)
		Mrs Hudson, quite clearly, as well as she is able—holding Watson back so as not to follow. And you believe you catch ${hName} throwing them both a smile of sorts behind you, as your walk on.


*comment Meet / talk to H. (possible H reveal outfit + attractiveness convo + H talks about what mcs role is at the party / undercover to the public)
*comment TALK ABOUT THEIR CLOTHES TOO! where's the penguin convo... hmm...

*comment If H is same sex (or maybe also opposite sex) and they dress as you do (because they fancy you) MC look at them deadpan “I suppose imitation *is* the sincerest form of flatter, would you not say, my lady?”

*comment Helps you with your coat:

*comment Hamish helps you himself?
*comment - for men "Now, now. I do not stand on precedence... not always. You are my honoured guest. If I do not mind on a matter of principle or status, then I hardly think... Surely it is more proper that a man assists you than any woman? Would you ask it of Mrs Hudson? So please, let me. I wish to," he says, as he begins to reach for you, to help you out of your coat.

*comment Helena orders someone to help?


*comment they comment on your theme, style. you can comment on theirs.
*comment An RO says “and tomorow i will read in the papers “the famous detective, dressed in the shade of bMainColourOf — “
*comment - (corrects to specific colour)


*comment TODO ADD THIS BACK IN DEC






*fake_choice
	#One step in front of the other, I secure my mask once more, and we finally walk into the ball room proper—

*if (bAttractive > 4)
	*comment If you’re attractive and walk past / into the ball. 
	The heads that were turned away, or down—or even to others—turn to you. 

	All of them. 

	As if a parting shoal of fish, they followed. Heads lifting, necks straining. One by one, as you walk further into the room, in your peripheral, on you, their heads and staring eyes stay. 

	Hold your breath, and they hold theirs.

	Should you turn to return their attention, they do look away. Yet, a few brave souls fight nerves and propriety and all and keep their gaze firm and their smiles warm. 

	Or hungry.

	And bloody.

	Beyond the fairer attention, there were, of course, some glares. 

	Judgement and territorial and small.

	Nonetheless, there was none who did not look upon you... And who did not terribly linger.

	And your ${bMainColourPhrase} ${dress}.

	*page_break

	In the end, your appearance, as it was tonight—(and many nights)—made it terribly difficult to manoeuvre and to people watch unnoticed.

	Which were, otherwise, very good things for your work.

	*if (bPrettied != "less")
		But did you regret it?
	*else
		Shame. At least you tried.

*elseif (bAttractive > 3)
	*comment If you’re attractive and walk past / into the ball. 
	The heads that were turned away, or down—or even to others—turn to you. 

	Damn near all of them. 

	As if a parting shoal of fish, they followed. Heads lifting, necks straining. One by one, as you walk further into the room, in your peripheral, on you, their heads and staring eyes stay. 

	Hold your breath, and they might hold theirs.

	Should you turn to return their attention, they do look away. Yet, a few brave souls fight propriety and keep their gaze firm and their smiles warm. 

	Beyond the fairer attention, there were, of course, some glares. 

	Judgement and territorial and hopes to diminish you.

	Nonetheless, there were only a few who did not look upon you... And who did not terribly linger.

	And your ${bMainColourPhrase} ${dress}.

	*page_break

	*if (bPrettied = "less")
		In the end, your appearance tonight made it still difficult to manoeuvre and to people-watch unnoticed. If a little easier, perhaps.

		A bit more, and it would have been very good for your work.
	*else
		In the end, your appearance tonight made it rather difficult to manoeuvre and to people-watch unnoticed.

		Which were, otherwise, very good things for your work.

	*if (bPrettied != "less")
		But did you regret it?
	*else
		Shame. At least you tried.

*elseif (bAttractive = 3)
	*if (bPrettied = "more")
		With your mask, your ${dress}, and your general appearance, you blend in. 

		You are a decoration on these walls.

		A face in every crowd.

		The figure in the background, a stage player, a piece but never the résistance.

		Some eyes do linger, a little, wondering who you are—wondering if you look familiar because they know you or because they should.

		But... 

		But, [i]in the end[/i], your appearance as it was tonight made it all too terribly easy to manoeuvre and people watch. 

		And those were very good things indeed for your work. 

		Nothing, nothing at all to complain about.

		You, in your disguise of your own making.

		It was... terribly good. Yes?
	*else
		With your mask, your ${dress}, and your general appearance, you blend in. 

		You are a decoration on these walls.

		A face in every crowd.

		The figure in the background, a stage player, a piece but never the résistance.

		Some eyes do linger, a little, wondering who you are—wondering if you look familiar because they know you or because they should.

		But... 

		But, [i]in the end[/i], your appearance as it was tonight made it all too easy to manoeuvre and people watch. 

		And those were very good things indeed for your work. 

		Nothing, nothing at all to complain about.

		You, in your disguise of your own making.

		It was all terribly useful.

*else
	*if (bPrettied = "none")
		With your mask, your ${dress}, and your appearance, you seemed to... push people away. If some might linger a little when looking up as you pass, wondering who you are—wondering if you look familiar because they know you or because they should. 

		Even if they do, they soon turn away.

		But would you not rather that than a stare?

		Still, a dismissal is not... They hardly seem to care for the sight.

		There was almost a scowl, a frown, upon a few.

		As most looked right past you, on either very harsh purpose, or very natural instinct, it made it all terribly easy to manoeuvre, and to people-watch.

		These were all very good things in your line of work.

		Nothing, nothing at all to complain about.

		That you...

		You, in your disguise of yourself—

		Repel even the gaze of strangers.
	*else
		With your mask, your ${dress}, and your appearance, you seemed to... push people away. If some might linger a little when looking up as you pass, wondering who you are—wondering if you look familiar because they know you or because they should. 

		Even if they do, they soon turn away.

		But would you not rather that than a stare?

		Still, a dismissal is not... They hardly seem to care for the sight.

		There was almost a scowl, a frown, upon a few.

		As most looked right past you, on either very harsh purpose, or very natural instinct, it made it all terribly easy to manoeuvre, and to people-watch.

		These were all very good things in your line of work.

		Nothing, nothing at all to complain about.

		That you...

		You, in your disguise of yourself—made worse as it was, to a point—

		Repel even the gaze of strangers.

*page_break 
As you properly enter the ball room—

*comment Make sure H doesn’t introduce MC as anything but an honored guest — “H doesnt want a panic people’s jewels will be stolen—“ so mc really is there, publically, as not a detective.

*comment (H talks about it more softly if romantic simp route and invited together, "please do remember to enjoy yourself" vs "You cant allow these people fear their purses will be taken, you'll have a chaos too hard to wrangle")

*if (((someKindOfSimp) and (HRomance)) or (travellsWith != "W"))
	Again, ${h_sir2} Hawthorn leans in, "You cannot," ${h_he} begins as ${h_he} looks out the room with a particularly firm gaze, "Allow these people to fear their purses will be taken, or you'll have a chaos too hard to wrangle by the militia."

	The ${h_gentleman}'s firm gaze breaks to linger and soften upon you, as ${h_he} remains a slow pace by your side as you cross the crowded room. $!{h_he} should perhaps speak up above the conspiratorial whisper to have you hear, but instead ${h_he} simply walks closer. "As I instructed in one of my letters, it is imperative to present you as my honoured [i]guest[/i]. If the crowds get a whiff of you being here for any manner of work... Well. If you think the police have a habit of ruining crime scenes with improper care. Imagine a scene littered with hundreds of the most nosy, spiritless, and careless of the [i]beau[/i] monde. No. Do heed my warning and tell no one your true purpose here."

	*fake_choice
		#I nod. It was always a sensible suggestion.
			You nod. It was always a sensible suggestion.

			Grubby hands ruin all the best crimes.

			"Furthermore," ${h_he} begins again, "I wish to... I do so wish you for you to enjoy yourself, $!{Miss} ${mc_lastname}. I've decided that is my primary concern for tonight."

		#"... That is rather elementary, $!{h_sir2} Hawthorne."
			"... That is rather elementary, $!{h_sir2} Hawthorne." Grubby hands ruin all the best crimes.

			"I—of course," ${h_he} chuckles. "Listen to me prattle on,"
			${h_he} begins again, "Beyond the previous, I wish to... I do so wish you for you to enjoy yourself, $!{Miss} ${mc_lastname}. I've decided that is my primary concern for tonight."

		#"I shall try, but you do never know."
			"I shall try, but you do never know," you say. While grubby hands ruin all the best crimes, you never do know what you might need to say.

			"I—of course," ${h_his} eyes dart to you.
			$!{h_he} begins again, "And moreover, I wish to... I do so wish you for you to enjoy yourself, $!{Miss} ${mc_lastname}. I've decided that is my primary concern for tonight."

	"My enjoyment?"

	"You... And your enjoyment, yes."
*elseif (someKindOfSimp)
	Again the ${h_man} leans in, "You cannot," ${h_he} begins ${h_he} he looks out the room with a particularly firm gaze, "Allow these people to fear their purses will be taken, or you'll have a chaos too hard to wrangle by the militia."

	The ${h_gentleman}'s firm gaze breaks to linger and soften upon you, as ${h_he} remains a slow pace by your side as you cross the crowded room. $!{h_he} should perhaps speak up above the conspiratorial whisper to have you hear, but instead ${h_he} simply walks compatriotly closer. "As I instructed in one of my letters, it is imperative to present you as my [i]guest[/i]. If the crowds get a whiff of you being here for any manner of work... Well. If you think the police have a habit of ruining crime scenes with improper care. Imagine a scene littered with hundreds of the most nosy, spiritless, and careless of the [i]beau[/i] monde. No. Do heed my warning and tell no one your true purpose here."

	*fake_choice
		#I nod. It was always a sensible suggestion.
			You nod. It was always a sensible suggestion.

			Grubby hands ruin all the best crimes.

		#"... That is rather elementary, $!{h_sir2} Hawthorne."
			"... That is rather elementary, $!{h_sir2} Hawthorne." Grubby hands ruin all the best crimes.

			"I—of course," ${h_he} chuckles. "Listen to me prattle on."

		#"I shall try, but you do never know."
			"I shall try, but you do never know," you say. While grubby hands ruin all the best crimes, you never do know what you might need to say.

			"I—of course," ${h_his} eyes dart to you.

*elseif (HRomance)
	Again the ${h_man} leans in, "You can't," ${h_he} begins ${h_he} he looks out the room with a particularly firm gaze, "Allow these people to fear their purses will be taken, or you'll have a chaos too hard to wrangle by any militia."

	The ${h_gentleman}'s firm gaze breaks to linger upon you, for a moment, as you heed a quick pace crossing the crowded room. 

	$!{h_he} could perhaps speak up above the conspiratorial whisper to have you hear, but instead ${h_he} simply walks closer. "As I instructed in one of my letters, it is imperative to present you as my [i]guest[/i]. If the crowds get a whiff of you being here for any manner of work... Well. If you think the police have a habit of ruining crime scenes with improper care. Imagine a scene littered with hundreds of the most nosy, spiritless, and careless of the [i]beau[/i] monde. No. Do heed my warning and tell no one your true purpose here."

	*fake_choice
		#I nod. It was always a sensible suggestion.
			You nod. It was always a sensible suggestion.

			Grubby hands ruin all the best crimes.

		#"... That is rather elementary, $!{h_sir2} Hawthorne."
			"... That is rather elementary, $!{h_sir2} Hawthorne." Grubby hands ruin all the best crimes.

			"Is it?" ${h_he} muses. "Suppose it must be. But you'd be surprised at the deficiencies of delegations I've had to face."

		#"I shall try, but you do never know."
			"I shall try, but you do never know," you say. While grubby hands ruin all the best crimes, you never do know what you might need to say.

			$!{h_his} eyes dart to you with something close to confusion.

	"Furthermore," ${h_he} begins again, "I wish to... I've decided that you are my primary concern for tonight. Should you require anything... For the work, of course."

	"[i]Of course[/i]."

	[i]Oh[/i], if looks could kill, then the one ${h_he} throws you now...
	*comment /// Remove or rephrase or make a choice of tone.
	*comment TODO

*else
	Again the ${h_man} leans in, "You can't," ${h_he} begins as ${h_he} looks out the room with ${h_his} customary firm gaze, "Allow these people to fear their purses will be taken, or you'll have a chaos too hard to wrangle by any militia."

	The ${h_gentleman} remains walking forward and hardly ever glancing in your direction. "As I instructed in one of my letters, it is imperative to present you as my [i]guest[/i]. Should the crowds get a whiff of you being here for any manner of work... Well. If you think the police have a habit of ruining crime scenes with improper care. Imagine a scene littered with hundreds of the most nosy, spiritless, and careless of the [i]beau[/i] monde. No. Do heed my warning and tell no one your true purpose here."

	*fake_choice
		#I nod. It was always a sensible suggestion.
			You nod. It was always a sensible suggestion.

			Grubby hands ruin all the best crimes.

		#"... That is rather elementary, $!{h_sir2} Hawthorne."
			"... That is rather elementary, $!{h_sir2} Hawthorne." Grubby hands ruin all the best crimes.

			"Is it?" ${h_he} muses. "Suppose it must be. But you'd be surprised at the deficiencies of delegations I've had to face."

		#"I shall try, but you do never know."
			"I shall try, but you do never know," you say. While grubby hands ruin all the best crimes, you never do know what you might need to say.

			$!{h_his} eyes only dart to you with something close to confusion. But lets it be.







*comment H introduces the new npcs.
*comment + has convo about clothing themes
*comment + the work
*comment + it being a masquerade (makes it all the more complicated—but isn't that fun?)
*comment + 






*page_break

*if (HRomance) and (genderMC != h_man)
	*if (((hman) and (someKindOfSimp)) and (travellsWith != "W"))
		Hawthorne, with a hand gallant attempt at propriety, leads you forward with your arm on his, and towards a group at a portion of the room that is rather raised. 
	*elseif ((hman) and (someKindOfSimp = false))
		Hawthorne, with a hand that seems to flex by his side to lead you forward by a hand on your lower back, crowds you towards a group at a portion of the room that is rather raised.
	*elseif (((hman = false) and (someKindOfSimp)) and (travellsWith != "W"))
		Hawthorne, with a gloved hand placed upon your arm, steers you towards a group at a portion of the room that is rather raised.
	*elseif ((hman = false) and (someKindOfSimp = false))
		Hawthorne, with a gloved hand seemingly unused to not being offered the courtesy of an arm, steers you towards a group at a portion of the room that is rather raised.
	*else
		Hawthorne, with a hand that seems to flex by ${h_his} side without the contact and courtesy of your touch, steers you towards a group at a portion of the room that is rather raised.
*elseif (((HRomance) and (genderMC = h_man)) and (hman = false))
	Hawthorne, with a gloved hand seemingly unused to not being offered the courtesy of an arm, steers you towards a group at a portion of the room that is rather raised.
*elseif (HRomance)
	Hawthorne, with a hand that seems to flex by ${h_his} side without the contact of your touch, crowds you towards a group at a portion of the room that is rather raised.
*else
	Hawthorne steers you towards a group at a portion of the room that is rather raised.
The glittering people there as if... on display. 
*comment But it is all very polite.

The two of you approach an older couple. The woman wears a tiara, looks exquisitely rich and uninterested in any and all things, and the man appears stern, determined, and more sure of his blue blood than some crustaceans.


Here, the ${h_gentleman} you know begins to introduce you to the two other hosts of the evening; it was all a committee or a... truly, the papers you received about board structures and trusts were not the most appealing.
*if (hMan)
	"Lord Lombard." ${hName} bows. "Lady Lombard. Tonight is a true triumph, my lordships. And, partly to ensure that remains the case—" 
*else
	"Lord Lombard." ${hName} curtsies and bows. "Lady Lombard. Tonight is a true triumph, my lordships. And, partly to ensure that remains the case—" 

${hName} turns to me. And ${h_he} smiles.

"My lord, and lady Lombard, may I have the honour of introducing ${Miss} ${mc_name} ${mc_lastname}? ${Miss} ${mc_lastname}, this is Lord and Lady Lombard, chairs of the committee hosting the ball, and my illustrious co-hosts for this very affair."

*temp showCurtsy true
*temp showBow true
*temp curtsy ""

*if ((bWearingDress) and (genderMC = "woman"))
	*set showCurtsy true
	*set showBow false
	*set curtsy "curtsy"
*elseif ((bWearingDress = false) and (genderMC = "man"))
	*set showCurtsy false
	*set showBow true
	*set curtsy "bow"
*elseif ((mc_them) and (bWearingDress))
	*set curtsy "curtsy"
*else
	*set curtsy "bow"

*comment TODO
*fake_choice
	#"A pleasure, Lord and Lady Lombard." I ${curtsy}. 
		"A pleasure, Lord and Lady Lombard." You ${curtsy}. 
	#"Ah. Yes. Lombard. I saw that in the papers... And on a few buildings. Congratulations."
		"Ah. Yes. Lombard. I saw that in the papers... And on a few buildings. Congratulations."
	#"... Hello."
		"... Hello," you add, curtly and a bit quietly in the roar of the room.
	*if (showBow) #I merely bow.
		You bow, properly and everything.
	*if (showCurtsy) #I merely curtsy.
		You curtsy, properly and everything.

$!{hName} speaks up again,
*if (mc_them = false)
	"${Miss} ${mc_lastname} is the esteemed detective on our strange jewel case, and I believe making ${mc_xir} acquaintance would be of interest, my lordships. ${mc_xhe} is the name on everyone's lips."
*else
	"${Miss} ${mc_lastname} is the esteemed detective on our strange jewel case, and I believe making ${mc_xir} acquaintance would be of interest, my lordships. $!{mc_xhe} are the name on everyone's lips."

*if (sexuality = "women")
	"Oh, is that so, ${h_sir2} Hawthorne?" The older woman says. "The pleasure is ours, I'm sure, ${Miss} ${mc_lastname}."
*else
	"Oh, is that so, ${h_sir2} Hawthorne?" The older man says. "The pleasure is ours, I'm sure, ${Miss} ${mc_lastname}."

*comment -> flirt with the man or woman (if attractive or charming)
*fake_choice
	#"Oh no, the [i]pleasure[/i] is all mine," I lay it on rather thick.
		"Oh no, the [i]pleasure[/i] is all mine," I lay it on rather thick.

		*if (bAttractive > 2)
			*if (sexuality = "women")
				Her eyes grow large, and all at once she seems suddenly present in the conversation. "Y—you're quite gallant, ${Miss}."
			*elseif (genderMC != "woman")
				He almost sputters. The stony face is rather softened, if not a bit shocked. "What a gift you are, ${Miss}." He guffaws. "Where did you find this spitfire, $!{h_sir2} Hawthorne? Brilliant find, I must say." His eyes on you linger a little too long.
			*else
				He almost sputters. The stony face is rather softened, if not a bit shocked. "What a gift you are, ${Miss}." He guffaws. "Where did you find this little firecracker, $!{h_sir2} Hawthorne? Brilliant find, I must say." His eyes on you linger a little too long.
		*else
			*if (sexuality = "women")
				Her eyes grow only a little larger, but she already seems rather bored of it all. "Yes, yes, I'm sure, ${Miss}."
			*else
				He hardly reacts. The stony face remains. "Yes, yes, I'm sure, ${Miss}."

	#"You are too kind," I offer politely.
		"You are too kind," you offer politely.

		*if (bAttractive > 4)
			*if (sexuality = "women")
				The old woman seems rather... charmed. A dazed, soft look to her. And she seems suddenly terribly present in the conversation once you joined. "You're quite a gallant thing, ${Miss}." She smiles widely, too widely.
				*if (genderMC != "woman")
					"Terribly handsome, too."
				*else
					"A gentle, pretty thing..."
			*else
				The old man seems rather... charmed. A dazed, soft look to him. And he seems suddenly terribly present in the conversation once you joined. "You're quite an amiable thing, ${Miss}, aren't you?" his grin grows.
				*if (genderMC != "woman")
					"Terribly fetching, too."
				*else
					"A gentle, pretty thing, too."
		*else
			*if (sexuality = "women")
				She already seems rather bored of it all. "Yes, yes, I'm sure, ${Miss}."
			*else
				He hardly reacts. The stony face remains. "Yes, yes, I'm sure, ${Miss}."
	#"..."
		You say absolutely nothing.

		*if (bAttractive > 4)
			*if (sexuality = "women")
				And yet, the old woman seems rather... charmed. A dazed, soft look to her. And she seems suddenly terribly present in the conversation once you joined. "You're quite a shy thing, ${Miss}, aren't you?" She smiles widely, too widely.
				*if (genderMC != "woman")
					"Terribly handsome, too."
				*else
					"A gentle, pretty thing..."
			*else
				And yet, the old man seems rather... charmed. A dazed, soft look to him. And he seems suddenly terribly present in the conversation once you joined. "You're quite a shy thing, ${Miss}, aren't you?" his grin grows.
				*if (genderMC != "woman")
					"A terribly fetching, shy thing."
				*else
					"A shy, pretty thing..."
		*else
			*if (sexuality = "women")
				She seems rather confused from it all. "Yes..."
			*else
				He hardly reacts. The stony face remains. "Yes..."
	#"Mmm, yes. Quite," I agree, and look rather ready to depart the conversation.
		"Mmm, yes. Quite," you agree, and look rather ready to depart the conversation.

		*if (bAttractive > 4)
			*if (sexuality = "women")
				The old woman seems rather... charmed. A dazed look to her. And she seems suddenly terribly present in the conversation once you joined. "You're quite sure of yourself, ${Miss}. Well deserved, I would recon?" She smiles widely.
			*else
				The old man seems rather... charmed. A dazed look to him. And he seems suddenly terribly present in the conversation once you joined. "You're quite sure of yourself, ${Miss}. Well deserved, I would recon?" his grin grows.
		*else
			*if (sexuality = "women")
				Her eyes grow only a little larger, but she seems decently taken aback at your tone. "Yes..."
			*else
				He hardly reacts. The stony face turns if a little grumpier, and simply harrumphs, "Yes, yes, I'm sure, ${Miss}."


Hawthorne, to ${h_his} credit, does not flinch or blink at either thing. But a moment later, with a quick cough and a polite nod, ${h_he} offers an apology of leaving, and you are led away once again. "Duty calls," ${h_he} excuses to everyone.






*page_break



*comment Someone who MC is below in status, or who MC is introduced to—confronts MC about H's interest in them. Telling them they are not for them. And implying they are a mistress, and would always remain so lol.
*comment //
*comment Have person who likes H say you’re not good enough and to stay away after you help them with this. 

*comment maybe move this part.


*comment - Introduce MC's thoughts / case preparation.









With all introductions and business done, you are let free to roam the room.

The only issue is, of course... No crime has been committed yet.

You could try to pre-profile your suspect, partake in ball behaviours, or whatever might strike your fancy...
Like drowning yourself in your favourite poison.

*temp couldUseSome ""
*if (cope = "eating")
	*set couldUseSome "partake in some gluttony. As a treat."
	To eat. 

	You are rather famished already.
*if (cope = "taking drugs")
	*set couldUseSome "use some light medicine. A small shot of something is all. A treat."
	To partake in the most legal of substances.

	You are feeling far too clear-minded, and barely awake enough...
*if (cope = "gambling")
	*set couldUseSome "a game. A small bet, a small gamble. A pound at most, not that I'd lose."
	To gamble.

	You are feeling rather restless already.
*if (cope = "smoking")
	*set couldUseSome "use a smoke. Just a quick one, something to hold me over."
	To smoke.

	You are feeling rather restless already.
*if (cope = "inaction")
	*set couldUseSome "use a lie down. In a quiet room, just a small thing. Tune it all out for but a moment."
	To... not.

	To rest. To disappear. To turn off what you may.

	It all feels a bit too much already.
*if (cope = "berating")
	*set couldUseSome "use a good dressing down, a social deduction. Call out a noble on their false gold, something simple."
	To deduce. To berate, as Watson calls it.

	You are already feeling a little restless.
*if (cope = "drinking")
	*set couldUseSome "use a glass. A light thing, no need for the bottle. A treat, is all."
	To drink.

	You are feeling rather restless already.
*if (cope = "taking risks")
	*set couldUseSome "do something. Take a risk, live a little... something small. A game of pinfinger. A treat."
	To live. To prove that you are very much alive by taking, perhaps, some steps in the other direction.

	God, you are already feeling the restlessness.
*if (cope = "experimenting")
	*set couldUseSome "use a good experiment. Something small, quick... I have always wondered what happens if you light a diamond on fire..."
	To learn. To tinker. To experiment.

	You are feeling a little restless. You think your mind might melt at the inaction already.


*label RoTalk0Loop
*fake_choice
	*selectable_if (false) #Return to ${hName}'s side to report news and discoveries.
		You return to ${hName}'s side, but you... have nothing new to report. And ${h_he} is terribly busy doing ${h_his} duties of introduction and delegating and the like.

		It quickly grows stale.
		*fake_choice
			*selectable_if (true) #Question ${hName} about—
			#1
			#2
			#3
			#Look around—
	*selectable_if (false) #Follow my trail of...
	*selectable_if (true) #I could ${couldUseSome}
		*if (cope = "eating")
			There should be a buffet...
		*if (cope = "taking drugs")
			There should be a doctor here that's not Watson...
		*if (cope = "gambling")
			There should be a group somewhere with cards...
		*if (cope = "smoking")
			Perhaps there's a smoking section?
		*if (cope = "inaction")
			There should be a coat closet, if not an unlocked office or hall...
		*if (cope = "berating")
			Someone must be bragging about something, somewhere...
		*if (cope = "drinking")
			There should be a drinks table...
		*if (cope = "taking risks")
			There should be someone bored or drunk enough...
		*if (cope = "experimenting")
			There should be enough here that someone wouldn't immediately notice it missing...

		You look out across the room, take a step towards your most likely location and—

		"Have you heard?" Any phrase that starts like that, with that suspicious tone, has the possibility of being terribly interesting. Your feet lead you closer—

		*label overHearAboutLombard1

		*if (sexuality = "women")
			"Lombard——then there was the——her husband sorted it all—"
		*else
			"Lombard——then there was the——his wife never heard a thing—"

		"No?" A hushed word with a wide smile and hungry eyes from the recipient.

		"One wonders where the capital comes and goes, but the right name and—"

		*if (bAttractive > 4)
			The person turns and looks at you. Wide-eyed and caught. 

			You do not blend in quite as well as you might hope, tonight. "Excuse me," you offer and move on, pretending you simply had to cross their path.

			They only blush and stutter, "N—no, forgive me—" They say, and step out of your invented way.

			[i]Lombard, huh? The wealthy older hosts...[/i]
		*else
			"Mmm, quite. You know, they do run these little parades enough. Yet their little orphanages are never well, are they?"

			"Now, how about that sister of yours—" The conversation takes a turn for the normal and dull. 

			[i]Lombard, huh? Those wealthy older hosts...[/i]

			"Excuse me," you offer and move past them, pretending you simply had to cross their path, as the interest here wanes.

			And they hardly glance your way, and let you pass. Tonight's disguise has you melting into enough of a foreground for sneaking. 

			Practical.
			
	#No. I have a case. I have a case. [i]I have a case.[/i]

		You have a case.

		That is all you need—you are here—you can taste mystery, you need only to let it find you.

		You walk further amongst the crowds, keeping your eyes and ears peeled—

		[i]"Have you heard?"[/i] 

		Any phrase that starts like that, with that suspicious tone, has the possibility of being terribly interesting. Your feet lead you closer—

		*goto overHearAboutLombard1




*comment I want MC to go looking for work and info—
*comment SNOOP AND GET DATA--


*goto skipWaitAroundBit


- You head to, naturally, nab a glass at the drinks table.
- You find yourself correcting a couple on their terrible knowledge of the art on the walls. It was *clearly* a (). As you turn from their ignorant presence—
- You head towards the balcony to have a smoke. Get your mind in order, and all that.
-

*comment It is shaping up to be a good day.

























*comment I MOVED THIS BIT.

Mc gets immediately bored when told to wait around. 
- drinks champagne (but cooly)
- Insult someone (cooly) (maybe the above line)
- Heads outside to smoke (cooly)
- Heads for the buffee (have the food be tasty)
- Go play dice somewhere and does it cooly and successfully. Or cards. Maybe cards. Might be illegal but does it anyway. Maybe interrupts a game of something and suggest to someone to put some money down and wins. “Well, it happens old chap! No hard feelings, aye?”
- Inaction goes to sit down somewhere super cosy and calm (or heads outside tbh)
- Experiment creates something impressive almost out of thin air and everyone are impressed. (lights someone's diamond on fire? Lol?)
- Risk taking… climbs something? Hell if I know. Maybe there’s some kind of entertainment like trapeezing or stylt walkers and mc jumps in. 
- Drugs… gets something from someone that last super short but it’s fun? Hell if I know. Maybe it’s more of a convo. Or just a bit of cocaine. 
- Etc





*comment these ones make more sense for RO scenes 2 tbh...

*choice
	#OTHER
	#A (they didnt approach already?) (wait no tbh their intro scenes have to be forced. all other ROs had a forced moment).
		# (risk)
		# (experiment)
	#W
		#I needed a drink (drink)
		#I was famished (food)
	#H
		#I was looking for a medicine cabinet or doctors bag the in the closed offices... (drug vice)
		#I was searching the premise. 
			It's surprising how much one can discover by skulking about and searching in the normally forbidden corners.
		#I needed rest... (rest vice)
		#I needed a moment to get away from it all. A moment of quiet. A moment to be alone...
			The humdrum of the ball, the noises, the crowds, the impressions—it took a toil on you—
		#There is a unguarded library, that rarely permits visitors—such an opportunity can not be squandered—
		#I was searching for H and got lost(?)
		#I was searching for H, and they were exactly where I thought they would be...
	#Lestrade
		#I needed a smoke... (smoke vice)
		#? I had heard some servants were playing dice by the carriages and knew I could definitely beat them— (gamble vice)
		#I needed some air...
		#I needed to find L, we needed to talk about what happened before.
		#I needed to find L, we needed to talk about the performance of the security.
		#I felt a need to verbally dissect someone, and Lestrade would be the perfect target. (berate vice)
		*goto balchonyLestrade

*comment *label
*comment *temp lestradeBalchonyMotivation ""
*fake_choice


















*label skipWaitAroundBit

*comment 	SNOOP AND GET DATA--


*comment 	Branch case related actions/moments first—four of them.
*comment 	- they all build up to background convos for the ROs -- 

*page_break

You are reminded of one simple thing.

[i]The[/i] simplest thing, the one you repeat to Watson again and again: to get a grasp on a scene is to—

Collect information. 

Dig for data.

And you can get as much from the direction of blood splatter as the lingering words of a crowd... It is simply a little more time consuming and with a little more grime. 

But, in the end, it is all just as revealing.

*fake_choice
	#But you did still... rather prefer the blood...
	#No, no, human beings have plenty of uses. Naturally.
	#What a strange thought I just had. Never mind it at all.

The point is.

In a scene as this one, someone will have heard something. Seen someone. It always comes to use. In one way or another.

If nothing else you get a sense of the players of the game.

You populate the board.

If you move quick, you may re-plan quicker, and have a successful game-plan before it even has begun.

Perhaps you can catch them before it begins?

[i]Dull as it may be...[/i]

*page_break

*comment The first overheard matters were... entirely unhelpful.
	
*comment You walk in/forward. Someone nudges their friend. 
*comment	- if u think ur ugly, you will think “oh no do i look strange”
*comment	- Alternatively u can feel ogled or pretty or seen or famous
*comment attractive mc doesnt blend in as well, has to keep head down and away.

And so it begins, walking through the crowds, head down, ears primed.

*line_break

“Oh, did you not hear? He cut his finger and dropped dead. Nasty business.”

*line_break

“Yes, I [i]am[/i] Lord –––––– ––––– –––––––'s brother.”
“…Yes, I’m sure that is impressive, were I to know who that is...”

*line_break

“And he should be my age, handsome, and rich—“
		
“My darling girl, that’s aiming for the stars. I can get you maybe one of those demands…”
		
“— oh mamá, I was not done—interesting, well-adjusted, clever, kind, but not to the people I disagree with, such as Clarice and Elizabeth—“
		
“Silly, stupid girl! You will marry a rich man. Pray to god for the rest. Or, heaven forbid, find it beyond your future home. Either way, you must look handsome, so hurry, pinch your cheeks till they redden prettily—“

*line_break

“Get her wedded and bedded before she thinks differently of it, sir. For she could do far better than you,” a man chuckles to himself as he downs his glass. The other man merely scowls at the words, but lacks the strength to object. 

*line_break

Much is... as usual, less than useful.

*page_break

Let's try again:

*if (mcFirstCaseReputationGood = false)
	*set A_Approval + 2

*set A_Approval + bAttractive

*set A_Approval - 3

*if ((bBold) or (bProper))
	*set A_Approval + 1

*if ((bBold) or (bProper))
	*set A_Approval + 1

*if (bSimple)
	*set A_Approval - 1

*if ((bAttractive > 5) and (bSimple))
	*set adlerSimp true
*elseif ((bAttractive > 4) and (bSimple = false))
	*set adlerSimp true
*elseif ((((bAttractive > 3) and (bBold)) or ((bAttractive > 3) and (bProper))) and (mcFirstCaseReputationGood = false))
	*set adlerSimp true




*temp activityCounter 0

*temp knowsHDoesntDance false
*temp knowsHFamilyDead false
*temp knowsHRumours false

*temp knowsWisPopular false
*temp knowsLFamily false
*temp metThePoet false

*temp howYouMeetAdler ""
*temp metAdler false


*temp metWatson false
*temp metLestrade false
*temp talkedToHagain false
*temp dancedWithWatson false
*temp dancedWithH false

*temp ruseWithW false
*temp turnedDownDanceW false
*temp turnedDownHelpW false
*temp wToBePersuaded false

*temp WorkNotDance false

*temp WatsonHasDanced false

*temp AskedMrsHudsonsToDance false

*label overhearLoop0
*fake_choice
	*disable_reuse #Walk past a terribly well-dressed group.
		*set knowsHDoesntDance true


		*comment - H

		*comment General: (o)
		*comment Lead to the "what are your secrets" convo.
		*comment About H:

		*if (hMan)
			You walk past a terribly well-dressed group and overhear:

			"A guinea he does not dance tonight either."

			*if (travellsWith != "W")
				"Hawthorne? Has the bloody man ever danced? I cannot recall... However, and hear this, my good man, I have heard a whisper that the 
				*if (genderMC = "woman") 
					girl on his arm, is his partner for the ball, and might change that..."
				*elseif (genderMC = "man") 
					fellow he came with, that special guest of his, might change it..."
				*else
					individual on his arm, the companion he brought for the evening, might change it..."

				*if (h_man = genderMC)
					"What? With a man?"  

					"Look around you, sir, we are staffed to the brim with gentlemen. In an uneven show, it wouldn't be entirely the first time there was such a dance."

					"But then... who's leading who?"

				*else 
					"That one?"

					"Hear so."

			*else
				"Hawthorne? Has the bloody man ever danced? I cannot recall..."

				"He entered the hall with someone, did he not?"

				"You think... he might?
				*if (h_man = genderMC)
					What? With a man?"  

					"Look around you, sir, we are staffed to the brim with gentlemen. In an uneven show, it wouldn't be entirely the first time there was such a dance."

					"But then... who's leading who?"

				*else 
					With that one?"

					"Think so."

		
			*if (h_man != genderMC) 
				"I will take your bet, sir, but you speak as if it is the only strike against the man that he does not dance? He is terribly single-mindedly focused on his business affairs. To think so of money… it is ungentlemanly.”
			*else
				"Nevertheless, I will take your bet, sir. But you speak as if it is the only strike against the man that he does not dance? He is terribly single-mindedly focused on his business affairs. To think so of money… it is ungentlemanly.”
			
			“Mmm, Hawthorne already has so much of it, one would think there to be a stop.”
			
			“Oh, pish. These great tradesmen—for he may have a title but nevertheless at heart he is—they are never done.”
			
			“But perhaps it is not the wealth? That compels him?”
			
			“Oh, posh. What better inducement is there?”
			
			“…Fair point, sir. I can’t think of one at all.”
		*else

			You walk past a terribly well-dressed group and overhear:

			"A guinea she does not dance tonight either."

			*if (travellsWith != "W")
				"Hawthorne? Has the lady ever danced? I cannot recall... However, and hear this, my good man, I have heard a whisper that the 
				*if (genderMC = "woman") 
					girl she came with, that special guest of hers, might change that..."
				*elseif (genderMC = "man") 
					escort she came with, that fellow, is her partner for the ball, and might change it..."
				*else
					individual she came with, the companion she brought for the evening, might change it..."
					
				*if (h_man = genderMC)
					"What? With a woman?"

					"Look around you, sir, we are stuffed to the brim with ladies. In an uneven show, it wouldn't be entirely the first time there was such a dance."

					"But then... who's leading who?"

				*else 
					"That one?"

					"Hear so."

			*else
				"Hawthorne? Has the lady ever danced? I cannot recall...

				"She entered the hall with someone, did she not?"

				"You think... she might?
				*if (h_man = genderMC)
					What? With a woman?"  

					"Look around you, sir, we are stuffed to the brim with ladies. In an uneven show, it wouldn't be entirely the first time there was such a dance."

					"But then... who's leading who?"

				*else 
					With that one?"

					"Think so."

			*if (h_man != genderMC) 
				"I will take your bet, sir, but you speak as if it is the only strike against the lady that she does not dance. While there are few, she is also rather single-mindedly focused on her estate and [i]business affairs[/i]. To think so of money… it is terribly unladylike.”
			*else
				"Nevertheless, I will take your bet, sir. But you speak as if it is the only strike against the lady that she does not dance. While there are few, she is also rather single-mindedly focused on her estate and [i]business affairs[/i]. To think so of money… it is terribly unladylike.”

			"The lady has so much of it, one would think there to be a stop.”
			
			“Oh, pish. These greedy trades-folk—for she may have title but nevertheless at heart she but be—they are never done.”
			
			“Perhaps it is not the wealth, then? That compels her?”
			
			“Oh, posh. What better inducement is there?”
			
			“…Fair point, sir. I can’t think of any at all.”
				
		*fake_choice
			#It is always good to know one's host... I continue seeking related gossip.
			#There is some unspoken thing here. I seek more of it.
			#I ignore this gossip. ${hName} is of no interest to you.
				*comment todo
				*comment ? (But still catch the tail end? or do we not find this out and are then surprised how we did not know? Maybe mrs H is randomly telling us and we show surprise and she's like "oh, sherlock! do you show no curiosity in your new friend and host?!")

				*goto overhearLoop0
		
		*set knowsHFamilyDead true
		
		*if (hMan)
			The next group of similar appearances are much of the same—

			“He is rather… the industrious sort.”
			
			“It's this new belief from the Americas. That a man may be from trade, work and keep busy with an occupation beyond the occasional scheme. [i]Yet remain a gentleman.[/i]”
			
			“Quite right. Although to his defence. He is not from trade, he is [i]in[/i] trade. And that does make a whole lot of difference, does it not?”

			“He has [i]barely[/i] a title.”

			“More than you have.”

			“That—that’s hardly fair. I blame my mother's timing and my brother's good health for that...”

			The other gentleman merely laughed. 

			[i]But then—[/i]

			"How terrible you are! You speak as if Hawthorne was fortuitous to keep a small family and that, now, with none left—well, all but you would call it a tragic tale, sir."

			"If you say so," the other man returns, the tone uncaring for some apparent tragedy that may have befallen your host and client. "I suppose I did rather enjoy his brother, of what I remember—it has been years. As for his father, he was rather a staple upon the land. Of course, no one thinks the spare to [i]truly[/i] take the throne..."

			*comment "How terrible you are! You speak as if Hawthorne was fortuitous to keep a small family and that, now, with none left—well, all but you would call it a tragic tale, sir."

			*comment "If you say so," the other man returns, the tone uncaring for some apparent tragedy that has befallen your host and client. "I suppose I did rather enjoy his brother. And then for his father, he was rather a staple upon the land. Of course, no one thinks the spare to *truly* take the throne..."

		*else
			The next group, a well-dressed gaggle of women, are much of the same—
			*comment The next group of similar appearances talks much of the same:

			"She is rather the... industrious sort.”
			
			“It's this new belief from the Americas. That a woman may dabble in trade as any man would. But if she believes she might keep busy with the occasional scheme, for that is surely all it is, [i]yet remain a proper Lady in society's eyes...[/i]”
			
			“Quite right. Although in her defence. She is not [i]from[/i] trade, she's is [i]in[/i] some trade. And that does make a whole lot of difference, does it not?”

			"She has [i]barely[/i] a title.”

			“More than you have.”

			“That—that’s hardly fair. I blame my mother's temperament and my current husband's good health for that...”

			The other lady merely laughed.

			[i]But then—[/i]

			"All that to say—she does what she must, doesn't she? Her husband, then soon after her brother and father... Tragic tale. She does well under these trying circumstances. I can't fault her too much—I merely think she should think to find a husband again, is all. It has been too many years now."

			*comment "All that to say—she does what she must, doesn't she? What with her..." The voices grow hushed for a moment, and so that you miss the subject. "Tragic tale. She does well under these trying circumstances. I can't fault her too much—I merely think she should think to find another, is all. It has been too many years now."


		*fake_choice
			#You press on further, it's just now getting good...
				*label hgossip1

				*set knowsHRumours true

				You overhear... more than you quite know what to do with. The allegations and rumours all start benign, but they all take a turn for the dramatic. 

				There is talk of varied reclusement with occasional grand societal gestures, of the strictest and most tight-lipped servants this side of the continent, and the late family Hawthorne's ghosts haunting the old estate. Then there is talk of good morals and ill. Societal skills and the lack thereof. A perfect ideal and one that will never reach the heights it seeks.

				*comment There is talk of: varied reclusement with occasional grand societal gestures, of the strictest and most tight-lipped servants this side of the continent, and something of dear old Hawthorne ghosts haunting the estate. Then there is talk of good morals and ill. Societal skills and the lack. A perfect ideal and one that will never reach the heights they seek.

				It seems very much that the top of this particular society is a fragile, lonesome podium where they are quite as likely to throw fruit as flowers.

				But you know now much more than you knew before, of your
				*if (someKindOfSimp)
					welcoming
				*elseif (H_Approval < 2)
					haughty
				*else
					peculiar
				host.
			#Continue searching for more information, there must be more—
				*goto hgossip1







		*comment Mc uses H name at the ball, “do you know who I am? I am the special guest of the host ()!”
		*comment - I heard you used my name 
		*comment - Don’t apologise. Feel free. I rather enjoy you using my name (marriage hint?) / (if Helena: and perhaps I could use your name? / take your name, when need arrives?)
		*comment - If gay, “first name mc last name H… sounds rather interesting. Almost like we were bound to be… family, of sorts, don’t you think?”


	*disable_reuse #A group standing not too far from Watson and... staring... suspiciously.
		*set knowsWisPopular true
		*comment Overhearing people talking about Watson at the ball:
		It would not be the first time you've heard Watson being the topic of conversation, but—
		
		*if (johnMan)
			“Why, simply look at that frame!" the first onlooker coos. "And such prominent features—how often I would call on such a doctor… not even a snivel, and I would proclaim to be the sickest in London!”

			The next follows with much the same tone, “All too true, my dear. And a man, especially a doctor, does not look like [i]that[i] without using it to his full advantage. I would bet a thousand pounds he is as rakish as they come.”

			“And I would welcome it with open arms, and open—“

		*else
			“What a woman!" the first onlooker bellows. "I’ve never seen such health and vigour in a member of the fairer sex—I do believe her frame could support to carry you away, Archibald!”

			The second follows with much the same tone, “And I would gladly let her!”

			“Hear, hear. And a [i]woman[/i] doctor—what do you think of that, Archibald?”

			*if (true)
				“Oh, I do think of it, indeed. Indeed, I do.”

				“Ohoho, what a rascal you are, Archibald. I see you now—‘my lady—oh, I do not mind, do not mind at all—take my temperature however you wish—’”
			*elseif (false)
				*comment cut this, bag prefered the first one.
				"Oh, I do think of it, indeed. Indeed, I do. I’d let such an Amazon club me over the head and drag me to her lair."

				"... My dear boy, the Amazons weren’t cave women." 
			
				"Whatever they were, I’d let them capture me and throw me away when they were done."

				"That’s more like it!"			

		You've heard enough.


	*disable_reuse *if (true) #Some hired guards by the back exit talking about—
		*set knowsLFamily true
		"Lestrade, aye," a man with a thick moustache gruffs. "The one. Right on the other end of the hall. Been here for hours."

		"$!{l_he} ain't like ${l_hi} father, is ${l_he}?"

		"Oh, ${l_he} is, and ${l_he} ain't."

		"What's that s'posed to mean?"

		*comment TODO
		"Means one's retired and I ain't still gonna talk any disrespect of em."

		"Big man, though?"

		*if (lestradeMan)
			"Aye. Top copper. Big brass. How'd you think this one got the job so quick?"
		*else
			"Aye. Top copper. Big brass. How'd you think this one got the job?"

		*line_break

		[i]Oh? Well, would you look at that. Who would have thought the nepotism rumors would swirl in every class?[/i]


	*disable_reuse #In my search for gossip, a ${a_man} dressed with many frills and screaming colours, walk into me.
		*set metThePoet true
		*comment - Before you meet adler -
		*comment
		*comment [redacted]

		*if (adlerMan)
			A masculine figure practically walks into you as you cross the crowds. They are wrapped in loud burgundy velvet and trim of plentiful silk frills.

			With a firm, ungloved hand, they stable themselves against you by a touch upon your arm, fingers digging in, and a wide smile at you below their covering mask.
		*else
			A feminine figure practically tumbles into you as you cross the crowds. They are wrapped in loud burgundy velvet and trim of plentiful silk frills.

			With a soft, ungloved hand, they stable themselves against you, by a touch upon your arm, fingers digging in, and a wide smile at you below their covering mask.
		They lean in, far too close, and suddenly to your ear—"You are ${mc_xim}? Oh, you [i]must[/i] be. I've been looking for you ever since I heard—"

		[i]Ah... A fan.[/i]

		They have that look in their eyes. A particular fanatical awe that dances on the edge of sanity and reasonable hopes.

		Not to mention, it is still a ball. Even at a masquerade, one would expect properly done introductions by the host or related groups before any interaction such as this... 

		If one could ever expect any interaction of this manner by a stranger, of course.

		*fake_choice
			#"Yes, yes. A terrible honour, I am sure," I offer as I remove their grip and myself from this sudden nearness.
				"Yes, yes. A terrible honour, I am sure," you offer as you remove their grip and yourself from this sudden nearness.

				They have, thankfully, the decency to let you without a fuss, and steps back, a little. 

				"Oh, you do not [i]understand[/i]. I had hoped you'd know as swiftly as—it—it matters not. I am your [i]biggest fan[/i]," they state, hands shaking and held out before them from where they let you go.

				"Quite? I've heard that before."

				"Never with as much truth as I, I assure you!" they assure you... as well as they are able.

				"Mmm. If you'll excuse me—"

				Their hands clench firmly before you in the air, as if they wish they were a vice upon you, hindering your escape. The individual hastens, opening their lips and parting, "The detective is neither simple, nor unfair, nor merry, nor well, but dear detective, dear as an orange, and something of that wanting complexion."

				Then, they simply remain there—staring at you.
			#"No touching—" I swat at the individual's hand.
				"No touching—" you swat at the individual's hand.

				They have, thankfully, the decency to release you at that, and step back, a little. 

				"Oh, you do not [i]understand[/i]! I had hoped you'd know as swiftly as—it—it matters not—I am your [i]biggest fan[/i]," they state, hands shaking and held out before them from where they let you go.

				"I've heard that before."

				"Never with as much truth as I, I assure you!" they assure you... as well as they are able.

				"Mmm. If you'll excuse me—"

				Their hands clench firmly before you in the air, as if they wish they were a vice upon you, hindering your escape. The individual hastens, opening their lips and parting, "The detective is neither simple, nor unfair, nor merry, nor well, but dear detective, dear as an orange, and something of that wanting complexion."

				Then, they simply remain there—staring at you.
			#"I am. And you are?" I offer despite their touch and manner, or the lack of it.
				"I am. And you are?" you offer despite their touch and manner, or the lack of it.

				They have the decency then, to ease their grip and step back, a little. 

				"Oh, you do not [i]understand[/i]. I had hoped you'd know as swiftly as—it—it matters not. I am your [i]biggest fan[/i]," they state, hands shaking and held out before them from where they had just let you go.

				"Quite? How charming."

				"No one has said it before with as much truth as I, I assure you!" they assure you... as well as they are able.

				"Right..." something in their eyes... "If you'll excuse me—" you begin.

				Their hands clench firmly before you in the air, as if they wish they were a vice upon you, hindering your escape. The individual hastens, opening their lips and parting, "The detective is neither simple, nor unfair, nor merry, nor well, but dear detective, dear as an orange, and something of that wanting complexion."

				Then, they simply remain there—staring at you.
			#"State your business."
				"State your business," you order.

				And at that, they have the decency to release you and step back, a little. 

				"Oh, you do not [i]understand[/i]. I had hoped you'd know as swiftly as—it—it matters not. I am your [i]biggest fan[/i]," they state, hands shaking and held out before them from where they let you go.

				"I've heard that before."

				"Never with as much truth as I, I assure you!" they assure you... as well as they are able.

				"Mmm. If you'll excuse me—"

				Their hands clench firmly before you in the air, as if they wish they were a vice upon you, hindering your escape. The individual hastens, opening their lips and parting, "The detective is neither simple, nor unfair, nor merry, nor well, but dear detective, dear as an orange, and something of that wanting complexion."

				Then, they simply remain there—staring at you.

		*fake_choice	
			#"... Excuse you? What [i]are[/i] you doing?"
				"... Excuse you? What [i]are[/i] you doing?"
			#"You... lack an understanding of Shakespeare, friend. To make the bard's worst passage yet worse..."
				"You... lack an understanding of Shakespeare, friend. To make the bard's worst passage yet worse..."
			#"Oh, wow."
				"Oh, wow," you utter.
			#"Austen was right about poetry..." I mutter under my breath.
				"Austen was right about poetry..." you mutter then under your breath.

		*if (bAttractive > 3)
			"Your beauty is a marvel, a marriage of all martyrs that pale to this level.
		*else
			"Your mind is a marvel, a marriage of all martyrs that pale by its level.
		It is the cherished cherry of the fruit, if I were a pine I could reach its apple—"

		*fake_choice
			#"..."
				*label poetryRamble

				"Your broad water-lilies lay tremulously,
				*line_break
				"As the starry river-buds glimmered by,
				*line_break
				"And around them the soft stream did glide and dance
				*line_break
				"With a motion of your sweet sound and radiance."

				*fake_choice
					#"Go on..."

						"And the sinuous paths of lawn and of moss,
						*line_break
						"Which led through the garden along and across,
						*line_break
						"Some open at once to the sun and the breeze,
						*line_break
						"Some lost among bowers of blossoming trees…"

				*fake_choice
					#"Is that all?"
						"Is that all?" you ask.

						"I... yes. Did you care for it?" they ask, wide-eyed and hopeful.
				*fake_choice
					#"Not particularly."
						"Not particularly," you say and leave them in pain, just as you were. 
					#"No."
						"No," you say and leave them in pain, just as you were. 
					#"Oh, yes."
						"Oh, yes," you offer and then continue, "But, sadly, I have previously promised my attention to entirely different things. You understand. Good day to you."
					#"Does the wallowing whale care for the flatly fluttering frog?"
						"Does the wallowing whale care for the flatly fluttering frog?"

						"I... what?"

						"Precisely. Good day," you offer and leave them in confusion, just as you were. 
			#Let them continue.
				*goto poetryRamble
			#"Stop! For the love of god."
				"Stop! For the love of god."

				"But, I—"

				"No! Good day, to you!" you say and leave them in the same pain you were forced to endure. 
			#"Oh, I just remembered I have... things. Do take care!"
				"Oh, I just remembered I have... things. Do take care!" you offer and leave them in confusion, just as you were. 
			*selectable_if (friendshipX < 1) #"I've been subjected to more unwanted poetry these last few days than any living being has ever rightly deserved—I beg of you, cease."
				"I've been subjected to more unwanted poetry these last few days than any living being has ever rightly deserved—I beg of you, cease."

				"But, I—"

				"No, no. Good day, to you," you say and leave them pained, just as you were. 


	#That's enough data of this type, for now.
		*comment TODO

		*goto TheMainLOOP1

*goto overhearLoop0


*label TheMainLOOP1

*if (((activityCounter > 2) and (metAdler = false)) and (true))
	*page_break
	*goto MeetAdler2

*if (((activityCounter > 4) and (metLestrade = false)) and (true))
	*set activityCounter + 1
	*page_break
	*goto FindLestrade2



*fake_choice
	*if (true) #Return to ${hName}'s side.
		*comment d

		*if (false)
			You return to ${hName}'s side, but you... have nothing new to report. And ${h_he} is terribly busy doing ${h_his} duties of introduction and delegating and the like.

			*goto TheMainLOOP1
		*elseif ((talkedToHagain = false) and (knowsHFamilyDead))
			You return to ${hName}'s side, you find ${h_him} in the middle of the room, taking up space with a small, charmed group.
			*comment You return to ${hName}'s side.
			*set activityCounter + 1
			*set talkedToHagain true

			*goto TalkToHRO1
		*else
			You return to ${hName}'s side.
		
			*fake_choice
				*selectable_if (false) #Ask ${hName} about—
				*disable_reuse *selectable_if (false) #[redacted 1]
				*disable_reuse *selectable_if (false) #[redacted 2]
				#Look around—
					*goto TheMainLOOP1
	
	*if ((metWatson = false) and (knowsWisPopular)) #Find Watson again.
		*set activityCounter + 1
		*goto TalkToWRO1
	*if (metWatson = true) #Return to Watson.
		*comment You return to Watson. // Watson is busy with a dance.
		*if (WatsonHasDanced = false)
			*if (((turnedDownHelpW) and (ruseWithW = false)) or ((turnedDownDanceW) or (dancedWithH)))
				*if ((turnedDownHelpW) or (ruseWithW))
					This time, you find Watson on the dance floor.
				*else
					You find Watson on the dance floor.

				*set activityCounter + 1
				*goto wDance


			*elseif ((turnedDownHelpW = false) and (ruseWithW = false))
				*set activityCounter + 1
				*goto wRuse

			*else
				*set activityCounter + 1
				*goto wDanceWithMC

		*else
			You find Watson by a table of high piled desserts.

			*comment then at RO 2 Scenes, W isnt there anymore.

		*fake_choice
			*disable_reuse *selectable_if (false) #[redacted 1]
			*disable_reuse *selectable_if (false) #[redacted 2]
			#Look around—
				*goto TheMainLOOP1

	*disable_reuse *if ((metLestrade = false) and (knowsLFamily)) #Look for Lestrade.
		The guards had said that Lestrade was to be found on the other end of the large hall.

		*line_break

		*set activityCounter + 1
		*goto FindLestrade1
	*if (metLestrade = true) #Return to Lestrade.
		You return to Lestrade.

		*fake_choice
			*disable_reuse *selectable_if (false) #[redacted 1]
			*disable_reuse *selectable_if (false) #[redacted 2]
			#Look around—
				*goto TheMainLOOP1

	*if (true) #Talk to Mrs Hudson.

		*if (AskedMrsHudsonsToDance = false)
			You find Mrs Hudson sitting by a bench, with a good view of the passing people.

			She seems more than content to smile at the people walking by, and to people watch. 
		*else
			You find Mrs Hudson by the punch bowl.

			She seems... slightly affected by the punch.

		*fake_choice
			*disable_reuse #Ask Mrs Hudson to dance.
				*set AskedMrsHudsonsToDance true
				*set activityCounter + 1
				You ask Mrs Hudson for a dance.

				The old woman only smiles up at you with a sad, conflicted thing; as if you asked her to choose between a slow or quick death. 

				With enough of a pause to be worth the stage she says, “[i]If only[i]. If only my hip would allow it, alas," the woman sighs and could not have done so louder, "Oh, I am thankful for you, $!{mc_name}. But I am forced to remain without such amusement by fate's cruel hands. You see, I have not properly danced since my [i]late[/i] husband—”

				She goes on for a tale.

				*comment TODO
				*fake_choice
					#But, you do not have the time or patience for a tale. “A no would have been sufficient/enough, madam…”
						“A no would have been sufficient/enough, madam…”

						"Such a rude thing you are," she laughs. She seems in a good mood despite it all.

						A moment of quiet softness, until.

						She then apologises, but she has seen someone she thinks she knows, and has to dash. So off she chases a familiar face with her strangely capable walk and hip.
					#"... Ah. How terrible for you."
						"... Ah. How terrible for you."

						"Oh, no! I have many amusements off the floor, I assure you. And I have you, and Watson. I am well content," she says, and looks to mean it.

						A moment of quiet softness, until.

						She then apologises, but she has seen someone she thinks she knows, and has to dash. So off she chases a familiar face with her strangely capable walk and hip.
					#"I believe I would rather die than to live in a world where I could not dance, Mrs Hudson."	
						"I believe I would rather die than to live in a world where I could not dance, Mrs Hudson."

						"Oh, yes... So thought I, once." the woman sighs yet again. "Then, I met you and Watson." She smiles up at you.

						[i]Oh.[/i]

						A moment of quiet softness, until.

						She then apologises, but she has seen someone she thinks she knows, and has to dash. So off she chases a familiar face with her strangely capable walk and hip.
					#"Dancing is overrated, Mrs Hudson—you have a whole sea of people eager for your connection. Go secure more important things than dance card signatures."
						"Dancing is overrated, Mrs Hudson—you have a whole sea of people eager for your connection. Go secure more important things than dance card signatures."

						"Oh I shall! Do not doubt it, Sherlock!" She smiles.

						Then she walks off into the crowds, chasing a familiar face with her—by appearances—perfectly capable walk and hip.
			*disable_reuse *selectable_if (false) #Ask Mrs Hudson about—
				*set activityCounter + 1
			#Leave

	*selectable_if (false) #Follow my trail of...
	*selectable_if (true) #Walk around and discover more verbal 'data' on the ballroom floor.
		*set activityCounter + 1
		*goto overhearLoop0
	*selectable_if (activityCounter > 4) #End the chapter for now! (A lot more will come soon!)
		(A lot more will come soon!)

		[b]The next chapter will include:[/b]
		*line_break
		MORE OF THE BALL!

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

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

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

		*finish

*goto TheMainLOOP1



























*comment 	*set avoidingL false
*comment 	*set seekingL true
*comment 	*set angryWithL true

- once you talk to the Watson one, — — someone tells you the dances are about to start?
- this leads to the W dialogue thing or the jealousy scene if romance.
- H comes and asks you instead.
- if you remain on the floor now, you meet Adler. If you focus on work—you spy them doing sus things and then you head to the balcony to find them.

- Where is L in all this... MC should want to either find them (or not) and atleast get a report about the state of the place. Tho H can do that too.









- but all lead to an Adler moment at the end.
- Depending on which you start with, you get Adler on the balcony or on the dancefloor?


- 1. 	If you just danced and remain there on the floor, looking for excitement.
- 1.2. 	If you did not dance or just danced and then hide out by the wall (you're feeling overwhelmed). + can go there to work / people watch, but there's a rest or uncomf part to it or smth.
- 2. 	If you danced or not, but focused on work while or after doing so.


- After you've met Adler, you can go up to the ROs (But they are busy with something until you've discovered their secret thingy—(you can talk once, very quickly perhaps, but they're in the middle of something.—maybe only keep if worth it.))



The moments:
	- get the background gossip convos so u have stuff to talk to the ROs with. + should add pressure to romance them. 
		- Jealousy for W cause peeps are sexulizing them + they are off dancing. + Maybe you have work to do—so you say you cant dance the first dance — but then you change your mind cause you're jealous? 
		- H cause u hear gossip thats sus + you get snooty npc that says you're not enough (maybe the partner of the creep?) + 
		- L .. i don't know. that they're there and looks sulky and people are wondering what that person is about? lol theyre runing the vibe OR they're glammed up a bit and drawing suprising eyes?  WAIT ITS THAT U WANT TO TALK TO THEM OR AVOID THEM.
		- Adler, learn strange contradicting things + catch them doing the letter thing (Which either leads to intro scene at the balcony or a version of it.)










ADLER



Adler meeting version 2:

*comment MC cathes them in a small lie / a small law break.
*comment MC watches them, voyeuristically, but they know they are being watched.
*comment scene is either outside on a balcony. / through a window / in a hallway.

*comment mc has been watching Adler
*comment Adler enjoys the attention and uses it
*comment mc or adler approach.


*comment Adler is seen lifting a letter out of the pocket of rich, (possibly forward) rich man.
*comment the sides of their mouth grows high on their oh-so-charming cheeks. "You saw that, did you?" they chuckle and look out towards the night. "And here I thought I was the one watching you..." They hand you the letter from their inside pocket. "read it." 
*comment "It's a love letter—and before you ask—I am not involved in [i]that[/i] sense.
*comment "A... friend," the pause a little, "asked me to get the letter. It's proof of her husbands affair, amongst other things. Divorce is so tricky in this country. For women, especially. 
*comment Was it wrong, detectivce?"


*comment if MC decides to tell the husband they can't find them either until it's too late or the man had left.

*comment maybe add the ability for adler to know they are being watched or not. 

*label MeetAdler2
*set metAdler true
As you stand by the edge of the main hall—
*comment / as you dance with a stranger / as you explore the edges of the main hall.

*if (adlerMan)
	You watch as a terribly well dressed, and admittedly dashing masculine figure, drunkenly clash—intentionally—into a decidedly older man. An ungloved hand lifts to the mark's chest as if bracing, then overt apologies from the thief and damn near sputtering from the unsuspecting target. 
*else
	You watch as a terribly scantily clad, and admittedly seductive feminine figure, clumsily clash—intentionally—into a decidedly older man. An ungloved hand lifts to the mark's chest as if bracing, then overt apologies from the thief's soft lips and damn near blushing from the unsuspecting target.

It's over in seconds. 

But you're no stranger to pick-pocketing. 

*page_break

—You're no stranger to pick-pocketing. 

*if (mcFirstCaseReputationGood)
	You've done it plenty yourself. When need be. End justifying the mean, and all. Some cases require methods you'd rather not do.

	And were, thankfully, not known to do.

	But it is worth it, and so are even worse things when one sets the truth straight.

	However, this? It hardly looks a matter of life and death.
*else
	You've done it plenty yourself. When need be. End justifying the mean, and all. Some cases require dirtying one's hands more closely to the origin of 'red handed' than the common use of today.

	Of course, people knew this of you.

	That you'd do what it takes. To set the truth straight.

	However, this? It hardly looks a matter of life and death.

No, this looks like a skilled thief stealing from the pockets of the well-to-do. 

And you [i]were[/i] hunting for a thief...

*comment I'm unsure of the phrasing here...
*fake_choice
	*if (adlerMan) #Follow after the suddenly sober, and soon disappearing figure down a hall.
	*if (false) #Follow after the suddenly seemingly sober, and now fleeing figure down a hall.
	*if (adlerMan = false) #Follow after the now glaringly graceful, and disappearing figure down a hall.
*if (prefersHeels)
	Down winding corridors, your heels quickly and as quietly as possible clacking, following the figure that keeps a same pace until—you turn to a corner to the balcony and—
*else
	Down winding corridors, your shoes sound against the hard floors, the clack on the edge of hurried and quick, following the figure that keeps a same pace until—you turn to a corner to the balcony and—

$!{a_he} is...

Gone.

[i]How...[/i] You crane your neck side to side. Your eyes straining into the darkened night.

They escaped you.

No, no. It is hardly over. With a breath that leaves you at that—you step into the low torchlight. Out onto the marble balcony stone, dimly lit greenery and sky unveiling before you.

You search as well as your eyes and senses may. 

Even if...

There is nothing.

No sight or clue of the ${adlerMan} you were near chasing. Not by a sound you should still hear. By a sight you should still be able to make out. By the sense that so oft guide you, and rightly so.

[i]What in the world...[/i]

*page_break
*comment if low knowledge perhaps? or not high?
You step further onto the balcony, and lean against the heavy marble railing. Gazing down and past it, towards the garden decently below, perhaps if ${a_he} had jumped?

No, no... 

*if (goodAt != "knowledge")
	Your hands grip the... is it still a railing if it is an exquisite, white and expensively shaped marvel that swivels into pretty sturdy figures? Balustrade comes to the tip of your tongue, but you think you might have to look it up at home before saying such with any confidence...

	You like to be sure. You prefer to do the work. To not take even this for granted.
*else
	Your hands grip the railing—the exquisite, white and expensively shaped marvel that swivels into pretty sturdy figures. Balustrade is the more proper term, perhaps...

	You know it is. But as you are the type to make sure, to do the work, you'll check once home.

Nevertheless—you lean onto [i]it[/i]—out into the cold night. Your hands grasp its chill touch yet you neglect the stars, the distant shapes of chimneys and smoke, and the near shapes of a garden that were so delicately formed one would feel as much inside the museum when outside.

No.

Because then you notice the audible approach of two light feet. 

Heel followed by mid-sole and repeat. Slowly, nothing hurried, but not stopping, never hesitating.

You feel the presence more than see it. Behind you, a little to the left. Just on your blind spot when turned forward.

As you are.

And it knows you are aware.

But it waits patiently.

Gleefully.

This is nothing but a game—

*fake_choice 
	#I turn to face it.
		At that you shift a half turn to face the figure. The one you surely chased. It could be no one else.

		*if (adlerMan)
			And it is; a mask hides little of such a man, golden eyed and copper haired.
		*else
			And it is; a mask hides little of such a woman, golden eyed and copper haired.

		A warm breath, followed by a velvet voice, "It's been said before. Too many times..."
	#I wait. I am not one to lose an unspoken, possibly wholly imagined challenge.
		A warm breath, followed by a voice of velvet, "It's been said before. Too many times..."

		At that you shift a half turn to face the ${a_man}. The one you surely chased. It could be no one else.

		*if (adlerMan)
			And it is; a mask hides little of such a man, golden eyed and copper haired...
		*else
			And it is; a mask hides little of such a woman, golden eyed and copper haired...

*fake_choice
	#"What has?"
"What has?" you ask.

*if (adlerMan)
	"I'm sure you've heard it more than you care to. Far be it for me to add to it... Cliche, at this point..."

	A too quiet step of his comes one breath closer, his shadow touching 
	*if (bWearingDress)
		the edge of your hem. 
	*else
		the tips of your shoes.
	"But the trouble is—I thought it," the man sighs, "I did. And the further trouble is, even if said with fervour, it comes off as in-passionate—at best."

	Another step of his.

	"But, [i]that is the trouble[/i], you see," he continues. "For, I saw you from a distance, and I thought it. [i]How could I not think it[/i]. Hell, I was tempted to shout it. But—I won't. I won't say it. I'll spare you the trouble."

	Hand to chest, bared by a too low cut in too fine muslin cotton fabric for any self respecting pirate, even a fake one, as he was dressed now. "This, I swear."

*else
	"I'm sure you've heard it more than you care to. Far be it for me to add to it... Cliche, at this point..."

	A too quiet step of hers comes one breath closer, her shadow touching
	*if (bWearingDress)
		the edge of your hem. 
	*else
		the tips of your shoes.
	"But the trouble is—I thought it," the woman gently sighs, "I did. And the further trouble is, even if said with fervour, it comes off as in-passionate—at best. You'd hardly believe me..." She coos with a pout.

	Another step of hers.

	"But, [i]that is the trouble[i], you see," she continues. "For, I saw you from a distance, and I thought it. [i]How could I not think it[/i]? But—I won't. I won't say it. I'll spare you the trouble."

	Hand to chest, bared by a too low cut pressing corset with shells and pearls upon—too daring for any siren, even a fake one, as she was dressed now. "This, $!{myLady}, I swear."

*fake_choice
	#"Say it."
		"Say it."
	#"Do go on, I hardly have all day."
		"Do go on, I hardly have all day."
	#"I... Say what, $!{a_madam2}?"
		"I... Say what, $!{a_madam2}?"

*if (adlerMan)
	He pauses. He takes his time. He looks at you, your hands on the railing, your shoulders and the full length of your ${dress}. "What I am not going to say is... the painting of you, here, took my breath away."

	*if (genderMC != "them")
		The man's nostril's flare with a heavy intake of breath, much like anger. "Damn you, ${genderMC}," he scolds, with a hint of mocking tone. "[i]You[/i] are making me break my word—"
	*else
		The man's nostril's flare with a heavy intake of breath, much like anger. "Damn you," he scolds, with a hint of mocking tone. "[i]You[/i] are making me break my word—"

	He takes that final step closer into being close. The voice a quieter, deeper thing.

	"For once, I wasn't going to tell a beautiful ${person} ${mc_xhe} looked radiant under the moonlight." He looks deep into your eyes and says nothing more. He has a small, soft smile on his lips that wonders nothing more than to know if it all worked in some favour of his.
*else
	She pauses. She takes her time. She looks at you, your hands on the railing, your shoulders and the full length of your ${dress}. "What I am not going to say is... the painting of you, here... took my breath away."

	The woman bites her lips until it releases with a melodic laugh. "Oh, you ${Miss}," she scolds, with a hint of mocking tone. "[i]You[/i] are making me break my word—"

	She takes that final step closer into being close. The voice a quieter, soothing thing.

	"For once, I wasn't going to tell a beautiful ${person} ${mc_xhe} looked radiant under the moonlight." She looks deep into your eyes and says nothing more. She has a small, soft smile on her lips that wonders nothing more than to know if it all worked in some favour of hers.

*fake_choice
	*selectable_if (bAttractive < 4) #"... You should have gone with a better lie."
		"... You should have gone with a better lie."
		
		$!{a_he} looks... as if confused—brows frowning and eyes searching, as if wondering why that did not work. Then.
		Those gilded eyes soften, a little. And ${a_he} has come to some understanding. "Ah... " ${a_he} says, but it is not to you. It is to the air, "Such words should not be so rare... Even..."

		"What are you—" you begin.

		Wait...

		Is...

		This a distraction? What a strange scheme...
		"I saw you, ${a_madam2}," you say. "You stole from that man."
	*selectable_if (thinkIsUgly) #"Please do not lie so cruelly, ${a_madam2}."
		"Please do not lie so cruelly, ${a_madam2}."

		*if (bAttractive > 3) or (adlerSimp) 
			$!{a_he} looks... taken a back. Confused—brows soon frowning and eyes searching until—

			Those gilded eyes open, widen. And ${a_he} has come to some understanding. "Ah... You do not know?" ${a_he} asks, but it is not to you. It is to the air. 

			"Know what? I—" you begin.

			Wait...

			Is...

			This a distraction? What a cruel thing...

			"I saw you, ${a_madam2}," you say. "You stole from that man." 
		*else
			$!{a_he} looks... taken a back. As if confused—brows frowning and eyes searching, as if wondering why that did not work. Then.
			Those gilded eyes soften, a little. And ${a_he} has come to some understanding. "Ah... " ${a_he} says, but it is not to you. It is to the air, "Such words should not be so rare... Even..."

			"What are you—" you begin.

			Wait...

			Is...

			This a distraction? What a strange scheme...
			"I saw you, ${a_madam2}," you say. "You stole from that man."

	*selectable_if (thinkIsPretty) #"Yes, I already know what I look like."
		"Yes, I already know what I look like," you say, knowing very much your own worth.

		Those gilded eyes open, widen. And ${a_he} laughs. "Mmm, of course you do. As you should, ${myLady}."

		"Now," you begin. "What did you steal from that man before?" 
	#"... Oh."
		"... Oh," you say. It just... falls out of your lips. Like a curse-word but gentle and warm.

		Wait...

		Is...

		This a distraction?

		"But, I..." you attempt. "I saw you, ${a_madam2}. You stole from that man." 
	#I do not care for ${a_his} flattery—I am working—I witnessed a crime.
		Despite the ${a_man}'s obvious attempt at distraction, right to business you are. "What did you steal from that man before?" 

The sides of ${a_his} mouth grow high on oh-so-charming, now dimpled cheeks. "You noticed?" ${a_he} chuckles and looks out towards the night. "And here I thought... I was the one keeping my eye on [i]you[/i]." 

$!{a_he} hands you the letter from some hidden pocket. "Read it." 

*if (hasLjournal1)
	So many letters today... First this whole affair, then Lestrade's, and now this. But you take the letter, it is a light thing, of a faint, floral—and yet lingering—perfume. 
*else 
	You take the letter, it is a light thing, of a faint, floral—and yet lingering—perfume. 

The ${a_man} calmly explains as you unravel the well worn thing, "It's a love letter—and before you ask—on my word, I am not involved in [i]that[/i] sense."

*fake_choice
	#I attempt a softened tone, "I am sorry, but you broke your own word [i]just now[/i]. What faith can I have when it is so simple to—"
		"I am sorry, but you broke your own word [i]just now[/i]. What faith can I have when it is so simple to—"

		*if (adlerMan)
			"Simple? You think—" a sputter, "God's, ${ser}, do you not know your own terrible power—a word and any man would kneel at your feet."
		*else
			"Simple? You think—" a gasp, "God's, ${ser}, do you not know your own terrible power—a word and any woman would kneel at your feet."
	#I scoff. "You proved only a moment ago that your word held very little—"
		"You proved only a moment ago that your word held very little—"

		*if (adlerMan)
			"Little? You think—" a sputter, "God's, ${ser}, do you not know your own terrible power—a word and any man would kneel at your feet."
		*else
			"Little? You think—" a gasp, "God's, ${ser}, do you not know your own terrible power—a word and any woman would kneel at your feet."
	#I smirk. "And what worth is your word when so easily broken?"
		"And what worth is your word when so easily broken?"

		*if (adlerMan)
			"Who said it was easy? God's, ${ser}, do you not know your own terrible power—a word and any man would kneel at your feet."
		*else
			"Who said it was easy? God's, ${ser}, do you not know your own terrible power—a word and any woman would kneel at your feet."

*fake_choice
	#"$!{a_madam2}—you really do—you exaggerate..."
		"$!{a_madam2}—you really do—you exaggerate..."

		"I [i]never[/i] exaggerate, I shall have to prove it—"
	#"Oh, come now, you are the sort! Easy flattery at every turn—"
		"Oh, come now, you are the sort! Easy flattery at every turn—"

		"Then, I shall have to prove it—"
	#"Prove it. Prove your word, kneel."
		"Prove it, you order. Prove your word, kneel."

*if (adlerMan)
	Through the windows, wealthy and well-dressed dance and converse; you can easily see them, and they could easily peer outside and see you.

	He waits not more than a second. His eyes remaining on you. With no need to hold on to the railing, the stranger dips down smoothly in one motion, further down, close, his mouth levels your stomach, then—on his knees—before you—lower. 

	An uneven grin spreads, trying to be stilled but unable to be tamed. "Was that all, $!{myLady}?" He still looks only to you. Not one glance is spared to the windows or even the chilled ground.

*else
	Through the windows, wealthy and well-dressed dance and converse; you can easily see them, and they could easily peer outside and see you.

	She waits not more than a second. Her eyes remaining on you. With no need to hold on to the railing, the stranger dips down smoothly in one motion, further down, close, her mouth levels your stomach, then—on her knees—before you—lower. 

	An uneven grin spreads, trying to be stilled but unable to be tamed. "Was that all, $!{myLady}?" She still looks only to you. Up at you, through long, fair lashes. Not one glance spared to the windows or even the chilled ground.

*fake_choice
	#"I believe now is the time to explain the letter, $!{a_madam2}."
		"I believe now is the time to explain the letter, $!{a_madam2}."

*if (adlerMan)
	"Very well." He does not shift, stiffen, or sulk by his position. He seems entirely unbothered by it.
*else
	"Very well." She does not shift, stiffen, or sulk by her position. On the ground. Before you. She... might even...

*if (adlerMan)
	The stranger before you holds ${a_his} hand out to have the letter returned, and it hangs there.
	"A friend," the ${a_man} pauses a moment to taste those very words, "Asked me to get the letter. It's proof of her husband's affair, [i]among other things[/i]. Divorce is so terribly tricky in this country, don't you think? Well, for women, especially..."
*else
	The stranger before you holds ${a_his} hand out to have the letter returned, and it hangs there.
	"A friend," the ${a_man} pauses a moment to taste those very words, "Asked me to get the letter. It's proof of her husband's affair, [i]among other things[/i]. Divorce is so terribly tricky in this country, don't you think? For women, especially."

You skim the contents of the letter and it follows ${a_his} story well. The whole of the content... rather a tawdry thing.

*if (adlerMan)
	"Was it wrong of me, detective?" The man asks with a sly turn of his lips, on his knees, eternally gazing up at you, while clothed as a pirate for a parade. "It was nothing more than a favour to a friend.
*else
	"Was it wrong of me, detective?" The woman asks with a smooth turn of her lips, on her knees, blinking up at you through long lashes, while clothed as a mermaid on the hunt. "It was nothing more than a favour to a friend.
*if (mcFirstCaseReputationGood)
	Although your spotless reputation might speak against your inclination to take matters into your own hands... Surely you can't blame me for rescuing a woman in need? Doing good," ${a_he} says as ${a_his} voice hums, and trails off.
*else
	You have a reputation for taking matters into your own hands, do you not? Surely, you must understand," ${a_he} says as ${a_his} voice hums, and trails off.

Ah, well now... Look at that. Proof that ${a_he} knows who you are.

Is it chance, common as it may be, or purpose, ill-meaning as it may be?

*fake_choice
	#"You know of me?"
		"You know of me?" you ask.

		*if (mcFirstCaseReputationGood)
			"Who does not? Knowing your name, occupation, and reputation. That is hardly suspect, is it? You are well known as the saintly creature of 221 B Baker street..."
		*else
			"Who does not? Knowing your name, occupation, and reputation. That is hardly suspect, is it? You are well known as the devilish creature of 221 B Baker street..."

		*fake_choice 
			*if (mcFirstCaseReputationGood) #My eyebrow twitch. Saintly was the word used in the letter.
				*goto devilishAdler
			*if (mcFirstCaseReputationGood = false) #My eyebrow twitch. Devilish was the word used in the letter.
				*label devilishAdler
				"Not everyone knows my face and my address," your eyes fall to the paper in your hand. "Speaking of letters, $!{a_madam2}..."

				*if (genderMC = "woman")
					"Si, señora?" ${a_he} adds in a proper accent.
				*if (genderMC = "man")
					"Si, señor?" ${a_he} adds in a proper accent.
				*if (genderMC = "them")
					"Si, señore?" ${a_he} adds in a proper accent.

				Your ${eyeColour} eyes bore into the ${a_man} kneeling before you. Not a flinch at the question... Either too good to be caught at such a simple game, or innocent to that one fault. 

				New plan. "Do you have your invitation on you?" you ask.

				The stranger, in a humbled state, smiles broadly. "Of course," ${a_he} pronounces then in a perfect English accent and delivers yet another slip of paper.

				"What is your occupation," you read the paper, and the name it is for, "Adler?"

				"Many things."

				"Such as?"

				"Saving wives from terrible husbands, one letter at a time."

				"And?"

				"Dancing lessons—rather how I am here tonight, my dear. A gift. And a hope that someone can properly perform the waltz. That is what you were asking, was it not? Why and how I am here?"

				"You never did say why."

				"Ah, ah, my turn. [i]Why are you[/i]?"

				*fake_choice
					#"I am a guest, if you must know," I huff.
						"I am a guest, if you must know," you huff.

						"Merely a guest?"

						"Rather a rude thing to say. I am not [i]merely[/i] anything—"

						$!{a_he} smirks, as ${a_he} seems inclined to. "Of course."
					#"I am a guest, of course," I say.
						"I am a guest, of course," you say.

						"Merely a guest?"

						"... Oh, well, is anyone?" I laugh it off.

						$!{a_he} merely smirks at you, as ${a_he} seems inclined to, and says nothing.
					#"Work."
						"Work," you say.

						"Work? At a ball... Then perhaps we share similar work tonight, hmm?"
					#"... None of your business."
						"... None of your business."

						$!{a_he} smirks, as ${a_he} seems inclined to. "Of course not. Why would it be?"

					#"And is that why you are here with me? Did I appear to be in need of saving or dancing?"
						"And is that why you are here with me? Did I appear to be in need of saving or dancing?"

						*if (adlerSimp)
							"Oh," ${a_he} damn near purrs, and plows on with your distraction. "Which ever you'd ask of me, to be sure. Which ever one."

							The ${a_man} just grins up at you. For a rather long time, seemingly imagining either one, vividly.
						*else
							"Oh," ${a_he} questions, at your distraction. "You do not wish to say?"
							The ${a_man} grins up at you. "Tricky thing you are..."

*page_break

You stand there. The cold enough wind around you, the night your only true witness—unless anyone dares to look through the window at two figures in the dark. 

And as you look down at the ${a_man}... A ${a_man} who steals for good, was it?

And who knows you well.

A suspect if you ever saw one.

*fake_choice
	#But... I give ${a_him} back ${a_his} letter.
		But... you give ${a_him} back ${a_his} letter.

		"Very generous ${myLady}.
		*if (mcFirstCaseReputationGood)
			Just as I knew you would be."
		*else
			Proving that dastard reputation all wrong. I just knew it." $!{a_he} takes the letter from your hand.

	*if (adlerMan) #I give him back his letter. It is not why I am here tonight. "Did the tailor not carry enough green fabric for robin hood, sir?"
		You give him back his letter. It is not why you are here tonight. "Did the tailor not carry enough green fabric for robin hood, sir?"

		"Oh, I am hardly so generous with my spoils, ${myLady}. It would be an ill match of a costume. A pirate—now that is a dashing figure." $!{a_he} takes the letter from your hand.

	*if (adlerMan = false) #I give him back his letter. It is not why I am here tonight. "Did the modiste not carry enough fabric, madam? Perhaps you should steal a scarf next."
		You give her back her letter. It is not why you are here tonight. "Did the modiste not carry enough fabric, madam? Perhaps you should steal a scarf next."

		"Oh, no. I am afraid it would be an ill match for my costume tonight. And besides, I've not admitted to anything but a well-meaning letter, dear detective." $!{a_he} takes the letter from your hand.

	#"I'm keeping the letter. I will decide what to do with it, and if I take it to that man or not."
		"I'm keeping the letter. I will decide what to do with it, and if I take it to that man or not."

		$!{a_he} frowns.
"Now—while I can't say I generally mind my current position, the stone is rather cold and hard, 
*if (adlerSimp) 
	and you are unlikely to allow me to adequately distract myself from this. So, 
would you mind if I stand?"

*comment TODO

*temp onTheirKneesAIntro false

*fake_choice
	#"Stay."
		*if (adlerSimp)
			*set onTheirKneesAIntro true
			*if (adlerMan)
				"Darling, do you often order about men on their knees? [i]Comes easy does it?[/i]" 
				*comment What a natural you are / What a natural to behold. /You are a natural. /Comes easy does it?

				He stays there, on the harsh ground, and his mouth opens to speak once more when—
			*else
				"Darling, do you often order about women on their knees? [i]Comes easy does it?[/i]" 
				*comment What a natural you are / What a natural to behold. /You are a natural. /Comes easy does it?

				She stays there, and she parts her soft lips to speak once more when—
		*else
			*if (adlerMan)
				"I do beg your pardon, ${mc_madam}. But you were rather right—my word never did mean much." He stands effortlessly, in one more smooth motion. "There we are—" He smiles still, and smooths the fabric of his dark pant. "Nasty feeling it is when you can't feel your toes."
			*else
				"I do beg your pardon, ${mc_madam}. But you were rather right—my word never did mean much." She stands effortlessly, in one more smooth motion and onto high heels. "There we are—" She smiles still, and smooths the fabric of her teal skirt. "Awful feeling it is when you can't feel your toes..."
	#"Oh! Of course—" I hold my hand out to help.
		"Oh! Of course—" You hold your hand out to help.

		*if (adlerMan)
			Truth be told, he does not look to need help—with very little pressure on your hand, he stands effortlessly, in one more smooth motion. Yet so, his hand lingers a moment too long. "There we are—" He smiles still, releases you, and smooths the fabric of his dark pant. "Nasty feeling it is when you can't feel your toes."
		*else
			Truth be told, she does not look to need help—with very little pressure on your hand, she stands effortlessly, in one more smooth motion and onto high heels. Yet so, her hand lingers a moment too long. "There we are—" She smiles still, releases you, and smooths the fabric of her teal skirt. "Awful feeling it is when you can't feel your toes..."

	#"Go on," I say, and watch as ${a_he} gets up from the ground.
		"Go on," you say, and watch as ${a_he}...

		*if (adlerMan)
			He stands effortlessly, in one more smooth motion. "There we are—" He smiles still, and smooths the fabric of his dark pant. "Nasty feeling it is when you can't feel your toes."
		*else
			She stands effortlessly, in one more smooth motion and onto high heels. "There we are—" She smiles still, and smooths the fabric of her teal skirt. "Awful feeling it is when you can't feel your toes..."

	*if (false) #"Stay." (romantic but low approval)
		"Darling, do say the words a little more firmly next. While I generally do not mind an acquaintance to quickly turn to orders—one has to do it properly."
		
"Sherlock?!"

*fake_choice
	#I turn, in the dark of the night, and find the one and only "Mrs Hudson?!"

*if (adlerMan)
	*if (onTheirKneesAIntro)
		The man stands, so smoothly yet quick. As if this is normal, innocent, and a rather regular occurrence for him.

		Not a tension. Not one sign being caught is a trouble at all.
	*else
		The man steps not away, but leans a little further back, so smoothly. As if standing this close to a stranger in the dark—is normal, innocent, and a rather regular occurrence for him.

		Not a tension. Not one sign being caught is a trouble at all.

*else
	*if (onTheirKneesAIntro)
		The woman stands, so smoothly yet quick, even on high heels. As if this is normal, innocent, and a rather regular occurrence for her.

		Not a tension. Not one sign being caught is a trouble at all.
	*else
		The woman steps not away, but leans a little further back, so smoothly. As if standing this close to a stranger in the dark—is normal, innocent, and a rather regular occurrence for her.

		Not a tension. Not one sign being caught is a trouble at all.

"Ah, and this must be the mother," ${a_he} says so easily, despite it seeming highly unlikely. And not just from the last names being different...

But.

"Oh, ${a_madam2}!" She's near blushing as she comes near and the torches flicker around you. "An aunt might be more correct, don't you think? The youngest one."

"I [i]do[/i] agree—" 

And their pleasantries continue. Mrs Hudson forgets why she even stepped outside, and in a way, so do you. Just as you are to leave—you are here to work, after all—

*page_break

"Give me a moment," Adler says to Mrs Hudson, as ${a_his} steps follow yours, and once again ${a_he} stands that bit too close. A near whisper this time. “Leaving so soon? We have barely had the chance for a proper meeting—“

*fake_choice
	#"We have had introductions and, albeit strange, pleasantries.”
		"We have had introductions and, albeit strange, pleasantries,” you say.

		“Ah yes. But do I know if you prefer wine to spirits? Dancing to conversation?" Quieter still, "Romance, or practicality and boldness in your seduction?”

		*label boldnessInYour
		*fake_choice 
			#Shoot ${a_him} down with a smile.
				"Champagne, dancing over dull conversation, and something far more witty and capable than that."

				"But—"

				"Do not worry," you say, "I will be keeping my eye on you, ${a_sir}."

				[i]$!{a_he} is, after all, your first proper suspect.[/i]
			#Shoot ${a_him} down. Hard.
				"You don't. And you will never know."

				"But—"

				"Do not look so sullen," you say, "For the sake of tonight, we will meet again, ${a_sir}. I am sure of it."

				[i]$!{a_he} is, after all, your first proper suspect.[/i]
			#"... I have no defense for your words, ${a_sir}," I admit quietly.
				"... I have no defense for your words, ${a_sir}," you admit.

				"Good," ${a_he} says too quickly and with that ever lasting grin.

				"I do have to go... But, do not worry," you say, "For the sake of tonight, we will meet again, ${a_sir}. I am sure of it. You could ask me again then?" you offer quietly.

				[i]$!{a_he} is, after all, your first proper suspect. You must meet again.[/i]

			#"..."
				You... do not know what to say. Not at all, to that.

				And ${a_he} merely stands there, with that ever lasting grin.

				"I—I have to go..." you say, "I, I shall see you later, ${a_sir}."

				[i]You will meet again. $!{a_he} is, after all, your first proper suspect.[/i]

	#"I am leaving, yes."
		"I am leaving, yes."

		"But—"

		"Do not worry," you say, "We will meet again. I will be keeping my eye on you, ${a_sir}."

		[i]$!{a_he} is, after all, your first proper suspect.[/i]
	#"Proper meeting?" I ask politely.
		"Proper meeting?" you ask.

		"We must. I hardly know you. How else am I to know if you prefer wine to spirits? Dancing to conversation?" Quieter still, "Romance, or practicality and boldness in your seduction?”

		*goto boldnessInYour
	#"... Do we need that?"
		"... Do we need that?"

		"Most certainly. I hardly know you. How else am I to know if you prefer wine to spirits? Dancing to conversation?" Quieter still, "Romance, or practicality and boldness in your seduction?”

		*goto boldnessInYour

And with that, you leave.

*goto TheMainLOOP1

*comment - "You'll be around then?" I should keep an eye out for this one.

*comment "Oh, bet on it." (but ill make it victorian lol)

///

Mc takes their leave. 

A: 

Mc: 

A: 

- mc: 

- mc: "I have work. 

*comment TODO







- "You'll be around then?" I should keep an eye out for this one.
"Oh, bet on it." (but make it victorian lol)


*comment “What I’m not going to say is, the painting that was you, here, took my breath. I was rather distracted so I didn’t notice it at the time, but really, you’re rather the health risk. You should put yourself under suspicion of crime—of being so forcefully alluring, seduction is a sin.  



— flatterer.

"Oh, no, darling. I speak truth. Skin as (flattering word) / face detail, eyes (synonym), (body) detail."

— You laugh, it's a charming light sound. "You're good—"

He chuckles in return, his eyes on you the entire time. "Only momentarily inspired, I assure you." His eyes, remain. His fingers tap against the surface. "And... Curious. Do you... (asks a question)."






Mc takes their leave. 
A: “leaving so soon? We have barely had the chance for a proper meeting—“
Mc: we have had introductions and, albeit strange, pleasantries.”
A: “ah yes. But do I know if you prefer wine to spirits? Dancing to conversation? Romance or practicality/boldness in your seduction?”
- mc: "Champagne, dancing over dull conversation, and something far more witty and capable than that."
- mc: "I have work. 






*comment - The railing shot is lightly inspired by body heat (but still entirely original). Just inspired by the shot of her by the railing and the man coming up to her, its very cat and mouse vibe. I recomend the movie. Is good!






















- RO branching now. + case stuff + npc stuff.
- RO SCENES + work
	- (before you can talk to an RO you have to overhear their gossip / relevant thing on the floor / have to have a reason to seek them out)
	- L (first talk, inside ball -- force this one?)

		*comment Have Lestrade mention or do kneel for mcs forgiveness. or simply to defer themselves. to debase themselves. to show that they would do so much.


		*comment L apology letter:
		*comment I will prove my words wrong. I won't ask for forgiveness as i do not want it, i do no deserve it.
		*comment An apology is only empty words, until reparations have begun and changes to never repeat the fault have enacted—
		*comment Here is what I will do: 

		If mc apologieses to L then L will get angry 
		“Why the fuck are you apologising for?!”


		L gets mc to talk by saying sometjing like
		“You can hate me. But there’s a mystery here, so come with me.”
		- me
		- Basically so we can press work focused (and angry MCs) to talk to L


		*comment If L cleaned themselves up.


		*comment Have L give the letter to mc at the ball. Instead of sending it. “I kept deliberating whether to send this to you… or not. But I owe it to you… *You’re owed* more than my words, and more than I can speak, even if it is easier in a letter. I…”





		*comment add smth about how L does seem a little uncomfortable in this new look. dress / tight suit etc


		*comment if you don't find them / see them, they will later find you.



*label FindLestrade2

*page_break

*set metLestrade true

Returning to the center of the main hall—

*comment *if (avoidingL)
*comment *if (seekingL)
*comment *if (angryWithL)

*if (avoidingL)
	And, just your luck...
*elseif (seekingL)
	And, just who you were seeking—
*elseif (angryWithL)
	And, imagine who you see—
*else
	And who do you see...

	There ${l_he} is... Dark, dutiful oblivion.

	Lestrade.

	Across well-dressed crowds, you see ${l_him} in ${l_hi} infinite height and eternal scowl. The inspector does not see you yet; instead, you follow ${l_hi} black irises across the marbled room, caught on some row between a server and a guest. $!{l_hi} hand twitches and grip becomes firm at ${l_hi} side—to interfere—where ${l_he} [i]knows[/i] it could not help, nor could even assist...

	*comment But ${l_he} was never one to stand idly by.
	*comment ///
	But ${l_he} was never one for standing idly by.

	*if (lestradeMan)
		*if (romanceL > 1)
			His sharp jaw tics, head lifts, he turns away from the captured sight and—

			You catch his eye.
		*else
			His sharp jaw tics, head lifts, he turns away from the captured sight and he—

			Catches your eye.
	*else
		*if (romanceL > 1)
			Her regal jaw tics, head lifts, she turns away from the captured sight and—

			You catch her eye.
		*else
			Her regal jaw tics, head lifts, she turns away from the captured sight and she—

			Catches your eye.

	And the sea of the crowd parts.

*goto skipToLReact1






*label FindLestrade1

*set metLestrade true

And there ${l_he} is... Dark, dutiful oblivion.

Lestrade.

It had only been a few days since your the last meeting. So why did it feel like a lifetime? So much had happened in so little time.

All from one case to the next.

And across these well-dressed crowds, you see ${l_him} in ${l_hi} infinite height and eternal scowl. The inspector does not see you yet; instead, you follow ${l_hi} black irises across the marbled room, caught on some row between a server and a guest. $!{l_hi} hand twitches and grip becomes firm at ${l_hi} side—to interfere—where ${l_he} [i]knows[/i] it could not help, nor could even assist...

*comment But ${l_he} was never one to stand idly by.
*comment ///
But ${l_he} was never one for standing idly by.


*if (lestradeMan)
	*if (romanceL > 1)
		His sharp jaw tics, head lifts, he turns away from the captured sight and—

		You catch his eye.
	*else
		His sharp jaw tics, head lifts, he turns away from the captured sight and he—

		Catches your eye.
*else
	*if (romanceL > 1)
		Her regal jaw tics, head lifts, she turns away from the captured sight and—

		You catch her eye.
	*else
		Her regal jaw tics, head lifts, she turns away from the captured sight and she—

		Catches your eye.

And the sea of the crowd parts.

*label skipToLReact1
*temp mcAtLSight ""
*fake_choice
	#And my heart stalls, then aches. My feet find footing to turn, and I am in a hurry to leave. To run, if I might.
		*set mcAtLSight "run"
	#I march ${l_hi} way, without break—without an inch of visible hesitation.
		*set mcAtLSight "march"
	#I cease... I cease to function, or to move. I simply... stand there. Looking at ${l_him}, and ${l_him} looking at me.
		*set mcAtLSight "freeze"
	#I remain. It is, simply, ${l_hi} turn to come to me now.
		*set mcAtLSight "stand"

It is the other day again. Your mind replays it—

Not at the bar... Not at [i]that[/i]. But when you came running at the missive, to ${l_him}. To ${l_he} who calls you to scenes with death and decay. To the moment when you rushed to ${l_hi} crime scene and you spotted ${l_him} across—above—the masses. 

It is a deja vu of feelings.

To a simpler time.
A time of a case that felt inevitable and not so uncertain.

*page_break

At that time, at that other day, ${l_he} had waved and called out, momentarily eager. Perhaps ${l_he} had felt the same as you—that it had been a time of fantastical hope. $!{l_he} had called out your name. $!{l_he}...

$!{l_he} merely stands there now. Dark eyes unwavering. $!{l_hi} expression a chaos on you. And you knew ${l_him} well enough, you truly did, to know that ${l_he} was unravelling in that manner that ${l_he} always did. $!{l_he} was falling apart at the frail seams and—

You were wrong.

Long legs—${l_hi} quick feet come your way, 
*if (mcAtLSight = "march")
	to meet you on the path,
and whatever obstacle always kept ${l_him} back, always kept ${l_him} from speaking, from acting, from saying what was inside and doing what ${l_he} wished seemingly breaks. And [i]${l_he}[/i] marches towards you. A purposeful stride and a ${l_man} on a mission now too opportune to miss. 

*if (mcAtLSight = "run")
	It would never be a fair fight with a ${l_man} who knows ${l_hi} way around a crowd, has ${l_hi} head on right for once, while your own mind feels a yarn.

*page_break

$!{l_he} lands before you. Casting a shadow upon you. Eyes unwavering. 

On you.

The inspector's gaze, that familiar dark shade even in warm light, dark even when wide as they are now—not narrowed in their customary frustration and anger. 

*if (lestradeMan)
	His lips part, a stutter comes through him, and the new bravado falls. Gregory's eyes twitch, blink and fall to the ground with a groan that might be related to the rattle of death.
	"Sherlock," low, raspy thing. "Can we—" he swallows painfully. 
*else
	Her pleasant lips part, a stutter comes through her, and the new bravado falls. Grace's lashes flutter, eyes blink and fall to the ground with a breath that might be the sigh of all death.
	"Sherlock," weak, husky thing. "Can we—" she swallows painfully. 

It was close to bravery.

Or perhaps that is what bravery is?

To push through the inevitable failure. For when had Lestrade ever overcome the interpersonal struggles ${l_he} seemed cursed by? Or the vices ${l_he} relied on?

[i]When had…[/i]

You take your own rousing deep breath, and you take the ${l_man} in properly—tobacco, but no lingering scent of drink—and—

Wait…

*page_break

*if (lestradeMan)
	The inspector stands before you, changed.

	You had been lost in the details, as you oft were, in the black vortex of his eyes. 
	But the head of hair before you has now met something close to a brush or comb, and as your eyes trail down... he is clean-shaven and, well—[i]better[/i]—rested. 

	A suit and shirt that had been pressed and ironed. Properly too.
	*comment Underneath his coat, a suit and shirt that had been pressed and ironed. Properly too.

	Clean lines down to his...

	Lestrade, once or twice over the years, or closer to a monthly occurrence, or perhaps closer yet to those times you did see him, had clearly had a rough night. The display evident on his shoes. The pattern and angle of the projectile damage really didn't hide itself well. 

	There was a shine now to the battered leather you looked upon. They weren't new. Such things didn't come with the salary or the job…

	However, what was true was that you had not seen *this* version of the man since the early days—those olden times when you first knew him.

	When he shone a little brighter.

	Such things you remember well.
*else
	The inspector stands before you, changed.

	You had been lost in the details, as you oft were, in the black vortex of her eyes.
	But the head of dark hair before you has now met something close to a brush or comb, and as your eyes trail down... she has warmth in her cheeks and appears, well—[i]better[/i]—rested. 

	And in a dress… An actual dress, with layers, hem, and proper trim—then drawn tight and pulled in every way right.

	All the way down to—

	Lestrade, once or twice over the years, or closer to a monthly occurrence, or perhaps closer yet to those times you did see her, had clearly had a rough night. The display evident on her shoes. The pattern and angle of the projectile damage really didn't hide itself well. These were partially hidden now with the long skirt, but...

	What you caught under there were still her black regulated boots. Same as always, but now with a shine to the battered leather. You may presume she owned no other... Or this change only went so far. Either way, you had not seen this version of the woman since the early days. 

	Those olden times when you first knew her. 

	When she shone a little brighter.

	Such things you remember well.


*comment TODO

*fake_choice
	*if (mcAtLSight != "stand") #It is not my turn to speak. I say nothing.
		It is not your turn to speak. You say nothing.

		*if (((romanceL > 1) or (bPrettied != "none")) or (bBold))
			But ${l_he} says nothing. It is almost as if... 

			And you realise...
		*else
			$!{l_he} swallows.
	*if (mcAtLSight = "stand") #It is not my turn to speak, either. I say nothing.
		It is not your turn to speak, either. You say nothing.

		*if (((romanceL > 1) or (bPrettied != "none")) or (bBold))
			But ${l_he} says nothing. It is almost as if... 

			And you realise...
		*else
			$!{l_he} swallows.
	#"Lestrade," I address ${l_him} straight on.
		"Lestrade," you say simply.

		*if (((romanceL > 1) or (bPrettied != "none")) or (bBold))
			But ${l_hi} answer is too slow, and then all too quick "Yes?" ${l_he} asks as ${l_hi} head lifts suddenly. And you realise...
		*else
			$!{l_he} swallows.
	#"You look... really well, ${lestradeName}."
		"You look... really well, ${lestradeName}."

		*if (((romanceL > 1) or (bPrettied != "none")) or (bBold))
			But ${l_hi} answer is too slow, and then all too quick "Huh—what?" ${l_he} asks as ${l_hi} head lifts suddenly. And you realise...
		*else
			$!{l_he} attempts to take it well. Attempts to smile, to soften, to not stand clenched and firm.
	*if (lestradeMan = false) #"A dress? Goodness, now I've seen everything."
		"A dress? Goodness, now I've seen everything," you say.

		*if (((romanceL > 1) or (bPrettied != "none")) or (bBold))
			But ${l_hi} answer is too slow, and then all too quick "Huh—what?" ${l_he} asks as ${l_hi} head lifts suddenly. And you realise...
		*else
			$!{l_he} grimaces instead of scowls.
	#"Those shoes can only be polished so much, inspector."
		"Those shoes can only be polished so much, inspector," you say.

		*if (((romanceL > 1) or (bPrettied != "none")) or (bBold))
			But ${l_hi} answer is too slow, and then all too quick "Huh—what?" ${l_he} asks as ${l_hi} head lifts suddenly. And you realise...
		*else
			$!{l_he} grimaces.
			
	#"My word, did someone kidnap you into a bath?"
		"My word, did someone kidnap you into a bath?" you ask at the sight of ${l_him}.

		*if (((romanceL > 1) or (bPrettied != "none")) or (bBold))
			But ${l_hi} answer is too slow, and then all too quick "Huh—what?" ${l_he} asks as ${l_hi} head lifts suddenly. And you realise...
		*else
			$!{l_he} grimaces at that.


*if (romanceL > 1)
	As your own eyes had traveled down. So had ${l_his}.

	*if (bBold)
		$!{l_he} had seen all that you were tonight, now up close and properly, and ${l_hi} eyes had traveled the ${bMainColourAdjective}, revealing ${bMainTrueColour} form of yours. 

		Tight. Bold. Daring.
	*elseif (bProper)
		$!{l_he} had seen all that you were tonight, now up close and properly, and ${l_hi} eyes had traveled the ${bMainColourAdjective}, expensive ${bMainTrueColour} form.

		Proper. Perfect. All too resplendent.
	*elseif (bDelicate)
		$!{l_he} had seen all that you were tonight, now up close and properly, and ${l_hi} eyes had traveled the ${bMainColourAdjective}, gentle ${bMainTrueColour} form.

		Soft. And so sweet...
	*elseif (bCharming)
		$!{l_he} had seen all that you were tonight, now up close and properly, and ${l_hi} eyes had traveled the ${bMainColourAdjective}, pleasing ${bMainTrueColour} form.

		Delightful, dashing, and all too charming.
	*else
		$!{l_he} had seen all that you were tonight, now up close and properly, and ${l_hi} eyes had traveled the ${bMainColourAdjective}, practical ${bMainTrueColour} form.

		Functional, simple, ease of use. And so very you.


	It could not have been easy to come face to face with something that seemed to have struck ${l_him} quite so...

	The ${l_man} looks...

	Stuck. Lost. Raptured and rapturous.

	And a little pale... A little weak. As if you might catch perspiration fall across ${l_hi} cheek at the new obstacle that is now merely standing here, with you, looking as you do. As ${l_he} loses ${l_himself} in your image.

	And then—${l_he} remembers—it all. 
	*if (wasImpressedAtL = false)
		And so do you.
	The memory of these days, and perhaps all your days, it comes back with further punishing weakness, as ${l_hi} determination falters and so does ${l_hi} stance and step. 

	And ${l_he} opens ${l_hi} lips to try, better, again.
	"Sherlock. I know I owe you a, a—"

*elseif (bBold)
	As your own eyes had traveled down. So had ${l_his}.

	$!{l_he} had seen all that you were, ${l_hi} eyes traveling the emboldened, daring form of (colour) of you tonight, and ${l_he}'d been as if startled by the sight. 

	Brows lifting, and eyes widening, and questioning glance towards you as if asking if ${l_he} ${l_himself} is meant to be in on the stunt. 

	But to ${l_hi} credit, as ${l_he} might have any-other day, ${l_he} had not a word. No protest. No scoff. No smirk and shake of head and jab of words at your impropriety—as if ${l_he}'d actually care. No. ${lestradeName} Lestrade was silent.

	Silent as a church mouse at your undress.

	"Sherlock... I know I owe you a—"

*elseif (bPrettied = "more")
	As your own eyes had traveled down. So had ${l_his}.

	$!{l_he} had seen all that you were, ${l_hi} eyes traveling the ${bMainColourAdjective} form of ${bMainTrueColour} of you tonight, primped and perfected, and ${l_he}'d been as if startled by the sight. 

	Brows lifting, eyes widening, and a questioning glance towards you as if asking if ${l_he} ${l_himself} is meant to not notice the change.

	But to ${l_hi} credit, as ${l_he} might have any-other day, ${l_he} had not a word. No judgement. No scoff. No smirk and shake of head and jab of words at your attempt—as if ${l_he}'d actually care. No. ${lestradeName} Lestrade was silent.

	Silent as a church mouse at your change.

	"Sherlock... I know I owe you a—"

*elseif (bPrettied = "less")
	As your own eyes had traveled down. So had ${l_his}.

	$!{l_he} had seen all that you were, ${l_hi} eyes traveling the lessened sight in ${bMainTrueColour} of you tonight, and ${l_he}'d been as if startled by the sight. 

	Brows lifting, and eyes widening, and questioning glance towards you as if asking if ${l_he} ${l_himself} is meant to be in on the stunt. 

	But to ${l_hi} credit, as ${l_he} might have any-other day, ${l_he} had not a word. No question. No scoff. No smirk and shake of head and jab of words at your strangeness—as if ${l_he}'d actually care. No. ${lestradeName} Lestrade was silent.

	Silent as a church mouse at your disguise.

	"Sherlock... I know I owe you a—"

*else

	$!{l_hi} eyes traveled the sight of your visage tonight, and begins, "Sherlock... I know I owe you a—"

*temp noApologiesL false
*fake_choice
	#"You have nothing to apologise for, Lestrade."
		*set noApologiesL true
		*if (wasImpressedAtL)
			"You have nothing to apologise for, Lestrade," you say. Truth be told, you had been impressed by it all.
		*else
			"You have nothing to apologise for, Lestrade," you say. The truth of the matter is hardly relevant.

			But.

		"... What? [i]What[/i]—" ${l_he} nearly barks out. "Bloody hell, yes I do? But that's not—” 

		*if (lestradeMan)
			His hand, still gloved in leather, clenches by his side—lift—and then it wipes down his face with a rough, shudder of a sigh. "You're..." From his breast-pocket, he delivers your way a letter. Folded, not sealed. The top of which, of what you can see, is a clean copy, either written once perfectly, or too many times imperfectly.
		*else
			Her hand, in tight, elegant leather, clenches by her side, and then it wipes down her brows and eyes with an exhausted, shuddering sigh. "You're..." From her dress-pocket, she delivers your way a letter. Folded, not sealed. The top of which, of what you can see, is a clean copy, either written once perfectly, or too many times imperfectly.
	#"Do not bother. Not unless it is case related—with utmost urgency."
		"Do not bother. Not unless it is case related—with utmost urgency."

		*if (lestradeMan)
			His hand, still gloved in leather, clenches by his side—lift—and then it wipes down his face with a rough, shudder of a sigh. "Aye. You're... yes." From his breast-pocket, he delivers your way a letter. Folded, not sealed. The top of which, of what you can see, is a clean copy, either written once perfectly, or too many times imperfectly.
		*else
			Her hand, in tight, elegant leather, clenches by her side, and then it wipes down her brows and eyes with an exhausted, shuddering sigh. "Aye. You're... yes." From her dress-pocket, she delivers your way a letter. Folded, not sealed. The top of which, of what you can see, is a clean copy, either written once perfectly, or too many times imperfectly.
	#"You have nothing I wish to hear on the matter."
		"You have nothing I wish to hear on the matter," you say.

		*if (lestradeMan)
			His hand, still gloved in leather, clenches by his side—lift—and then it wipes down his face with a rough, shudder of a sigh. "Aye. You're... yes." From his breast-pocket, he delivers your way a letter. Folded, not sealed. The top of which, of what you can see, is a clean copy, either written once perfectly, or too many times imperfectly.
		*else
			Her hand, in tight, elegant leather, clenches by her side, and then it wipes down her brows and eyes with an exhausted, shuddering sigh. "Aye. You're... yes." From her dress-pocket, she delivers your way a letter. Folded, not sealed. The top of which, of what you can see, is a clean copy, either written once perfectly, or too many times imperfectly.
	#"I have a case to solve, Lestrade..."
		"I have a case to solve, Lestrade..."

		*if (lestradeMan)
			His hand, still gloved in leather, clenches by his side—lift—and then it wipes down his face with a rough, shudder of a sigh. "Aye. You do. We—you're... yes. But..." From his breast-pocket, he delivers your way a letter. Folded, not sealed. The top of which, of what you can see, is a clean copy, either written once perfectly, or too many times imperfectly.
		*else
			Her hand, in tight, elegant leather, clenches by her side, and then it wipes down her brows and eyes with an exhausted, shuddering sigh. "Aye. You do. We—you're... yes. But..." From her dress-pocket, she delivers your way a letter. Folded, not sealed. The top of which, of what you can see, is a clean copy, either written once perfectly, or too many times imperfectly.


*if (lestradeMan)
	"Here," he mutters gruffly, as if speaking is once again hard and trying. "I would've sent it, but I... I kept deliberating whether to… not. I—[i]you’re owed[/i] more than my words, and more than I can offer, and,” a painful clearing of a throat that sounds emotional rather than rough. "A letter can't fail its course halfway through, can it?"

	You do not correct it and remark that many letters do take the wrong course. A paper and parcel can travel the world today, even the wrong way.

	"I mean," he clears his throat again and scuffs those familiar, failing black boots with a sound against the fine marble. "I won't. I—my words. They won't."

	What is he—
*else
	"Here," she offers with a broken mutter, as if speaking is again hard and trying. "I would've sent it, but I... I kept deliberating whether to… not. I—[i]you’re owed[/i] more than my words, and more than I can offer, and,” a painful clearing of a throat that sounds emotional rather than rough. "A letter can't fail its course halfway through, can it?"

	You do not correct it and remark that many letters do take the wrong course. A paper and parcel can travel the world today, even the wrong way.

	"I mean," she clears her throat again and scuffs those familiar, failing black boots with a sound against the fine marble. "I won't. I—my words. They won't."

	What is she—

"I ain't apologising."

*fake_choice
	#"... I beg your finest pardon, [i]${l_sir}[/i]?"
		"... I beg your finest pardon, [i]${l_sir}[/i]?"
	#"..."
		You say nothing at ${l_hi} words that came rather... unexpected.
	#"Bold move."
		"Bold move."
	*if (noApologiesL) #"Right, well then. As I said—"
		"Right, well then. As I said," you begin.
	#"Oh?" It had rather sounded like the start of one...
		"Oh?" you ask.

"No—I—GOD—see why I bloody need the damn letter?! I ain't apologising, Sherlock, 'cause it ain't mean nothing. I am making it bloody right, then you can tell me to shove off, alright? So just, do what you need, and I'll do what I do. And I'll prove to you that my words ain't worth taking for truth except for [i]this[/i]."
$!{l_he} once again hold letter out to you. $!{l_hi} chest heaves. $!{l_hi} shoulders lift. And ${l_hi} gaze is only rightly described as tragically intense.

*if (stillHasFlask = false)
	"Read the letter." $!{l_he} finds ${l_hi} footing again, and ${l_hi} height, and stands tall and steady. "If you wish. Don't if you... don't. You ain't owing me that either."
*else
	"Read the letter." $!{l_he} finds ${l_hi} footing again, and ${l_hi} height, and stands tall and steady. "If you wish. Don't if you... don't. You ain't owing me that either. Keep my flask. Curse my name."

Black eyes on you.

"But if you ever want for the work, Sherlock, I'll call." The letter is pushed into your hands, and then—
*if (romanceL > 1)
	${l_he} steps one step closer. Just close enough to whisper, to promise, to dance, to touch breaths.

	$!{l_hi} head tilts away to the crowds, as if they still matter, as if they watch the two of you in your conspiratorial closeness. But ${l_hi} eyes return to you, on you—always on you tonight. 
	*if (bBold)
		Lingering, and halting, and wanting devouring.
	*else
		Lingering, halting, and wanting.

	*comment TODO

	"I ain't got any right to... I thought, and it is a damn foolish thought. But I am going to tell you, because I never bloody say it. That you look..."

	You don't say anything, anything at all. And yet ${l_he} finds words, for once.

	"The... the ${bMainTrueColour}. It suits you."

	*comment ADD IN A LINE ABOUT MATCHING WITH MCS EYES / OR BRINGING THEM OUT OK?
	*comment watson will get hair to comment on. And Adler can have... body features or smth...

	*fake_choice
		*selectable_if (bMainColour != bMainTrueColour) #"$!{bMainColour}."
			*comment oK THIS WILL LOOK SO STUPID IN SOME CHOICES BUT THAT'S MAYBE OK?
			"$!{bMainColour}."

			"Right... $!{bMainColour}. That too."

			Then ${l_he} steps back, flustered or burnt, and takes ${l_hi} leave in a hurry. The inspector returns to ${l_hi} work, just as ${l_he} promised. 

			Just as ${l_he} always has.
		*if (lestradeMan = false) #"The dress... It suits you too."
			"The dress... It suits you too," you offer then.

			"[i]Oh,[/i]" she says. Mouth opens. Close.
			Then ${l_he} steps back, flustered or burnt, and takes ${l_hi} leave in a hurry with a nod and a too long lingering glance. The inspector returns to ${l_hi} work, just as ${l_he} promised. 

			Just as ${l_he} always has.
		*if (lestradeMan) #"The suit... It suits you too."
			"The suit... It suits you too," you offer then.

			"[i]Oh,[/i]" he says.

			Blinking.

			Mouth opens. Close.

			Then ${l_he} steps back, flustered or burnt, and takes ${l_hi} leave in a hurry with a nod and a too long lingering glance. A short goodbye and the inspector returns to ${l_hi} work, just as ${l_he} promised. 

			Just as ${l_he} always has.
		#"[i]Oh.[/i]"
			"[i]Oh.[/i]"

			Then, rather too suddenly, ${l_he} steps back, and takes ${l_hi} leave. The inspector returns to ${l_hi} work, just as ${l_he} promised. 

			Just as ${l_he} always has.
		#"Suits me?! [i]Suits me[/i]?! That is all?!" That was, somehow, the last drop.
			"Suits me?! [i]Suits me[/i]?! That is all?!" That was, somehow, the last drop.

			Eyes widen. "I—uh, no, yes? I only meant that you look—"

			"YES?!"

			*if (genderMC != "man")
				"Lovely..."
			*else
				"Well... A—as in good."

			"AND?!"

			$!{l_he} swallows. "And—I—I thought I knew how devastating your ${eyeColour} eyes could be but I ain't knew a damn."

			"Anything else?"

			"No? God—no. Not—ain't any torture that should have me say all I thought..."

			*fake_choice
				#"God, you're stubborn."
					"God, you're stubborn."

					"I—[i]I AM?[/i] You—yeah," a halted word and a strangled breath. "Guess I am," ${l_he} says, as if ${l_him} still standing here is the most stubborn thing anyone's ever done.
				#"I'm sure we could find one."
					"I'm sure we could find one."

					"... Right."
				#"You could try..."	
					"You could try..."

					"Could. I'd regret that," ${l_he} says, as if ${l_he} knows the concept intimately.


			Then ${l_he} steps back, and takes ${l_hi} hurried leave. The inspector returns to ${l_hi} work, just as ${l_he} promised. 

			Just as ${l_he} always has.

*else
	$!{l_he} takes ${l_hi} leave. The inspector returns to ${l_hi} work, just as ${l_he} promised. 

	Just as ${l_he} always has.

And, as Lestrade has left—

*fake_choice
	#I let the letter fall to the ground. 
		Then, you too walk away.

		But you don't look back.
	#I let the letter fall to the ground. And I may or may not step over it on the way.
		Then, you too walk away.

		But you don't look back.
	#I unfold the letter. I was never not the curious sort.
		*goto readLsLetter
	#I unfold the letter. 
		*label readLsLetter
		You unfold the letter. 

		It is a short, written thing at the top, then a loose, smaller paper: written on a police notepad with the date at the top, written in Lestrade's hand.

		'Journal' it began. '18/9 - 18—'

		*fake_choice
			#Read the top part.
				[i]It begins in that peculiarly elegant cursive of ${lestradeName} Lestrade:[/i]

				You know very well, ${mc_name}, that the manner of which I speak is not conducive to sympathy. I err, I act coldly, unfairly, and I act without truth. And I did so with you.

				And I am sorry for it. To a point I could not legally express.

				Yet, this is not an apology. It is a testament to you, from my hand—hold me accountable in any which way you see fit—for me to set it all right.

				I do this for you. And, frankly, for myself.

				My first step, beyond taking measures which are partly my own and partly underlined in this following text—is to bare myself starkly, as well as I must have have done of you. One more true than the other. Both based on only which exist within my own mind.

				I will not pretend to humour this letter well should you ever quote it back to me.
				*line_break
				Doubt such things are within my power.
				
				And by all possibility, I will never get anywhere at all.
				*line_break
				But then first let me make it right with this one point, one singular step at a time. This being the first.

		*fake_choice
			#Read what appears to be... Lestrade's journal over the last few days.
				*set hasLjournal1 true

				[i]Certain parts appear struck out, but alarmingly little for what might be ${l_hi} most private thoughts.[/i]
				*line_break

				[b]18/9 - 18—[/b]

				The consultation with Dr Watson went well. One of the junior officers made crude remarks. They won’t make that mistake again; I would bet the cost of one of those stethoscopes on that.

				I have not had dinner these last few nights.

				Perhaps I can ask Mrs Turner…

				Note to self: Send Dr Watson the report on current ------- in ----------.

				*page_break

				[b]22/9 - 18—[/b]

				I wrote to ${mc_xim}. $!{mc_xhe} came.

				I wake up after our meetings and find time has passed, words have been said… always as if entirely out of my control. But, my eyes open, and things have admittedly been solved. And while I never quite find the solutions I want, nor the words… I am left—I realise I should take no pride in our work, as I am a mere insignificant part—[i]But I do.[i]

				It is the best part of my days.

				I never say it.
				*line_break
				Next time, I will.

				*page_break
				[b]23/9 - 18—[/b]

				And there ${mc_xhe} was. Yet a reminder. Of my inadequacies.

				I told ${mc_xim} to leave.
				
				*if (mc_them)
					I was in no state to be around... people. Lest of all ${mc_xim}. I fail with my plans to be civil with most... And with ${mc_xim}… well. $!{mc_xhe} are the proof and source of that
					----.

					I told ${mc_xim} to leave. In my own way. I think I may be incapable of decency?
				
					And ${mc_xhe} don't leave.
				*else
					I was in no state to be around... people. Lest of all ${mc_xim}. I fail with my plans to be civil with most... And with ${mc_xim}… well. $!{mc_xhe} is the proof and source of that
					----.

					I told ${mc_xim} to leave. In my own way. I think I may be incapable of decency?
				
					And ${mc_xhe} doesn't leave.

				Fuck.

				*if (lestradeMan)
					Yet another failure, eh, ol' chap?
				*else
					Yet another failure, eh, ol' girl?

				[i]You bloody idiot.[/i]

				[i]Well done.[/i]

				*if (mc_them)
					Out of all people, [i]they[/i] find you.
				*else
					Out of all people, [i]${mc_xhe}[/i] finds you.

				Why is it always [i]${mc_xim}[/i]?

				*page_break

				[b]24/9 - 18—[/b]

				*if (genderMC = "woman")
					I hurt her. I must have.

					I had never intended to hurt her.

					All those times before. Where I had never been better than curt. Every time before, and after, where I came up short, I told myself: Next time, I shall be better. For her, for she deserves better, and because…

					I have no wish to be this way.

					I had been determined. After we parted last—that—the next is where I tell the truth, speak my mind—not only the troubles—but all.
					
					But I am weak.
					
					Another blow. That damn cursed call. A lack of sleep and too much drink and I am back to where I began.
					
					[i]Worse.[/i]
					
					I had promised myself I would tell her. That… I enjoy her company. Our silence. That, I, too, consider her to be…

					Instead, I told her all my worries. No—no, not just my worries. But.

					I was hurt. Not because of her. But… [i]because[/i] of her. Her presence was always a stinging balm. A reminder of my inadequacies, how it all started on the wrong foot, of what I do not have, what I have lost, what I can’t have—

					She could swoop in and solve all the puzzles I couldn't even see. And she did it so well, so immaculately, I can’t hate her for it. Not ever. Not really. But
					god, I can hate myself for it.

					[b]My head feels like death.[/b]

					Does she know I can’t function around her?

					I am worse in her presence. And she is her best.

					And I am reminded of that. When she walked in the door. And called my
					name.

					And then every worry, and every worry I worry exists, in her or me or others—came crashing out. Out of my lips, poison spewed. Worse than I have ever done before…

				*elseif (genderMC = "man")
					I hurt him. I must have.

					I had never intended to hurt him.

					All those times before. Where I had never been better than curt. Every time before, and after, where I came up short, I told myself: Next time, I shall be better. For him, for he deserves better, and because…

					I have no wish to be this way.

					I had been determined. After we parted last—that—the next is where I tell the truth, speak my mind—not only the troubles—but all.
					
					But I am weak.
					
					Another blow. That damn cursed call. A lack of sleep and too much drink and I am back to where I began.
					
					[i]Worse.[/i]
					
					I had promised myself I would tell him. That… I enjoy his company. Our silence. That, I, too, consider him to be…

					Instead, I told him all my worries. No—no, not just my worries. But.

					I was hurt. Not because of him. But… [i]because[/i] of him. His presence was always a stinging balm. A reminder of my inadequacies, how it all started on the wrong foot, of what I do not have, what I have lost, what I can’t have—

					He could swoop in and solve all the puzzles I couldn't even see. And he did it so well, so immaculately, I can’t hate him for it. Not ever. Not really. But
					god, I can hate myself for it.

					[b]My head feels like death.[/b]

					Does he know I can’t function around him?

					I am worse in his presence. And he is his best.

					And I am reminded of that. When he walked in the door. And called my
					name.

					And then every worry, and every worry I worry exists, in him or me or others—came crashing out. Out of my lips, poison spewed. Worse than I have ever done before…

				*else
					I hurt them. I must have.

					I had never intended to hurt them.

					All those times before. Where I had never been better than curt. Every time before, and after, where I came up short, I told myself: Next time, I shall be better. For them, for they deserve better, and because…

					I have no wish to be this way.

					I had been determined. After we parted last—that—the next is where I tell the truth, speak my mind—not only the troubles—but all.
					
					But I am weak.
					
					Another blow. That damn cursed call. A lack of sleep and too much drink and I am back to where I began.
					
					[i]Worse.[/i]
					
					I had promised myself I would tell them. That… I enjoy their company. Our silence. That, I, too, consider them to be…

					Instead, I told them all my worries. No—no, not just my worries. But.

					I was hurt. Not because of them. But… [i]because[/i] of them. Their presence was always a stinging balm. A reminder of my inadequacies, how it all started on the wrong foot, of what I do not have, what I have lost, what I can’t have—

					They could swoop in and solve all the puzzles I couldn't even see. And they did it so well, so immaculately, I can’t hate them for it. Not ever. Not really. But
					god, I can hate myself for it.

					[b]My head feels like death.[/b]

					Do they know I can’t function around them?

					I am worse in their presence. And they are their best.

					And I am reminded of that. When they walked in the door. And called my
					name.

					And then every worry, and every worry I worry exists, in them or me or others—came crashing out. Out of my lips, poison spewed. Worse than I have ever done before…
				
				It was [i]the[/i] worst thing I have ever done.
				
				[i]To the best one I have ever known.[/i]

				And so, [b]there’s no forgiveness[/b]. I won’t fool myself about that. I don’t want it, even if I were to plead for it. I want to prove my words wrong. And I shall. Consequences and cost be damned, I shall give reparations for the hurt I have caused. What else do I have to do? Hell—may it be the last thing I do.
				
				I shall enact an apology. And I shall want for nothing in return.
				*line_break
				I won’t lie to myself.
				*line_break
				I won’t beg.
				*line_break
				I will be better.

				An apology is only empty words until reparations have begun and
				changes to never repeat the fault have been enacted—

				Here is what I will do:

				1.
				Quit the damn drink. Damn the pain. [i]The nurse at Watson's clinic said to take it in steps. Well, I'll make the steps quick.[/i] — One drink a day. No more.

				2.
				Work harder.

				3. 
				Do better.

				*page_break

				[i]Only time will tell.[/i]

				You tuck the letter in your pocket.

*goto TheMainLOOP1





*comment - trigger this one potentially -- and allow to go back later and ask-
*comment L unlockable scene:
*comment L sends over some
*comment	Water/tea (if tired)/ food (if haven’t eaten)/a drink (if?) 
*comment	After noticing mc in some state.
*comment	The person who delivers it can be grilled on who gave the order.
*comment	Mc can then ask L. 
*comment	“I—I only told them it was pertinent to the investigation. And that… surely (sir) Hawthorne had given instructions to assist the detective and the police in their work, and I didn’t want to have to inform them or the head police inspector anything to the contrary…”
*comment -- if mc doesnt eat they can faint and that will make it so they wake up with H or W.
*comment --	if mc does eat, they can have a last hangout with L, where they dance and talk about stuff.. tho if i put the fiance talk there, maybe it should come for everyone.... hmmmmm.




	- general:
		You will dance briefly with a masked individual, who’s eyes are too covered by the mask and the low light to see clearly. They speak no words. But their hand is strong, and their attentions disarming. 

		You will meet a poet type person

		You will meet an old creep.

		Being able to hide behind Mrs Hudson from fans and suitors. 


		








	- W (dance scene + food scene)


		W brings up again that mc lied about coming with H.



*label TalkToWRO1
*set metWatson true
*comment or dinner conversation where someone speaks for their butler, and complains to Watson, or sherlock, about butlers being accused of murders (joke on "the butler did it")

You find Watson at the dining tables, laid out with a buffet on the other end. Lively, crowded, and—

Watson has already made friends at a table. And, seemingly is in a lively conversation with a group of older chaperones escaping their duty.

"Dr Watson, do tell me—is it a fact that the butlers are the prime suspects in all households?"

"No, no, god forbid," Watson is quick to dispel that notion. "No, you see, it is very much often the opposite. How such a belief got started I hardly know. However..." As if ${j_he} knew you were there, Watson turns to you with a sheepish smile as ${j_hi} eyes glitter blue by yellow candlelight. 

"We received yet another letter of complaint by the butlers' the other day," ${johnName} admits as ${j_he} shifts ${j_hi} chair to make room for you. "The butlers association of Great Britain are once again expressing their great displeasure at butlers being mentioned in a negative light in our stories."

This was the third time.
*fake_choice
	#"They should be grateful I only expose the truth, and the relevant truth. I could say much more, Watson."
		"They should be grateful I only expose the truth, and the relevant truth," your voice rings out, and carries across the fully seated table of perfect strangers. "I could say much more, Watson," you say as you sit down.

		"Perhaps you should," ${j_he} adds at that with a smile, "Truly, I did run the numbers and they are hardly a common villain in the stories."

		"Of course. Because the stories are not fiction—which makes the whole complaint entirely ridiculous."

		*if (wRomance)
			Watson has a warm, melted little smile across ${j_hi} lips as if ${j_he} finds you no more perfect than now. "Indeed, ${mc_name}." 

			The crowd of strangers look somewhat less convinced, but still decently so. Someone clears their throat and adds a, "Yes, quite right." Another a, "Hear hear!"

		*comment "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."
	#"I swear, these people are relentless!" I laugh.
		"I swear, these people are relentless!" you laugh as you sit down.

		Yet another letter from that source. One can only take so much from a group determined their truth is the right one, despite the facts and your own numbers, before it devolves into the comically absurd.

		*goto unmentionablesBall
	#"Oh no, ${johnName}, not again!"
		"Oh no, ${johnName}, not again!" you sit down and protest at yet another letter from that source. One could only take so much from a group determined their truth is the right one, despite the facts and your own numbers.

		*label unmentionablesBall

		Someone from the group of strangers interjects, "And so if it is not the butler, is the suspect mainly the housekeepers?"

		Another, "I believe it must be the footmen." And another, "Maids are terribly light-fingered—"

		You and Watson's eyes meet then, a grimace upon ${j_hi} face as the debate devolves into the lowest common denominator—into a fear-based—unlike fact—blame-slinging match by a group that has never need to see themselves painted as the villains.

		"—I heard vagrants are stealing people's unmentionables up in Scotland—"

		Your eyes remained upon ${johnName} at that moment and—
		*fake_choice
			#Watson is about to break, and you know that if ${j_he} does, you are close to follow.
				*comment Watson breaks first. A chortle disguising itself as a scoff, but one look from me and we both break down into laughter.

				${johnName}'s face is now strained, and quickly reddening. $!{j_hi} eyes so firmly on you they speak volumes. $!{j_hi} eyebrows crinkling, twitching. And ${j_hi} lips pressed so tightly together and inwards that they disappear. 

				"Do n—," you plead to Watson, but you have only to say the words and—

				$!{j_he} burst forth with a guffaw of a laugh. $!{j_hi} head trows back and it echoes round the entire room. And the muscles upon your face are near painful—as you find yourself following.

				Too long moments we burst out into further messes at the sight of the other.

				The doctor soon apologises to the seating, and wipes at ${j_hi} eyes, "Oh, no it was nothing—an old memory of ours—that is all. No, you are fine, my good man. Nothing at all."

				$!{j_hi} damn blue eyes still shine with mirth and amused tears as they return upon you. "Nothing at all..."

			#"Don't... Don't you dare," I warn Watson who's clearly holding back ${j_hi} amusement. 
				${johnName}'s face is now strained, and quickly reddening. $!{j_hi} eyes so firmly on you they speak volumes. $!{j_hi} eyebrows crinkling, twitching. And ${j_hi} lips pressed so tightly together and inwards that they disappear. 

				"Don't... Don't you dare," you warn Watson, but you have only to say the words and—

				$!{j_he} burst forth with a guffaw of a laugh. $!{j_hi} head trows back and it echoes round the entire room.

				Dammit.

				The doctor apologises to the seating, and wipes at ${j_hi} eyes, "Oh, no it was nothing—an old memory—that is all. No, you are fine, my good man. Nothing at all."

				$!{j_hi} damn blue eyes still shine with mirth and amused tears as they return upon you. "Nothing at all..."

		*comment Mc and someone have a lot of moments of amused eye contact while someone’s speaking stupidly. 
		*comment MC and W have a lot of amused eye contact while someone's ranting at the table.


	#"Hogwash! You do not write fiction, Watson—" I object to their objection with a rant of my own.
		*comment —- small talk (cut content from ch3)
		*comment old beginning "On the topic of letters, Sherlock," Watson begins, while amusing themselves with the letter opener in their dexterous hand. The small blade was as if dancing between their fingers with one hand. "We had yet another complaint from 'The Butlers Association of Great Britain'. They once again express their great displeasure at butlers being mentioned in such a negative light in our stories."

		"Hogwash!" you exclaim as you sit down. "You do not write fiction, Watson—which frankly renders their complaint entirely ridiculous! Have we not exonerated more butlers from their suspicious masters than we proved to be thugs, accomplices, or thieves?" your voice rings out, and carries across the fully seated table of perfect strangers, rising louder and clearer.  "They should be [i]grateful[/i] we decreased the amount of newspaper headlines! Butlers' of—[i]oh[/i]—they should know by now the upperclasses are quick to blame the help, therefore the butler rarely does the crime they are accused of... Which we prove, Watson! I am sorry, ${johnName}, for letting this matter agitate me yet again. But it is as if people do not think at all?!"

		*comment "Hogwash! You do not write fiction, Watson—which frankly renders their complaint entirely ridiculous! Have we not exonerated more butlers from their suspicious masters than we proved to be thugs, accomplices, or thieves?" your voice rings out, and carries across the fully seated table of perfect strangers, rising louder and clearer. "I rather think they should be sending us letters of gratitude. We decreased the number of newspaper headlines! *Furthermore*, if there is anyone who should know that the upper classes are quick to blame the help, and hence that the butler rarely does the crime they are accused of... Which we prove, Watson! I am sorry, (John/Jane), for letting this matter agitate me yet again. But it is as if these people do not think at all?!" 

		Watson has a warm, melted little smile across ${j_hi} lips as if ${j_he} finds you no more perfect than now. "No need for apologies, ${mc_name}."

		The crowd of strangers look less convinced, wide eyed and sharing glances. Someone clears their throat and simply adds a muted, "Yes, quite right."

*page_break

Watson says then, to the group, and specifically to the one that initially asked. "But you have, you have stumbled upon a common myth. But the butlers rarely do seem to be the ones to do it, in truth."

"Except..." you add to ${j_him} and the crowds.

"Of course... But that was a rather rare event," ${j_he} returns, still with [i]that[/i] smile. As if enjoying far too much to be the only one in on the story between you two for once.

"Tremendous case, Watson, I have to say."

"I remember well. You enjoyed yourself."

"Mmm, tremendously."

Watson remains smiling at that. A lingering, acknowledging thing. As if your momentary reprieve of a good moment together, seated close, and fondly remembering, gives the doctor a warm, pleasant satisfaction that ${j_he} savors all to ${j_himself} without any end.

*page_break
*comment #Find Watson again.
You are all the way back at the main hall when you realise you never even asked Watson what you had found ${j_him} to ask in the first place... 

Oh, well.

*goto TheMainLOOP1

*comment ---------

*comment Mc and someone have a lot of moments of amused eye contact while someone’s speaking stupidly. 

*comment MC and W have a lot of amused eye contact while someone's ranting at the table.

*comment ---------

		


*comment W is hounded by women/men at the ball. 
*comment (Mention the bet in the carriage and bring this all back up / the ruse / later in the chapter in romance scene 2),


*label wRuse

*set ruseWithW true

*if (dancedWithH = false)
	You find Watson by the scene of what will surely soon be the dance floor, once the waltzes start. But not yet on it.
*else
	You find Watson by the edge of the dance floor, but not yet on it.

*if (true)
	*if (johnMan)
		An instant sigh of relief escapes his lips at the sight of you and with one step he severs the final distance to nothing, now near pressed against you. "Oh thank [i]god[/i] you are here," the words fall from his lips in a loud whisper against your cheek. "Please—perhaps if you are around me, they won’t swarm me so infernally!" His eyes dart to the expecting, crowding crowd that surrounded him.
	*else
		An instant sigh of relief escapes her lips at the sight of you and with two quick, heeled steps her long legs sever the final distance to nothing. Now... near pressed against you. "Oh thank [i]god[/i] you are here," the words fall from her lips in a loud whisper against your cheek. "Please—perhaps if you are around me, they won’t swarm me so infernally!" Her eyes dart to the expecting, crowding crowd that surrounded her.

	*temp dazzling ""

	*fake_choice
		#"But, what can I—"
			"But, what can I—"

			*goto propose1
		#"$!{johnName}... Who are all [i]these[/i] people?" I ask, with a glare at [i]these[/i] people.
			$!{johnName}... Who are all [i]these[/i] people?" you ask, with a glare at [i]these[/i] people.

			"I suppose they may be fans of the work—the writing—but they all keep... They remain very close, very personal... in both questions and..." A sigh from Watson's lips. "Please. Give them a reason to leave me be—"

			"But what, ${johnName}?"

			*goto propose1
		#"... What do you propose?"
			"... What do you propose?"

			*label propose1
			*if (johnMan)
				"Anything, everything."
			*else
				"Anything, everything. Take me away—"

			"A ruse? Are you proposing a ruse, ${johnName}?”
		
			“Yes.”

			It is hardly the first time you two have had to play a role, and ${j_he} does seem desperate, but...

			*fake_choice
				#"No. No, not tonight, Watson."
					*set ruseWithW false
					*set turnedDownHelpW true
					"No. No, not tonight, Watson," you say.

					You leave the good doctor to ${j_hi} swarms of new 'literary' fans, as ${h_hi} big blue eyes follow your back and fading away figure with dejected appearance.

					Something of a kicked hound.

					And left to wolves.
				*selectable_if (wRomance) #“I—all—all right, ${johnName}, but rules of propriety still stand,“ I remind ${j_him} with a flustered tone of my own.
					“I—all—all right, ${johnName}, but rules of propriety still stand,“ you remind ${j_him} with a flustered tone of your own.
					
					"Ah—of course, of course!" $!{j_he} blushes.
					*if (chosecoinPriceKiss)
						you remember Watson merely the other day, flustered at the thought of a small kiss. A peck.
						"Are you quite sure you may yet handle this, ${johnName}..."

						"I—yes, and what choice do I have? Please—you have my word! Nothing untoward, I would never—"
					*else
						“You have my word.”

				
					“Good. I do wish for you to be sure. And no matter how 
					*if (bProper)
						*if (bWearingDress)
							*set dazzling "dazzling"
							dazzling
						*else
							*set dazzling "dashing"
							dashing
					*if (bDelicate)
						*set dazzling "adorable"
						adorable
					*if (bCharming)
						*set dazzling "charming"
						charming
					*if (bBold)
						*if (bWearingDress)
							*set dazzling "ravishing"
							ravishing
						*else
							handsome
							*set dazzling "handsome"
					*if (bSimple)
							functionally elegant
							*set dazzling "elegant"
					I may look,” you offer with the smallest little smile, the words feel almost forward even to you, "you shall have to restrain yourself."
					
					“I am used to your ${dazzling} ways—“
				
					*fake_choice
						#“...” My face reveals my pain at that.
							Your face reveals a real pain at ${j_hi} small words.

							“I said [i]used[/i], ${mc_name}," voice quieter. "Not immune, nor unappreciative…”
						#“Oh, my. Are we beginning the ruse already?”
							“Oh, my. Are we beginning the ruse already?” you ask.

							“Just. Give me a moment of your time. I beg of you? It would mean the world to me, and it would give me a moment to breathe…”
						*if ((genderMC = "woman") and (j_man != genderMC)) #“Mmm… now you want me around?” I gently tease. “Besides. I thought the attentions of women were unwelcome, Watson.”
							“Mmm… now you want me around?” you gently tease. “Besides. I thought the attentions of women were unwelcome, Watson.”

							“You are always the exception, ${mc_name}.”
						*if ((genderMC = "man") and (j_man != genderMC)) #“Mmm… now you want me around?” I gently tease. “Besides. I thought the attentions of men were unwelcome, Watson.”
							“Mmm… now you want me around?” you gently tease. “Besides. I thought the attentions of men were unwelcome, Watson.”
							
							“You are always the exception, ${mc_name}.”
						*if ((genderMC = "them") or (j_man = genderMC)) #“Mmm… now you want me around?” I gently tease. “Besides. I thought the attentions of people this close were unwelcome, Watson.”
							“Mmm… now you want me around?” you gently tease. “Besides. I thought the attentions of people this close were unwelcome, Watson.”

							“You are always the exception, ${mc_name}.”

				*if ((chosecoinPriceKiss) and (false)) #"Only if you make good on that peck you never delivered," I say, reminding ${j_him} of the scene in the carriage the other day.
					"Only if you make good on that peck you never delivered," I say, reminding ${j_him} of the scene in the carriage the other day.

					$!{j_he} blushed, but ${j_he} nods. "Of course." 

					How desperate ${j_he} seems...

				#“... I am telling you now, nothing beyond hand holding—“ 
					“... I am telling you now, nothing beyond hand holding—“ 
					
					"Ah—of course, of course!" $!{j_he} blushes.
					*if (chosecoinPriceKiss)
						you remember Watson merely the other day, flustered at the simplest things in the carriage. A small kiss. A peck!
						"Are you quite sure you can handle this, ${johnName}?"

						"I—yes, and what choice do I have? Please—you have my word! Nothing untoward, I would never—"
					*else
						“You have my word.”

				
					“No matter how 
					*if (bProper)
						*if (bWearingDress)
							*set dazzling "dazzling"
							dazzling
						*else
							*set dazzling "dashing"
							dashing
					*if (bDelicate)
						*set dazzling "adorable"
						adorable
					*if (bCharming)
						*set dazzling "charming"
						charming
					*if (bBold)
						*if (bWearingDress)
							*set dazzling "ravishing"
							ravishing
						*else
							handsome
							*set dazzling "handsome"
					*if (bSimple)
							functionally elegant
							*set dazzling "elegant"
					I may look!”
					
					“I am used to your ${dazzling} ways—“
				
					*fake_choice
						#“Ouch.”
							“Ouch.”

							“I said [i]used[/i]. Not immune nor unappreciative, ${mc_name}…”
						#“Are we beginning the ruse already?”
							“Are we beginning the ruse already?” you ask.

							“Just. Give me a moment of your time. I beg of you? It would mean the world to me, and it would give me a moment to breathe…”
						*if ((genderMC = "woman") and (j_man != genderMC)) #“Mmm… now you want me around?” I tease. “Besides. I thought the attentions of women were unwelcome, Watson.”
							“Mmm… now you want me around?” you tease. “Besides. I thought the attentions of women were unwelcome, Watson.”

							“You are always the exception, ${mc_name}.”
						*if ((genderMC = "man") and (j_man != genderMC)) #“Mmm… now you want me around?” I tease. “Besides. I thought the attentions of men were unwelcome, Watson.”
							“Mmm… now you want me around?” you tease. “Besides. I thought the attentions of men were unwelcome, Watson.”
							
							“You are always the exception, ${mc_name}.”
						*if ((genderMC = "them") or (j_man = genderMC)) #“Mmm… now you want me around?” I tease. “Besides. I thought the attentions of people this close were unwelcome, Watson.”
							“Mmm… now you want me around?” you tease. “Besides. I thought the attentions of people this close were unwelcome, Watson.”

							“You are always the exception, ${mc_name}.”

	You and the good doctor take each-other in arm, and leave ${j_hi} new 'literary' fans to their own swarm of hunger. 
	*if (wRomance)
		Close, arm in arm, you [i]pretend[/i], perhaps, some further closeness than that of a detective, and their doctor.

		You say, aloud, some line of being very possessive of your best companion.

		And Watson adds that ${j_he} can not afford to be apart from you for very long at all. The work. Of course, because of the work.
	*else
		Close, arm in arm, you both press the importance of the detective, and their doctor to never part.

		You say, aloud, some line of being very possessive of your best companion.

		And Watson adds that ${j_he} can not afford to be apart from you for very long at all.

		The work demands it, of course.


*if ((WatsonHasDanced = false) and (wRomance))
	*comment Dancing with W:
	Soon you find yourselves by the edge of the dance floor.

	${johnName}, with a wide smile, 
	*comment (and sudden amnesia of a multitude of obstacles),

	beams at you. It was the sort of smile that sparkles ${j_hi} eyes and glimmers ${j_hi} teeth. Terribly blinding. 
	*if (dancedWithH)
		"$!{mc_name}, another dance is about to start!"
	*else
		"$!{mc_name}, the dances are about to begin—"
		*comment *if (j_man = genderMC)
		*comment ${j_he} adds, "And do not worry! It is perfectly well—
		*comment ADD SOMEWHERE THAT W OVERHEARD H TALK ABOUT HOW THE COUPLES ARE UNEVEN. Or maybe they read the guest list / talked to someone, and it will be excused.
		*comment actually lets not, cause the next part is less good if we say this here... i think?

	*goto wDanceChoicesQuickSkip

*else
	*goto TheMainLOOP1




*label wDance

*set WatsonHasDanced true




*comment This time, you find Watson on the dance floor.
*comment You find Watson on the dance floor.


*comment -> they will be dancing if you abandoned them, or if you danced with H first, or if you turned them down first... wait how do you turn them down first.... ok i figured it out. This code is so convoluted im glad im the only one working on this. If i had to take notes I'd have to reprimand myself for this mess.


*comment ///
*comment /// decline dance
*comment ///

*comment, make the gay version a bit more clear.

You take in the picture of ${j_him} in this grand hall.

*if (johnMan)
	There, dancing with another in his arms. As the music soars.

	And this person he dances with... She is pretty. Her strengths, your weaknesses. 
	*if (facialDetailDisL = "defined")
		Her nose, softer. Proportional.
	*elseif (facialDetailDisL = "minuscule")
		Her nose, just a little more. Proportional.
	*elseif (facialDetailDisL = "large")
		Her nose, smaller. Proportional.
	*elseif (facialDetailDisL = "dark")
		Her eyes, clear of under-lying darkness.
	*elseif (facialDetailDisL = "distracting")
		Her skin, unmarred. Scar free.
	*elseif (facialDetailDisL = "asymetrical")
		Her features well placed. Awfully symmetrical.
	*elseif (facialDetailDisL = "crooked")
		Her teeth, as she smiles at him. Perfect.
	*elseif (facialDetailDisL = "distracting")
		Her face, her skin, without any marks. Without any distractions.
	*elseif (facialDetailDisL = "unflattering")
		Her skin, smooth. Unmarred. Perfect.
	*elseif (facialDetailDisL = "wide")
		Her face, smaller, and perfectly proportional.
	*elseif (facialDetailDisL = "gaunt")
		Her face, fuller, youthful and soft.
	*elseif (facialDetailDisL = "paltry")
		Her eyebrows, sharp and strong. Perfect.
	She shares your very shade of ${hairColour} hair.
*else
	There, dancing in someone else's arms. As the music soars.

	And this person she dances with... He is handsome. His strengths, your weaknesses. 
	*if (facialDetailDisL = "defined")
		His nose, softer. Proportional.
	*elseif (facialDetailDisL = "minuscule")
		His nose, just a little more. Proportional.
	*elseif (facialDetailDisL = "large")
		His nose, smaller. Proportional.
	*elseif (facialDetailDisL = "dark")
		His eyes, clear of under-lying darkness.
	*elseif (facialDetailDisL = "distracting")
		His skin, unmarred. Scar free.
	*elseif (facialDetailDisL = "asymetrical")
		His features well placed. Awfully symmetrical.
	*elseif (facialDetailDisL = "crooked")
		His teeth, as he smiles at her. Perfect.
	*elseif (facialDetailDisL = "distracting")
		His face, his skin, without any marks. Without any distractions.
	*elseif (facialDetailDisL = "unflattering")
		His skin, smooth. Unmarred. Perfect.
	*elseif (facialDetailDisL = "wide")
		His face, smaller, and perfectly proportional.
	*elseif (facialDetailDisL = "gaunt")
		His face, fuller, youthful and warm.
	*elseif (facialDetailDisL = "paltry")
		His eyebrows, sharp and strong. Perfect.
	He shares your very shade of ${hairColour} hair.


*if (j_man = genderMC) and (johnMan)
	And in that moment you feel that she is all that you are and all that you are not. [i]And she's a woman[/i]. And they are dancing.
*elseif (j_man != genderMC) and (johnMan)
	And in that moment you feel that she is all that you are and all that you are not. And they are dancing.
*elseif (j_man = genderMC) and (johnMan = false)
	And in that moment you feel that he is all that you are and all that you are not. [i]And he's a man[/i]. And they are dancing.
*else
	And in that moment you feel that he is all that you are and all that you are not. And they are dancing.

*fake_choice
	*if (wRomance) #And it hurts.
		*set romanceW + 1
	*if (wRomance = false) #And it hurts. And you've never before looked at Watson before and... hurt.
		*set wRomance true
		*set romanceW + 1
	#And whatever comparison and strange pain that flickered through my mind ends as soon as it came. And I turn on my heel, and return to my work—reminding myself that dancing is a foolish pursuit.
		*goto TheMainLOOP1
	*selectable_if (wRomance) #I remain there, watching the crowds as I do.
		Soon it is over.

		And Watson comes hurrying, returning towards you. A spring in ${j_hi} running step, a little out of breath, brightened by the exercise and white teeth smiling wide. “Did you see?" ${j_he} asks. "Did you see me dance—I believe I heard some applause when—“ 

		*fake_choice
			#"I saw some." I smile. "Did you have a good time?" 
				"Did you have a good time?" you ask, despite [i]seeing[/i] that ${j_he} clearly did.

				"I did," and ${j_he} smiles still. "But, it would have been better with you there, ${mc_name}.
				*if (turnedDownDanceW)
					Are you quite sure you do not wish to... to take a spin?" A grin still, one attempting to be soft and gentle and jovial, despite the heavy truth.
				*else
					Would you... wish to... to take a spin?" A grin still, one attempting to be soft and gentle and jovial, despite the heavy truth.

			#"Watson, I came here to work—"
				"Watson, I came here to work—come with me now," you remind ${j_him}.

				And off the two of you go to, once again, do more sensible things than dance and crowd between the crowds.

				*goto TheMainLOOP1

			#"Yes, yes, Watson. You are very good."
				"Yes, yes, Watson. You are very good."

				$!{johnName} mellows from your tone, ${j_hi} eyes searches your face for signs of any understanding. But... finds little. 

				A pause from ${j_him}. "Would a dance cheer you up?" $!{j_he} grins, attempting to be gentle and jovial, despite the heavy, hidden truth of the question. "I know it would, for me, very much..."

			#"I need a good, inconspicuous look around the room—come dance with me, Watson."
				"I need a good, inconspicuous look around the room—come dance with me, Watson."
				*set WorkNotDance true

				And so you do.

				*goto willDanceW

			*if (wToBePersuaded = false) #"I wish to dance."
				"I wish to dance," you say then.

				"Oh? Well... Your wish is my command." $!{j_he} grins, attempting to be gentle and jovial, despite the heavy barely-hidden truth of the statement.

				*goto willDanceW
			*if (wToBePersuaded) #"... I have been persuaded. I will dance."

				"... I have been persuaded. I will dance," you say then.

				"Oh? Well... Your wish is my command." $!{j_he} grins, attempting to be gentle and jovial, despite the heavy barely-hidden truth of the statement.

				*goto willDanceW


		*fake_choice
			#"Yes..."
				*goto willDanceW
			#"Oh, why not."
				*goto willDanceW
			#"No."
				"No," you say, and the words echo as you leave.

				*goto TheMainLOOP1

			#"Watson, I came here to work—"
				"Watson, I came here to work—come with me now," you remind ${j_him}.

				And off the two of you go to, once again, do more sensible things than dance and crowd between the crowds.

				*goto TheMainLOOP1























You watch them.

He and her.

Your companion and a different you.

And as you watch them, for so long, that is what it feels like. Like forever. 

Purgatory must be a shorter thing. Yet the musicians are on their very first notes, and still on that very first yellowed page. [i]And you cannot...[/i]

Watson turns, and find you eyes and ${j_he} smiles. $!{j_he} smiles at you. All from [i]you[/i] noticing [i]${j_him}[/i]. But that smile remains as ${j_he} turns back to ${j_hi} partner, as they spin, and it feels like ${j_he} looks at them like ${j_he} looks at you.

$!{j_he} isn't.

Surely ${j_he} isn't.

But that is what you see.

And you cannot breathe.

*page_break

Had your heart ever folded, stubbornly, in half before? Bending, creaking at the seams, as it collapse into a smaller thing. Pins in your eyes. A deep, dark pressure, as your beating heart sticks in your throat. Could this feeling kill? By robbing your breath, so slowly, one painful inhale at a time.

Perhaps.

*if (((turnedDownHelpW) or (false)) and (johnMan))
	For he's still dancing with her. [i]And it could have been you.[/i] You couldn't spend that one moment with him, for him...
*elseif (((false) or (turnedDownDanceW)) and (johnMan))
	For he's still dancing with her. [i]And it could have been you.[/i] But you turned him down...
*elseif (johnMan)
	For he's still dancing with her. [i]And why isn't it you?[/i]
*if (((turnedDownHelpW) or (false)) and (johnMan = false))
	For she's still dancing with him. [i]And it could have been you.[/i] You couldn't spend that one moment with her, for her...
*elseif (((false) or (turnedDownDanceW)) and (johnMan = false))
	For she's still dancing with him. [i]And it could have been you.[/i] But you turned her down...
*else
	For she's still dancing with him. [i]And why isn't it you?[/i]

You have to grab onto the pillar beside you, looking for any steadying force now that that is no longer ${johnName}, and you finally turn away.

[i]Why. Why. Why. Why—[/i]

Watson never looked at anyone before? Never been close. Never accepted anyone else's nearness, especially not their touch. At least not in your presence. Was that all it was? Had you missed it? For ${j_he} looked terribly comfortable here, so terribly comfortable twirling across the dance-floor, with another's hand
*if (johnMan) 
	in his. 
*else
	on hers. 

*fake_choice
	#Never before have you had to be confronted with this. $!{j_he} never looked at any of them. Before.
	#You don’t know exactly why you hurt, and yet you do. 
	#Bastard... A bloody bastard.

The only solitude is that no one notices you, silently gasping for air, eyes reddening in the corner as you hide in the shadow of a pillar, your mind replaying all the pretty dancers.

Why?

Why...

You [i]knew[/i] ${j_he} must look at others with... admiration. But you [i]believed[/i] ${j_he} didn’t. You hoped and never had to see. That perhaps you are not the only one in ${j_hi} eyes. That perhaps one day ${j_he} will leave you for one of them who can give ${j_him} normality in all forms. 

Minutes pass in this gasping manner.

And you do manage to stand tall, and wipe at your face's skin, and right your mind so it surely could never be seen. You are not sure it was ever visible.

You step out of hiding and—Watson comes hurrying, returning towards you. A spring in ${j_hi} running step, a little out of breath, brightened by the exercise and white teeth smiling wide. “Did you see?" ${j_he} asks. "Did you see me dance—I believe I heard some applause when—“ 

You merely stand there. 

You appear normal. 

You are just as you always are.

“Sherlock?" ${j_he} questions. "Are you alright?”

*page_break

[i]'Are you alright?'[/i]

[i]'Are you alright?'[/i]

[i]'Are you alright?'[/i]

*fake_choice
	#"Of course." I smile. "Did you have a good time?" 
		"Of course." you smile, a perfect playacting thing. "Did you have a good time?" you ask, despite [i]knowing[/i] that ${j_he} clearly did.

		"I did," and ${j_he} smiles still. "But, it would have been better with you there, ${mc_name}." 

		And... just like that your own smile is a little more true. Even if only a little.

		*if (turnedDownDanceW)
			"Are you quite sure you do not wish to... to take a spin?" A grin still, one attempting to be soft and gentle and jovial, despite the heavy truth.
		*else
			"Would you... wish to... to take a spin?" A grin still, one attempting to be soft and gentle and jovial, despite the heavy truth.

	#"Why would I not be, Watson?!"
		"Why would I not be, Watson?!" It sort of... bursts out of you. And at ${j_him}.

		$!{johnName} freezes, stops all movement as ${j_he} searches your face for signs of any understanding. But... finds little. "No reason, ${mc_name}... No reason at all."

		A pause from ${j_him}. "But. Would a dance cheer you up?" $!{j_he} grins, attempting to be gentle and jovial, despite the heavy, hidden truth of the question.

	*if (wToBePersuaded = false) #"I wish to dance."
		"I wish to dance," you say then.

		"Oh? Well... Your wish is my command." $!{j_he} grins, attempting to be gentle and jovial, despite the heavy barely-hidden truth of the statement.

		*goto willDanceW
	*if (wToBePersuaded) #"... I have been persuaded. I will dance."

		"... I have been persuaded. I will dance," you say then.

		"Oh? Well... Your wish is my command." $!{j_he} grins, attempting to be gentle and jovial, despite the heavy barely-hidden truth of the statement.

		*goto willDanceW


*fake_choice
	#"Yes..."
		*goto willDanceW
	#"Yes."
		*goto willDanceW
	#"No."
		"No," you say, and the words echo as you leave.

		*goto TheMainLOOP1





		Repeat the above dance parts, some of them—for mc and W now. Just change the part about the work angle to being "oh you know this is good work too!" or maybe not. we shall see.

*comment Maybe if mc doesnt dance here, it leads to the second RO comforting mc?
*comment Or maybe they should appear either way... hmmmmmmm.




MC and W can bicker. Or W comes to hide with MC.

Watson and mc convo (after W dances with a lot of people)
“I—do you not want me to dance with other people, MC?”
- “I…”
- 1
- 2
- 3
“I merely think it is hypocritical, is all! I spend an hour with a man, for a case, and I am shamed somehow. And you dance around gleefully with strangers—many of them—“
“How is that possibly the same thing?” John questions with a voice that should not go so loud and high and defensive at such a statement.

“How is it not?!” and you perhaps match the tone.

“I object to—to Hawthorne on moral, character-based standpoint! It is not a matter of, of monopolising!" His hand is even up in the air, making dramatic little gestures. "Did my dance partners, which I do wish to point out I have never met before and never will again—*and* have no wish to—seem of immoral character to you, Sherlock, hmm? From that distance, did they? Tell me—”

*fake_choice
	#An excuse you grab on too quick. “And I worry for your leg, Watson! Your leg, that is all—“

		“Ha. How courteous of you, madam. But I assure you, I do not need such pity—“
			
		- One hour later -
		W nursing their leg in a halfway.
		“It seems I owe you an apology…” he smiles, but he is pale. In pain.



*comment Mc sees W dancing with someone else (despite approval / declining to dance themselves) and is jealous. 
*comment  - you watch him dance with the girl in his arms. She’s pretty. He smiles, at you, noticing him—but he turns the smile back at her as they spin. And it feels like he looks at her like he looks at you. 
*comment  - And you can’t breath. 
*comment  - Your heart, chest, pins and pain as you grab onto the pillar with a steadying force and turn away. 
*comment  - You can’t see it. Never before have you had to be confronted with this. He never looked at any of them. Before. 
*comment  - You don’t know exactly why it hurts, and yet you do. 
*comment  - No one notices you, silently gasping for air, eyes reddening, in the corner, hiding behind a pillar as they watch the pretty dancers. 
*comment  - You *knew* he must look at others. But you *believed* he didn’t. You hoped and never had to see. That perhaps you are not the only one in his eyes. That perhaps one day he will leave you for one of them who can give him normality in all forms. 
*comment  - Watson returns to you, a little out of breath, brightened by the exercise and white teeth smiling wide. “Did you see? Did you see me dance—I believe I heard some applause when—“ “Sherlock? Are you alright?”












*label wDanceWithMC

*comment Dancing with W:
You find Watson as Watson finds you. By the edge of the dance floor.

${johnName}, with a wide smile, 
*comment (and sudden amnesia of a multitude of obstacles),

beams at you. It was the sort of smile that sparkles ${j_hi} eyes and glimmers ${j_hi} teeth. Terribly blinding. 
*if (dancedWithH)
	"$!{mc_name}, another dance is about to start!"
*else
	"$!{mc_name}, this is where the dances will be held—"
	*comment *if (j_man = genderMC)
	*comment ${j_he} adds, "And do not worry! It is perfectly well—
	*comment ADD SOMEWHERE THAT W OVERHEARD H TALK ABOUT HOW THE COUPLES ARE UNEVEN. Or maybe they read the guest list / talked to someone, and it will be excused.
	*comment actually lets not, cause the next part is less good if we say this here... i think?

*label wDanceChoicesQuickSkip
*comment ASK W TO DANCE SO THEY CAN LOOK AROUND THE ROOM.

*if (johnAttracted)
	*fake_choice
		#Do dance with Watson. Because—
			"Yes, I came to find you," you begin to say as you look out at the dance floor. Then back to ${j_him}.

			*fake_choice
				#"I need a good, inconspicuous look around the room—come dance with me, Watson."
					"I need a good, inconspicuous look around the room—come dance with me, Watson."
					*set WorkNotDance true

					And so you do.
				#"So, would you... like to dance, ${johnName}?"
					"So, would you... like to dance, ${johnName}?"

					"Always, ${mc_name}."
				#"Here is your chance, prove you're just that well of a dancer." I smile.
					"Here is your chance, prove you're just that well of a dancer." You smile.

					$!{j_he} he only laughs.
				#I hold my hand out, with a smile. "Care to dance, ${johnName}?"
					You hold your hand out, with a smile. "Care to dance, ${johnName}?"

					"Always, ${mc_name}."

			And so it goes.

			*comment TODO

			*goto danceWithWatson
		#Do not dance with Watson. Because—
			You look out at the dance floor.
			*fake_choice
				#"Watson. I am a detective, not a dancer. I have to detect... Otherwise, why am I even here?!"
					"Watson. I am a detective, not a dancer. I have to detect... Otherwise, why am I even here?!"
				#"I am terribly sorry, ${johnName}. But you see, the beginning of a case is always the most delicate thing. I have work."
					"I am terribly sorry, ${johnName}. But you see, the beginning of a case is always the most delicate thing. I have work."
				*if (genderMC != j_man) #"I... Do not think we should." I swallow my wants in the face of fear and public scrutiny.
					"I... Do not think we should." You swallow your wants in the face of fear and public scrutiny.
				*if (genderMC = j_man) #"I... Do not think we should." I swallow my wants in the face of public scrutiny. A ${genderMC}, and another ${genderMC}...
					"I... Do not think we should." You swallow your wants in the face of public scrutiny. A ${genderMC}, and another ${genderMC}...
				#"I... Do not think we should." I swallow my wants, because I worry it is the sort of wonderful thing. One I'd never forget.
					"I... Do not think we should." You swallow your wants, because you worry it is the sort of wonderful thing. One you'd never forget.
				#"... I do not dance. Nor will I be persuaded."
					*temp wToBePersuaded true
					"... I do not dance. Nor will I be persuaded."
				*if (true) #"No."
					"No."

			And so it goes. You tell Watson your reason for locating ${j_him}, and be on your way.

			As always.

			*goto TheMainLOOP1
					
"Oh? Are you going to dance?" you ask.

"Of course," ${j_he} says, like it is the most inevitable thing. "What else to do at a ball?"

$!{j_he} is off, as you return to your work and reconnaissance.
*comment TODO

*goto TheMainLOOP1


*comment *if (wRomance) #Dance with Watson. It's a new type of nearness we've not shared before.
*comment *if (wRomance = false) #Dance with Watson. It's a new type of nearness we've not shared before. And it... has me strangely affected.








*label danceWithWatson



*if (canDance = false)
	You spend a moment to observe the dancers. It does not seem too difficult, does it?
	[i]The waltz[/i]. A squarish pattern, and to turn it. This, then that. Truly, it is nothing but pattern recognition and timing—you've got this well in hand.
*else
	You spend a moment to observe the dancers, the music, the tempo.
	[i]The waltz[/i]. A squarish pattern, and to turn it. This, then that. Pattern recognition and timing—and well practice—you've got this well in hand.

*comment 	W dancing scene. “Keep your eyes on me… please? I won’t break should your steps go awry. *I’m tough*.” They say and smile. “Physically… But I think I’d break all the more if I can’t have this moment with you. You, occupied with our feet, Instead, instead of looking up/down at me… as I wish you would…” 		They swallow and move your chin up/down. “Please?”

*comment should there be a thing about having low strenght? I mean, maybe more smth about having high strenght?


*label willDanceW

*temp WLeads false

*if ((johnMan) and (genderMC = "woman"))
	*set WLeads true
*elseif ((johnMan = false) and (genderMC = "man"))
	*set WLeads false
*else
	*fake_choice
		#You lead.
			*set WLeads false
		#$!{j_he} leads.
			*set WLeads true


*if (WLeads)
	$!{j_he} leads you to the dance floor, hand in gloved hand.
*else 
	$!{j_he} lets you lead ${j_he} to the dance floor, hand in gloved hand.
*if (johnMan)
	His dress shoe heels clacking against the polished stone.
*else
	Her heels clacking against the polished stone.

*if (WatsonHasDanced)
	And so, it is your turn—
*else
	And it begins—

*set WatsonHasDanced true
*set dancedWithWatson true

*fake_choice
	*selectable_if (WorkNotDance) #I keep my eyes out at the crowds, always searching for a suspicious sign. This is not a dance. This is reconnaissance.
		*if (canDance = false) 
			Your feet move, as well as they are able, to the beat.

			A dance should be a good way to get a good grip of a scene. To move about a room, hiding in plain sight—and yet having a spectacular vantage point and excuse to spy across every corner of it. Running around in the epicenter of a room in this manner in any other way would... draw enough unwanted attention even Mrs Hudson would be wary of your intent.

		*else
			Your feet move to the beat. 1-2-3. The music loud and swelling.

			A dance is the perfect way to get a good grip of a scene. To move about a room, hiding in plain sight—and yet having a spectacular vantage point and excuse to spy across every corner of it. Running around in the epicenter of a room in this manner in any other way would... draw enough unwanted attention even Mrs Hudson would be wary of your intent.

		However, this way, the suspect is unlikely to hide themselves.

		Perfect.

		*page_break

		*if (WLeads)
			You're in Watson's arms but your attentions are elsewhere.

			Searching across the crowds you spot a decent chunk of strange disguises when—${johnName}'s hand tighten on yours.

		*else
			Watson is in your arms but your attentions are elsewhere.

			Searching across the crowds you spot a decent chunk of strange disguises when—${johnName}'s hand tighten in yours.

		“$!{mc_name}," ${j_hi} voice is strangely urgent, and pleading. "Keep those eyes on me,” ${j_he} pleads and attempt a smile when you finally gaze back. “Look. I can handle a lot for a case. I try to be steady, as reliable as you would need. But... I think this might break me, if I cannot have this moment with you. You, occupied with everyone else, instead... 
		*if (genderMC = "woman") and (johnMan)
			Instead of looking up at me... As I wish you would.”

			$!{j_he} swallows and looses his hand from you, only to move your chin up. “Please?”
		*elseif (genderMC = "man") and (johnMan = false)
			Instead of looking down at me... As I wish you would.”

			$!{j_he} swallows, “Please?”
		*else
			Instead of looking at me... As I wish you would.”

			*if (WLeads)
				$!{j_he} swallows and looses ${j_hi} hand from you, only to move your chin to look at ${j_him}. “Please?”
			*else
				$!{j_he} swallows, “Please?”

		*fake_choice
			#"I... Very well. A dance. A proper one, for the moment."
				"I... Very well. A dance. A proper one, for the moment."
			#"My word, Watson. Very well. But only because you [i]do[/i] seem that you'd break If I spurned you."
				"My word, Watson. Very well. But only because you [i]do[/i] seem that you'd break If I spurned you."
			#"I did not realise dancing was [i]this[/i] important to you, ${johnName}. But alright."
				"I did not realise dancing was [i]this[/i] important to you, ${johnName}. But alright."
			#"Oh, why... yes, of course. I am sorry."
				"Oh, why... yes, of course. I am sorry."
			*if (true) #"Nonsense! How can I look upon [i]you, and the crowds[/i] well enough?"
				"Nonsense! How can I look upon [i]you, and the crowds[/i] well enough?"

				"I am well aware that you'd have to put your ambitions aside for a moment. I am asking you... To do so, for me."

				"You are asking the impossible, Watson..."

				And soon the dance is over. It a clear, detached thing, where ${j_he} does ${j_hi} duty, and nothing more.

				*goto TheMainLOOP1

		And just like that, you give Watson back the world.


	*if (canDance) #I know where each of my steps are perfectly, but this nearness has me looking down at my feet anyway.
		*label danceWGroundEyes
		Your gaze is down at the ground. At feet and stone and flowing fabrics.

		But they never lift.

		Not to ${j_him}.

		However... ${j_hi} voice breaks that concentration.
		*if (WLeads)
			“$!{mc_name}. Keep those eyes on me. Please? We can take it slow... Nor would I break should your steps go awry. [i]I’m tough[/i].” $!{j_he} says and smiles. “Physically. But, I think I’d break all the more if I can’t have this moment with you. You, occupied with our feet, instead...	
			*if (genderMC = "woman") and (johnMan)
				Instead of looking up at me... As I wish you would.”

				$!{j_he} swallows and looses his hand from you, only to move your chin up. “Please?”
			*elseif (genderMC = "man") and (johnMan = false)
				Instead of looking down at me... As I wish you would.”

				$!{j_he} swallows, “Please?”
			*else
				Instead of looking at me... As I wish you would.”

				*if (WLeads)
					$!{j_he} swallows and looses ${j_hi} hand from you, only to move your chin to look at ${j_him}. “Please?”
				*else
					$!{j_he} swallows, “Please?”
		*else
			“$!{mc_name}. Keep those eyes on me. Please? I won’t break should your steps go awry. [i]I’m tough[/i].” $!{j_he} says and smiles. “Physically. But, I think I’d break all the more if I can’t have this moment with you. You, occupied with our feet, instead...
			*if (genderMC = "woman") and (johnMan)
				Instead of looking up at me... As I wish you would.”

				$!{j_he} swallows and looses his hand from you, only to move your chin up. “Please?”
			*elseif (genderMC = "man") and (johnMan = false)
				Instead of looking down at me... As I wish you would.”

				$!{j_he} swallows, “Please?”
			*else
				Instead of looking at me... As I wish you would.”

				*if (WLeads)
					$!{j_he} swallows and looses ${j_hi} hand from you, only to move your chin to look at ${j_him}. “Please?”
				*else
					$!{j_he} swallows, “Please?”


		*fake_choice
			#"I... Very well."
				"I... Very well."

				Your eyes lift.
			#"My word, Watson. Very well. But only because you [i]do[/i] seem that you'd break If I spurned you."
				"My word, Watson. Very well. But only because you [i]do[/i] seem that you'd break If I spurned you."

				Your eyes lift.
			#"I did not realise how we dance was [i]this[/i] important to you, ${johnName}. But alright."
				"I did not realise how we danced was [i]this[/i] important to you, ${johnName}. But alright."

				Your eyes lift.
			#"Oh, why... yes, of course. I am sorry."
				"Oh, why... yes, of course. I am sorry."

				Your eyes lift.
			*if (false) #"Well—I—How can I look upon [i]you, and my feet[/i] well enough, Watson?!"
				"Well—I—How can I look upon [i]you, and my feet[/i] well enough, Watson?!"

				"I am well aware that you'd have to put your ambitions aside for a moment. I am asking you... To do so, for me."

				"You are asking the impossible, Watson..."

				And soon the dance is over. It a clear, detached thing, where ${j_he} does ${j_hi} duty, and nothing more.

				*goto TheMainLOOP1

		And just like that, you give Watson back the world.


	*if (canDance = false) #I find myself so lost I have no choice but to look down at my feet at each step.
		*goto danceWGroundEyes


	#My eyes trail, lingering on the other dancers over ${j_hi} shoulder, and for a moment—perhaps—on ${j_hi} shoulder—the impressive expanse that it is.
		Your gaze is upon the others, and their flowing fabrics. And then at... Watson. And...

		Your eyes forget to lift.

		To ${j_him}. To ${j_hi} blue stare.

		However... ${j_hi} voice breaks that lack of concentration.
		*if (WLeads)
			“$!{mc_name}. Keep those eyes on me. Please... [i]I’m tough[/i].” $!{j_he} says and smiles. “Physically. But, I think I’d break all the more if I can’t have this moment with you. You, occupied with your thoughts, instead...	
			*if (genderMC = "woman") and (johnMan)
				Instead of looking up at me... As I wish you would.”

				$!{j_he} swallows and looses his hand from you, only to move your chin up. “Please?”
			*elseif (genderMC = "man") and (johnMan = false)
				Instead of looking down at me... As I wish you would.”

				$!{j_he} swallows, “Please?”
			*else
				Instead of looking at me... As I wish you would.”

				*if (WLeads)
					$!{j_he} swallows and looses ${j_hi} hand from you, only to move your chin to look at ${j_him}. “Please?”
				*else
					$!{j_he} swallows, “Please?”
		*else
			“$!{mc_name}. Keep those eyes on me. Please... [i]I’m tough[/i].” $!{j_he} says and smiles. “Physically. But, I think I’d break all the more if I can’t have this moment with you. You, occupied with your thoughts, instead...	
			*if (genderMC = "woman") and (johnMan)
				Instead of looking up at me... As I wish you would.”

				$!{j_he} swallows and looses his hand from you, only to move your chin up. “Please?”
			*elseif (genderMC = "man") and (johnMan = false)
				Instead of looking down at me... As I wish you would.”

				$!{j_he} swallows, “Please?”
			*else
				Instead of looking at me... As I wish you would.”

				*if (WLeads)
					$!{j_he} swallows and looses ${j_hi} hand from you, only to move your chin to look at ${j_him}. “Please?”
				*else
					$!{j_he} swallows, “Please?”

		*fake_choice
			#"I... Very well."
				"I... Very well."

				Your eyes lift.
			#"My word, Watson. Very well. But only because you [i]do[/i] seem that you'd break If I spurned you."
				"My word, Watson. Very well. But only because you [i]do[/i] seem that you'd break If I spurned you."

				Your eyes lift.
			#"I did not realise how we dance was [i]this[/i] important to you, ${johnName}. But alright."
				"I did not realise how we danced was [i]this[/i] important to you, ${johnName}. But alright."

				Your eyes lift.
			#"Oh, why... yes, of course. I am sorry."
				"Oh, why... yes, of course. I am sorry."

				Your eyes lift.
			*if (false) #"Nonsense! How can I look upon [i]you, and the crowds[/i] well enough?"
				"Nonsense! How can I look upon [i]you, and the crowds[/i] well enough?"

				"I am well aware that you'd have to put your ambitions aside for a moment. I am asking you... To do so, for me."

				"You are asking the impossible, Watson..."

				And soon the dance is over. It a clear, detached thing, where ${j_he} does ${j_hi} duty, and nothing more.

				*goto TheMainLOOP1

		And just like that, you give Watson back the world.




*if (WLeads) 
	*comment (Watsons hand on your ?strong? rounded? shoulder)

	$!{j_hi} helping hands are so gently firm that your feet find its footing without effort. There is nothing to do but to follow, happily.

	As ${j_he} lifts you along the dance, the song, the rhythm. It is an eternity. It is less than one of your current breaths.

	Remember to breathe out. In.

	$!{j_hi} hands are... Even through gloves.

	Hellish heat.

	*comment Such searing adoring, staying, heat on you.
	*comment //Such searing adoring heat on you.
	Such searing, staying heat on you.

	Eyes meet, flicker, and last. $!{j_his} blue and gold.

	*if (bodyDetailT = "small")
		$!{j_hi} warmed glove on your tiny waist. 
	*elseif (bodyDetailT = "ample")
		$!{j_hi} warmed glove just above the curve of your backside. 
	*elseif (hasCorset)
		$!{j_hi} warmed glove on your drawn waist. 
	*else
		$!{j_hi} warmed glove on your waist. 
	*if (johnMan)
		Holding as if your very breath is in his tender hands. The moment, the touch, brings you to distraction with exhilarating grip, it makes your head spin. As he pulls you further in—towards his ever firming frame. A touch and the wall tenses. But you are...
	*else
		Holding as if your very breath is in her tender hands. The moment, the touch, brings you to distraction with exhilarating grip, it makes your head spin. As she pulls you further in—towards her ever deceptively soft frame. But a touch and she tenses. But you are...

	Steady, in ${j_hi} hands.

	"When we met..." This, your doctor, whispers, ${j_hi} breath closer to your ear and cheek than it ever has been before, "${mc_name}, when we met."

	A sigh of ${j_his} against your skin again. "It was [i]the[/i] moment. The moment I measure my life by." 

	You remember it so clearly. That first moment. An introduction and a handshake and—we have barely separated since—

	"But..." $!{j_he} smiles with crinkling of blue eyes and a softly lifted lip and it brings you back to the present.
	"Now, well. I believe I would much sooner pass on, than forget [i]this[/i]."

*else
	Despite what you might have suspected, ${j_hi} feet find its footing without effort. Gliding easily through, and with nothing to do but to follow, happily.

	As you lift ${j_him} along the dance, the song, the rhythm. It is an eternity. It is less than one of your current breaths.

	Remember to breathe out. In.

	$!{j_hi} hands are... Even through gloves.

	Hellish heat.

	*comment Such searing adoring, staying, heat on you.
	*comment //Such searing adoring heat on you.
	Such searing, staying heat on you.

	Eyes meet, flicker, and last. $!{j_his} blue and gold.

	*if (bodyDetailT = "wide")
		$!{j_hi} warmed glove on your wide shoulder. 
	*elseif (bodyDetailT = "defined")
		$!{j_hi} warmed glove on the edge of your impressive arm. 
	*elseif (bodyDetailT = "round")
		$!{j_hi} warmed glove on your rounded shoulder.
	*else
		$!{j_hi} warmed glove on your shoulder. 
	*if (johnMan)
		Holding as if your very life is in his tender hands. The moment, the touch, brings you to distraction with exhilarating grip, it makes your head spin. As he pulls himself further in—towards his ever firming frame. A touch and the wall tenses. But you are...
	*else
		Holding as if your very life is in her tender hands. The moment, the touch, brings you to distraction with exhilarating grip, it makes your head spin. As she pulls herself further in—towards her ever deceptively soft frame. But a touch and she tenses. But you are...

	Steady, in ${j_hi} hands.

	"When we met..." This, your doctor, whispers, ${j_hi} breath closer to your ear and cheek than it ever has been before, "${mc_name}, when we met."

	A sigh of ${j_his} against your skin again. "It was [i]the[/i] moment. The moment I measure my life by." 

	You remember it so clearly. That first moment. An introduction and a handshake and—we have barely separated since—

	"But..." $!{j_he} smiles with crinkling of blue eyes and a softly lifted lip and it brings you back to the present.
	"Now, well. I believe I would much sooner pass on, than forget [i]this[/i]."

*page_break

[b]'Now, well. I believe I would much sooner pass on, than forget [i]this[/i],'[/b] ${j_hi} words echo in your mind.

And the dance ends.

And ${j_hi} smile lessens.

And ${j_he} slips out of your grip, and ${j_hi} gaze dips from yours, and you are ultimately too aware that...

A world without a Watson in ones nearness is a much colder place indeed.


*goto TheMainLOOP1












thanks bag for this convo idea lol
- H (first convo after intro, and after you've heard stuff + dance)

Someone says something overtly posh and condescending or H says something MC can misinterpret. 
- “I’m not some plebeian poor peasant. I am perfectly comfortable and work only as much as I wish to—“
- “Oh yes. I am a terribly poor plebeian peasant. Please, I beg of you, any assistance you may give in the form of charitable contributions to my personal fund would very much assist me in my dire straits 🙏 “
- “Do please be careful getting off your high horse, or you might fall, then becoming trampled, and then suffer immense and long term consequences… and all for what? A terribly rigid bloated ego? Hardly seems worth it to me…”

---


*comment H scene after having heard rumors about them + that person that tells u to back off.
*comment You question them about it, but they deflects humorously.

You return to talk to H.


*label TalkToHRO1

*comment You return to ${hName}'s side, you find ${h_him} in the middle of the room, taking up space with a small, charmed group.
*temp drinksWater false

*fake_choice
	#I grab a drink of champagne, and blend in.
	*selectable_if (cope != "drinking") #I grab a drink, pour it out—and fill with water, and attempt to blend in with this crowd as they stand.
		*set drinksWater true

You look at ${h_him}, as ${h_he} was, there, knowing what you now know. And you think... sometimes things are never as you first suspect.

But, sometimes, things are terribly predictable. You always hoped they weren't.

"You never did tell me much about yourself, ${h_sir}," you begin, breaking ${h_his} groups gentle talk of weather.

The subject of a case is rarely the victim, but it has happened. And here you are, not an hour in, and you find a trove of topics that did not appear in your cursory glance at the ${h_man} or the papers.

Watson had been known to be right. Once in a while. You find now that there are peculiar things about Hawthorne, strings you perhaps wish to pull and unravel. 

[i]All pertinent to the case, of course...[/i]

*if (hMan)
	*if (deducedHinCh4 = false)
		Eyebrows raise and a lip parts to speak, closes. Then, "What have you heard?"
	*else
		"No, you did that all on your own," he says with a smile. A pause, then his eyebrows raise and his lips part to speak, closes. "What have you heard?"

	His group immediately disperses.

	*page_break 

	[i]Interesting.[/i]

	His reaction is not particularly suspicious, nor is it its opposite. What it is... is alert? Or amused? Perhaps even curious? Truly, this man is a stone wall and a canvas all at the same time. 

	*if (flowersWhite = false)
		"Why must I have heard anything, sir Hawthorne?"
	*if (flowersWhite)
		"... Why must I have heard anything, sir Hawthorne?"

	*if (flowersWhite)
		"Because I do not believe you to ask for the sake of asking... Forgive me, that is a compliment. It is not a lack of manners on your part. But you do not."
	*elseif (someKindOfSimp)
		"Because I do not believe you to ask for the sake of asking... Forgive me, for it is a compliment. But you do not."
	*else
		"Because I do not believe you to ask for the sake of asking..."

	*fake_choice
		#"You presume to know a lot about me."
			"You presume to know a lot about me."

			"I presume you to know a lot about [i]me[/i]. About anyone, detective. At sight. So if you are asking what I am sure you already know, I might begin to wonder why."
		#"Oh? How well you know me already, Sir."
			"Oh? How well you know me already, Sir."

			"... And you [i]I[/i], I'm sure, Detective. You know enough of anyone, at sight. So, if you are asking what I am sure you already know, I might begin to wonder why."
		#"I do not ask to be cruel, Sir. But if you know me so well, you'd know I would have to ask..."
			"I do not ask to be cruel, Sir. But if you know me so well, you'd know I would have to ask..."

			"... Yes. Of course. My only question is," a pause, a breath, "Why you are asking what I am sure you already know? You knew me at sight. And, hence, I might begin to wonder why you'd have to ask—what you are asking—in this manner."

	He looks out at the crowds, the fair and foul folk that crowd at the center of the room and in private corners of the expanse of the room. "I might..." he begins in a more conspiratorial tone, "wonder if you are seeking the mystery in the wrong corner of the room. Flattered as I am to be wholly in your view." 

	*comment // to be the subject of your, attentions."

*else
	*if (deducedHinCh4 = false)
		Eyebrows raise and a fair lip parts to speak, closes. Then, "What have you heard?"
	*else
		"No, you did that all on your own," she says with a smile. A pause, then her eyebrows raise and her fair lips part to speak, closes. "What have you heard?"

	Her group immediately disperses.

	*page_break 

	[i]Interesting.[/i]

	Her reaction is not particularly suspicious, nor is it its opposite. What it is... is alert? Or amused? Perhaps even curious? Truly, this women is a stone wall and a canvas all at the same time. 

	*if (flowersWhite = false)
		"Why must I have heard anything, Lady Hawthorne?"
	*if (flowersWhite)
		"... Why must I have heard anything, Lady Hawthorne?"

	*if (flowersWhite)
		"Because I do not believe you to ask for the sake of asking... Forgive me, that is a compliment. It is not a lack of manners on your part. But you do not."
	*elseif (someKindOfSimp)
		"Because I do not believe you to ask for the sake of asking... Forgive me, for it is a compliment. But you do not."
	*else
		"Because I do not believe you to ask for the sake of asking..."

	*fake_choice
		#"You presume to know a lot about me."
			"You presume to know a lot about me."

			"I presume you to know a lot about [i]me[/i]. About anyone, detective. At sight. So if you are asking what I am sure you already know, I might begin to wonder why."
		#"Oh? How well you know me already, My Lady."
			"Oh? How well you know me already, My Lady."

			"... And you [i]I[/i], I'm sure, Detective. You know enough of anyone, at sight. So, if you are asking what I am sure you already know, I might begin to wonder why."
		#"I do not ask to be cruel, My Lady. But if you know me so well, you'd know I would have to ask..."
			"I do not ask to be cruel, My Lady. But if you know me so well, you'd know I would have to ask..."

			"... Yes. Of course. My only question is," a pause, a breath, "Why you are asking what I am sure you already know? You knew me at sight. And, hence, I might begin to wonder why you'd have to ask—what you are asking—in this manner."

	She looks out at the crowds, the fair and foul folk that crowd at the center of the room and in private corners of the expanse of the room. "I might..." she begins in a more conspiratorial tone, "wonder if you are seeking the mystery in the wrong corner of the room. Flattered as I am to be wholly in your view." 
	*comment // to be the subject of your, attentions."


*fake_choice
	#"You did hire me for a mystery, and hence, I go where they are."
		*if (drinksWater) 
			You look at ${h_him} over the rim of a champagne glass, with terribly non bubbling surface and pale colour.
		*else
			You look at ${h_him} over the rim of a crystal glass of bubbling champagne.
		"You did hire me for a mystery, and hence, I go where they are. Are there truly no skeletons in your closets?"
	#"Humour me—"
		*if (drinksWater) 
			You look at ${h_him} over the rim of a champagne glass, with terribly non bubbling surface and pale colour.
		*else
			You look at ${h_him} over the rim of a crystal glass of bubbling champagne.
		"Humour me—no skeletons in the closets?"
	#"Are there truly no secrets?"
		*if (drinksWater) 
			You look at ${h_him} over the rim of a champagne glass, with terribly non bubbling surface and pale colour.
		*else
			You look at ${h_him} over the rim of a crystal glass of bubbling champagne.
		"Are there truly no secrets? No skeletons in the closets?"

*if (someKindOfSimp)
	$!{h_his} eyes betray tempered amusement as they return at your peculiar question; and there they remain, on you, as always.
	"Plenty," ${h_he} says, with a long pause one might call dramatic had the ${h_man} not been so undeserving of such a title. "Ill mounting and stuffing—[i]taxidermy and hunting[/i]. Hobbies of a previous generations."
*elseif (HRomance)
	$!{h_his} eyes betray frigid amusement as they return at your peculiar question; and there they remain, on you, unwavering.
	"Plenty," ${h_he} says, with a long pause one might call dramatic had the ${h_man} not been so undeserving of such a title. "Ill mounting and stuffing—[i]taxidermy and hunting[/i]. Hobbies of a previous generations."
*else
	"Plenty," ${h_he} says, with a long pause one might call dramatic had the ${h_man} not been so undeserving of such a title. "Ill mounting and stuffing—[i]taxidermy and hunting[/i]. Hobbies of a previous generations."

*fake_choice
	#"You do not hunt?"
		"You do not hunt?"

		*if (hMan)
			"Well," he clears his throat. "I was unfair—yes, [i]I do[/i]. Of course I do, I have hunting dogs, I have the kit, the rifles. I rather enjoy it." He pauses again. "But there... is a point, when crossed, where sport or even necessity turns to cruelty. I have no such inclinations towards hunting beasts, ${Miss}. This, I assure you... Do you?"
		*else
			"Well," she clears her throat. "I was unfair—yes, [i]I do[/i]. Of course I do, I have lovely hunting dogs, I have a rather fetching altered kit, the rifles. I rather enjoy it." She pauses again. "But there... is a point, when crossed, where sport or even necessity turns to cruelty. I have no such inclinations towards hunting beasts, ${Miss}. This, I assure you... Do you?"

		"Do I..." You merely sip that drink of yours. "Have a proclivity to being beastly to beasts?"

		"Hunt, my dear. Do you?"

	*if (hMan) #"I am astonished, you, you, do not hunt? You seem the picture of the hobby."
		"I am astonished, you, you, do not hunt? You seem the picture of the hobby."

		"Well," he clears his throat. "I was unfair—yes, [i]I do[/i]. Of course I do, I have hunting dogs, I have the kit, the rifles. I rather enjoy it." He pauses again. "But there... is a point, when crossed, where sport or even necessity turns to cruelty. I have no such inclinations towards hunting beasts, ${Miss}. This, I assure you... Do you?"

		"Do I..." You merely sip that drink of yours. "What? Have a proclivity to being beastly to beasts?"

		"Hunt, my dear. Do you?"

	*if (hMan = false) #"I suppose women do rarely hunt."
		"I suppose women do rarely hunt."

		"Well," she clears her throat. "I was unfair—and, [i]I do[/i]. Of course I do, I do not shy from such things, ${mc_madam}. I have lovely hunting dogs, I have a rather fetching altered kit, the rifles. I rather enjoy it." She pauses again. "But there... is a point, when crossed, where sport or even necessity turns to cruelty. I have no such inclinations towards hunting beasts, ${Miss}. This, I assure you... Do you?"

		"Do I..." You merely sip that drink of yours. "What? Have a proclivity to being beastly to beasts?"

		"Hunt, my dear. Do you?"

	#"Ah, I am rather glad to hear you do not hunt."
		"Ah, I am rather glad to hear you do not hunt."

		*if (hMan)
			"Well," he clears his throat. "I was... [i]I do[/i]. I have some lovely hunting dogs, I have the kit, the rifles. I rather enjoy it—but—" he pauses again. "But, as I suspect you already know, there... can come a point, when crossed, where sport or even necessity turns to cruelty. I have no such inclinations towards hunting beasts, ${Miss}. This, I assure you... Do you?"
		*else
			"Well," she clears her throat. "I was... [i]I do[/i]. I have some lovely hunting dogs, I have a rather fetching altered kit, the rifles. I rather enjoy it—but—" he pauses again. "But, as I suspect you already know, there... can come a point, when crossed, where sport or even necessity turns to cruelty. I have no such inclinations towards hunting beasts, ${Miss}. This, I assure you... Do you?"

		"Do I..." You merely sip that drink of yours. "What? Have a proclivity to being beastly to beasts?"

		"Hunt, my dear. Do you?"

*fake_choice
	#"No. God no."
		"No. God no."

		"Such staunch refusal. And here I thought you'd be on the side of the more natural order of the hunt over slaughter," ${h_he} says all this. But truly, ${h_he} does not appear to mind at all. Merely curious, perhaps.

		Curious to know some point of you that is not on display.

		Or in Watson's stories.
	*if (vegetarian) #"I won't even eat the things."
		"I won't even eat the things."

		"Ah? I have heard of this. Popular all the more in London. They have a society and all, as any popular thing or movement have nowadays... Surprised [i]you[/i] do not have one," he says all this. But truly, ${h_he} does not appear to mind your preference. Merely curious, perhaps.

		Curious to know your thoughts, some point of you that is not on display.

		Or not in Watson's stories.
	#"I fear I'd be a terrible, frightful thing at such an event."
		"I fear I'd be a terrible, frightful thing at such an event."

		"Not at all. I could teach you," ${h_he} offers. "Once this is all done."

		$!{h_he} does not appear to mind your lack of experience with it. Merely curious, perhaps.

		Curious to know your thoughts, your life, some point of you that is not on display.

		Or not in Watson's stories.
	#"Never had the proper pleasure. You should take me."
		"Never had the proper pleasure. You should take me."

		A small amusement creeps upon his cheeks. "Once this is all over with?"

		$!{h_he} does not appear to mind your lack of experience with it. Merely curious, perhaps.

		Curious to know your thoughts, your life, some point of you that is not on display.

		Or not in Watson's stories.
	#"Of course. Good practice for tracking targets and delivering the noose."
		"Of course. Good practice for tracking targets and delivering the noose."

		*if (mc_them)
			A small amusement almost creeps upon ${h_his} cheeks. "Good god, you are quite something..."
		*else
			A small amusement almost creeps upon ${h_his} cheeks. "Good god, ${genderMC}..."

		$!{h_he} does not appear to mind your jest—or if it was one or not. Merely curious, perhaps.

		Curious to know your thoughts, your life, some point of you that is not on display.

		Or not in Watson's stories.
	#"I have, on occasion. Why do you ask?"
		"I have, on occasion. Why do you ask?"

		"I could take you, perhaps," ${h_he} offers. "Once this is all done."

		$!{h_he} does not appear to care if you had or not. Merely curious, perhaps.

		Curious to know your thoughts, your life, some point of you that is not on display.

		Or not in Watson's stories.
	*if (hMan = false) #"You do the whole—the whole thing? Riding astride and all, my lady?"
		"You do the whole—the whole thing? Riding astride and all, my lady?"

		*if (genderMC != "woman")
			A small amusement almost creeps upon ${h_his} lips. "Hardly a proper question, ${mc_madam}."
		*elseif ((genderMC != "woman") and (hRomancePoints > 0))
			A small amusement almost creeps upon ${h_his} lips. "Hardly. Need the beast beneath me more controlled than that."
		*elseif ((genderMC = "woman") and (hRomancePoints > 0))
			A small amusement almost creeps upon ${h_his} lips. "No, god no. I'd like to see any man here attempt it."
		*else
			A small amusement almost creeps upon ${h_his} lips. "No, god no. I'd like to see any man here attempt it. Besides, I need the beast beneath me more controlled than that."

		$!{h_he} does not appear to mind your question. Not really. She seems... merely curious, perhaps.

		Curious for you to know her thoughts—and to know your thoughts, your life, some point of you that is not on display.

		Or not in Watson's stories.

*fake_choice
	#I continue my previous inquiry. I feel there is a mystery here—
		You press on, "What else then? Do you have a dungeon? A tower? [i]Yes[/i], a deep dark tower—"
	#I continue my pressing, teasing, really. I find it amusing too, now.
		You press on, "What else then? Do you have a dungeon? A tower? [i]Yes[/i], a deep dark tower—"

"And, pray tell, what do I keep in this tower?" ${h_he} questions.

"Secrets and—"

$!{h_he} shakes ${h_his} head, and capably holds back a smirk yet not the smile any longer. "There's no tower. Hmm... There is an attic?"

You smirk then. "Is it dark? And does it have shackles, and does it bathe in blood and screams each night?"

"I should think a basement is better for that sort of thing... thicker stone walls," ${h_he} genuinely wonders aloud to ${h_himself}.

"No horror stories then?"

"Do you wish for me to own chain and shackles, $!{myLady}? How... [i]peculiar[/i]."

*fake_choice
	#"No—now hold on there, we were talking about [i]your[/i] deep dark secrets—"
		"No—now hold on there, we were talking about [i]your[/i] deep dark secrets—" you protest, but...

		*if (drinksWater)
			"And we can't even blame your words on the drink, can we?" ${h_he} looks to your drink, lack of bubbles and colour and all.
		*goto flusteredMCh1
	*if (skinBlushes) #I... blush.
		You blush, and you fear that ${h_he} can see it even in the gentle, warm candle light.

		*if (drinksWater)
			"And we can't even blame your... shade, on the drink, can we?" ${h_he} looks to your drink, its [i]lack[/i] colour and all.
		*goto flusteredMCh1
	*if (skinBlushes = false) #I... fluster and warm.
		You fluster and warm at that, and you fear that somehow ${h_he} can see through the layers of your skin and see how affected you are.

		*if (drinksWater)
			"And we can't even blame your lack of words on the drink, can we?" ${h_he} looks to your drink, lack of bubbles and colour and all.
		*goto flusteredMCh1
	#"Look at you turning it all on me. Well done."
		"Look at you turning it all on me," you muse aloud into the ever warming air. "Well done."

		*if (flowersWhite = false)
			"I do try." A smile. "But come now, $!{myLady}, you seemed awfully too excited with the idea of me owning a 'deep dark dungeon'..." ${h_his} tone something deadly sweet itself. "What could I do? I did want to mention I too have leashes and riding crops." 

			Now ${h_his} expression has truly reached the level of a smirk. "I told you, I hunt."

		*else
			"I do try." A smile and a curious glance at your face at your composure. "But come now, $!{myLady}, you seemed awfully too excited with the idea of me owning a 'deep dark dungeon'..." ${h_his} tone something deadly sweet itself. 
			"Is this where I find your previous innocence to be entirely feigned? What if I told you I have leashes and riding crops—"

			Now ${h_his} expression has truly reached the level of a smirk. "I told you, I hunt."

	#"I..."
		"I..." you feel rather underfoot. And then.

		*if (drinksWater)
			"And we can't even blame your lack of words on the drink, can we?" ${h_he} looks to your drink, lack of bubbles and colour and all.
		*label flusteredMCh1
		"Tell me, you seem awfully excited about the idea of me owning a 'deep dark dungeon'..." ${h_his} tone something deadly sweet itself.
		*if (flowersWhite)
			"Is this where I find your innocence to be entirely feigned? What if I told you I have leashes and riding crops—"

			"I..."

			Now ${h_his} expression has truly reached the level of a smirk. "No need to look so shocked. I told you, I hunt. Such an overactive imagination..."
		*else
			"What if I told you I have leashes and riding crops—"

			"I..."

			Now ${h_his} expression has truly reached the level of a smirk. "No need to look so shocked. I told you, I hunt. Such an overactive imagination..."

	#"Yes, yes—that's quite enough of that," I have no time for such droll, smarmy banter. 
		"Yes, yes—that's quite enough of that," you have no time for such droll, smarmy banter. "And what of the things I heard? The ones most certainly less fictional."

		*goto WhatIHeardH1



*page_break

You are both quiet a longer moment then.

Perhaps ${h_he} realises ${h_he} spoke a little too boldly for an acquaintance of a a few days, and at a public ball, of all places.

*fake_choice
	#I remember very well why I sought ${h_him} out. "And what of the things I heard?" Such confounding rumours.
		*label WhatIHeardH1

		$!{h_he} looks at you more closely, gaze narrowed, smirk lingering for little while longer. "And what things would that be?"

		"I heard such confounding things about you. Straight out of a novel—"

		*label bodiesBurriedOurBakc
		"The bodies buried out back?" So casual and calm. "Family plot and mausoleum. Would you care to be more specific, ${mc_name}?"

		*fake_choice
			#"I swear I remember you as more serious..."
				"I swear I remember you as more serious..."

				A grimace upon ${h_his} face. "I rarely drink," ${h_he} excuses.
				*if (drinksWater)
					"You did well, to not." $!{h_he} gestures to your clear drink. "My modus operandi is all the more to only have the little of it. But I was so dulled by previous conversations of the weather..."

			#"Do be serious!"
				"Do be serious!"

				A grimace upon ${h_his} face. "I rarely drink," ${h_he} excuses.
				*if (drinksWater)
					"You did well, to not." $!{h_he} gestures to your clear drink. "My modus operandi is all the more to only have the little of it. But I was so dulled by previous conversations of the weather..."

			#"${h_sir}..."
				"${h_sir}..."

				A grimace upon ${h_his} face. "My apologies. I rarely drink," ${h_he} excuses.
				*if (drinksWater)
					"You did well, to not." $!{h_he} gestures to your clear drink. "My modus operandi is all the more to only have the little of it. But I was so dulled by previous conversations of the weather..."

			*if (false) #"Ghosts and mysteries mostly. Standard fare, really. But it does require a closer look as all mysteries do."
				"Ghosts and mysteries mostly. Standard fare, really. But it does require a closer look as all mysteries do."

				"Ah, yes." $!{h_he} looks at you more closely, gaze narrowed, smirk lingering for little while longer.
		"Come now," ${h_he} urges. "What have you heard?"

		*fake_choice
			*if (hman) #The memory of one of the overheard topics sobers me, "I heard much, but I also... I heard of your... family."
				"I heard much, but I also... I heard of your... family."

			*if (hman = false) #The memory of one of the overheard topics sobers me, "I heard much, but I also... I heard of your... family. And that you were married, once.
				"I heard much, but I also... I heard of your... family. And that you were married, once."

			*if (hman) #"Your family's dead. Were the deaths suspicious?"
				"Your family's dead. Were the deaths suspicious?"

			*if (hman = false) #"Your family and husband's dead. Were the deaths suspicious?"
				"Your family and husband's dead. Were the deaths suspicious?"

		*goto IhadtomakethislabelHDance


	*if (hman) #"Your family's dead. Were the deaths suspicious?"
		"Your family's dead. Were the deaths suspicious?"

		*goto IhadtomakethislabelHDance
	*if (hman = false) #"Your family and husband's dead. Were the deaths suspicious?"
		"Your family and husband's dead. Were the deaths suspicious?"

		*goto IhadtomakethislabelHDance

*comment - have them discuss it more while dancing? Have them leverage it into a dance?

*comment DANCING
*comment DANCING
*comment DANCING

*label IhadtomakethislabelHDance

"... Would you dance with me?" ${h_he} asks, terribly out of the blue, and rusty, as if ${h_he}'s never quite had to ask before.

*if (someKindOfSimp)
	Then ${h_he} tries again, despite this second attempt seeming to get stuck in ${h_his} throat. "Intimate questions require intimate contexts to make sense of it all... And we would be more allowed our whispers."

	*label handHeldOutH
	*if (hMan)
		*if (triesToConvinceYouToGoToBall)
			His hand is held out and thrust in your direction, palm up and fair-gloved. His emerald eyes rather close to pleading for a man who you thought suffered severe ego death from your last refusal.
		*else
			His hand is held out and thrust in your direction, palm up and fair-gloved. His emerald eyes rather close to pleading for a man that you thought would never.
	*else
		*if (triesToConvinceYouToGoToBall)
			Her hand is held out and offered gently in your direction, palm down and fair-gloved. Her emerald eyes a thing rather close to pleading for a lady who you thought suffered severe ego death from your last refusal.
		*else
			Her hand is held out and offered gently in your direction, palm down and fair-gloved. Her emerald eyes a thing rather close to pleading for a lady that you thought would never.
	"Would you, dance with me, ${myLady}?"

	*goto danceDecisionH1

*elseif (HRomance)
	Then ${h_he} tries again, despite this second attempt seeming to get stuck in ${h_his} throat. "I'll answer all that you wish if you'd only... I merely... Intimate questions require intimate contexts. And we would be more allowed our whispers."

	*goto handHeldOutH
*else
	Then ${h_he} tries again. "I'll answer all that you wish if you'd only... We would be more allowed our whispers on the floor."
	*goto handHeldOutH


*label danceDecisionH1
*fake_choice
	#"Yes."

		*comment ALSO ADD THIS IF H ROMANCE + W ROMANCE + LT STUFF, AUTOMATICALLY, so its not just if a decline. Could hide it behind a "Well, Y—" too?? maybe. i dont know.

		*comment 	//if decline dance or has W romance—
		*comment 	H/W LT scene:
		*comment 	Mrs Hudson and H talk during the ball or before when u travel or smth — point is!
		*comment 	H finds out that W has been pushing u away a little
		*comment 	and brings it up!
		*comment 	and uses it
		*comment 	"Yes—yes—im sure you promised the dance to the doctor—
		*comment 	But with how neglectful of you he has been latetly... darling, you do not deserve that.
		*comment 	How about you let me take his place, just for a moment,
		*comment 	—Perhaps it will shake him out of his foolishness"

		*comment 	"Mrs Hudson told me the doctor has been neglecting you lately.

		Your lips part to deliver your yes, but—

	
		*if ((HRomance) and (wRomance))
			*if (someKindOfSimp)
				"And before you deliver me your verdict," ${hName} interjects. "Your landlady told me the doctor has been neglecting you lately. And so, I wish to add, that if ${j_he} affects your reasoning... Some misplaced sense of loyalty to an old friend—consider first... Darling, you do not deserve all that. How about you let me take ${j_hi} place at your side, just for a moment—" A kind seeming smile. "Perhaps it will shake ${j_him} out of his foolishness?"

			*else
				*if (dancedWithWatson)
					"Your doctor," ${hName} interrupts. "Did you promise ${j_him} not to dance with me? Did ${j_he} pester? $!{j_he}'d be the type." $!{h_his} hand does some flourish, breaking ${h_his} proper stance, "I had a talk with your landlady. Terribly neglectful ${j_he} has been of late... You do not deserve that. How about you let me take ${j_hi} place at your side, just for a moment." An almost kind seeming smile. "Perhaps it will shake ${j_him} out of his foolishness?"
				*else 	
					"Your doctor," ${hName} interrupts. "Did you promise ${j_him} the first dance? Did ${j_he} pester? $!{j_he}'d be the type." $!{h_his} hand does some flourish, breaking ${h_his} proper stance, "I had a talk with your landlady. Terribly neglectful ${j_he} has been of late... You do not deserve that. How about you let me take ${j_hi} place at your side, just for a moment." An almost kind seeming smile. "Perhaps it will shake ${j_him} out of his foolishness?"

			[i]Why is... ${h_he} bringing up Watson now? At this point in time...[/i]

		*if (((h_man = genderMC) and (someKindOfSimp = false)) and (HRomance))
			"—And if you worry for the crowds, there's no need. If a crowd leans too much to one side... It is possible, for, extenuating circumstance. We are very much allowed our dance, should we wish it, ${myLady}."

			Something about ${h_his} tone has you wondering, "... Did you propose the invitations in this manner, on purpose?"

			"So we may dance? [i]Only[/i] so we may dance? My, my, what an accusation you wield, detective. You must have proof?"

			"Everything has a reason, this is one possible," you say.

			"Fate never intervenes?"

			"Less than you think."

			"One mystery at a time, don't you think?" $!{h_he} smiles at that. "Shall we dance, ${mc_madam}? Or are we to argue the guest list all night?"

		*fake_choice
			#"Yes," I deliver, finally. "I will dance."
				"Yes," I deliver, finally. "I will dance."
				*goto danceH1
			#"No," I deliver, finally. "I will not dance."
				"No," you deliver, finally. "I will not dance."

				And with that, the moment by Hawthorne's side ends.

				*goto TheMainLOOP1

	#"No."
		Your lips part to deliver your no, but—


		*if ((HRomance) and (wRomance))
			*if (someKindOfSimp)
				"And before you deliver me your dismissal," ${hName} interjects. "Your landlady told me the doctor has been neglecting you lately. And so, I wish to add, that if ${j_he} is your reason for declining... Some misplaced sense of loyalty to an old friend—consider first... Darling, you do not deserve all that. How about you let me take ${j_hi} place, just for a moment—" A kind seeming smile. "Perhaps it will shake ${j_him} out of his foolishness?"

			*else
				*if (dancedWithWatson)
					"Your doctor," ${hName} interrupts. "Did you promise ${j_him} not to dance with me? Did ${j_he} pester? $!{j_he}'d be the type." $!{h_his} hand does some flourish, breaking ${h_his} proper stance, "I had a talk with your landlady. Terribly neglectful ${j_he} has been of late... You do not deserve that. How about you let me take ${j_hi} place, just for a moment." An almost kind seeming smile. "Perhaps it will shake ${j_him} out of his foolishness?"
				*else
					"Your doctor," ${hName} interrupts. "Did you promise ${j_him} the first dance? Did ${j_he} pester? $!{j_he}'d be the type." $!{h_his} hand does some flourish, breaking ${h_his} proper stance, "I had a talk with your landlady. Terribly neglectful ${j_he} has been of late... You do not deserve that. How about you let me take ${j_hi} place, just for a moment." An almost kind seeming smile. "Perhaps it will shake ${j_him} out of his foolishness?"

			[i]Why is... ${h_he} bringing up Watson now? At this point in time...[/i]

		*if (((h_man = genderMC) and (true)) and (HRomance))
			"—And if you worry for the crowds, there's no need. If a crowd leans too much to one side... It is possible, for, extenuating circumstance. We are very much allowed our dance, should we wish it, ${myLady}."

			Something about ${h_his} tone has you wondering, "... Did you propose the invitations in this manner, on purpose?"

			"So we may dance? [i]Only[/i] so we may dance? My, my, what an accusation you wield, detective. You must have proof?"

			"Everything has a reason, this is one possible," you say.

			"Fate never intervenes?"

			"Less than you think."

			"One mystery at a time, don't you think?" $!{h_he} smiles at that. "Shall we dance, ${mc_madam}? Or are we to argue the guest list all night?"

		*fake_choice
			#"Yes," I deliver, finally. "I will dance."
				"Yes," I deliver, finally. "I will dance."
				*goto danceH1
			#"No," I deliver, finally. "I will not dance."
				"No," you deliver, finally. "I will not dance."

				And with that, the moment by Hawthorne's side ends.

				*goto TheMainLOOP1


	*hide_reuse #"That's hardly within my job description. That's extra." Dancing should be costly.
		"That's hardly within my job description," you say. "That's extra."

		“... You would like me to pay to dance with you?”

		“You do not say it in that tone, ${h_sir}... And yes.”

		"... Very well."

		[i]Will you dance?[/i]
		*goto danceDecisionH1




*label danceH1
*set dancedWithH true


*if (HRomance = false)
	*if (hMan)
		He holds his hand out and leads you to the dance floor.		

		The music plays, soars, as another waltz begins. As he leads your hand to his firm arm, and places his own free hand—upon your back.

		And pulls you in.
		*if (genderMC != "woman")
			"I only know how to lead in this dance," he says as an apology, one that he barely means. You doubt he would accept any other scenario.
		"Now. I'm sure you have many questions," he whispers into your ear. Close and warm. A scent of coffee and book-bound paper.

	*else
		*comment HELENA DANCE
		She holds her hand out and has you lead the both of you out to the dance floor.		

		The music plays, soars, as another waltz begins. As she corrects your hand to her trim waist, and places her own free hand—upon your arm.

		And pulls herself in.
		*if (genderMC != "man")
			"I only know how to follow in this dance, I do hope you may manage," she says in the way of an apology.
		"Now. I'm sure you have many questions," she whispers into your ear. Close and warm. A scent of her, coffee and book-bound paper.

	*goto loopHDanceQuestions



*else

	*if (hMan)
		He holds his hand out and leads you to the dance floor.		

		The music plays, soars, as another waltz begins. As he leads your hand to his firm arm, and places his own free hand—upon your back.

		And pulls you in.
		*if (genderMC != "woman")
			"I only know how to lead in this dance," he says as an apology, one that he barely means.
		"Now. I'm sure you have many questions," he whispers into your ear. Close and warm. A scent of coffee and book-bound paper.
		"But afford me a moment," he breathes in and then sighs, as he moves you across the room with the ease of a man who has danced every dance.

		The music strikes a high note.

		*if (catchc4)
			"And here you are, once more, in my arms..." ${hName} voice quiet. Proud, almost. Like it was inevitable since that first day. Like it was all he had thought of since.
		*else
			"And here you are, in my arms," ${hName} voice quiet. Reverent, almost. Like it was inevitable since that first day of meeting. Like it was all he had thought of since.

		*page_break

		*if ((usedHsName) and (false))
			Mc uses H name at the ball, “do you know who I am? I am the special guest of the host ()!”
			- ("While you were busy with gossip, I may have overheard that you you used/wielded my name." )
			//("" I heard you used my name 
			- Don’t apologise. Feel free. I rather enjoy you using my name (marriage hint?) / (if Helena: and perhaps I could use your name? / take your name, when need arrives?)
			- If gay, “first name mc last name H… sounds rather interesting. Almost like we were bound to be… family, of sorts, don’t you think?”

		*if (canDance)
			You follow him well, with ease, as the two of you make a beautiful display on the dance floor.
		*else
			You attempt to follow him, and had it been one less firm in their direction, it might have ended in more disasters, but you do manage to step on his feet once or twice.

			*if (((bodyType = "small") or (bodyType = "petite")) or ((genderMC = "woman") or (false)))
				*comment Female or light Mc steps on ROs feet (on purpose? Or not)
				He bears it well. A small grunt and clearing of his throat. But when it does happen the third time,
				“I admit, being stepped on by you, is a small price to pay for our current position.”
				The man attempts a smile at it. An apology for mentioning it at all.
			*else
				He bears it well. A small grunt and a tight-lipped grimace.
				But when it does happen the third time, "I know it is not on purpose," he says. "Nevertheless. My toes may paint a crime upon this scene, soon..."
				The man attempts a pained smile at it. An apology for chiding you at all.

		You overhear Watson and Mrs Hudson as you spin by—
		Watson, the main, perhaps intentionally, loud voice, which begins with a huff,
		*if ((h_man != genderMC) and (genderMC = "woman"))
			"$!{h_he}'s closer to her than any man should be to a woman he is not married to."
		*elseif ((h_man != genderMC) and (genderMC = "man"))
			"$!{h_he}'s closer to him than any woman should be to a man she is not married to."
		*else
			"$!{h_he}'s closer to ${mc_name} than any person should be to someone they are not related or married to."

		*page_break

		"Very well, your questions," he gets to, as the song reaches towards its final crescendo. "Best make it quick."
		*goto loopRomanceHDanceQuestions




	*else
		*comment HELENA DANCE
		She holds her hand out and has you lead you both out to the dance floor.		

		The music plays, soars, as another waltz begins. As she corrects your hand to her trim waist, and places her own free hand—upon your arm.

		And pulls herself in.
		*if (genderMC != "man")
			"I only know how to follow in this dance, I do hope you can manage," she says in the way of an apology, 
		"Now. I'm sure you have many questions," she whispers into your ear. Close and warm. A scent of her, coffee and book-bound paper.
		"But afford me a moment," she breathes in and then sighs, as she lets you lead her across the room with the ease of a woman off the ground and heels upon air.

		The music strikes a high note.

		"And here we are," ${hName} voice quiet. Reverent, almost. Like it was inevitable since that first day of meeting. Like it was all she had thought of since.

		*page_break

		*if ((usedHsName) and (false))
			Mc uses H name at the ball, “do you know who I am? I am the special guest of the host ()!”
			- ("While you were busy with gossip, I may have overheard that you you used/wielded my name." )
			//("" I heard you used my name 
			- Don’t apologise. Feel free. I rather enjoy you using my name (marriage hint?) / (if Helena: and perhaps I could use your name? / take your name, when need arrives?)
			- If gay, “first name mc last name H… sounds rather interesting. Almost like we were bound to be… family, of sorts, don’t you think?”

		*if (canDance)
			You lead her well, with ease, as the two of you make a beautiful display on the dance floor.
		*else
			You attempt to lead her, and had it been one less perfect in her steps, it might have ended in more disasters, but you do manage to step on her hem... once or twice.

			*if (someKindOfSimp)
				*comment Female or light Mc steps on ROs feet (on purpose? Or not)
				She bears it well. A small huff and clearing of her throat. But when it does happen the third time,
				“I admit, being stepped upon is a small price to pay for our current position. But I fear for my poor skirt.”
				The woman attempts a smile at it. An apology for the rudeness of mentioning it at all.
			*else
				She bears it well. A small huff and clearing of her throat. But when it does happen the third time,
				"I know very well that it's not on purpose," she says. "Nevertheless. Soon it will strike my toes and I do worry they might not survive the impact," she chides. 

		You overhear Watson and Mrs Hudson as you spin by—
		Watson, the main, perhaps intentionally, loud voice, which begins with a huff,
		*if ((h_man != genderMC) and (genderMC = "woman"))
			"$!{h_he}'s closer to her than any man should be to a woman he is not married to."
		*elseif ((h_man != genderMC) and (genderMC = "man"))
			"$!{h_he}'s closer to him than any woman should be to a man she is not married to."
		*else
			"$!{h_he}'s closer to ${mc_name} than any person should be to someone they are not related or married to."

		*page_break

		"Very well, your questions," she gets to, as the song reaches towards its final crescendo. "Best make it quick."
		*goto loopRomanceHDanceQuestions





*label loopRomanceHDanceQuestions
*fake_choice
	*if ((someKindOfSimp) and (bPrettied = "more")) #$!{h_he} is... staring at you, most firmly. 
		You were to ask a question, but you instead find yourself looking into some painfully piercing emerald eyes.

		*fake_choice
			#"What is it, ${h_sir2}?"
				“Nothing."
			#"A penny for your thoughts?"
				"Is that all they are worth?" The ${h_man} quips.
			#"What has you so transfixed?"
				"You..."
			#"What is it? Is... is there something on my face?" I question with some hurry at the thought.
				"No. Goodness no, I..."
		*if ((attractive > 2) and (bPrettied = "more"))
			$!{h_he} shakes ${h_his} head in a negative, but minutely and politely. "I simply… I was thinking to myself, ‘has ${mc_xhe} gotten more beautiful in a day, or am I imagining it'… Perhaps memory and dreams can't sustain all that you are?"
		*elseif ((attractive > 1) and (bPrettied = "more"))
			$!{h_he} shakes ${h_his} head in a negative, but minutely and politely. "I simply… I was thinking to myself, ‘has ${mc_xhe} gotten terribly beautiful in a day, or am I imagining it'… Perhaps memory and dreams can't sustain all that you are?"
		*elseif (bPrettied = "more")
			$!{h_he} shakes ${h_his} head in a negative, but minutely and politely. "I simply… I was thinking to myself, ‘has ${mc_xhe} gotten more beautiful in a day, or am I imagining it'… Perhaps memory and dreams can't sustain all that you are?"

			$!{h_his} words sound remarkably true. As if you truly have been all on ${h_his} mind, sewn into the fabric of ${h_his} mind's eye for exhaustive days on end.

		*fake_choice
			*if ((genderMC != "man") and (bWearingDress)) #"All makeup and primping, I assure you."
				"All makeup and primping, I assure you."

				"It is not. A brush needs a canvas. And, besides… [i]it’s not[/i]. I am not a ${h_man} easily fooled, I pride myself on that. You would be beautiful without—however, I simply wanted to say how beautiful you are [i]with[/i]. Just as you are now. If anything, you may be… more yourself now. Much like a glaze over a master's oil painting, you are made vibrant and smooth, revealed and polished to a point that the truth becomes all the more clear without distractions..."
			*if ((genderMC = "man") or (bWearingDress = false)) #"All styling and primping, I assure you."
				"All styling and primping, I assure you."

				"It is not. A brush needs a canvas. And, besides… [i]it’s not[/i]. I am not a ${h_man} easily fooled, I pride myself on that. You would be beautiful without—however, I simply wanted to say how beautiful you are [i]with[/i]. Just as you are now. If anything, you may be… more yourself now. Much like a glaze over a master's oil painting, you are made vibrant and smooth, revealed and polished to a point that the truth becomes all the more clear without distractions..."
			#"I shall take that as a compliment."
				"I shall take that as a compliment."

				"Good."
			#"Thank you."
				"Thank you."

				"No. No... Those should have been my words."

		And ${h_his} eyes still do not leave yours.
		*goto loopRomanceHDanceQuestions

	#"Truthfully... Do you have ghosts in your manor?"
		"Truthfully... Do you have ghosts in your manor?"

		"No," ${h_he} says with amusement. "No, I do not."

		*goto loopRomanceHDanceQuestions
	#"Your servants, I've heard they are strangely loyal and quiet, why?"
		"And your servants, I've heard they are strangely loyal and quiet. Why?"

		"Because I value such things." A pause. "And because I pay well for it."

		[i]... Fair enough.[/i]

		*goto loopRomanceHDanceQuestions
	*if (hMan = false) #"Your husband and your family?"
		"Your husband and your family?" you ask.

		She pulls closer, so close that her eyes are hidden from you, as she glances down to the floor.

		"I was married," a quiet, blunt answer. Steel or hidden nerves, none could tell which has her affected. "But, as you seem well aware. He is dead. And so are... my father. And my brother." A pause. "My mother, before them. Many fewer conversations of her, I'm sure."

		"What happened?"

		"Of my male relations? It is on public display, you will find it in any old paper. Many years ago now..." Quiet. Detached. No cry for sympathy. Just a very blunt thing. And that customary lack of a direct answer when she does not wish to give it.
	*if (hMan) #"Your family?"
		"Your family?" you ask.

		He pulls you closer, his chin close to your shoulder, and so close his eyes are hidden to you.

		"They died," a quiet, blunt answer. Steel or hidden nerves, none could tell which has him affected. "My mother before them. Less conversations off that, I'm sure."

		"But, what happened?"

		"Of my male relations? It is on public display, you will find it in any old paper. Many years ago now..." Quiet. Detached. No cry for sympathy. Just a very blunt thing. And that customary lack of a direct answer when he does not wish to give it.

As the song ends, ${h_he} untangles from you with a slow start, and a slower end. A last lingering touch as ${h_he} promises. "One day I will tell you it all."

*goto TheMainLOOP1




*label loopHDanceQuestions
*fake_choice
	#"Truthfully... Do you have ghosts in your manor?"
		"Truthfully... Do you have ghosts in your manor?"

		"No," ${h_he} says with solemnity. "No, I do not."

		*goto loopHDanceQuestions
	#"Your servants, I've heard they are strangely loyal and quiet, why?"
		"And your servants, I've heard they are strangely loyal and quiet. Why?"

		"Because I value such things." A pause. "And because I pay well for it."

		[i]... Fair enough.[/i]

		*goto loopHDanceQuestions
	*if (hMan = false) #"Your husband and your family?"
		"Your husband and your family?" you ask.

		She pulls closer, so close that her eyes are hidden from you, as she glances down to the floor.

		"I was married," a quiet, blunt answer. Steel or hidden nerves, none could tell which has her affected. "But, as you seem well aware. He is dead. And so are... my father. And my brother." A pause. "My mother, before them. Many fewer conversations of her, I'm sure."

		"What happened?"

		"Of my male relations? It is on public display, you will find it in any old paper. Many years ago now..." Quiet. Detached. No cry for sympathy. Just a very blunt thing. And that customary lack of a direct answer when she does not wish to give it.
	*if (hMan) #"Your family?"
		"Your family?" you ask.

		He pulls you closer, his chin close to your shoulder, and so close his eyes are hidden to you.

		"They died," a quiet, blunt answer. Steel or hidden nerves, none could tell which has him affected. "My mother before them. Less conversations off that, I'm sure."

		"But, what happened?"

		"Of my male relations? It is on public display, you will find it in any old paper. Many years ago now..." Quiet. Detached. No cry for sympathy. Just a very blunt thing. And that customary lack of a direct answer when he does not wish to give it.

As the song ends, ${h_he} untangles from you with polite detachment. "One day, should you ask, I will tell you all."

*goto TheMainLOOP1





