User blog:HAWAIIANpikachu/Long Live the Queen gameplay

​Warning
This Long Live the Queen run has spoilers in gameplay, if you do not want to see spoilers, GET OUT NOW!!!

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

Week 1
(Studied Accounting in the morning.) (Studied Trade 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. 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!

Week 2
(Studied Accounting in the morning.) (Studied Trade 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: Let her stay Elodie, Crown Princess: I want to hear what she has to say. Elodie, Crown Princess: She stays. Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: As you wish. Elodie, Crown Princess: What is it you wanted to teach me? Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: First, I need to know if you have your mother's crystal. Elodie, Crown Princess: What crystal? Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: The source of power for any Lumen is a particular magical crystal. Once you've bonded with it, it becomes a part of you as long as you live. Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: The Royal Crystal has been passed down from ruler to ruler for generations. It belongs to you, now - except that the King may be keeping it from you. Elodie, Crown Princess: Do you have a crystal? Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: Of course. She holds out her hands. Light flickers above her bosom, and then, with a shower of sparkles, something takes shape. You reach out to touch it, and it dissolves away into nothing. Elodie, Crown Princess: Oh. Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: It belongs to me. No one can take it from me until I die. Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: You need to find the crystal that belongs to you.

Week 3
(Studied Accounting in the morning.) (Studied Trade 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. All of a sudden, the Duchess of Ursul rushes into the garden and points a sword at you! No, not at you. At your... feet? Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: Princess! Don't move! Menu: [Hold still] [Look down] Player chose: Look down You look down where her sword is pointing. There's a snake in the grass! You can't help it - you squeak and jump back. The snake tenses and prepares to strike. Charlotte, Lady Merva: No! Your cousin pushes you aside, and the snake's fangs sink into her leg. Elodie, Crown Princess: Lottie! Too late, Julianna swings her sword and cuts off the snake's head. Lucille, Countess of Nix: What is going on out here? Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: Your daughter's been bitten by a milk viper. They're poisonous. Get an herbalist, right away! Lucille, Countess of Nix: I will treat my daughter. I certainly can't trust anyone here to keep her safe! Elodie, Crown Princess: I'm sorry... Charlotte, Lady Merva: I don't feel good. Lucille, Countess of Nix: We will be returning home to Merva immediately. Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: Your aunt has a point. Milk vipers are not native to this area. That snake should never have been here. Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: Someone may have tried to kill you. Elodie, Crown Princess: Will Charlotte be okay? Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: I don't know. Elodie, Crown Princess: Dad, what happened to Mom's Lumen crystal? Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: It's in a safe place. Elodie, Crown Princess: Can I have it? Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: No. Elodie, Crown Princess: But it's mine! Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Meddling with magic killed your mother. I don't want that to happen to you. Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Once you're crowned Queen, I can't stop you from doing anything you want, but for now you are still a child.

Week 4
(Studied Production in the morning.) (Studied Production in the afternoon.) You have unlocked a new outfit! 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. Elodie, Crown Princess: I was so worried about Charlotte, after that snake bit her... Elodie, Crown Princess: But her mother said she's okay, so I guess it turned out all right. Elodie, Crown Princess: Maybe she has a guardian angel! Elodie, Crown Princess: My father says I can't have the crystal until I'm Queen, so we'll just have to wait. Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: There may not be time to wait. Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: This world is filled with dangers, and you will need the powers of a Lumen to fight them. You can't begin training until you have bonded with your crystal. Elodie, Crown Princess: Well, what else am I supposed to do about it? Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: The crystal is probably held under guard in the Royal Treasury. You are the princess; you should be able to find a way inside. Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: Otherwise we might have to take drastic action. Menu: [I'll wait until I'm older] [I'll try to find a way] [What drastic action?] Player chose: What drastic action? Elodie, Crown Princess: What do you mean by drastic action? Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: Let's hope it doesn't come to that. Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: Try to reach the crystal. If you can't, come and talk to me again. (Put on the economics outfit.)

Week 5
(Studied Accounting in the morning.) (Studied Accounting 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: Something sparkly will make me feel better. 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 6
(Studied Accounting in the morning.) (Studied Accounting in the afternoon.) As you are walking, you spot a familiar figure in the palace gardens. Elodie, Crown Princess: (It's the Duchess of Ursul! Maybe I should go and say hello.) Then you notice that seated beside her is a woman in the robes of a priestess. They are very close together, their hands gently touching as they speak. Elodie, Crown Princess: (Looks like she's busy!) You turn and walk in a different direction, so as not to disturb them. At that moment, you notice something unusual. It looks like someone just left the palace grounds by going over the hedge. Was that a servant? A thief? Or... an assassin? Menu: [Climb up to look over the hedge] [Call the guards] [Run and hide] Player chose: Climb up to look over the hedge You look around for something to climb, but you're not sure if the nearby trees can support your weight. You run over to a statue and try to pull yourself up onto the pedestal, but it's too awkward to get your feet in place. By this time, whoever you saw is probably gone anyway. You overwhelm the guards with facts and figures, explaining that you need treasury access to adjust the royal budget, which may affect their pay packets as well as the taxes assessed on their friends and family. They stand aside. The glitter is dazzling, but some sixth sense draws you towards one little locked box in particular. This is what you need. This is the crystal that will make you a Lumen. You tuck the box into your pocket. You can show it to your mentor later and get instructions on what to do next.

Week 7
(Studied Divination in the morning.) (Studied Divination 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! Menu: [Apologise] [Punish her] Player chose: Apologise Elodie, Crown Princess: No, it was my fault. I should have gotten out of your way. Alice: ... If you say so, my lady. Elodie, Crown Princess: I got it! Elodie, Crown Princess: What do I do now? Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: Pick up the crystal with your bare hands. Press it against your chest, over your heart, and say "Illuminate!" Menu: [Do it] [Don't do it] Player chose: Do it Elodie, Crown Princess: Okay... Here we go... Illuminate! You feel dizzy, and both larger and lighter than you were before. The crystal has disappeared from view, but you know where it is. Elodie, Crown Princess: Wow. Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: The priestess here is a friend of mine. I will come to your lessons in the faith and train you to use your powers.

Week 8

(Studied Sense Magic in the morning.) (Studied Resist Magic 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: (Hmm. If it really works, that could be a very important invention.) Menu: [Invest] [Don't invest] Player chose: Invest Elodie, Crown Princess: We would be happy to invest in your venture. Sitting in on court sessions is not fun at all, but it pleases your father and it may be important for your future.

Week 9

(Studied Sense Magic in the morning.) (Studied Resist Magic 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: (I know there's been some problems with Ixion, but I don't know the details. I guess they're occupying southern Maree.) 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: Um... What sort of arrangements? Banion, Duke of Maree, Earl of Serenitatis: Your Highness, that is a courting gift. The man wishes to gain your hand in marriage. Elodie, Crown Princess: Oh. I didn't realise. Sitting in on court sessions is not fun at all, but it pleases your father and it may be important for your future.

Week 10
(Studied Wield Magic in the morning.) (Studied Wield Magic in the afternoon.) You have unlocked a new outfit! 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. Diplomat from Ixion: We can be good neighbors again, without any lives being lost. Menu: [Surrender Province] [Offer him money if Ixion withdraws] [Bluff / Intimidate] [Execute him] Player chose: Offer him money if Ixion withdraws Elodie, Crown Princess: That is not acceptable. All the land north of the river belongs to us. Elodie, Crown Princess: We are willing to offer some payment in exchange for the inconvenience you have suffered, but nothing more. Diplomat: I believe we could settle the matter for eight thousand golden lassi. Elodie, Crown Princess: (That's more than all of Maree pays in taxes in a year! It's far too much.) Menu: [Agree] [Make counter-offer] [Refuse] Player chose: Make counter-offer Elodie, Crown Princess: You and I both know that's more than the land is worth. Four thousand lassi is more than generous. Diplomat: Then we accept your generosity. Elodie, Crown Princess: (Phew. At least that's over with.) You attend services in the castle grove, letting the peace of the ritual calm your heart. The game will now attempt to save the log and open it in a web browser. Menu: [Continue] [Cancel] Player chose: Cancel The game will now attempt to save the log and open it in a web browser. Menu: [Continue] [Cancel] Player chose: Cancel

Week 11
(Studied Sense Magic in the morning.) (Studied Wield Magic 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: 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 visit the royal treasury and check your available funds. You have five thousand, one hundred and twenty-two gold lassi and twenty-seven silver tilassi.

Week 12
(Studied Resist Magic in the morning.) (Studied Resist Magic 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: *giggle* Elodie, Crown Princess: (I don't know how to deal with handsome older men paying me compliments!) 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: ... 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 13
(Studied Sense Magic in the morning.) (Studied Sense Magic 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: (I don't know what this is all about. Either way, murder is a serious crime, but...) Menu: [Put her to work] [Imprison her] [Execute her] Player chose: Put her to work Elodie, Crown Princess: This woman failed in her goals. She harmed no one. I do not require her life. Elodie, Crown Princess: If she is kept far away from your sister's court, she will no longer be a threat. Kevan, Earl of Io: You're going to forgive her?!? Elodie, Crown Princess: I'm indenturing her, not pardoning her. She will serve as a heavy laborer in northern Ursul. Kevan, Earl of Io: She should be made an example of! She should be drawn and quartered in a public square! Elodie, Crown Princess: I have spoken! Condemned Woman: Gods bless you, miss! You visit the royal treasury and check your available funds. You have five thousand, one hundred and twenty-one gold lassi and sixty-nine silver tilassi.

Week 14

(Studied Sense Magic in the morning.) You have nothing more to learn about Sense Magic. (Studied Resist Magic 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. Sitting in on court sessions is not fun at all, but it pleases your father and it may be important for your future.

Week 15

(Studied Wield Magic in the morning.) (Studied Wield Magic 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. Elodie, Crown Princess: (A grand ball... There will be dancing.) 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. Elodie, Crown Princess: Will the Duke of Sedna attend the gala? Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: It is a traditional Novan event. Inviting your fiancé might be seen as a statement. Menu: [Invite Talarist] [Don't] Player chose: Invite Talarist Elodie, Crown Princess: If I'm going to marry him, it's a statement I ought to send. Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: As you wish. Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Word has come from the factory for books that you funded. They have assembled enough equipment to begin printing test pamphlets. Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: As their royal sponsor, it is your right to decide the content of the first printing. Menu: [Poems praising your mother] [Pro-Lumen propaganda] [Religious doctrine] Player chose: Religious doctrine Elodie, Crown Princess: We should take this opportunity to celebrate our devotion to the gods, especially the Good Lady. Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: The temples will be pleased by your piety. 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 is absolutely furious about that woman's trial.) Elodie, Crown Princess: (She's bored and looking for an adventure. Well, I don't have any to suggest to her!) 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 16
(Studied Resist Magic in the morning.) You have nothing more to learn about Resist Magic. (Studied Wield Magic in the afternoon.) You have nothing more to learn about Wield Magic. 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 would rather not go Elodie, Crown Princess: No... I guess I'd rather stay here. You watch the procession from your tower window, feeling safe but lonely. Suddenly, you hear someone moving around inside your room. You turn in surprise, but it's only a maid. Alice: My lady? What are you - Should you not be in the procession? Elodie, Crown Princess: (Skipping a major festival... Is everyone wondering about me?) Menu: [Confess your fears] [Yell at her] Player chose: Confess your fears Elodie, Crown Princess: I can't go outside... there might be assassins. Alice: Oh. You visit the royal treasury and check your available funds. You have five thousand, one hundred and twenty-one gold lassi and ten silver tilassi.

Week 17
(Studied Reflexes in the morning.) (Studied Swords in the afternoon.) 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. Seeing yourself reflected in so many eyes makes you want to run away and hide. After a moment, you force yourself to carry on, but you're sure they've all seen you hesitate. 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. Talarist, Duke of Sedna: I believe the next turn is mine. He bows gracefully and offers you his hand, then leans close to whisper a quick question. Talarist, Duke of Sedna: Do you know how to dance? Nod or shake your head. Menu: [Nod yes] [Shake your head] [Step on his foot] Player chose: Shake your head You shake your head slightly, your hair swaying. Talarist, Duke of Sedna: Watch me. I'll go slowly. Dancing with a real partner feels quite different from dancing with your father. Especially when the man in front of you is the one you have agreed to marry. His touch is gentle, his every move carefully signaled to be sure that you don't miss the beat. Is this what your marriage will be like? Between the dances, there is time for the guests to mingle, chat, and sample tiny bites of exquisite food. 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: Her words of wisdom guide us through our difficulties. Everyone applauds politely. 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, dancing together - the Duke-Consort clutching his Duchess possessively tight. 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. There's something itching at your senses, something familiar. Then it hits you. Aunt Lucille is a Lumen! Menu: [Talk to your aunt] [Let it go] Player chose: Talk to your aunt Elodie, Crown Princess: Aunt Lucille, may I speak with you privately? Lucille, Countess of Nix: Of course, dear. You withdraw to a small side room. Elodie, Crown Princess: I can sense your powers. You're a Lumen. Lucille, Countess of Nix: What?!? Elodie, Crown Princess: I am, too. That's how I know. Can't you sense that? Lucille, Countess of Nix: No. No, I can't. She looks down, shaking her head. Lucille, Countess of Nix: I... I do have a Lumen crystal. I found it, years ago. It called to me. But I don't know anything about magic. Lucille, Countess of Nix: I can make the crystal appear and disappear, and I can block out sound with it. That's all. Elodie, Crown Princess: (I don't think that's true at all.) Elodie, Crown Princess: (There are traces of old magic around her, too faint to make sense of, but strong.) Elodie, Crown Princess: Why keep it hidden? It's not illegal to be a Lumen. Lucille, Countess of Nix: Magic is dangerous, everyone knows that. People might think I was an evil witch. They wouldn't trust me. Lucille, Countess of Nix: Look at how much trouble the Duchess of Ursul has. Please, Your Highness, don't tell anyone. Menu: [Accuse her of hiding something] [Offer her a court position] [Promise not to tell] Player chose: Accuse her of hiding something Elodie, Crown Princess: I don't think you're weak at all. I think there's something else you're hiding. Lucille, Countess of Nix: Like what? You open your mouth to answer her, and - - find yourself unable to speak or move. Lucille, Countess of Nix: My power isn't like your power, little princess. I control the absence of things. Sound. Light. Life. Lucille, Countess of Nix: But you dying now would be too suspicious. Instead, you're going to have a very unfortunate accident. Lucille, Countess of Nix: You will remain alive and helpless until everyone gives up hope of your recovery, and then you will die. Elodie, Crown Princess: (That's what you think!) Calling on your core of inner strength, you push your own magical energy into her spell, overloading it. Lucille, Countess of Nix: What? What are you doing - There is a loud noise, and the smell of burning. When you can move again, you find your aunt lying lifeless on the ground, a glimmering purple crystal beside her. Moments later, your father rushes into the room. Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Elodie! What happened? Elodie, Crown Princess: Aunt Lucille was an evil Lumen. She attacked me. Elodie, Crown Princess: It's all right. She's gone now. You feel drained of all energy and can barely keep your eyes open. Leaving your father to clean up the mess, you crawl off to bed. A walk in the fresh air helps you forget the burdens on your shoulders. The game will now attempt to save the log and open it in a web browser. Menu: [Continue] [Cancel] Player chose: Continue

Week 18
(Studied Reflexes in the morning.) (Studied Swords in the afternoon.) 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. How dare she make a move on your father? Menu: [Shame her with silent scorn] [Insult her with false flattery] [Trip her as she passes] Player chose: Trip her as she passes You wait until the Countess gets closer, then hook your foot around to make her stumble. Unfortunately, you get your feet tangled up and end up tripping yourself, falling to the ground with a thud. Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Elodie, are you all right? Elodie, Crown Princess: ... Sirin, Countess of Miranda and Callisto: Oh, dear. She does need a bit of looking after, doesn't she? Elodie, Crown Princess: (Not by you!) Sirin, Countess of Miranda and Callisto: I should go now. I hope to see more of you later. 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: Many dark looks were aimed your way at the gala. Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: As Queen, you must be aware of everything around you. Elodie, Crown Princess: (I am paying attention to what's around me!) All of a sudden, there is a scream from the hallway. Rushing outside, you find a young squire lying on the floor. An amorphous black shape, like the imprint of a monstrous hand, surrounds his neck. He is not moving. Before your eyes, the darkness fades away, leaving only ordinary bruises - and a body. Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: What...? Elodie, Crown Princess: It doesn't feel like a spell... not a Lumen spell, anyway. Elodie, Crown Princess: What else could do something like this? Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: I don't know. Everywhere you look, there are shadows... any one of them might be dangerous. It will take some time to sleep tonight. Elodie, Crown Princess: I'm scared... Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: What has happened? Elodie, Crown Princess: First my aunt turned out to be a Lumen and attacked me, and now this mysterious darkness is killing people... Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: Your aunt? Tell me everything. You explain the encounter with the Countess of Nix at the gala, how she tried to ensorcel you and you drove back her magic wth your own, killing her in the process. Then you describe the living shadow which strangled a squire and vanished before your eyes. Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: A creeping shade. Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: ... I'll take care of it. Don't worry. No one else will die. Elodie, Crown Princess: Wait! Elodie, Crown Princess: What's a creeping shade? Why is it here? What am I supposed to do about it? Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: It is your responsibility to study and become a queen. It is my responsibility to deal with dangers like this. Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: You are distracting yourself and me. You are wasting my time and putting others at risk. Elodie, Crown Princess: ... Sorry. Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: Go. Do what you do. I will do what I do.

Week 19
(Studied Reflexes in the morning.) You may now play Sports on the weekends. (Studied Swords 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. Based on the records and notes of current expenditures, if you maintain the current rate of tax, you will still have five thousand, one hundred and twenty gold lassi and fifty silver tilassi available for special projects. Any little trade disruption shouldn't need more than a few hundred lassi to sort out, at least temporarily. Menu: [Raise taxes] [Keep them the same] [Lower taxes] Player chose: Raise taxes Elodie, Crown Princess: We need more money. Raise the taxes a bit. Elodie, Crown Princess: If we adjust this and this here, most people won't even notice the difference. Elodie, Crown Princess: Only the ones who can afford it will pay more. 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 20
(Studied Reflexes in the morning.) (Studied Swords in the afternoon.) 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? This man is a Lumen! Where did he get a crystal?) Menu: [Question him about crystal] [Pardon him] [Imprison him] [Execute him] Player chose: Question him about crystal Elodie, Crown Princess: It was a demon's magic that killed your wife? Not your own magic? Condemned Man: ... So you know what I am. He throws out his hands, and his fingertips elongate into floating strings of gold. Condemned Man: DIE! Golden chains slash at you like whips. With so much warning, of course, it is easy for you to resist. His attack bounces harmlessly off your shields, the chains flying back in the direction from which they came... where they find an easier target. Before your eyes, the renegade Lumen is choked to death by his own powers. After a moment, an orange crystal materialises next to his body. Elodie, Crown Princess: I guess I'll have to take that for safe keeping. You attend services in the castle grove, letting the peace of the ritual calm your heart. The game will now attempt to save the log and open it in a web browser. Menu: [Continue] [Cancel] Player chose: Continue Log saved to C:\Users\Krig7\AppData\Roaming/RenPy/LongLiveTheQueen/log.html Starting browser.

Week 21
(Studied Reflexes in the morning.) Your skill in Reflexes is now 50. You may not increase this skill until your other Agility skills are 25 or higher. (Studied Swords in the afternoon.) Your skill in Swords is now 50. You may not increase this skill until your other Weapons skills are 25 or higher. 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 hilarious! Elodie, Crown Princess: (That's actually pretty funny!) 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. Elodie, Crown Princess: Pssst! I need to talk to you! Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: What is it? Elodie, Crown Princess: That priestess, Selene... She's a Lumen! I can sense it! Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: I know. Elodie, Crown Princess: What do you mean, you know? If you knew that, why didn't you tell me? Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: You didn't need to know. Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: Your job is managing the domain. Some of us have other duties. Our missions have been passed down for centuries, little princess. Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: We are here to train you. You don't need to know any more than that. Menu: [Order her to explain] [Let it go] Player chose: Let it go Elodie, Crown Princess: (Right...)

Week 22
(Studied Flexibility in the morning.) (Studied Flexibility 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. Elodie, Crown Princess: If you attack an enemy Lumen, and you win, and they leave behind a crystal... Elodie, Crown Princess: Is it possible to combine that crystal with mine to make it stronger? Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: Each Lumen can hold only one crystal. Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: The only way to combine their magic is if a living wielder chooses to join its power to another. Elodie, Crown Princess: Oh. Elodie, Crown Princess: So I should destroy other crystals, to stop anyone from using them against me. Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: That is the traditional policy - but it is a lie. Lumen crystals cannot be destroyed. Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: Rulers claim otherwise to discourage thieves from seeking dangerous treasures. Elodie, Crown Princess: What am I supposed to do with a crystal, then? Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: Guard it, or hide it, or give it into other hands to wield. Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: But if the last holder of the crystal was an enemy, the resonance of the crystal will work against you. Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: It will be attuned to a personality as foolish or violent or scheming as the Lumen you defeated. Elodie, Crown Princess: So anyone taking the crystal would probably become a new enemy. That's useless! Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: A weak-willed candidate might be acceptable to the crystal and yet still controllable. Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: You could then steer that Lumen away from dangerous paths, making an ally and changing the crystal's resonance. Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: It is, however, a dangerous endeavor and one that requires your complete attention. Elodie, Crown Princess: (Not really a project I can work on while I'm so busy studying for my coronation.) Elodie, Crown Princess: (Well, it's only two crystals. That's not too much trouble.)

Week 23
(Studied Strategy in the morning.) (Studied Strategy 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.) Sabine: Your Royal Highness! If you accept me as a member of your court I will immortalise you in word and song. Sabine: I have dabbled in musical styles from many countries, and can entertain your guests and lighten your evenings. Elodie, Crown Princess: (I wonder if she also writes naughty poetry?) The musician sings a little ditty to demonstrate her skills with the lute. Elodie, Crown Princess: (She's actually pretty good.) Menu: [Accept her as Court Musician] [Reject her] Player chose: Accept her as Court Musician Elodie, Crown Princess: Very well, you can remain as part of the court. Sabine: I will do my best for you! 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 24
(Studied Strategy in the morning.) (Studied Strategy in the afternoon.) You may now tour the Barracks on the weekends. 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 take to the court for a few games of tennis. Feel the thrill of competition!

Week 25
(Studied Strategy in the morning.) Your skill in Strategy is now 50. You may not increase this skill until your other Military skills are 25 or higher. (Studied Logistics 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!) 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 26
(Studied Logistics in the morning.) (Studied Logistics in the afternoon.) Your skill in Logistics is now 50. You may not increase this skill until your other Military skills are 25 or higher. Elodie, Crown Princess: What a beautiful day! Elodie, Crown Princess: It's nice to stop and breathe sometimes. You take to the court for a few games of tennis. Feel the thrill of competition!

Week 27
(Studied Flexibility in the morning.) (Studied Flexibility in the afternoon.) Your skill in Flexibility is now 50. You may not increase this skill until your other Agility skills are 25 or higher. 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 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 28
(Studied Flattery in the morning.) (Studied Flattery in the afternoon.) 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. Your uncle, the Duke of Merva, is present, and you realise that you've never spoken to him about his wife's death. You wonder if Charlotte and her siblings are here. You notice several people quickly looking away and whispering to their companions when they catch sight of you. You wonder what they are talking about. Arisse, the Duchess of Lillah, is present, but she somehow always manages to avoid talking to you when you draw near. 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 her mother Elodie, Crown Princess: You should listen to your mother. She loves you, and she deserves your respect. Lieke, Countess of Dis: Thank you, Your Highness. Gwenelle, Duchess of Sudbury: I am the Duchess of Sudbury, and I must command respect of my own. Gwenelle, Duchess of Sudbury: We're not children anymore, Elodie. If you let people treat you like that, you can't rule them. 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: Old palace? Briony, Lady Mead: The one at Kathre Lake! Where the Kings and Queens of Nova used to live. Elodie, Crown Princess: I don't know anything about it. Briony, Lady Mead: Oh. She bites her lip and frowns at you. Briony, Lady Mead: Well, never mind, then. She walks away. So much for wanting to talk to you! At the end, you all share a pleasant meal and prepare to return to your various lands. Only then do you catch sight of someone you've been looking for. Elodie, Crown Princess: Charlotte! Charlotte, Lady Merva: ... Leave me alone. Elodie, Crown Princess: What? Charlotte, Lady Merva: Don't talk to me! Stay away from me! She runs away. Elodie, Crown Princess: (Of course... I killed her mother, didn't I?) Elodie, Crown Princess: (She'll never forgive me.) There's nothing you can do about it now. You attend services in the castle grove, letting the peace of the ritual calm your heart.

Week 29
(Studied Flattery in the morning.) (Studied Flattery in the afternoon.) Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Matters have come to a crisis. Arisse, the Duchess of Lillah, has declared civil war. Elodie, Crown Princess: What?!? Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Apparently she feels that you are a weak leader, unfit to be Queen, and has managed to sway several others to her banner. Elodie, Crown Princess: Who is against me? Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: A number of minor earls and countesses. The Duchess of Mead and the Duke of Kigal. Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: The forces of Elath are under Arisse's control, of course. Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: The situation in Hellas and Maree is less clear. Elodie, Crown Princess: What forces can she muster, and what are we still holding? Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: We have four battalions, two companies, and one platoon. Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: The naval side is, of course, useless in this conflict. Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: By my estimate, Arisse can field five battalions, two companies, and one platoon. Elodie, Crown Princess: That's not good. Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: It will come down to a question of strategy. Elodie, Crown Princess: We have that printing factory, right? Get them to write up some sheets to denounce Arisse! Elodie, Crown Princess: If the soldiers read those, they might change their minds about following her. Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: I hope it will be effective. Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: There are ways to increase the number of soldiers you have available. Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: You could offer to pardon various imprisoned criminals in exchange for military service. Menu: [Pardon criminals] [Don't] Player chose: Pardon criminals Elodie, Crown Princess: All right, let's do that. Criminals probably already know how to fight. Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Very well. Forces are in motion, but they will take time to reach their peak. 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 30
(Studied Naval Strategy in the morning.) (Studied Naval Strategy in the afternoon.) You have unlocked a new outfit! Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: The negotiator for the rebels has arrived to speak with you. Elodie, Crown Princess: Surrender now and I will be lenient. Diplomat: We are not here for our surrender. We are here for yours. Diplomat: Relinquish the authority of the throne and you will not be harmed. Diplomat: The Duchess Arisse and her family will rule Nova as regents. You will be allowed to maintain a figurehead title. Diplomat: Many lives will be spared, and your domain will continue to the future in safer, wiser hands. Menu: [Surrender] [Never!] Player chose: Never! Elodie, Crown Princess: I am the Queen! Diplomat: Since we cannot come to an agreement, we will meet you on the battlefield. Elodie, Crown Princess: Fine. 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 31
(Studied Strategy in the morning.) (Studied Logistics in the afternoon.) War rages for control of Nova. As defending Queen, you are required to take personal control of your forces. Your control of magic enhances your claim to divine right of rulership. Your Lumen powers cause chaos among your enemies with explosive displays and waves of terror. You lack the strength to take on a whole army by yourself, of course, but they don't need to know that. Battles are won and lost, fallen soldiers decorating the landscape. The final outcome... ... is a victory for your side. Your forces sweep through the rebellious duchies and are met with cheers by the local population. Arisse, the ringleader, is executed, and the other rebels forced to pay tribute to keep their holdings. Of course, there is also a cost paid in lives. Total casualties were three quarters of a battalion on your side and three and a quarter battalions among the rebels. Of course, there are no more rebel soldiers now - they are once more your loyal subjects. 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 Polearms in the morning.) (Studied Polearms 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. 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 Archery in the morning.) (Studied Archery 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: Fencing Here the devotees of the blade can challenge each other to duels fought only for points, not blood and honor. It is immediately obvious that your opponent is more skilled than you are, but she draws out the match longer than necessary before driving you out of the ring. Perhaps she was afraid of hurting you. At least you aren't too embarrassed. All the winners are announced and displayed to great cheers. As near-Queen, you place flower garlands around their necks. All of a sudden, a man approaches the winner's platform. It's Kevan, the Earl of Io. In one hand, he carries an armored gauntlet. In the other, a sword. Kevan, Earl of Io: My family's blood is on your hands! Elodie, Crown Princess: (Arisse, the ringleader of the rebellion... She was his mother.) He casts the metal glove to the ground with a clatter and raises his sword, pointing it at you. Kevan, Earl of Io: I challenge you, Elodie! A life for a life! He's challenging you to a duel? Doesn't he know you could burn him to a crisp just by waving your hand? Menu: [Accept] [Refuse] [Kill him with magic] Player chose: Kill him with magic Without a further word, you direct the full force of your magical wrath at the Earl of Io. There is a horrible scream, and the smell of burning flesh. Elodie, Crown Princess: I decline. Kevan's sword falls to the ground beside his gauntlet. He won't be needing either anymore. You take to the court for a few games of tennis. Feel the thrill of competition!

Week 34
(Studied Meditation in the morning.) (Studied Meditation in the afternoon.) Alice: My lady, your father wishes to speak with you. He says it's urgent. Elodie, Crown Princess: Fine, I'm coming. 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: Don't Elodie, Crown Princess: No, it's too late for that. Elodie, Crown Princess: What about Talasse? Can we call on any troops from Sedna? Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Send a message, but even if he agrees, it will take time for his soldiers to mobilise. 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. You are impressed by the discipline of the Novan troops, but the responsibility for their lives weighs heavily on your shoulders. There are approximately six battalions, three companies, and one platoon under your direct command.

Week 35

(Studied Naval Strategy in the morning.) (Studied Naval Strategy in the afternoon.) Danger on the high seas! Ships close in on each other, angling into range. The Shanjian forces greatly outnumber the Novans. This is unlikely to end well. If only you had more soldiers available! 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 attend services in the castle grove, letting the peace of the ritual calm your heart.

Week 36
(Studied Strategy in the morning.) You have nothing more to learn about Strategy. (Studied Strategy in the afternoon.) You have nothing more to learn about Strategy. 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. Almost no choice. Your fiancé, Duke Talarist of Sedna, has sent you a message. He does not personally command enough soldiers to turn the tide against this invasion, but his king in Talasse is eager to discuss a formal alliance. If you flee the capital now, you should be able to evade the army and reach the Talassian border. Menu: [Run away] [Meet with diplomats] Player chose: Meet with diplomats 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: (Is he really their King? Why would a king come all the way here?) Elodie, Crown Princess: (And he's a Lumen, too!) Togami: My dear young lady. How difficult this must be for you. So much responsibility at such a tender age. Elodie, Crown Princess: Don't pretend to be my friend while you're killing my people! Togami: Temper, temper, Princess. After all, I am here to save your people. 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: Your game by your rules, for my life? That doesn't sound fair to me. Togami: The rules of formal dueling have been passed down for centuries and must be upheld. Togami: It is important that we do this by the ancient codes. Elodie, Crown Princess: Why should I? 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. Elodie, Crown Princess: It won't work for you! Togami: How little you know. Under the right circumstances, resonance can be changed. Togami: To gain your power, I am willing to wager my own. Shall we begin? Elodie, Crown Princess: (I can sense his power... it's so strong!) Elodie, Crown Princess: (I've learned everything I possibly could, but he's at least as good as I am...) Elodie, Crown Princess: (I don't like this... But what choice do I have?) Menu: [Accept his terms] [Offer to give him your power] [Refuse outright] Player chose: Accept his terms Elodie, Crown Princess: Then... I must. Togami explains the rules of formal dueling to you, including a carefully inscribed circle of wards which will contain the effects of any powers you wield, protecting bystanders from danger. And then it is time to begin. You trade attacks, one spell sensed and countered by another, reserving your strength as much as possible. It might almost be exciting if your life weren't on the line. You need to end this quickly before his experience allows him to come up with a trick you can't defeat. He's used to dealing with magical attacks, but he might not be expecting a physical one. Perhaps if you rushed him, you could take him off guard? Up close, he couldn't use his fancy spells. But what would you do then? You still have to use magic to win, you can't just grab him and bang his head against the floor. Perhaps you could focus your power into the shape of a sword and attack him with that. Or maybe if you could distract him somehow, you could cast a spell that he couldn't block? Menu: [Magic sword] [Dazzle him] Player chose: Magic sword Motes of shimmering moonlight coalesce into a weapon in your hand. Your first lunge, he dodges, rolling to the ground. But you recover quickly and strike again. In the confined space of the warded circle, there is nowhere for him to run. The final strike of your moonblade parts his head from his shoulders. You have won. The barracks stand largely empty. What remains of your army is scattered. The game will now attempt to save the log and open it in a web browser. Menu: [Continue] [Cancel] Player chose: Continue