It's another Let's Play! (Technically it's one I recorded months ago and am only now getting around to uploading!)
Technical details first: I used LiteCamHD to grab the video and my voice, and I used Freemake Video Converter to merge the video files together whenever I had to stop for any reason. And I am still unable to find a way to transcribe these with any degree of accuracy, and I apologize for that; I'm sorry to our deaf and hard-of-hearing members of the community.
Copyright permission next: I thank Hanako games for responding to my request for copyright permission to use this material (to avoid all those pesky Fair Use considerations) with "open permission for people to make let's plays of our videos and to use the standard youtube monetisation tools if they want". That's a wonderful policy.
Content summary last:
Walkthrough 06 (Magic Mirror) is my playthrough where I let our father beat the final duel with a mysterious artifact. Game achievements include:
1. A Mysterious Artifact (You have discovered a magical mirror.)
2. A Promise Discarded (You have broken off a planned engagement.)
3. Better Left Unsaid (You have discovered a terrible family secret.)
4. Interpersonal Diplomacy (Your actions have caused a couple to divorce.)
5. A Dangerous Juggler (You have hired someone to spy for you.)
YouTube video below the cut, plus game transcript. I also strongly recommend the LLtQ wiki for any questions about the characters.
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Week 0
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: We're almost home. Your room is just the way you left it.
Elodie, Crown Princess: ...
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: I know it's hard to leave your school and all your friends, but I've arranged the best possible tutors for every subject.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: You'll have to work hard this year to prepare yourself before your fifteenth birthday, but I know you can do it.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: You'll learn quickly and you'll make a wonderful queen. It's what your mother would have wanted.
Elodie, Crown Princess: This is not what Mother would have wanted!
Elodie, Crown Princess: She wouldn't have wanted to die and leave me.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: No. She wouldn't. But sometimes bad things happen. We have to pick up and carry on.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: All of Nova depends on us. On you.
Elodie, Crown Princess: *sigh*
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: I will be here to guide you until your coronation, but the decisions you make are ultimately up to you.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Come. Your maids are waiting.
Welcome to Long Live The Queen! If this is your first time playing, you should read this brief introduction to how the game works.
Menu: [Tell me more] [I've played this before]
Player chose: I've played this before
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Week 1
(Studied Internal Affairs in the morning.)
(Studied Internal Affairs in the afternoon.)
Elodie, Crown Princess: What's all that noise outside? Who's here?
Elodie, Crown Princess: Oh! It's my cousins! And my aunt and uncle.
Lucille, Countess of Nix: Darling. We were so terribly sorry to hear about your mother Fidelia.
Elodie, Crown Princess: Thank you.
Laurent, Duke of Merva: You look well, niece.
Charlotte, Lady Merva: Hi, 'Lodie!
Elodie, Crown Princess: Hi, Lottie. I haven't seen you in ages! Will you be staying long?
Charlotte, Lady Merva: Yup! Mummy said we'd be here all month.
Elodie, Crown Princess: Maybe we'll have some time to talk later.
You spend the weekend holed up alone in your room with your favorite toys. It's childish, but you feel a bit better.
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Week 2
(Studied Court Manners in the morning.)
(Studied Court Manners in the afternoon.)
Elodie, Crown Princess: What's that commotion outside? Father? What's going on?
Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: I have come to pay my respects in honor of your mother.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: You have no respect or honor. It's because of you and your powers that my wife is dead!
Elodie, Crown Princess: What?!?
Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: I am a Lumen, as was she, and like every Lumen I am willing to give my life if necessary to protect our domain.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Your line has been traitors for two hundred years. I won't have you corrupting my daughter.
Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: That is for the Crown Princess to decide.
Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: Elodie, your mother trusted me, and I have much to teach you.
Menu: [Send her away] [Arrest her] [Let her stay]
Player chose: Arrest her
Elodie, Crown Princess: You are a traitor to the crown and I ought to have you executed.
Elodie, Crown Princess: GUARDS! Arrest her!
Elodie, Crown Princess: Throw her into the castle dungeons and let her rot!
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Well. I suppose she won't be a problem anymore.
Charlotte, Lady Merva: I love this room! It's so much bigger than mine back home.
Elodie, Crown Princess: You should visit more often. It's awful that the only time I get to see you is...
Elodie, Crown Princess: ... something like this.
Elodie, Crown Princess: I know your brother and sister are still too young, but why haven't you come to school?
Charlotte, Lady Merva: My mother worries about me. She doesn't think anywhere but home is safe.
Elodie, Crown Princess: I understand. I'm probably not going to be allowed to leave this castle until my birthday.
Elodie, Crown Princess: But at least we can have fun together here!
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Week 3
(Studied Court Manners in the morning.)
(Studied Court Manners in the afternoon.)
Charlotte, Lady Merva: He loves me, he loves me not...
Elodie, Crown Princess: Lottie, do you have a boyfriend?
Charlotte, Lady Merva: Not really. I just like to play with the flowers.
Elodie, Crown Princess: Me too.
You gather your skirts and prepare to sit down, when all of a sudden, a hissing noise alerts you to a hidden danger - a snake!
Elodie, Crown Princess: Charlotte, don't move!
You grab for a stick to push the snake away, but you lack the skills to do the job properly, and poking the snake only makes it angry. Too fast to see, it lunges forward and sinks its fangs into your leg!
Elodie, Crown Princess: OW!
The snake slithers away, but it's too late now. A strange tingling sensation begins to spread through your flesh.
Charlotte, Lady Merva: That's a milk viper. They're poisonous!
Elodie, Crown Princess: I don't feel good.
Your leg is going numb. You stumble and fall to the ground.
Charlotte, Lady Merva: Hold on!
Your cousin kneels beside you and presses her hands over the bite mark. The area throbs painfully, then begins to feel warm.
After a minute, you're dizzy, but your leg isn't buzzing anymore, and even the wound has disappeared.
Elodie, Crown Princess: How did you do that?
Charlotte, Lady Merva: I don't know how I do it. I just can.
Charlotte, Lady Merva: I'm not supposed to tell anybody. People think it's freaky. You won't tell, will you?
Elodie, Crown Princess: Of course not. I'm just lucky you were here.
Lucille, Countess of Nix: Girls? What's going on out here? I heard yelling.
Charlotte, Lady Merva: Nothing!
Elodie, Crown Princess: We saw a snake, but it got away.
Lucille, Countess of Nix: A snake! That's it. Charlotte, pack your things. We're going back to Merva. It's not safe here.
Charlotte, Lady Merva: Awww...
You attend services in the castle grove, letting the peace of the ritual calm your heart.
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Week 4
(Studied Flattery in the morning.)
(Studied Flattery in the afternoon.)
Elodie, Crown Princess: The castle seems quieter with Charlotte and Emry and Zahra and their parents gone.
Elodie, Crown Princess: It's certainly not empty, though. It seems like we get more servants every day.
You attend services in the castle grove, letting the peace of the ritual calm your heart.
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Week 5
(Studied Internal Affairs in the morning.)
(Studied Internal Affairs in the afternoon.)
One of the maids approaches for your attention.
Alice: My lady, couriers have arrived from the Duke of Sedna.
Elodie, Crown Princess: We have a Duke of Sedna?
Alice: ... No, my Lady. The duchy of Sedna is in Talasse.
Alice: They have brought you a letter, and a gift.
Elodie, Crown Princess: 'Condolences on the death of', 'deeply regret', 'best wishes'...
Elodie, Crown Princess: Oh! What a beautiful necklace!
Elodie, Crown Princess: It might not be appropriate for me to wear a man's gift in public, though. People would think it meant something.
Menu: [Wear it] [Don't wear it]
Player chose: Wear it
Elodie, Crown Princess: I don't care what anyone thinks, I'm the princess and I want my jewelry.
You attend services in the castle grove, letting the peace of the ritual calm your heart.
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Week 6
(Studied Foreign Affairs in the morning.)
(Studied Foreign Affairs in the afternoon.)
Elodie, Crown Princess: (That woman, the priestess, keeps staring at me.)
Elodie, Crown Princess: What do you want?
Selene, Priestess of the Second Circle: Your destiny will find you, even if you run from it. You were born to wield the power of a Lumen.
Elodie, Crown Princess: What do you know about that?
Selene, Priestess of the Second Circle: The power was your mother's, and the kings and queens before her. It is your right and your responsibility to defend your domain.
Selene, Priestess of the Second Circle: I have seen signs of the future. Danger is coming. Without that power, this land is defenseless.
Elodie, Crown Princess: Well... What am I supposed to do about it?
Selene, Priestess of the Second Circle: The Duchess of Ursul will teach you, if you set her free.
Elodie, Crown Princess: But -
Selene, Priestess of the Second Circle: She never harmed your mother. They were friends. It is only because she bears the power of a Lumen so openly that your father rejects her.
Menu: [I will free her] [I won't free her]
Player chose: I won't free her
Elodie, Crown Princess: This is all a trick to get the traitor released. I won't listen to you!
Elodie, Crown Princess: Dad? What really happened to Mom?
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: She was a Lumen, a magic-user. It was meant to be in reserve, to defend our domain, but she insisted on...
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: ... you don't need to hear that.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: She used magic. It drained her strength. She thought it was harmless, and it wasn't. Eventually, her heart just... stopped.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: That's why I don't want you involved with it.
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Week 7
(Studied Flattery in the morning.)
(Studied Meditation in the afternoon.)
As you are walking up the stairs, a maid comes running down holding a towering pile of linen.
Before you can react, she barrels into you, sending you and the sheets flying.
Alice: Oh, my lady! I'm so sorry!
Elodie, Crown Princess: (These things happen. It's not a big deal.)
Menu: [Accept her apology] [Apologise] [Punish her]
Player chose: Accept her apology
Elodie, Crown Princess: No real harm done. Please be more careful in the future.
Alice: Yes, my lady. Thank you.
You return to your rooms, but you have barely settled when someone knocks on the door.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: A visiting noble wishes to speak with you.
Elodie, Crown Princess: *sigh* Who is it?
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: The Duke Consort of Mead.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (The husband of the Duchess of Mead is the older brother of the Duchess of Ursul, but has no title in his own right.)
Elodie, Crown Princess: (Everyone was surprised when the Old Duke skipped his son in the succession.)
Elodie, Crown Princess: (Of course, that wasn't the only thing the Old Duke did that was surprising! He may have been a bit mad.)
You follow your father downstairs to greet your guest.
Ignatius, Duke Consort of Mead: Your Highness. Thank you for meeting with me in this difficult time.
Ignatius, Duke Consort of Mead: I come to you on behalf of the people of Ursul, who have been left without a protector.
Ignatius, Duke Consort of Mead: Commoners require governance and leadership, or they fall into chaos.
Elodie, Crown Princess: You want me to free your sister the Duchess?
Ignatius, Duke Consort of Mead: I wish for Ursul to have a leader. If my sister has displeased you, then I stand willing to serve.
Ignatius, Duke Consort of Mead: If you prefer Julianna in that position, then yes, free her. It is, of course, your decision.
Menu: [Free Duchess Julianna] [Give her title to Ignatius]
Player chose: Give her title to Ignatius
Elodie, Crown Princess: Fine, then. You can be Duke of Ursul.
Ignatius, Duke of Ursul: On behalf of our people, I thank you for your wisdom.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (Now I can leave Julianna locked up forever and no one will care!)
Sitting in on court sessions is not fun at all, but it pleases your father and it may be important for your future.
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Week 8
(Studied Divination in the morning.)
(Studied Lore in the afternoon.)
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: There is a man here to see you. He wishes Crown funding for a project of his.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Remember, the treasury is not unlimited. If you choose to invest, you will have less money to work with later.
Man: Your Royal Highness, I have a plan to print books using metal letters which can be moved and reused.
Man: I need to borrow 875 lassi to assemble the metal and a factory to mold and cast the type.
Man: With this system, we will be able to create new books in a fraction of the time it takes now, and make copies to send all over the world.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (I don't know much about factories or trade. Would that really be worthwhile?)
Elodie, Crown Princess: We are not interested.
Sitting in on court sessions is not fun at all, but it pleases your father and it may be important for your future.
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Week 9
(Studied Meditation in the morning.)
(Studied Divination in the afternoon.)
Banion, Duke of Maree, Earl of Serenitatis: Your Highness, my sympathies for your loss. Even after all these years I sometimes forget that my own mother will never be coming back.
Elodie, Crown Princess: Thank you.
Banion, Duke of Maree, Earl of Serenitatis: However, I must call for your aid. The Ixionite occupation of the county of Imbrium has gone on for too long. Now is the time to push back.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (His sister, the Duchess of Hellas, started trouble in Ixion four years ago, so they invaded his territory as payback.)
Elodie, Crown Princess: (I don't know anything about the military. I don't want to fight.)
Elodie, Crown Princess: There must be a peaceful way to settle this. I will send for diplomats from Ixion and try to come to some arrangement.
Banion, Duke of Maree, Earl of Serenitatis: Thank you, Your Highness.
Banion, Duke of Maree, Earl of Serenitatis: Your Highness, if I may ask... That necklace you're wearing. Where did it come from?
Elodie, Crown Princess: It was a gift from the Duke of Sedna.
Banion, Duke of Maree, Earl of Serenitatis: Then, you have made arrangements with him?
Elodie, Crown Princess: (I think he's asking if I'm engaged to the Duke!)
Menu: [I'm considering it] [I just like jewelry]
Player chose: I just like jewelry
Elodie, Crown Princess: Not at all.
Elodie, Crown Princess: But I appreciate presents. Doesn't everyone?
Banion, Duke of Maree, Earl of Serenitatis: If you say so, Your Highness.
You wander through the parts of the castle where other people rarely visit, but find little except spiderwebs. Yuck.
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Week 10
(Studied Lore in the morning.)
You have unlocked a new outfit!
(Studied Lore in the afternoon.)
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: The representative from Ixion is here. Be careful - no one wants to give up prizes that they have won.
Banion, Duke of Maree, Earl of Serenitatis: You have the full support of my sister and myself, Your Highness.
Brin, Duchess of Hellas, Countess of Dysnomia: Hmph. Let's get this over with.
Diplomat from Ixion: Your Royal Highness, thank you for granting me this audience. I am sure we can come to an amicable agreement.
Diplomat from Ixion: Let bygones be bygones, no? We will forget about your unprovoked attacks on us, and you will transfer the rights to this little province.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (It was the Duchess of Hellas who tried to take over part of Ixion's territory, without the support of my mother the Queen.)
Diplomat from Ixion: We can be good neighbors again, without any lives being lost.
Menu: [Surrender Province] [Offer him money if Ixion withdraws] [Offer to punish the Duchess of Hellas] [Bluff / Intimidate] [Execute him]
Player chose: Offer to punish the Duchess of Hellas
Elodie, Crown Princess: We appreciate that you feel wronged. One of our subjects attempted to instigate a rebellion in your territory.
Elodie, Crown Princess: However, she did not have our approval for these actions. If you withdraw your troops, we will punish her.
Brin, Duchess of Hellas, Countess of Dysnomia: Your Highness!
Elodie, Crown Princess: This is the fair solution. You have no right to invade us because of her actions.
Diplomat from Ixion: What manner of punishment were you considering?
Menu: [Make her a commoner] [Command her to marry an Ixionite] [Execute her]
Player chose: Command her to marry an Ixionite
Elodie, Crown Princess: She will marry an Ixionite lord of your choosing.
Brin, Duchess of Hellas, Countess of Dysnomia: I will not!
Elodie, Crown Princess: You will if I say you will, or I'll take your title away!
Elodie, Crown Princess: Her heirs will be of your blood, in a peaceful union that benefits us both.
Diplomat from Ixion: Very well. We will accept this arrangement.
Once he leaves, you take the Duchess of Hellas aside.
Elodie, Crown Princess: You have to marry someone even if you don't like men. You need an heir quickly.
Elodie, Crown Princess: With a foreign husband, you'll have fewer problems if you divorce him after having a child.
Brin, Duchess of Hellas, Countess of Dysnomia: ... Very well.
You sneak out of the castle to have a little fun. You enjoy your freedom, but your father won't like it if he finds out.
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Week 11
(Studied Lore in the morning.)
(Studied Lore in the afternoon.)
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: There are reports that a keythong has been sighted leaving the Old Forest.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (The Old Forest - that's the area by Kathre Lake where the capital was, until it was destroyed by monsters.)
Elodie, Crown Princess: What's a keythong?
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: A beast with the body of an enormous golden cat, a sharp beak, and spikes on its back.
Elodie, Crown Princess: Eek!
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Several disappearances in southern Caloris are already thought to be the work of this creature.
Elodie, Crown Princess: What do we do? Should we send hunters?
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: The traditional policy on stray beasts is to hope that they return to the forest and stay there.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Hunters are no match for such creatures. You would only make it angry and waste more lives.
Elodie, Crown Princess: So... we just let it eat people?
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Everyone dies in the end.
Elodie, Crown Princess: ...
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Also, there is a letter for you.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (Talarist, the Duke of Sedna, will be arriving next week for an official visit.)
You attend services in the castle grove, letting the peace of the ritual calm your heart.
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Week 12
(Studied Lore in the morning.)
You have nothing more to learn about Lore.
(Studied Presence in the afternoon.)
Talarist, Duke of Sedna: Ah, Your Highness. What a pleasure it is to meet you in person at last. Your description did not do you justice.
Elodie, Crown Princess: You have a silver tongue, Your Grace, or an eye for unfinished potential. Both admirable qualities.
Talarist, Duke of Sedna: I was so pleased to hear that you had accepted my humble offering. A jewel for a jewel - but you are the more precious.
Talarist, Duke of Sedna: I hope that this is only the beginning of a mutually beneficial relationship. A union between us would bring stability to both our peoples.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (He really does want to marry me!)
Menu: [Accept his offer] [Politely decline]
Player chose: Accept his offer
Elodie, Crown Princess: I would be honored!
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Elodie!
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Your Grace, are you not aware that my daughter has only fourteen summers?
Elodie, Crown Princess: It's my decision.
Talarist, Duke of Sedna: A betrothal only, of course. There is no need for hurry. You have your coronation to plan for, after all.
Talarist, Duke of Sedna: If I might be of service in any way, please, send for me. I will be happy to offer my protection or advice.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: ...
Sitting in on court sessions is not fun at all, but it pleases your father and it may be important for your future.
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Week 13
(Studied Composure in the morning.)
(Studied Elegance in the afternoon.)
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: You are requested to stand in judgement. A woman has been convicted of attempted murder and requests the mercy of the Crown.
Kevan, Earl of Io: Your Highness! This slattern dares to beg pardon, when she admits that she tried to poison my sister under her own roof!
Elodie, Crown Princess: Which sister?
Kevan, Earl of Io: Corisande, the Duchess of Mead.
Elodie, Crown Princess: Is she all right?
Kevan, Earl of Io: She is unharmed. We caught the culprit in the kitchens before anyone could eat her foul spew.
Elodie, Crown Princess: Well, what do you have to say for yourself?
Condemned Woman: It's justice, it is! Them devils killed me brother, and broke me mam's heart.
Condemned Woman: Lied to her, they did, when she went to see why he'd not come back. Said he'd gone for a soldier, when he never would!
Condemned Woman: He weren't the only one neither. I waited ten years for my chance to get my own back. That's justice!
Kevan, Earl of Io: You see? She's completely unrepentant! Hang her and be done with it.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (Hmm. This might have something to do with the last Duke of Mead. He was involved in all sorts of scandals.)
Menu: [Put her to work] [Imprison her] [Execute her] [Ask the Earl of Io about her story]
Player chose: Imprison her
Elodie, Crown Princess: You have tried to murder a noble of my domain, and I have no reason to believe you wouldn't do it again.
Elodie, Crown Princess: You will be imprisoned for the rest of your life.
Condemned Woman: Ye'll not have me!
All of a sudden, she breaks loose from her guards and rushes at you!
In your Court dress, you are unarmed - you grope for a weapon and find only a heavy golden ornament which you hurl in her direction.
Your missile flies wide of its mark.
Before you have a chance to do anything else, your personal guards step into action, cutting the woman down before she can endanger you. Her lifeless body lies bleeding on your carpet.
Elodie, Crown Princess: ... Clean that up.
You attend services in the castle grove, letting the peace of the ritual calm your heart.
(Put on the boarding_school outfit.)
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Week 14
(Studied Composure in the morning.)
(Studied Elegance in the afternoon.)
As you are walking one day in the gardens, you hear a strange sound and look up to see an owl flying overhead. A single dry leaf flutters in its talons.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (That's funny, I thought owls were nocturnal. I guess I was wrong.)
When you return to the castle, your father is waiting for you.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: There is a woman here to see you. She wishes Crown funding for a project.
Woman: Thank you for seeing me, Your Royal Highness. I... I come to you on behalf of the people.
Woman: I wish to build a hospital where any citizen afflicted with disease can be brought for treatment.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (Putting all the sick people together? Wouldn't that make them die even faster?)
Elodie, Crown Princess: We are not interested.
You spend the weekend holed up alone in your room with your favorite toys. It's childish, but you feel a bit better.
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Week 15
(Studied Presence in the morning.)
You have unlocked a new outfit!
(Studied Presence in the afternoon.)
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Remember that the Festival of the Good Lady is approaching.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: There will be public celebrations for the commoners, followed by a grand gala for the nobility.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: As Queen, you would be expected to lead the procession and take part in the ceremonial planting, possibly give a speech.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: However, since you are not yet crowned, it is not required, and it may not be safe to expose you to the public.
Elodie, Crown Princess: What do you mean, not safe?
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Outside of the castle, you are less well protected. If anyone means you harm... Think on it now, decide later.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: There is a letter for you as well.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (It's from Briony! I went to school with her, but she's a couple years older than me. Her mother is the Duchess of Mead.)
Elodie, Crown Princess: (She's complaining that her mother still won't let her come home for the holidays.)
Elodie, Crown Princess: (Apparently her uncle Kevan has been acting strangely lately and shouting at shadows.)
Elodie, Crown Princess: (Her parents are fighting and she thinks they might split up.)
Elodie, Crown Princess: (She's bored and looking for an adventure. Well, I don't have any to suggest to her!)
Sitting in on court sessions is not fun at all, but it pleases your father and it may be important for your future.
________________________________________
Week 16
(Studied Composure in the morning.)
(Studied Presence in the afternoon.)
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Today is the procession and planting for the Festival of the Good Lady. Will you be leading the parade?
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: If you have any concerns about your safety, please, stay here.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: The people will recover from disappointment; if we lose you, there is no recovery.
Menu: [I will lead the parade] [I will parade and make a speech] [I would rather not go]
Player chose: I will lead the parade
Elodie, Crown Princess: I'm not afraid. I'm going to be the best parade-leader ever!
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: My little girl.
You prepare your best gown for the occasion, then walk slowly through the town with your attendants. It would not be appropriate for you to wear a sword, but you do walk with a sturdy golden scepter that's taller than you are.
At the end of the route, you help the priestesses turn over the earth for the new tree to be planted.
Then the new life is blessed, and all the attendants join in song.
The procession regroups to return to the castle.
All of a sudden, there is a faint rumbling noise from under your feet.
The newly planted tree in front of you quivers, and then, out of nowhere, a spurt of water comes up from the ground, spattering you and the assembled crowd with droplets.
Just as quickly as it began, it vanishes.
The priestesses try to calm the crowds with talk of omens and natural eruptions, but they can't halt the whispers: dark magic. That water tasted of salt.
That night, the guards report that Julianna, the former Duchess of Ursul, has mysteriously vanished from her cell.
Everyone is suspected, but no one seems to know what happened.
You now have an enemy on the loose.
You attend services in the castle grove, letting the peace of the ritual calm your heart.
(Put on the royal_demeanour outfit.)
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Week 17
(Studied Composure in the morning.)
(Studied Composure in the afternoon.)
You have nothing more to learn about Composure.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Are you ready for the grand ball?
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: All the nobles in the domain are here to see you - to see their queen.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (gulp!)
You finish dressing and descend the stairs to make a grand entrance.
All around, the rich and powerful pause in their activities to gaze upon you, the ruler of them all.
You let your eyes rest upon each in turn as you have been taught, impressing upon them that you are not a child, but a Queen.
Your father waits for you at the bottom of the stairs and offers you his arm.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: The first dance is for us.
He guides you gently around the dance floor, never rushing you. It's fun to dance with your father, but the look in his eyes is so sad.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: After this, you must choose your own partner. There are a number of men who hope to catch your eye.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: The Duke of Kigal alone has brought three eligible sons, all near your age.
Elodie, Crown Princess: But I'm already betrothed to the Duke of Sedna!
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: That does not bar you from dancing.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (If I dance with the gentlemen here, it will make them happy, but Talarist might think I'm planning to break the betrothal.)
Menu: [Dance with suitors] [Refuse]
Player chose: Dance with suitors
You look around the room at all your possible partners - which is to say, everyone. No one may begin dancing until you do. You can pick whomever you want and you will not be denied.
Menu: [Someone about your age] [Someone younger than you] [Someone older than you] [Someone already married] [Someone scandalous]
Player chose: Someone scandalous
You don't want everyone assuming that whoever you pick first is your intended marriage partner, so why not make your choice as ridiculous as possible?
With that in mind, you approach the Duchess of Hellas.
You feel deliciously wicked at the expression of shock on her face, but it soon fades into something more ambiguous. Her hand in yours is warm, and too late, you wonder if you're playing with fire.
Dancing with a real partner feels quite different from dancing with your father. You knew him, knew his steps like a part of you. Now every move is a mystery.
Unfortunately, you lose track of which steps you're supposed to do when, and trip over your own feet. Oops!
Between the dances, there is time for the guests to mingle, chat, and sample tiny bites of exquisite food.
You interact comfortably with your peers, leaving a wise word in every ear.
During a lull in the music, Banion, the duke of Maree, taps an elegant fingernail against a wineglass, letting the clear note ring out through the room.
Banion, Duke of Maree, Earl of Serenitatis: If I might have your attention?
Banion, Duke of Maree, Earl of Serenitatis: I believe we should offer our compliments to our lovely hostess.
Banion, Duke of Maree, Earl of Serenitatis: Not only does she protect our borders, but she has begun to address the long-standing problem of a shortage of heirs.
Banion, Duke of Maree, Earl of Serenitatis: My sister is proud to do her duty. As, of course, are others, such as myself and our lovely new queen.
You can almost hear the chorus of eyebrows being raised.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (He's trying to suggest that he and I have some sort of romantic arrangement.)
Elodie, Crown Princess: (If I don't deflect that, everyone will be sure it's true.)
Banion, Duke of Maree, Earl of Serenitatis: May I have this dance, fair lady?
Menu: [Accept] [Refuse] [Mention betrothal to Sedna]
Player chose: Accept
Elodie, Crown Princess: Certainly.
He pulls you close, his hand possessive on your waist, as the orchestra swings back into motion.
His head above yours angles down to murmur words that - you hope - no one else can hear.
Banion, Duke of Maree, Earl of Serenitatis: You realise that you have just admitted to all your guests that you and I are having an affair.
Elodie, Crown Princess: I know.
Menu: [I plan to use you, then drop you] [I plan to marry you.]
Player chose: I plan to marry you.
Elodie, Crown Princess: That's because I intend to marry you.
Banion, Duke of Maree, Earl of Serenitatis: I thought you were already engaged?
Elodie, Crown Princess: Engagements are broken every day.
Elodie, Crown Princess: You're powerful, experienced, and sneaky. I think we could make a good match.
Elodie, Crown Princess: But for now, I intend to dance.
As the gala continues, you take the opportunity to observe nobles that you rarely see.
There's Gwenelle, for instance - the Young Lady of Sudbury, only months older than you and due to finally inherit control of her duchy soon.
Or Adele, the youngest daughter of the Duchess of Lillah and a fierce sportswoman. She was a few years ahead of you at school and the absolute terror of the ballfields.
No Briony - she had said her parents were leaving her stuck at school this season.
Her parents are here, but they dance at an awkward arm's length from each other. Something must be wrong there.
Strange that there's no sign of your cousins, though. Shouldn't they be here?
Your aunt and uncle are here, of course. It would be scandalous if they hadn't come, Merva being so close by.
It's nice to be able to enjoy time with friends and family, isn't it?
Sitting in on court sessions is not fun at all, but it pleases your father and it may be important for your future.
________________________________________
Week 18
(Studied Decoration in the morning.)
(Studied Instrument in the afternoon.)
Alice: My lady, a bouquet has arrived for you.
The flowers are unusual - long spikes of red, thick with nectar and emitting a strong fragrance, nothing like the delicate blossoms in most vases.
Elodie, Crown Princess: Who sent them?
Alice: The Duchess of Hellas, I believe.
Menu: [Accept them] [Reject them] [Give them to Alice]
Player chose: Accept them
Elodie, Crown Princess: Put them on display. I think they look nice.
Alice: The Duke of Maree has sent you a gift.
Elodie, Crown Princess: An engagement present?
You open the box to reveal a little glass figure of a dancing girl, her hands held above her head.
Menu: [Put it away] [Display it] [Smash it] [Give it to Alice]
Player chose: Display it
You perch the figure on a shelf where she can catch the light.
Elodie, Crown Princess: Pretty.
You wander downstairs to visit your father and talk about the latest events in the domain.
You're moving with such enthusiasm that you don't realise your father isn't alone until it's too late to avoid him and his... companion.
Sirin, Countess of Miranda and Callisto: You are too kind, Joslyn.
Countess Sirin. Not a member of your circles - she's a bit more than a decade your senior, far too old to have ever been your friend. And yet, not at all old, as noblewomen go.
She has two minor titles, no husband, and your father's arm in her grasp.
You take a deep breath.
Menu: [Greet her politely] [Shame her with silent scorn] [Insult her with false flattery] [Trip her as she passes]
Player chose: Greet her politely
You manage to smile at her in what you hope is a welcoming manner.
Elodie, Crown Princess: Good day to you, Countess.
Sirin, Countess of Miranda and Callisto: Your Highness! Good day to you as well.
Sirin, Countess of Miranda and Callisto: I was just speaking with your father about - well, it wasn't important.
Sirin, Countess of Miranda and Callisto: Please allow me to excuse myself. I don't wish to be in the way.
She bows her head to you and exits.
Once she's gone, you raise an eyebrow at your father.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: This is the path that you have set us on.
Elodie, Crown Princess: What do you mean?
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Your acts have made everyone think about preparations for the future. Caloris needs an heir.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: My brother, your uncle Armand, is looking for a wife as well. One of us, at least, must produce more children.
Elodie, Crown Princess: But... Mama...
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Nothing can ever replace your mother.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: But we all have to do things that we don't want to do.
Elodie, Crown Princess: ...
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: You should be careful how you deal with people like Sirin. You need the goodwill of your nobles as well as your commoners.
Elodie, Crown Princess: There haven't been any problems so far.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: No one has been able to track the former Duchess of Ursul. There could be plots underway.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: As Queen, you must be aware of everything around you.
Elodie, Crown Princess: Isn't that what I have agents for?
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Yes, but you must give them direction. What is your greatest concern?
Menu: [Noble plots] [Commoner uprisings] [Foreign threats] [Assassins] [Julianna of Ursul]
Player chose: Julianna of Ursul
Elodie, Crown Princess: We need to locate Julianna. A rogue Lumen is a danger to the entire domain.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Without more clues of where to search, your agents are apparently unable to locate her.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: You could detail a portion of your army to patrol for signs of her, but that would take them from their other duties.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: If you offered a reward for her capture, the people of Nova would also aid in the search.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: However, she was imprisoned once before, and that did not contain her.
Menu: [She has to die] [I want her alive]
Player chose: She has to die
Elodie, Crown Princess: She's too dangerous to hold. She has to be killed, and quickly, before she has a chance to use her magic.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (Some years ago, Julianna spent time with the Duke of Maree and the Duchess of Hellas.)
Elodie, Crown Princess: (Maybe they would have some idea where she's gone.)
Menu: [Send soldiers on patrol] [Post a reward] [Ask Maree and Hellas]
Player chose: Ask Maree and Hellas
Elodie, Crown Princess: Send messages to the Duke of Maree and the Duchess of Hellas. I need to speak with them about Julianna.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: As you wish.
Sitting in on court sessions is not fun at all, but it pleases your father and it may be important for your future.
________________________________________
Week 19
(Studied Voice in the morning.)
(Studied Voice in the afternoon.)
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: It is the time of year to decide any necessary adjustments to the royal budget.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: The majority of the money we receive is already spoken for, but there is always some room for discretion.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (I really don't understand all of these numbers.)
Menu: [Raise taxes] [Keep them the same] [Lower taxes]
Player chose: Keep them the same
Elodie, Crown Princess: I think they're fine as they are.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: As you wish.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Also, we have received a message from the King of Talasse.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: It suggests that the Duke of Sedna is extremely displeased at how publicly you broke your betrothal to him.
Elodie, Crown Princess: Oh.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: He suggests that a large tribute - perhaps 2,000 lassi - would go a long way to smoothing over ruffled feathers.
Menu: [Pay him] [Refuse]
Player chose: Pay him
Elodie, Crown Princess: Fine, send the money.
A maid taps at the door for attention.
Alice: Ah - The Duchess of Hellas is here to see you, my lady.
Elodie, Crown Princess: You came alone?
Brin, Duchess of Hellas, Countess of Dysnomia: You wanted to speak to us about Julianna, didn't you? My brother knows nothing about her. He never did see what was right in front of him.
Brin, Duchess of Hellas, Countess of Dysnomia: You wanted to speak to us about Julianna, didn't you? My brother knows nothing about her. He never did see what was right in front of him.
Elodie, Crown Princess: You mean, you and she -
Brin, Duchess of Hellas, Countess of Dysnomia: Under his nose. Yes.
Brin, Duchess of Hellas, Countess of Dysnomia: With her reputation, I thought she might stay the course. Not like Elsbeth. Or Lucille.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (My aunt Lucille??)
Brin, Duchess of Hellas, Countess of Dysnomia: But Julianna said I was too 'challenging' and she left me for some meek little temple novice from Mazomba.
Brin, Duchess of Hellas, Countess of Dysnomia: You want to find her? Check the priestesses.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (That priestess who wanted me to set Julianna free!)
Elodie, Crown Princess: Thank you for this information.
Brin, Duchess of Hellas, Countess of Dysnomia: You are welcome, my Queen. Always.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (Perhaps some time in the dungeons will make that priestess talk!)
Later that evening, the guards made their move, descending upon the palace grove with the intention of arresting Selene, Priestess of the Second Circle.
Their first warning of danger was when the ground beneath them began to tremble. All at once, a column of black water blasted up from the earth, scattering soldiers and priestesses alike.
The water faded away, leaving nothing but salt-tinged mist, but Selene had disappeared with it.
Apparently Julianna was not the only rogue Lumen loose within Nova.
You attend services in the castle grove, letting the peace of the ritual calm your heart.
________________________________________
Week 20
(Studied Instrument in the morning.)
(Studied Decoration in the afternoon.)
You have unlocked a new outfit!
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: You are requested to stand in judgement. A man has been convicted of the murder-by-strangling of his wife.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: He does not deny the act, but requests a pardon that he might be set free.
Elodie, Crown Princess: If you admit you killed your wife, why do you think I'm going to set you free?
Condemned Man: Save me, Your Majesty! Wasn't my fault. Demons made me do it.
Condemned Man: Everyone knows the power of magical beasties! They used me, they twisted my fingers into chains...
Condemned Man: My wife found me screaming, she tried to shake me, and the chains wrapped around her...
Condemned Man: I need the priestesses to bless me and make me clean again!
Elodie, Crown Princess: (Demons that make you attack people? Is that even possible?)
Menu: [Pardon him] [Imprison him] [Execute him]
Player chose: Execute him
Elodie, Crown Princess: I don't care whether there were demons or not, you're still a murderer and your life is forfeit.
Elodie, Crown Princess: You will be hanged in public as a deterrent to future criminals.
He opens his mouth to argue with you further, but then his shoulders slump.
Condemned Man: Yes, Your Majesty.
You attend services in the castle grove, letting the peace of the ritual calm your heart.
________________________________________
Week 21
(Studied Voice in the morning.)
(Studied Voice in the afternoon.)
You receive word of an unfortunate incident at the gallows where the man you judged was sent to be executed.
As he was led to the platform, he suddenly lashed out with explosive magical power, killing several guards and spectators before making his escape.
The population is buzzing with rumors of a secret cabal of evil Lumens who sacrifice innocents in their dark rituals.
You sneak out of the castle to have a little fun. You enjoy your freedom, but your father won't like it if he finds out.
________________________________________
Week 22
(Studied Voice in the morning.)
(Studied Voice in the afternoon.)
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: I regret to inform you that Fabian, the Earl of Titan and Duke-Regent of Elath, has passed away.
This isn't really a surprise; he was pretty old. The problem is the political implications.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: With the control of Elath in doubt, it falls to the crown to make decisions.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Young Lord Adair will not reach his fifteenth birthday for over two years. He requires a regent.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: His stepmother, Arisse, the Duchess of Lillah, has petitioned that the boy be left in her care.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: This would, however, leave her in personal control of two neighboring duchies, which is generally forbidden.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (Almost the entire eastern border.)
Elodie, Crown Princess: (I don't know anything really bad about her, though...)
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: The boy does have a living grandfather, the Earl of Ishtar. Or you might appoint an unrelated noble to act in his stead.
Menu: [Leave him with Arisse] [Send him to his grandfather] [Send him to your uncle]
Player chose: Leave him with Arisse
Elodie, Crown Princess: Adair must be upset enough already without us taking him away from his home.
Elodie, Crown Princess: Leave him with his stepmother.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: As you wish.
You sneak out of the castle to have a little fun. You enjoy your freedom, but your father won't like it if he finds out.
________________________________________
Week 23
(Studied Voice in the morning.)
You have nothing more to learn about Voice.
(Studied Public Speaking in the afternoon.)
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: There is a woman here to see you. She is a musician and wishes Crown patronage.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (Which means money.)
Musician: Your Royal Highness! If you accept me as a member of your court I will immortalise you in word and song.
Musician: I have dabbled in musical styles from many countries, and can entertain your guests and lighten your evenings.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (Musicians are often used as secret agents and messengers. They can be useful - and dangerous.)
The musician sings a little ditty to demonstrate her skills with the lute.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (It's okay, but nothing special.)
Elodie, Crown Princess: (That might mean she has 'other' talents.)
Menu: [Accept her as Court Musician] [Test her for secret skills] [Reject her]
Player chose: Test her for secret skills
Elodie, Crown Princess: You are familiar with the traditions of many locations, yes? Can you also perform accents?
Musician: Aye, mum. That I can.
Elodie, Crown Princess: What about juggling?
Musician: I can keep a set of dangers in the air.
Elodie, Crown Princess: Interesting. I look forward to all you have to tell me.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (We'll have to talk privately to see how much she knows, but I think she might be useful.)
Elodie, Crown Princess: First Julianna, then Selene, and then... Is there really a cabal of evil Lumens in Nova?
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: I don't know.
Elodie, Crown Princess: How are we supposed to fight them? How can we defend ourselves against magic?
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: That... is why the King or Queen of Nova has traditionally been a Lumen. To fight magic with magic.
Elodie, Crown Princess: So... I have to...
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: No. You are too young, and that power destroys everything it touches.
Elodie, Crown Princess: Then what am I supposed to do if they attack me?
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: I will not let anyone harm you as long as I live.
Elodie, Crown Princess: And... what if you... like Mom...
For long moments, he remains silent. Then, at last:
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: The heir to the duchy of Caloris is traditionally sworn to the greatest of secrecy on certain matters.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: However, you are my only daughter, and you are worth more than any oath.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: There are treasures that have been collected by my family, enchanted artifacts of power, locked away and never to be used.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: They are hidden because they are dangerous, just as Lumen magic is dangerous. Even more so, because many of their workings have been lost over the years.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: I would rather such things were forgotten entirely. The world is a better place without them.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: I had hoped that without your mother's crystal, the perils which are magic's inevitable cost would not seek you out.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (Lumens attract disaster. When all the nobles of Nova were Lumens, the doomshadow fell...)
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: But you are right. You have too many enemies with their own magics, and I may not always be able to protect you.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: I will search among the records for any artifact which can protect the user against a Lumen's power.
________________________________________
Week 24
(Studied Archery in the morning.)
(Studied Reflexes in the afternoon.)
You receive a letter from Young Lord Adair.
It's a bit messy and hard to read, but he seems to be thanking you for letting him stay with the family he knows.
You sneak out of the castle to have a little fun. You enjoy your freedom, but your father won't like it if he finds out.
________________________________________
Week 25
(Studied Archery in the morning.)
(Studied Reflexes in the afternoon.)
Staring up into the sky out your window, you notice a strange flash of light.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (A falling star... Pretty!)
Sitting in on court sessions is not fun at all, but it pleases your father and it may be important for your future.
________________________________________
Week 26
(Studied Archery in the morning.)
(Studied Reflexes in the afternoon.)
You may now play Sports on the weekends.
Alice: My lady, there is a letter for you.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (Who sent this? It isn't signed...)
It appears to be a poem, describing you in a manner that is entirely inappropriate for a Queen.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (I *what*? With a *squid*?)
Menu: [That's hilarious!] [That's terrible!]
Player chose: That's terrible!
Elodie, Crown Princess: (Who writes this garbage?!?)
Just then, an incredibly unlucky breeze swirls between the windows of your tower bedroom, tugging the paper out of your hands and off into the sky.
You stick your head out the window to discover the 'poem' caught and fluttering on the roof nearby. You can almost reach it.
Menu: [Climb out and grab it] [Ignore it]
Player chose: Ignore it
What's the worst that can happen? It blows off and someone reads it and laughs at you? That's better than breaking your neck.
Besides, if you're lucky it will rain and wash the words away.
A walk in the fresh air helps you forget the burdens on your shoulders.
________________________________________
Week 27
(Studied Archery in the morning.)
(Studied Reflexes in the afternoon.)
Alice: My lady, there are letters for you.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (Another letter from Briony. Why does she keep writing me? We were never even friends.)
Elodie, Crown Princess: (She says she's bored and lonely and she's looking forward to seeing me at Gwenelle's birthday party.)
Elodie, Crown Princess: (That's right! Gwenelle is about to turn fifteen! She'll be Duchess of Sudbury for real now.)
Elodie, Crown Princess: (This other letter must be my invitation to her birthday celebration next week.)
Elodie, Crown Princess: (Gwenelle and I were friends at school, and this will be a big event, but it's also a long way to travel.)
Elodie, Crown Princess: (A lot of things can happen on the road.)
Menu: [Go to Sudbury for Gwenelle's party] [Send your regrets]
Player chose: Go to Sudbury for Gwenelle's party
Elodie, Crown Princess: (It'll be good to see my friends!)
You attend services in the castle grove, letting the peace of the ritual calm your heart.
________________________________________
Week 28
(Studied Archery in the morning.)
Your skill in Archery is now 50. You may not increase this skill until your other Weapons skills are 25 or higher.
(Studied Reflexes in the afternoon.)
Your skill in Reflexes is now 50. You may not increase this skill until your other Agility skills are 25 or higher.
On your journey to Sudbury, your carriage is attacked by bandits!
You hear the distinctive sound of incoming arrows just in time to push yourself away from the window and avoid being shot.
From the screams outside, not all of your guards have been as lucky.
The attackers scatter as soon as your forces show signs of resistance, vanishing into the woods.
The rest of your trip passes without incident, but you can't help jumping at shadows.
Gwenelle's party is lovely - not nearly as glamourous as your own upcoming birthday will be, of course, but it's still a major event on the noble social calendar. Everyone who is anyone is present.
Uncle Laurent and your younger cousins are here, but Charlotte and her mother are not. Apparently Charlotte was ill.
There are refreshments and dancers and musicians and polite conversations... and one or two not-so-polite.
Lieke, Countess of Dis: ... will not be shoved aside.
Gwenelle, Duchess of Sudbury: Mother, it's my domain now. I need space for myself. You have your own lands to manage.
Lieke, Countess of Dis: Just because you're of age doesn't mean you know everything, young lady. You need my advice.
Gwenelle, Duchess of Sudbury: This is my home. It has never been yours.
Before you can back away, their gazes fall on you. They wait expectantly for you as near-queen to settle the dispute.
Menu: [Side with Gwenelle] [Side with her mother]
Player chose: Side with Gwenelle
Elodie, Crown Princess: You heard her. She's an adult now, and she's in charge here.
Gwenelle, Duchess of Sudbury: Thank you!
Lieke, Countess of Dis: Is this what your father will face upon your coronation? Cast aside without another word?
Elodie, Crown Princess: (... He's not going to like hearing that, is he.)
A bit later, Briony catches up with you.
Briony, Lady Mead: Hello, Elodie. It's so wonderful that you're going to be Queen now.
Briony, Lady Mead: I mean, I am sorry about your mother...
Elodie, Crown Princess: Thanks.
Briony, Lady Mead: ... but think of the opportunities you're going to have! You're so lucky.
That's an odd way of putting it.
Briony, Lady Mead: Anyway, I was wondering, now that you're almost Queen and everything... have they told you all the secrets?
Elodie, Crown Princess: What secrets?
Briony, Lady Mead: Like, how to get into the old palace! I've heard it's packed full of treasure.
Elodie, Crown Princess: You mean the Old Capital by Kathre Lake? The abandoned one?
Briony, Lady Mead: Exactly! They had to leave in a hurry, so they left all kinds of treasure behind.
Briony, Lady Mead: And nobody ever goes there because the forest is supposed to be haunted, so the treasure's probably still there!
Elodie, Crown Princess: (The forest isn't just haunted, it's full of monsters like the keythong!)
Elodie, Crown Princess: (But what if she's right and it is full of ancient treasure?)
Menu: [Offer to help] [Try to talk her out of it] [Tattle to her parents]
Player chose: Offer to help
Elodie, Crown Princess: I don't know any secrets about getting into the old palace - yet.
Elodie, Crown Princess: But if you come back to the castle with me, we can check the archives.
Briony, Lady Mead: Great! I knew you could help.
Briony, Lady Mead: I'm supposed to go back to school, but I was already planning to sneak off.
Briony, Lady Mead: I'll ditch my escort, sneak ahead, and meet you at the castle!
Elodie, Crown Princess: (This could be fun.)
At the end, you all share a pleasant meal and prepare to return to your various lands.
You attend services in the castle grove, letting the peace of the ritual calm your heart.
________________________________________
Week 29
(Studied Public Speaking in the morning.)
You have unlocked a new outfit!
(Studied Public Speaking in the afternoon.)
Elodie, Crown Princess: I found a bunch of maps of the area around Kathre Lake.
Briony, Lady Mead: Great!
Elodie, Crown Princess: I also found reports on all sorts of really nasty monsters down there.
Briony, Lady Mead: That was hundreds of years ago!
Elodie, Crown Princess: The palace was abandoned hundreds of years ago. The reports never stopped.
Elodie, Crown Princess: I can't find anyone who's gone into the Old Forest and come back.
Briony, Lady Mead: Well, if it is full of treasure, would you want to tell anyone how you got in and stole some?
Briony, Lady Mead: Look, I know it's dangerous. I'm not stupid. But you and I are educated noblewomen, not peasants.
Briony, Lady Mead: I'm good with a sword and a bow. And you - don't you have magic powers now that you're Queen?
Elodie, Crown Princess: Um...
Briony, Lady Mead: So come with me! It'll be an awesome adventure. Our parents are going to be so impressed.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (Is that what this is really about? Briony's parents?)
Menu: [Go with Briony] [Send her alone] [Tell her not to go] [Ask about Briony's parents]
Player chose: Ask about Briony's parents
Elodie, Crown Princess: Briony... What is going on with you and your family?
Briony, Lady Mead: Nothing.
Briony, Lady Mead: Really, nothing. Ever since Uncle Kevan moved in my parents don't want anything to do with me.
Briony, Lady Mead: I'm an adult now, you know!
Elodie, Crown Princess: (Technically. She's sixteen.)
Briony, Lady Mead: And they still say I have to be at school all the time. I'm the heir, I should be spending time in Mead!
Elodie, Crown Princess: When did your uncle move in?
Briony, Lady Mead: I don't know, a few years ago. After Gran's divorce.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (The Duchess of Lillah divorced her second husband, and then he died.)
Elodie, Crown Princess: (He would have been the stepfather of Briony's mother and uncle.)
Elodie, Crown Princess: That must have been a stressful time for your family.
Briony, Lady Mead: Yeah, I'm sure, but so what? That was years ago! They've had plenty of time to get over it!
Briony, Lady Mead: I just want them to pay attention to me. If I find the lost treasures of Nova, they have to notice.
Elodie, Crown Princess: You've already run away from school. If they don't notice that, they won't notice anything.
Briony, Lady Mead: You mean... it's hopeless???
Elodie, Crown Princess: No, I mean, all you need to do is stay here and wait. Getting into more trouble won't make a difference.
Briony, Lady Mead: Oh. I guess maybe you're right.
Briony, Lady Mead: Thanks, Elodie! You're smarter than I remembered.
Elodie, Crown Princess: Argh!
You attend services in the castle grove, letting the peace of the ritual calm your heart.
________________________________________
Week 30
(Studied Public Speaking in the morning.)
(Studied Public Speaking in the afternoon.)
Alice: The Duchess of Mead is here to see you, my lady.
Corisande, Duchess of Mead: Elodie! Where is my daughter?
Elodie, Crown Princess: Which daughter?
Corisande, Duchess of Mead: You know very well that I only have one.
Briony, Lady Mead: Really, mother? Because sometimes I think you don't have one at all!
Corisande, Duchess of Mead: Briony! Thank goodness you're all right.
Briony, Lady Mead: Oh, now you care? You certainly didn't want to see me before! You haven't let me come home in ages!
Corisande, Duchess of Mead: Briony, darling, there are things you don't understand...
Briony, Lady Mead: I don't understand because you never tell me anything!
The Duchess sighs and embraces her daughter.
Corisande, Duchess of Mead: Very well. If that's what it will take. Come home with me, and I will explain everything.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (Looks like everything worked out for the best!
Sitting in on court sessions is not fun at all, but it pleases your father and it may be important for your future.
(Put on the faith outfit.)
________________________________________
Week 31
(Studied Foreign Intelligence in the morning.)
(Studied Divination in the afternoon.)
As you are walking through the great hall, a freak gust of wind suddenly blows out all the candles in the room.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (An omen of war and danger...)
There's no sign of where the danger might be coming from, so there's nothing you can do about it. Perhaps it's nothing.
You receive a letter from Briony hinting at some of the complicated family drama that has been going on.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (Her parents are getting divorced now that her father has a duchy of his own.)
There's an extra section at the end of the letter written in code.
Unfortunately, you can't figure out what that part says.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (Well, I hope she'll be happier now.)
You sneak out of the castle to have a little fun. You enjoy your freedom, but your father won't like it if he finds out.
________________________________________
Week 32
(Studied Ciphering in the morning.)
(Studied Divination in the afternoon.)
Elodie, Crown Princess: Things have been so unsettled lately... Everyone's on edge. We need something cheerful.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: You could hold a tournament.
Elodie, Crown Princess: What a good idea!
Elodie, Crown Princess: Knights, jousting, musicians... all sorts of competitions. Everyone loves a contest.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: What will you offer as prizes to the winners?
Menu: [Status and praise] [Employment] [Gold]
Player chose: Employment
Elodie, Crown Princess: The winners will have the option of taking up royal appointments.
Elodie, Crown Princess: It's a recruitment drive!
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Very well. I will draft the announcements.
You leave him to his work.
As you move through the hall, your eye falls upon a vase of flowers. Pretty, but apparently not getting enough water. The leaves on one blossom have shriveled.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (A leaf killed by a secret weakness... A hidden threat.)
You continue up the stairs to your room, where a maid is waiting for you.
Alice: My lady, a gift has arrived from Kigal.
Elodie, Crown Princess: From the Duke?
Alice: No, my lady. A merchant house, I believe. It was sent with a shipment down the Cavalla River.
You tear open the brightly colored paper, to find:
Elodie, Crown Princess: Chocolates!
There is a little card with the box - 'With Our Compliments, The House of Kraellat'.
Menu: [Eat candy now] [Save it for later]
Player chose: Save it for later
Elodie, Crown Princess: I don't feel like candy right now. Maybe later.
You sneak out of the castle to have a little fun. You enjoy your freedom, but your father won't like it if he finds out.
________________________________________
Week 33
(Studied Foreign Intelligence in the morning.)
(Studied Ciphering in the afternoon.)
You have unlocked a new outfit!
This is the week of the general tournament. Nobles and commoners alike have turned out to compete against each other.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: The people will be pleased if you participate in their games. However, it would expose you to danger.
What event do you wish to take part in?
Menu: [Mounted Parade] [Jousting] [Fencing] [Archery] [Music] [Falconry] [None]
Player chose: Music
You take your place in line for the bardic contest.
You aren't trained in any instrument that's appropriate for a setting like this, so you have to sing a capella.
Your performance is well-received, but you are overshadowed by those whose talents are more in line with the expected style.
All the winners are announced and displayed to great cheers. As near-Queen, you place flower garlands around their necks.
After the tournament, a minor tragedy is revealed.
One of the stewards apparently had an incredible sweet tooth and dared to steal a piece of your recently-received chocolates. He had a sweet tooth... the chocolates were poisoned.
When you ask questions, it turns out that the merchant house which supposedly sent you this present never existed.
Someone has tried to kill you... but you don't know who.
You take to the court for a few games of tennis. Feel the thrill of competition!
(Put on the intrigue outfit.)
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Week 34
(Studied Foreign Intelligence in the morning.)
(Studied Foreign Intelligence in the afternoon.)
Alice: My lady, your father wishes to speak with you. He says it's urgent.
Elodie, Crown Princess: I'll be there in a minute. There's someone I have to talk to first.
You wait for the maid to leave, then hurry off to rendezvous with your agent.
Musician: Your Highness, I had a quiet chat with the workers on the cargo ship which carried the poisoned chocolates.
Musician: Seems someone was bribed to take that package on board, not in Kigal, but further down the river in Merva.
Musician: I had a look at the card that came with it and checked it against your correspondence -
For a moment you are mildly annoyed that she's somehow managed to get into your personal mail and read it without asking you, but then, that is the sort of thing you hired her for.
Musician: - and the handwriting does bear a certain similarity to a prominent noble. You won't like this.
Elodie, Crown Princess: What is it?
Musician: Your aunt Lucille, the Countess of Nix.
Elodie, Crown Princess: What?!?
Musician: I can't be certain, and even if she wrote the card doesn't mean she's behind the poison. But I'd be careful.
Musician: If something happens to you, who benefits? Who inherits?
Elodie, Crown Princess: My uncle Laurent, her husband.
Musician: If you'd like, I could travel to the ducal seat in Merva, see if I can find out more.
Elodie, Crown Princess: Yes, fine, go.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (Maybe this is all a clever trick, or a misunderstanding...)
Elodie, Crown Princess: (... and Dad wants to talk to me, which is probably more bad news.)
You find your father standing over a map of the coastline, his face grave.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Ships have been sighted on approach from Shanjia. Not tradeships - this is a warfleet.
Elodie, Crown Princess: What?
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Within a week they will be in Novan waters. Within two they could reach the capital.
Elodie, Crown Princess: Then we will fight to defend ourselves.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: You can try to use the treasury funds to hire additional soldiers, but it may be difficult on short notice.
Menu: [Recruit soldiers] [Don't]
Player chose: Recruit soldiers
Elodie, Crown Princess: Fine, we'll do that.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: You will need to draw up a naval strategy for our ships to carry out.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: You could choose to act as admiral and lead the fleet in person, but the danger to you would be very great.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Unless you think your personal skills will make the difference, I would strongly advise against it.
Menu: [Direct the fleet] [Stay in the capital]
Player chose: Stay in the capital
Elodie, Crown Princess: No, there's too much to do here. I can't go to sea.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Do your best, and Nova will survive.
You take to the court for a few games of tennis. Feel the thrill of competition!
(Put on the royal_demeanour outfit.)
________________________________________
Week 35
(Studied Foreign Intelligence in the morning.)
(Studied Internal Affairs in the afternoon.)
Danger on the high seas!
Ships close in on each other, angling into range.
The Shanjians have half again as many troops as you do. It doesn't look promising.
The eventual outcome...
... is not in your favor.
The Novan ships are sunk or scattered, as the Shanjian forces press towards landfall.
Many good soldiers were lost today, and Nova's troubles have not ended.
Since you have failed to repel the invasion, the Shanjian fleet will soon land and their troops will begin to progress towards your capital city.
Your remaining soldiers will hold them off as long as possible, of course, but the main strength of your military has been exhausted. Nova's future looks bleak.
You sneak out of the castle to have a little fun. You enjoy your freedom, but your father won't like it if he finds out.
________________________________________
Week 36
(Studied Instrument in the morning.)
(Studied Decoration in the afternoon.)
The invasion of Nova is proceeding. Your coastline is under Shanjian control. Soldiers have marched through villages, trampling fields and frightening citizens.
A diplomatic delegation from Shanjia has requested access to the castle to discuss terms - most likely, for your surrender. You lack the strength to hold off their armies, and surrendering now will save many lives. It would seem that you have no choice.
You prepare yourself as best you can to meet with the representatives from Shanjia.
You expected diplomats and a military representative, a general or an admiral. You did not expect the handsome man decked in jewels who now stands before you - a man announced by your servants as Togami, King of Shanjia.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (King-consort, he should be, if even that much. He's a common musician who married his way onto the throne.)
Togami: My dear young lady. How difficult this must be for you. So much responsibility at such a tender age.
You yearn to slap the false sympathy off his oily face, but you force yourself to remain calm.
Togami: War benefits no one, don't you think? Such a terrible waste. Better to settle things in a civilised manner.
Togami: A contest. A game, so to speak, with Nova as the stakes.
Togami: Should I win, then your domain will submit and accept me as Overlord with no further resistance.
Togami: Should I lose, then my army will leave your domain in peace and shed no more blood.
Elodie, Crown Princess: What sort of game?
Togami: It is well known that Nova is ruled by Lumens. As it happens, I too possess the powers of a Lumen.
Togami: I propose a formal duel. My powers against yours. The winner takes control of Nova, the loser... dies.
Elodie, Crown Princess: But I'm not a Lumen!
Togami: Saving it for the coronation, were you? Such a pity that you'll be unprepared.
Togami: Well, then. Go and find your crystal. Becoming a Lumen is a very simple matter. Then we can have our duel.
Elodie, Crown Princess: What's the point? You know I can't win. Why don't you just kill me now?
Togami: Because that's not the game. You want to save your people, don't you? I want to fight a Lumen.
Togami: If you refuse, then the war will continue.
Togami: I'll sweeten the deal. If you meet me in a formal Lumen challenge, I'll call off the invasion even if I win.
Elodie, Crown Princess: Really?
Togami: I swear it by the gods. Nova will be free and safe.
Elodie, Crown Princess: Why take that risk? You're winning the war.
Togami: It's not your land that I want. It's your crystal.
Togami: To gain your power, I am willing to wager my own. Shall we begin?
Elodie, Crown Princess: (I don't like this... But what choice do I have?)
Elodie, Crown Princess: (He was a musician, once, before he married his way into power. Can I use that?)
Menu: [Accept his terms] [Sing to him] [Refuse outright]
Player chose: Accept his terms
Elodie, Crown Princess: Then... I must.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: No! Not my little girl!
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: You want to fight the Lumen ruler of Nova?
Your father reaches into his pocket and pulls out a shimmering blue crystal, which he places over his heart.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Illuminate!
Your hair stands on end as a veil of blue sparkles settles over your father, crawling into his skin. When it's over, the jewel has been absorbed into his body without a trace.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Fight me. Leave her alone.
Togami: Well! This is not what I expected, but it will serve my purposes just as well.
Elodie, Crown Princess: Daddy?
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Be quiet, Elodie. You are not a Queen yet.
You are forced to sit and watch as the two men work out the details of the duel and its stakes, then take their places in a carefully warded circle.
Your father crosses his arms, summoning up a thick gray fog that swirls around him, hiding him from view. But the Shanjian king conjures a cloud of glowing butterflies which drive into the fog and blow it apart.
Then the invader claps his hands together and chants. Fiery red lights cluster over his fingertips and merge together into a pulsing blob before erupting towards your father. And your father - closes his eyes and does nothing.
The energy impacts his body with a terrible sound, the shriek of rent metal magnified a hundred times. It shivers inside your skin, resonating with your bones, dropping you to your knees...
... and then the energy rebounds from your father, slamming back into its caster, and this time the sound is indescribable.
For a moment, it is hard to breathe. Then, slowly, the King of Shanjia falls, lifeless, to the ground.
Followed by your father.
Elodie, Crown Princess: Daddy!
You rush to his side. Unlike the foreign king, your father is still breathing. It would seem that, in this duel, he was the victor.
Elodie, Crown Princess: Daddy?
There is no answer. Despite the efforts of the palace healers and priestesses, your father has not awakened since the day of the duel.
When he faced Togami, he was clutching a small black mirror rimmed with silver. Perhaps it was one of the dangerous magical artifacts he told you about. It might have saved his life.
Unless he awakens to tell you more, you have no way to know.
Elodie, Crown Princess: I'm sorry.
________________________________________
Week 37
(Studied Instrument in the morning.)
(Studied Decoration in the afternoon.)
Once your father defeated the King of Shanjia in a duel, the invasion was meant to be over. In practice, it is not quite so easy to expel a foreign army from your lands, particularly when their leadership is falling apart.
The remaining Shanjian generals seemed surprisingly eager to go home and left without a fuss, but a large number of soldiers have broken ranks and run amok, looting and pillaging their way through Nova just for fun.
A number of royal holdings have been damaged and valuables stolen. Not only do you lose them, but you will have to pay for repairs.
With so many renegades on the loose, Nova seems likely to have severe bandit problems for years to come.
Your musician agent has returned from her mission to Merva.
Musician: I have a great deal of news to report. Everything we suspected was true, and worse.
Musician: Were you aware that your Aunt Lucille is a Lumen?
Elodie, Crown Princess: She what?
Musician: I found her journals. They were in code, of course, but no match for my talents.
Musician: Your aunt intends to take over Nova and rule as an unstoppable mother-daughter Lumen team.
Elodie, Crown Princess: Charlotte is a Lumen?!?
Musician: No. Your aunt intends to give her your power. And your crown.
Elodie, Crown Princess: ...
Elodie, Crown Princess: Where are the journals? I want to see them.
Musician: If I had taken them, she would know her secret was exposed.
Elodie, Crown Princess: Then there's no proof?
Musician: 'Proof' is a thing that rarely exists, Your Highness. There is always doubt.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (If this is true, then she has to be stopped at once, whatever the cost.)
Elodie, Crown Princess: (If it's not true, I would be attacking my own best support. My family.)
Elodie, Crown Princess: (There may be a way to test whether this agent is telling the truth...)
Menu: [Decide Lucille is guilty] [Decide the musician is lying] [Ask about Charlotte's powers]
Player chose: Ask about Charlotte's powers
Elodie, Crown Princess: These journals... did they say anything about what magic Aunt Lucille was trying to train Charlotte in?
Musician: Well... It sounded like she already has some kind of healing power, but that can't be right.
Elodie, Crown Princess: No... it's true.
Elodie, Crown Princess: Thank you for your services. Go now. I will deal with this.
You will now have to decide what to do about the Mervan serpent's nest.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (Was Uncle Laurent involved in this, or was it all Lucille?)
Elodie, Crown Princess: (And Charlotte... How much did she know?)
Menu: [Execute Lucille only] [Execute Lucille and Laurent] [Execute Lucille, banish the rest] [Execute the entire family] [Banish the entire family]
Player chose: Execute Lucille only
With a heavy heart, you sign the orders.
You sneak a peek at some of the luckless peasants held in the dungeons - petty thieves and troublemakers, now suffering in the dark. They're obviously bad people, but seeing them so miserable still feels unfair. There must be a better way.
________________________________________
Week 38
(Studied Instrument in the morning.)
(Studied Decoration in the afternoon.)
Time has slipped by you so quickly. Only two weeks remain before your birthday celebration, and your official coronation as Queen. Have you done enough to build a stable Nova?
It is traditional for the palace to provide entertainment and refreshment for the common people when a new monarch is crowned. It is a rare opportunity for the poor of the land to dine like nobles.
The size and scope of any such feast depends on what expense the royal treasury is willing to bear.
Menu: [An extravagant feast] [A respectable feast] [A small feast] [No celebration]
Player chose: An extravagant feast
Elodie, Crown Princess: (Roasted meats, cakes, chocolates, wine, enough for everyone! And I can give out commemorative cups and coins!)
You sneak a peek at some of the luckless peasants held in the dungeons - petty thieves and troublemakers, now suffering in the dark. They're obviously bad people, but seeing them so miserable still feels unfair. There must be a better way.
________________________________________
Week 39
(Studied Instrument in the morning.)
You have nothing more to learn about Instrument.
(Studied Decoration in the afternoon.)
You have nothing more to learn about Decoration.
The castle is buzzing with preparations for your upcoming coronation. Ministers press you with details for your favorite colors and flowers and so on.
You are happy to collaborate with the designers to ensure you are shown off to the best possible effect. You are still so young, after all. Good design will help a lot in making you look like a Queen.
Others are more interested in the subject of your marriage.
It can't take place until you are of age, of course, and considering all the preparations (and the need to recover from the coronation) not for much longer than that. Still, it doesn't stop people from buzzing around full of ideas and suggestions.
You sneak a peek at some of the luckless peasants held in the dungeons - petty thieves and troublemakers, now suffering in the dark. They're obviously bad people, but seeing them so miserable still feels unfair. There must be a better way.
________________________________________
Week 40
(Studied Instrument in the morning.)
You have nothing more to learn about Instrument.
(Studied Decoration in the afternoon.)
You have nothing more to learn about Decoration.
At this time last year, you were celebrating your fourteenth birthday. You were in the school gardens, surrounded by your friends. A teacher brought you tea and cakes, while a wealthy merchant's son wove a crown of flowers for your head.
It didn't matter so much that you were a princess then. Your title was something for the future. Many of your peers would be Duchesses or Earls or the like, someday, but not then. You were children.
Your parents could not attend on the actual day, but they did send wonderful gifts, some for you, and some for you to share. And a week later, they came for a visit, and your mother took you with her through the countryside in a splendid carriage.
It was the last time you would ever see her.
You wonder if, wherever she is, she can see you now.
You are fifteen years old, a legal adult. You have worked and studied and suffered and prepared, and now the time has come.
You kneel before the priestess, barely hearing her words as she recites the blessings.
She calls upon the gods to deliver peace, wisdom, and prosperity to you, and through you, to all of Nova. And then she calls upon you, for your oath of rulership.
Priestess of the First Circle: Will you guide and govern and protect your people to the best of your ability, according to law and custom?
Elodie, Crown Princess: I will.
Priestess of the First Circle: Will you to the best of your power uphold the ideals of love, honor, justice, and mercy?
Elodie, Crown Princess: I will.
Priestess of the First Circle: Lords and Ladies assembled: I present to you your undoubted Queen, who has sworn you her loyalty.
Priestess of the First Circle: You who have come to give homage, will you do the same?
One at a time, the head of each duchy approaches your throne and kneels to swear his or her service to you and your heirs.
Priestess of the First Circle: People of Nova, I give you Elodie, daughter of Fidelia, your true sovereign. What say you all?
People: LONG LIVE THE QUEEN! LONG LIVE THE QUEEN! LONG LIVE THE QUEEN!
Elodie, Queen of Nova: (Thank you! I will!)
After the coronation, in a private ceremony with the High Priestess, Elodie was officially offered her mother's Lumen crystal. She refused to accept it. For the first time in centuries, magic would have no hold on the throne of Nova.
The following year, Elodie and Banion were married in a ceremony she had designed carefully to leave no doubt that she was in charge. She wore an elaborate gown with diamonds and streamers like clouded wings. He wore a simple and tight-fitting garment that would have looked at home in the ballet corps.
Of course, Banion won a bit of payback when he revealed the parentage of the adorable flower boy in the wedding procession.
Joslyn never properly recovered from his encounter with the King of Shanjia. He did awaken a week after the coronation, but his mind and his memory were badly damaged. He was no longer fit to govern his duchy without aid, much less explain the mysterious events of the duel. Still, he recognised his daughter and was pleased to see her wearing the crown.
Elodie feared that predatory women might take advantage of her father's weakness, but Joslyn showed no interest in remarrying. His mind lingered in the past, not the future. He did, however, acknowledge and adopt a previously-unknown natural son as the next heir to the duchy of Caloris.
Considering her father's state of mind, Elodie could never be sure whether this young man was truly her half-brother.
With the danger of a rogue Lumen weighing on their minds, the squad sent to deal with Lucille, Countess of Nix opted to strike quickly and without warning, aiming to eliminate her before she could bring her powers to bear. Kill-on-sight.
Infiltrating the ducal stronghold to 'remove' one noble while leaving others unharmed is not a simple task, particularly when the easiest time to catch people off their guard is when they are at family meals, or asleep.
While Lucille's traumatic death did produce a Lumen crystal to justify Elodie's actions, it was unlikely that her relationship with her uncle and cousins would ever fully recover.
During Elodie's reign, the public opinion of Lumens and magic in general would fall to a new low. Parents taught their children that Lumen power was all tied up with witchcraft and blood sacrifice, and would always lead to sorrow in the end.
In some territories, any village outcast found to be in possession of a shiny bit of rock was likely to fall victim to a lynch mob, and the miscreants were rarely punished. Better safe than sorry when it came to magic, after all. Even healers and priestesses were eyed with some suspicion. Who knows what costs their powers might have?
The young Queen sponsored expeditions of trained knights to venture into the Old Forest and attempt to exterminate the monsters within. Unfortunately, black magic would not give up its grip on Nova so easily. Many lives were lost, and with their blood, the monsters appeared to grow even stronger...
After the failed invasion, relations with Shanjia remained tense.
First came the recriminations and demands from the Queen of Shanjia, devastated by the death of her husband, which Elodie ignored. Next came the subtler approaches, the quiet gratitude and offers for alliances from ministers who were thrilled to see Togami gone.
Elodie ignored those also, which was just as well, since the next thing to arrive was the preserved head of one of those 'traitorous' ministers, sent by the Queen of Shanjia as a warning.
There was no sign of war in the immediate future, but there was not likely to be alliance either.
Artistry was the watchword of Elodie's reign. She cherished beautiful things and worked to preserve them for generations to come.
And thus Queen Elodie's legacy stretched into the future...
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