LLTQ: Bruteforce magic

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 Horses in the morning.)
(Studied Falcons 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.
Sitting in on court sessions is not fun at all, but it pleases your father and it may be important for your future.
Week 2

(Studied Dogs in the morning.)
(Studied Falcons 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.
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 3

(Studied Horses in the morning.)
(Studied Dogs in the afternoon.)
You have unlocked a new outfit!
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: Hold still
You want to hold still, but you don't have the composure to hold your position without peeking.
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: 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 4

(Studied Reflexes in the morning.)
(Studied Flexibility 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.
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!
You wander through the parts of the castle where other people rarely visit, but find little except spiderwebs. Yuck.
Week 5

(Studied Reflexes in the morning.)
You may now play Sports on the weekends.
(Studied Dance in the afternoon.)
Maid: My lady, couriers have arrived from the Duke of Sedna.
Elodie, Crown Princess: We have a Duke of Sedna?
Maid: ... No, my Lady. The duchy of Sedna is in Talasse.
Maid: 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 attend services in the castle grove, letting the peace of the ritual calm your heart.
Week 6

(Studied Flexibility in the morning.)
(Studied Dance in the afternoon.)
You have unlocked a new outfit!
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 spend the weekend holed up alone in your room with your favorite toys. It's childish, but you feel a bit better.
Week 7

(Studied Reflexes in the morning.)
(Studied Reflexes in the afternoon.)
As you are walking up the stairs, a maid comes running down holding a towering pile of linen.
You swiftly step aside and let her pass.
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 8

(Studied Dance in the morning.)
You may now attend Ballroom Dancing on the weekends.
(Studied Reflexes 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.
You take to the court for a few games of tennis. Feel the thrill of competition!
Week 9

(Studied Dance in the morning.)
(Studied Reflexes in the afternoon.)
You have nothing more to learn about Reflexes.
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 Elegance in the morning.)
(Studied Presence 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.
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: Surrender Province
Elodie, Crown Princess: I don't want to fight.
Elodie, Crown Princess: Very well. You can have the province.
Banion, Duke of Maree, Earl of Serenitatis: Your Highness!
Elodie, Crown Princess: Please accept our deepest apologies for this whole affair.
Diplomat from Ixion: Of course. I look forward to seeing you again.
You spend the weekend holed up alone in your room with your favorite toys. It's childish, but you feel a bit better.
Week 11

(Studied Composure in the morning.)
(Studied Presence 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.)
A walk in the fresh air helps you forget the burdens on your shoulders.
Week 12

(Studied Composure in the morning.)
(Studied Elegance in the afternoon.)
You have unlocked a new outfit!
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 take to the court for a few games of tennis. Feel the thrill of competition!
Week 13

(Studied Presence in the morning.)
(Studied Presence 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 take to the court for a few games of tennis. Feel the thrill of competition!
Week 14

(Studied Elegance in the morning.)
(Studied Presence 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: (An owl flying in the open in broad daylight? That's unusual. I wonder if something attacked it?)
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 take to the court for a few games of tennis. Feel the thrill of competition!
Week 15

(Studied Elegance in the morning.)
(Studied Composure 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 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 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 16

(Studied Dance in the morning.)
You have nothing more to learn about Dance.
(Studied Falcons 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.
You can tell from the excited murmurs around you that the people are impressed with your queenly appearance.
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.
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: I'll try to find a way
Elodie, Crown Princess: All right. I will try to get into the treasury.
Week 17

(Studied Falcons in the morning.)
(Studied Falcons 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.
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.
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 about your age
You approach Linley, the second son of the Duke of Kigal. He's about two years older than you, and he was always nice to you at school.
He bows to you with great courtesy and you begin to dance.
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.
Of course, you are an excellent dancer and you relish the chance to show off your hard-earned skills.
A ballroom dance isn't nearly as much of a showcase as a stage performance, but you can easily impress the guests with your technique and style.
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 respect for tradition and the rights of the nobility means that we can all sleep safe in our beds.
Banion, Duke of Maree, Earl of Serenitatis: Our boundaries are strong and secure, our lands well-defended. No one would dare to steal from us.
The blatant falseness of his words grates on your ears. He's challenging your honor in front of the entire assembly.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (He wants me angry. He wants me to make a mistake.)
Menu: [Challenge him to a duel] [Ignore the insult] [Order his execution]
Player chose: Ignore the insult
You turn your head away, pretending not to notice the concerned murmurs around you.
Better to look like a coward than to indulge in pointless fighting... right?
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.
It's nice to be able to enjoy time with friends and family, isn't it?
You take to the court for a few games of tennis. Feel the thrill of competition!
Week 18

(Studied Strategy in the morning.)
(Studied Dogs 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: Shame her with silent scorn
You meet her eyes and imagine your mother's disapproving presence behind you.
Her color pales, and she releases her grip on your father's arm, mumbling an apology before hurrying out of the room. You have defeated her.
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!)
You order the guards to stand aside and walk forward with your head held high. None of them dares to deny you access to your own treasury.
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 19

(Studied Strategy in the morning.)
(Studied Naval Strategy 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.
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 20

(Studied Sense Magic in the morning.)
(Studied Resist Magic 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 that make you attack people? Is that even possible?)
Menu: [Pardon him] [Imprison him] [Execute him]
Player chose: Imprison him
Elodie, Crown Princess: Whether there were demons or not, you still killed a woman - your wife.
Elodie, Crown Princess: I won't forgive you for that. You will be imprisoned for the rest of your life.
He opens his mouth to argue with you further, but then his shoulders slump.
Condemned man: Yes, Your Majesty.
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 21

(Studied Naval Strategy in the morning.)
(Studied Wield Magic in the afternoon.)
You receive word that the murderer you condemned to prison has escaped. A large explosion rocked the jail he was in, destroying the walls and setting many dangerous criminals free.
It will now fall to the Royal Treasury to repair the damage.
You attend services in the castle grove, letting the peace of the ritual calm your heart.
Week 22

(Studied Logistics in the morning.)
(Studied Logistics in the afternoon.)
You have unlocked a new outfit!
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: Send him to your uncle
Elodie, Crown Princess: What about your brother Armand? He would be a safe pair of hands to watch over Adair.
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 Dogs 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.)
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.
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: Reject her
Elodie, Crown Princess: Thank you, but we are not interested.
You take to the court for a few games of tennis. Feel the thrill of competition!
Week 24

(Studied Dogs in the morning.)
(Studied Falcons in the afternoon.)
You have nothing more to learn about Falcons.
You receive a letter from Young Lord Adair.
So far, he's enjoying himself with your uncle Armand in Mazomba. He says the trees look different, and there are a lot more frogs. He looks forward to visiting the lookout fort at Shepherd's Point.
You take to the court for a few games of tennis. Feel the thrill of competition!
Week 25

(Studied Strategy in the morning.)
(Studied Sense Magic 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 take to the court for a few games of tennis. Feel the thrill of competition!
Week 26

(Studied Strategy in the morning.)
(Studied Naval Strategy in the afternoon.)
Maid: 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.
You attend services in the castle grove, letting the peace of the ritual calm your heart.
Week 27

(Studied Resist Magic in the morning.)
(Studied Wield Magic in the afternoon.)
You have unlocked a new outfit!
Maid: 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 Resist Magic in the morning.)
(Studied Wield Magic in the afternoon.)
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.
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 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: 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.
You take to the court for a few games of tennis. Feel the thrill of competition!
Week 29

(Studied Sense Magic in the morning.)
(Studied Wield Magic 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 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 five and a half battalions.
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 four and a half battalions.
Elodie, Crown Princess: That's not good.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: It will come down to a question of strategy.
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 take to the court for a few games of tennis. Feel the thrill of competition!
Week 30

(Studied Wield Magic in the morning.)
(Studied Resist Magic in the afternoon.)
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 take to the court for a few games of tennis. Feel the thrill of competition!
Week 31

(Studied Strategy in the morning.)
You have nothing more to learn about Strategy.
(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.
Your keen sense of military strategy enabled you to resolve the affair with much less loss of life than might have been expected.
Total casualties were a quarter of a battalion on your side and one and three quarters battalions among the rebels.
Of course, there are no more rebel soldiers now - they are once more your loyal subjects.
You take to the court for a few games of tennis. Feel the thrill of competition!
Week 32

(Studied Naval Strategy in the morning.)
(Studied Naval Strategy in the afternoon.)
You have nothing more to learn about Naval Strategy.
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: (Someone on hall duty is being lazy. Those flowers should be replaced.)
You continue up the stairs to your room, where a maid is waiting for you.
Maid: My lady, a gift has arrived from Kigal.
Elodie, Crown Princess: From the Duke?
Maid: 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'.
All of a sudden, your puppy, who is usually so well behaved, growls at the box of chocolates and lunges at it.
Elodie, Crown Princess: Bad dog! Chocolate isn't good for you!
Elodie, Crown Princess: Silly thing, making such a fuss.
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 take to the court for a few games of tennis. Feel the thrill of competition!
Week 33

(Studied Wield Magic in the morning.)
You have nothing more to learn about Wield Magic.
(Studied Resist Magic in the afternoon.)
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: Falconry
Only nobles take part in the falconry competition, of course. The only commoner who fly such birds do so under a noble's aegis.
You are far too new to the sport to be in contention for a prize, but it is a pleasant learning experience, and your fellow competitors are pleased by your interest and enthusiasm.
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.
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 visit the royal treasury and check your available funds.
You have ten thousand, seven hundred and forty-one gold lassi and twenty-five silver tilassi.
Week 34

(Studied Resist Magic in the morning.)
You have nothing more to learn about Resist Magic.
(Studied Sense Magic in the afternoon.)
Maid: 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: Recruit soldiers
Elodie, Crown Princess: Fine, we'll do 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.
Elodie, Crown Princess: What about Ixion?
Elodie, Crown Princess: After I gave up territory to them, they owe us a favor!
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: Send them a message as fast as possible. If they accept your request, they may be able to provide aid.
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: Direct the fleet
Elodie, Crown Princess: The risk is mine to take.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: You have your mother's heart.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: There is one more thing. I hesitate to ask, but...
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: An invasion...
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: This is the sort of disaster for which a Lumen's power may be worth the cost.
Joslyn, King Dowager, Duke of Caloris: If the fleet could be destroyed before they reached our waters, many lives would be saved.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (I don't know any magic that could sink a whole fleet!)
Elodie, Crown Princess: I... I'll have to talk to my mentor.
You find the Duchess of Ursul in her guest quarters.
Elodie, Crown Princess: A fleet from Shanjia is attacking us. Is it possible to sink them all with magic?
Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: It is easy enough to attack one soldier, one ship, as a demonstration. But to obliterate an entire fleet...
Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: You would need an immense amount of power spread over a large area, more than any one Lumen could control.
Julianna, Duchess of Ursul: If you tried to raise that much power yourself, you would die. Not could. Would.
Elodie, Crown Princess: So it's hopeless.
Elodie, Crown Princess: (We'll just have to rely on our soldiers.)
You take to the court for a few games of tennis. Feel the thrill of competition!
Week 35

(Studied Sense Magic in the morning.)
You have nothing more to learn about Sense Magic.
(Studied Dogs in the afternoon.)
You have nothing more to learn about Dogs.
Danger on the high seas!
Ships close in on each other, angling into range.
Your ships, but not Ixion's. They did not see fit to respond to your request for aid.
You take your position with a spyglass, watching the enemy movements closely and shouting out any necessary changes in plan.
The Shanjian forces greatly outnumber the Novans. This is unlikely to end well. If only you had more soldiers available!
Your skill in long-range magic makes you as effective as a cannon (and more maneuverable), but there is still only one of you.
The eventual outcome...
... is not in your favor.
The Novan ships are sunk or scattered, as the Shanjian forces press towards landfall.
Your grasp of strategy allows you to recognise when the tipping point has been passed, and order your remaining vessels to retreat before they are all destroyed.
This saves lives, but it means leaving the Novan approach completely unguarded.
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 take to the court for a few games of tennis. Feel the thrill of competition!
Week 36

(Studied Swords in the morning.)
(Studied Swords 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.
Almost no choice.
Your fiance, 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.
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: 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.
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] [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?
Week 37

(Studied Presence in the morning.)
You have nothing more to learn about Presence.
(Studied Elegance in the afternoon.)
Once you 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.
Luckily, the Duke of Sedna has finally sent some reinforcements to your aid. The patrols are small in number, but much fresher than your own troops, and the mere sight of them is enough to strike fear into the hearts of the renegades.
You attend services in the castle grove, letting the peace of the ritual calm your heart.
Week 38

(Studied Elegance in the morning.)
You have nothing more to learn about Elegance.
(Studied Composure in the afternoon.)
There's something going on that no one wants to tell you about. Servants avoid your eyes and scurry away; ministers converse in low, worried tones.
Yet as far as you can tell, your territory is secure. No more attacks are underway. So what could be wrong?
You lie awake in bed at night, worrying that perhaps all of your choices have been the wrong ones.
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?
You take to the court for a few games of tennis. Feel the thrill of competition!
Week 39

(Studied Composure in the morning.)
(Studied Composure in the afternoon.)
You have nothing more to learn about Composure.
You awaken to the sound of chanting outside the castle. You stick your head out the window to see what's happening, then withdraw with a gasp.
The peasants are rebelling!
Hundreds, maybe thousands, of them, with spears and pitchforks and torches, all screaming for your removal. And here you are in your tower, with your armies depleted from the recent war.
Of course, you do have an advantage over the mob - You are a Lumen. Do you dare turn your powers on your own people?
Menu: [Attack them] [Wait for them to go away]
Player chose: Attack them
You refuse to cower like a frightened rabbit. You will march out to them openly and show them that you have the power of the gods behind you.
What would be difficult against soldiers in armor is instead ridiculously easy against untrained peasants. You barely have to wave your hand and people fall away, screaming and covered in burns.
After only a few minutes, the crowd breaks and flees in panic, leaving behind only the wounded too slow to get out of the way of the stampede.
You take to the court for a few games of tennis. Feel the thrill of competition!
Week 40

(Studied Flexibility in the morning.)
(Studied Flexibility in the afternoon.)
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!)
The following year, Elodie and Talarist were married in a ceremony that threatened to rival her coronation for pomp and splendour.
Once his daughter was secure on her throne, Joslyn returned to his birthplace to focus on his duties as Duke of Caloris.
He was pursued by many women, but showed little interest in remarrying, directing them instead to his brother, the Duke of Mazomba.
Following Elodie's victory over the Shanjian king, the public opinion of Lumens rose to a height that hadn't been seen in a hundred years. Young children would dress up and play at being magical kings and queens.
Freed from the need for secrecy, the Duchess Julianna and the Priestess Selene were able to announce their shared magical powers and their love. At Elodie's prompting, the lovers pledged their devotion to each other in a private ceremony, after which Selene retired from the priesthood to accompany her wife to Ursul.
As neither of them intended to bear children of the body, Julianna made arrangements for her niece Briony to be declared the next heir to the duchy of Ursul as well as the inheritor of her crystal. Briony's mother Corisande hoped that the training necessary to make her flighty daughter into a future magical girl warrior would keep her out of worse trouble.
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.
Elodie was her mother's daughter, possessed of a royal grace and solemnity even as a young woman. That quiet power would only deepen over the years.
And thus Queen Elodie's legacy stretched into the future...