*comment ñáéç…— *hide_reuse *advertisement *gosub_scene util check_flow *set first_memphis_caucus_attended true *temp jesse_toa ("dear" & (" " & given_name)) *if jesse_rapport < 45 *set jesse_toa (mr & (" " & surname)) *comment jesse_toa = jesse's term of address for the player. *temp player_out false *temp jesse_out false *temp opinion_changed false *temp interlocutor "empty" *temp i_he "he" *temp interlocutor_introduced false *temp lesczynski_for_malloy false *temp lesczynski_for_pickering false *temp malloy_for_lesczynski false *temp pickering_for_lesczynski false *temp supporting 1 *comment 2 = Siobhan 3 = Ascher 4 = Absalom *temp untold_tale_of_jesse_and_samantha true *temp coffins_anti_semitism_unused true *temp flirted_with_santagostino false *temp flirted_with_jesse false *temp persuade_lesczynski false *temp persuade_pickering false *temp persuade_malloy false *temp lesczynski_tongue false *temp neutrality_asserted false *if speaks_english or speaks_german *set lesczynski_tongue true *temp coffin "Coffin" *if heard_of_coffin = false *set coffin "the woman in Puritan dress" *temp lockridge "Lockridge" *if heard_of_lockridge = false *set lockridge "the man from the Carolinas" *temp seat_num 3 *if player_for_senator *set seat_num +1 *if malloy_out *set seat_num -1 *if pickering_out *set seat_num -1 *if jesse_for_senator *set seat_num +1 You arrive at the Gayoso Hotel, where the caucus will be held. *label check_interlocutor *if carothers_rapport > 50 *set interlocutor "Carothers" *elseif (jesse_rapport > 50) *set interlocutor "Jesse" *elseif (revolutionary_credentials < 45) and (speaks_english or speaks_french) *set heard_of_lockridge true *set met_lockridge true *set interlocutor "Lockridge" *set lockridge "Lockridge" *else *set met_chiara true *set interlocutor "Santagostino" *set i_he "she" *if met_pickering or heard_of_pickering *goto check_lesczynski *else *set interlocutor_introduced true After an hour or so, it seems that most of the guests from the previous evening have arrived. You find yourself in conversation with ${interlocutor}, who has just inquired as to whether you are acquainted with all of the candidates for Senate. "You have not yet met Mr. Pickering?" "No, I haven't." "Absalom Pickering, of Mobile. I would consider him the favored of the candidates, what with the likely support of Coffin, Lockridge, and Simmons." *set heard_of_pickering true *if simmons_waylaid You do your best not to signal that anything is amiss with this statement. *if heard_of_simmons = false "Simmons?" "Yes, Charles Simmons. The Senator from Mobile." "And he will support Pickering?" "I would count on it," ${i_he} replies. *label check_lesczynski *if met_lesczynski or heard_of_lesczynski *goto check_malloy *else *if interlocutor_introduced "There is also Mr. Lesczynski." *label identify_lesczynski *if able_to_identify_jews "The Jewish man?" "Yes." *else "I'm sorry?" "The man with the hat and curls." "I see. And who supports him?" *set heard_of_lesczynski true "No one overtly, but he seems like an acceptable compromise candidate," ${i_he} replies. *goto check_malloy *else *set interlocutor_introduced true After an hour or so, it seems that most of the guests from the previous evening have arrived. You find yourself in conversation with ${interlocutor}, who has just inquired as to whether you are acquainted with all of the candidates for Senate. "You are not acquainted with Mr. Lesczynski?" *goto identify_lesczynski *label check_malloy *if met_malloy or heard_of_malloy *goto conclude_introductions *else *if interlocutor_introduced "And then there is Siobhan Malloy. Have you made her acquaintance?" *label identify_malloy "The Irishwoman, I presume?" *set heard_of_malloy true "You are correct." "No, I haven't." "She has her charms." *if (discretion > 60) "You mean she smiles a lot and speaks loudly?" "Yes, I suppose you could describe her that way." "And who supports her?" "Partridge and Bailey are her most ardent supporters, but they would support whomever will throw in their lot with Stone, I suspect." *if heard_of_partridge "That seems likely," you reply. *else *set heard_of_partridge true *set heard_of_bailey true You do your best not to seem bewildered by these new names. *goto conclude_introductions *else After an hour or so, it seems that most of the guests from the previous evening have arrived. You find yourself in conversation with ${interlocutor}, who has just inquired as to whether you are acquainted with all of the candidates for Senate. "You have not yet met Miss Malloy?" ${i_he} inquires. *goto identify_malloy *label conclude_introductions *if interlocutor_introduced "Well, my work here is done," ${i_he} concludes. "Thank you for the tutorial," you reply with a ${bow}. *page_break *else You attempt to survey the other attendees while you wait for the caucus to begin. In the Society, facial expressions take on a sort of lurid seriousness. The vampires must be very careful about the emotions they express and who might perceive them. And so, a different sort of perception arises: learning to read what sort of expression a vampire would be making, were their face not such a carefully constructed mask. The sudden stillness of Arthur Lockridge—handed a note by his valet—reads like a banker who has just been informed that his institution is insolvent. *if compassion < 30 You actually find yourself looking for a window, lest he try to throw himself from it. Only after a moment of searching do you realize just how ridiculous of an idea this is. The others would no doubt ridicule you, were they to know how tightly you still cling to your humanity, as evinced by such thoughts. *if simmons_waylaid Apparently, he has just been informed that Senator Simmons has been "misplaced" and will miss the election. It is very important that you not smile right now, no matter how satisfied you are feeling with yourself. You have just made your first real move in the Society; do not undercut it by showing your hand. The meaning of the missive passes through the room like wildfire. You do your best to seem surprised when the secret is whispered into your ear. Suddenly, Pickering's victory is looking much less assured. *else Word passes through the room like wildfire: Senator Simmons will not make it to the election. *page_break *temp chair_count *set chair_count "three" *if jesse_for_senator and (player_for_senator = false) *set chair_count "four" *if (jesse_for_senator = false) and player_for_senator *set player_candidate_1873 true *set chair_count "four" *if jesse_for_senator and player_for_senator *set player_candidate_1873 true *set chair_count "five" With the matter of Simmons' absence clarified, it is time to begin. With the help of Dido, Carothers invites the gathered vampires into an adjacent room, a room soon to be free of even the most loyal human witnesses. The room itself has a sort of informal formality to it. There are ${chair_count} chairs placed prominently, yet with a purposeful haphazardness, throughout the room. Other slightly less ornate chairs are spread artfully around the room, so that everyone can see what everyone else is doing at any given moment. One by one, the candidates take their seats; simultaneously, the valets and other mortal attendants take their leave of the room. Dido shuts the door firmly behind the last of them; the click of the lock is the only announcement that the election has begun. *page_break The first two hours consist of each of the Senators speaking with each of the candidates in turn. They must show some degree of respect to all involved, after all. Most of these conversations are relatively short, with a handful of exceptions: ${lockridge} takes a seat by Pickering, and the two fall into some sort of deep discussion, while Bailey and Partridge spend time with both Malloy and Lesczynski. ${coffin} barely says anything more than "good evening" to Lesczynski, and Santagostino @{jesse_for_senator spends by far the most time with Jesse.|contents herself to be polite with each but makes no clear commitment as of yet.} *if player_for_senator and (status > 2) During this, each of the senators approach you and pay their respects. While polite, you do not sense any real support for you among them. *if sire_alive and ((sire_formerly_quaestor = false) and (sire_name != "West")) Santagostino is kind enough to indulge you more than the others, though this is likely out of her own interests back home than anything else. *elseif player_for_senator Almost furtively, one by one, the senators approach you. After issuing their greeting, they make pains to flee your company as quickly as possible. It does not seem that you have any support whatsoever among them. *if sire_alive and ((sire_formerly_quaestor = false) and (sire_name != "West")) Santagostino is kind enough to indulge you more than the others, though this is likely more out of her own interests back home than anything else. *label players_loyalties *if player_for_senator and ((revolutionary_credentials > 40) and (revolutionary_credentials < 60)) *page_break Perhaps, were you to make your opinion on Stone's deeds more clear, you would be better able to garner support for your candidacy? *choice #When the opportunity presents itself, I will make my support for Stone clear. *set revolutionary_credentials %+40 *set opinion_changed true Reactions to your change in tone are immediate. *if revolutionary_credentials > 61 Bailey and Partridge, for example, are willing to spend more time in your company. *if (ethnicity != "african") and (ethnicity != "choctaw") Even Harding drops by to offer an encouraging word. *if sire_alive and ((sire_formerly_quaestor = false) and (sire_name != "West")) And, with Santagostino's demonstrations of courtesy on behalf of your dominus, things are looking up. *if coffin_knows_of_patricide On the other hand, you can almost hear Coffin licking her chops at the thought of being able to blackmail you into submission, were you to actually win the position. *else Unfortunately, it is for the worse. It seems your remarks are taken for political opportunism, and what was already a long shot has become a lost cause. *goto relent #When the opportunity presents itself, I will make my opposition to Stone clear. *set opinion_changed true *set revolutionary_credentials %-40 Reactions to your change in tone are immediate. *if revolutionary_credentials < 39 Lockridge, for example, is willing to spend more time in your company. *if (ethnicity != "african") and (ethnicity != "choctaw") Even Harding drops by to offer an encouraging word. *if sire_alive and ((sire_formerly_quaestor = false) and (sire_name != "West")) And, with Santagostino's demonstrations of courtesy on behalf of your dominus, things are looking up. *if coffin_knows_of_patricide On the other hand, you can almost hear Coffin licking her chops at the thought of being able to blackmail you into submission, were you to actually win the position. *else Unfortunately, it is for the worse. It seems your remarks are taken for political opportunism, and what was already a long shot has become a lost cause. *goto relent #I am unwilling to commit one way or the other. Unfortunately, without a commitment one way or the other, you remain too much of an unknown. What was already a long shot has become a lost cause. *label relent You could continue to hold your seat, but at this point, you are simply embarrassing yourself. *choice *selectable_if (discretion > 50) #They gave me a seat; I'll hold tight. *set independence %-15 *set discretion %+15 *set carothers_rapport %-10 *set lockridge_rapport %-10 *set coffin_rapport %-10 *set santagostino_rapport %-10 *set bailey_rapport %-10 *set partridge_rapport %-10 *set jesse_rapport %-10 *set applethorp_rapport %-10 *set harding_rapport %-10 *set lesczynski_rapport %-10 *set malloy_rapport %-10 *set pickering_rapport %-10 *if status > 1 *set status -1 *set player_obstinate true *set player_for_senator false Your actions are clearly considered beyond the pale. Any pretenses of humoring your candidacy are now gone. #I will resign my seat and begin talking with the other candidates. *set player_for_senator false *set player_out true *set independence %+10 *set discretion %-5 The room breathes a proverbial sigh of relief. *if jesse_for_senator and (jesses_revolutionary_credentials > 60) Seeing Santagostino spending time with Jesse, both Bailey and Partridge also approach him. They spend some time in discussion before continuing on their rounds. Apparently Jesse's support of Stone carries some weight with the Senators from St. Louis and Louisville. *if jesse_for_senator and (jesses_revolutionary_credentials < 40) Seeing Santagostino spending time with Jesse, Lockridge departs from the side of Pickering, and the two spend some time conversing. It seems Jesse's counter-revolutionary position makes him palatable to the Senator from Charleston. *if jesse_for_senator and ((jesses_revolutionary_credentials >= 40) and (jesses_revolutionary_credentials <= 60)) Observing the flow of the room, the thought occurs to you that if Jesse is to garner any support from the gathered Senators, he will need to make some sort of declaration regarding his position on Stone's revolution. @{player_for_senator Of course, to stand and approach Jesse would be to withdraw yourself from the race and throw your support behind him.|} *choice #I approach Jesse and urge him to make his support for Stone's revolution clear. *set revolutionary_credentials %+10 *if player_for_senator *set player_for_senator false The room takes notice as you rise from your chair and approach Jesse. The first casualty of the night, after a fashion. Jesse listens to your argument attentively. When you are finished, he considers for a moment before responding. *if jesse_rapport > 55 *set jesses_revolutionary_credentials %+20 "You are right, ${jesse_toa}, I should make my position clear." Once you return to your seat, you notice an almost immediate change. When the senators pass by Jesse over the next hour or so, their opinion of him clearly shifts. *if jesses_revolutionary_credentials > 61 Partridge and Bailey soon begin courting Jesse more forcefully, spending time speaking with him and staving off his ouster from the rolls of the electable. *if jesses_sire_formerly_quaestor = false You can see the calculus changing before your eyes: coupled with the support of Santagostino, Jesse may end up being a suitable compromise candidate. *page_break *goto round_one_continues *else *set jesse_for_senator false Unfortunately for him, it is too little, too late. The gathered Senators perceive his statements in support of Stone to be the political opportunism that they are. *if jesses_sire_formerly_quaestor = false Even the few gestures of support from Santagostino cannot hold back the tide for long. *comment endif Before long, Jesse sits alone in his chair, isolated. You almost pity him. Indefatigable, however, Jesse soon rises, thereby conceding his defeat, and begins circling the room, seeking out those who might be interested in his aide. *page_break *goto round_one_continues *elseif jesse_rapport >= 40 *set jesse_for_senator false *set jesse_out true "While I appreciate what you have done for me, ${jesse_toa}, I do not think that now is the time for me to campaign for the position. Not when support for me is so tenuous," he finishes, his eyes boring into you. It seems that without your continued agitation on his behalf, support for Jesse dwindles quickly. *if jesses_sire_formerly_quaestor = false Even a few gestures of support from Santagostino do not hold back the tide for long. The occasions on which he is approached diminish and soon cease. In order not to appear ostracized, Jesse soon rises from his chair, effectively ending his candidacy. *goto round_one_continues *else *set jesses_revolutionary_credentials %-15 "You are right, ${jesse_toa}, I should make my position clear." Unfortunately, what that position is seems to have been the opposite of what you had expected. Jesse's dislike of you drives him to begin positioning himself as an opponent of Stone's revolution. Such a decision does not go unnoticed by the gathered Senators. Once you return to your seat, you notice an almost immediate change. When the Senators pass by Jesse over the next hour or so, their opinion of him clearly shifts. *if jesses_revolutionary_credentials < 39 Lockridge, for example, soon begins courting Jesse more forcefully, spending time speaking with him, and staving off his ouster from the rolls of the electable. *if jesses_sire_formerly_quaestor = false You can see the calculus changing: with the support of Santagostino and Coffin, Jesse could end up being a compromise candidate. *page_break *goto round_one_continues *else *set jesse_for_senator false *set jesse_out true *set jesse_rapport %-5 Unfortunately, it is too little, too late. The gathered Senators perceive his statements of loyalty to Adonis for the political opportunism that they are. *if jesses_sire_formerly_quaestor = false Even the few gestures of support from Santagostino cannot hold back the tide for long. *comment endif Before long, Jesse sits alone in his chair, isolated. You almost pity him. Indefatigable, however, Jesse soon rises, thereby conceding his defeat, and begins circling the room, seeking out those who might be interested in his aide. *page_break *goto round_one_continues #I approach Jesse and urge him to make his opposition to Stone's revolution clear. *set revolutionary_credentials %-10 *if player_for_senator *set player_for_senator false The room takes notice as you rise from your chair and approach Jesse. The first casualty of the night, after a fashion. *comment endif Jesse listens to your argument attentively. When you are finished, he considers for a moment before responding. *if jesse_rapport > 55 *set jesses_revolutionary_credentials %-20 "You are right, ${jesse_toa}, I should make my position clear." You notice an almost immediate change, once you return to your seat. When the senators pass by Jesse over the next hour or so, their opinion of him clearly shifts. *if jesses_revolutionary_credentials < 39 Lockridge, for example, soon begins courting Jesse more forcefully, spending time speaking with him, and staving off his ouster from the rolls of the electable. *if jesses_sire_formerly_quaestor = false You can see the calculus changing: with the support of Santagostino and Coffin, Jesse could end up being a compromise candidate. *page_break *goto round_one_continues *else *set jesse_for_senator false *set jesse_out true *set jesse_rapport %-5 Unfortunately, it is too little, too late. The gathered Senators perceive his statements of loyalty to Adonis for the political opportunism that they are. *if jesses_sire_formerly_quaestor = false Even the few gestures of support from Santagostino cannot hold back the tide for long. *comment endif Before long, Jesse sits alone in his chair, isolated. You almost pity him. Indefatigable, however, Jesse soon rises, thereby conceding his defeat, and begins circling the room, seeking out those who might be interested in his aide. *page_break *goto round_one_continues *elseif jesse_rapport >= 40 *set jesse_for_senator false *set jesse_out true "While I appreciate what you have done for me, ${jesse_toa}, I do not think that now is the time for me to campaign for the position. Not when my allies are so unclear," he finishes, his eyes boring into you. It seems that without your continued agitation on his behalf, support for Jesse dwindles quickly. *if jesses_sire_formerly_quaestor = false Even a few gestures of support from Santagostino do not hold back the tide for long. The occasions that he is approached diminish, and soon cease. In order not to appear ostracized, Jesse is soon walking around, effectively ending his candidacy. *goto round_one_continues *else *set jesses_revolutionary_credentials %+15 "You are right, ${jesse_toa}, I should make my position clear." Unfortunately, what that position is seems to have been the opposite of what you had expected. Jesse's dislike of you drives him to begin positioning himself as a supporter of Stone's revolution. Such a decision does not go unnoticed by the gathered Senators. *if jesses_revolutionary_credentials > 61 Partridge and Bailey soon begin courting Jesse more forcefully, spending time speaking with him, and staving off his ouster from the rolls of the electable. *page_break *goto round_one_continues *else *set jesse_for_senator false *set jesse_out true Unfortunately for him, it is too little, too late. The gathered Senators perceive his statements in support of Stone to be the political opportunism that they are. *if jesses_sire_formerly_quaestor = false Even the few gestures of support from Santagostino cannot hold back the tide for long. *comment endif Before long, Jesse sits alone in his chair, isolated. You almost pity him. Indefatigable, however, Jesse soon rises, thereby conceding his defeat, and begins circling the room, seeking out those who might be interested in his aide. *page_break *goto round_one_continues *if player_for_senator #Help him? Hah! I wait for him to come to me! *set discretion %+10 *set jesse_for_senator false *set jesse_out true Before long, Jesse sits alone in his chair, isolated. You almost pity him. Jesse soon rises, conceding his defeat but flashing his indefatigable grin; any pity quickly vanishes. *if jesse_rapport > 40 Admiration, maybe. But not pity. Never for Jesse. *goto round_one_continues *else *set jesse_rapport %-5 Once moving about the room, he refuses to make eye contact with you. He circles around, seeking out those who might be interested in his aide, but he refuses to pay you any but the most perfunctory courtesies. Apparently, he is displeased that he has been out-campaigned by @{jesse_is_broodmate his younger sibling.|someone as marginal as you.} *page_break *goto round_one_continues *else #If Jesse wishes to be a Senator, he will have to do it without my aid. *set jesse_for_senator false *set jesse_out true It seems that without any agitation on his behalf by you, support for Jesse dwindles quickly. The occasions that he is approached diminish, and soon cease. In order not to appear ostracized, soon Jesse is walking around, demonstrating his support to the other candidates. *goto round_one_continues *else Surveying the room, you consider to whom you should offer your support. Of course, you will have to speak with each of the candidates, but with whom will you spend the most time? *choice *if heard_of_lesczynski *selectable_if (met_lesczynski) #Ascher Lesczynski. *set supporting 3 *set discretion %+5 *set lesczynski_rapport %+10 *set malloy_rapport %-5 *set pickering_rapport %-5 *set supporting 3 *if priest Lesczynski seems a little surprised that you throw your cassock behind him, but he is no less grateful for it. *if priest = false Lesczynski is clearly grateful for your support, however insignificant it may be. You can feel the stares of curiosity on your back as the period of polite conversation extends into a clear demonstration of support. The other two acknowledge your presence, but you have thrown the gauntlet down; there is little need for them to court someone who is not a Senator and who has already committed to support another. *page_break *goto round_one_continues *if heard_of_malloy *selectable_if (met_malloy) #Siobhan Malloy. *set discretion %+5 *set revolutionary_credentials %+10 *set lesczynski_rapport %-5 *set malloy_rapport %+10 *set pickering_rapport %-5 *set supporting 2 Malloy is clearly grateful for your support, however insignificant it may be. You can feel the stares of curiosity on your back as the period of polite conversation extends into a clear demonstration of support. The other two acknowledge your presence, but you have thrown the gauntlet down; there is little need for them to court someone who is not a Senator and who has already committed to support another. *page_break *goto round_one_continues *if heard_of_pickering *selectable_if (met_pickering) #Absalom Pickering. *set discretion %+5 *set revolutionary_credentials %-10 *set lesczynski_rapport %-5 *set malloy_rapport %-5 *set pickering_rapport %+10 *set supporting 4 Pickering seems indifferent to your support, clearly well aware of your relative insignificance in the scheme of things. That aside, you can feel the stares of curiosity on your back as the period of polite conversation extends into a clear demonstration of support. The other two acknowledge your presence, but you have thrown the gauntlet down; there is little need for them to court someone who is not a Senator and who has already committed to support another. *goto round_one_continues *if (met_pickering) and ((met_malloy) and (met_lesczynski)) #I speak with all equally; there is no use in committing to one or another so soon. *set discretion %-10 *if revolutionary_credentials > 60 *set lockridge_rapport %+5 *set revolutionary_credentials %-5 *if revolutionary_credentials < 40 *set bailey_rapport %+5 *set partridge_rapport %+5 *set revolutionary_credentials %+5 The three candidates all sit on edge as you approach, doing their best not to show any dismay as you then drift away without committing yourself. On the other hand, several of the individuals in the room seem to have taken note of your political savvy. *page_break *goto round_one_continues #Rather than support a specific candidate, I make my support of Stone's revolution clear. *set revolutionary_credentials %+30 *set malloy_rapport %+15 *set bailey_rapport %+20 *set partridge_rapport %+10 *set lockridge_rapport %-20 *set pickering_rapport %-15 *set carothers_rapport %+10 *set applethorp_rapport %+5 *set discretion %+15 *set independence %+10 Scowls and modest nods of approval follow you as you make your way through the room, making your case in support of Stone. Now that the lines are drawn, perhaps there are allies to be found. *goto round_one_continues #Rather than support a specific candidate, I make my opposition to Stone's deeds clear. *set revolutionary_credentials %-30 *set malloy_rapport %-15 *set bailey_rapport %-20 *set partridge_rapport %-10 *set lockridge_rapport %+20 *set pickering_rapport %+15 *set carothers_rapport %-10 *set applethorp_rapport %-5 *set discretion %+15 *set independence %+10 Scowls and modest nods of approval follow you as you make your way through the room, making your case in opposition to Stone. Now that the lines are drawn, perhaps there are allies to be found. *goto round_one_continues #I maintain my neutrality. *set neutrality_asserted true *set discretion %-20 *set independence %-10 The gathered vampires do not seem to notice your lack of affiliation. *page_break *goto round_one_continues *label round_one_continues *if player_out *if jesse_out The withdrawal of both you and Jesse from the election was no doubt more than enough fireworks for the first phase of the election. With the field narrowed to three, the tension in the room mounts noticeably. *else The narrowing of the field from five to four somehow increases the tension rather than relieves it. Lobbying efforts are redoubled as the chances for a quick consensus seem to evaporate. *elseif jesse_out *if player_for_senator *if jesse_is_broodmate The fact that you have outlasted your elder broodmate does not pass unnoticed. The first phase of the election comes to a close. Yet, the narrowing field has only intensified the lobbying efforts, as the opportunity for a quick consensus seems to be fading. But if another candidate could be forced to withdraw, perhaps the matter will find resolution… *else The withdrawal of Whitaker has certainly narrowed the field. This change is clearly welcomed by the electorate, though it only intensifies the lobbying efforts as the opportunity for a quick consensus seems to be fading. But if another candidate could be forced to withdraw, perhaps the matter will find resolution… *else The withdrawal of Jesse from the race intensifies the interest in the other three candidates. Yet, the narrowing field has only intensified the lobbying efforts, as the opportunity for a quick consensus seems to be fading. *else The first phase of the election has passed without significant changes in the composition of the candidates. That said, the room seems on edge, as the opportunity for a quick consensus seems increasingly unlikely. It is clear that the revolutionary and counter-revolutionary factions are redoubling their lobbying efforts. *page_break *if player_obstinate Midnight comes and goes. From where you sit, you can observe the proceedings but are unable to affect them. The election goes on about you, paying you no heed. *page_break *goto round_three *elseif player_for_senator *if frenzied_on_jesse and ((jesse_for_senator = false) and (jesse_rapport < 35)) *set jesse_rapport %-10 As midnight comes and goes, you notice Jesse passing here and there among the vampires. Perhaps he's surprised that you've lasted this long? Before long, you catch titters of laughter and furtive glances in your direction. Withers…poem…loss of control…apparently he's relating the tale of your bloodlust, when you attacked him in front of Governor Overstreet. The story of your humiliation shared throughout the room, and without adequate preparation and support to combat such accounts, any chance of election slips through your fingers. *goto round_two_forced_to_concede *elseif jesse_is_broodmate and (jesse_embarrassed and ((jesse_rapport < 35) and ((jesse_for_senator = false) and (lied_to_jesse_about_poem = false)))) *set jesse_rapport %-10 As midnight comes and goes, you notice Jesse passing here and there among the vampires. Perhaps he's surprised that you've lasted this long? Before long, you catch titters of laughter and furtive glances in your direction. Withers…poem…betrayal…apparently he's relating the tale of how you betrayed your broodmate, leaving him exposed to the vicious attacks of the Governor's broodmate. Without suitable preparation and support to combat such embellishments, you watch as any chance of election slips through your fingers. *goto round_two_forced_to_concede *elseif patricide and ((jesse_for_senator = false) and (jesse_rapport < 35)) *set jesse_rapport %-5 As midnight comes and goes, Jesse starts campaigning against you. Perhaps he's surprised that you've lasted this long? While he levels no specific accusations, he inquires loudly about why your dominus will not stand forward and support you for the title of Senator. Your claims that you were abandoned do little to help the situation; what would drive a maker to abandon his offspring? *goto round_two_forced_to_concede *elseif (sire_name = "West") and ((jesse_for_senator = false) and (jesse_rapport < 40)) *set jesse_rapport %-5 As midnight comes and goes, Jesse starts campaigning against you. Perhaps he's surprised that you've lasted this long? Either way, *if rumors_of_west he begins relating the stories about the madness of West. Might that madness have been passed on to you? How can you be trusted with the title when you are still so unknown in the Society? *goto round_two_forced_to_concede *else *set rumors_of_west true he begins spreading rumors about the sanity of West. He claims that your dominus has gone mad, and what might that mean for you? How can you be trusted with the title when you are still so unknown in the Society? *goto round_two_forced_to_concede *else A grandfather clock tolls midnight; here and there, you detect eyes narrowing and jaws setting. The gathered vampires seem to begin to take things a little more seriously. Or perhaps their mask of indifference has merely worn thin. *temp players_support *set players_support 0 *if bailey_rapport > 60 *set players_support +1 *if partridge_rapport > 60 *set players_support +1 *if coffin_rapport > 60 *set players_support +1 *if (santagostino_rapport > 60) or (sire_alive and ((sire_name != "West") and (sire_formerly_quaestor = false))) *set players_support +1 *if (lockridge_rapport > 60) and met_lockridge *set players_support +1 Lockridge is the first to visit after the grandfather clock chimes. *if players_support > 2 "You have garnered an impressive amount of support for yourself here, ${mr} ${surname}." @{(rationalism < 70) "I have been fortunate,|"God has blessed me,} Senator." "Clearly. Unfortunately, now you must be careful. The others will turn on you, if they haven't already." *page_break *goto round_two_success *else "Though I still think you eligible, it seems you have failed to garner enough support to make a serious standing here, ${mr} ${surname}." "So I see." "I would suggest withdrawing, as you would not want to embarrass yourself." "Thank you for your advice, Senator." "My pleasure," he says as he strides away. *page_break *goto round_two_success *label round_two_success *if (coffin_rapport > 60) and met_coffin Coffin approaches you. You wonder if she smiled when she was alive; you see no evidence that she has since her death. *if offer_to_help_coffin_stop_ascher *set coffin_rapport %+10 "When I asked thee to aide me with defeating Mr. Lesczynski's candidacy, I never imagined that this is how thou wouldst effect such, ${mr} ${surname}." "It is good to know that I can surprise you, Senator." "And surprise me you have," she says with a nod. *page_break *goto round_two_bailey *elseif players_support > 2 "${mr} ${surname}, it pleases me to see that thou hast held thine own during this process." "You do me too much honor, Senator." "Certainly not, ${mr} ${surname}. Allow me to wish thee good fortune; there is much to be done before the rising of the sun." "I cannot thank you enough, Senator." *page_break *goto round_two_bailey *else "I must admit, ${mr} ${surname}, thy tenacity is admirable." "You do me too much honor, Senator." "I did not come here to flatter thee. Rather, I wonder if thou wouldst consider withdrawing now. I have done what I can, but there has been no further movement in support of thee. To clear the field for candidates that might actually win would no doubt be looked on with favor by all involved." You pause a moment before responding, weighing the costs of each response. *choice *selectable_if (discretion < 55) #"You have convinced me, Senator; I will withdraw." *set coffin_rapport %+15 *set discretion %-5 *set player_for_senator false *set player_out true Coffin seems a little surprised at how quickly you accede to her request, but after a few moments of indecision, she nods in acceptance. "A wise choice. One that will not be soon forgotten," she concludes. *if (bailey_rapport > 60) and met_bailey After she leaves, you notice Bailey approaching. To his befuddlement, you stand to greet him as he nears. "You must excuse me, Senator, but I must stretch my legs." "Of…of course," he stutters. The room looks on in stunned silence as you increase the distance between yourself and your seat and begin to mingle with the others of your kind. *page_break *goto round_two_end *else After she leaves, you take a moment to survey the room. Satisfied, you stand. The room pretends not to notice, but you can feel that all eyes are upon you. Slowly, but with gathering determination, you put distance between yourself and your chair and seek out those who will welcome your company. *page_break *goto round_two_end #"Forgive me, Senator, but I will not withdraw." *set coffin_rapport %-10 *set discretion %+5 "A pity, really," she replies. You do your best not to glare too obviously at her retreating backside. *page_break *goto round_two_end *selectable_if (discretion > 50) #I laugh in her face. "Your threats will not dissuade me, Senator." *set coffin_rapport %-25 *set discretion %+15 Anger flashes in her eyes. Coffin purses her lips, turns and departs from your presence as quickly as she arrived. You smile at the thought of how you must have frustrated her objectives. *page_break *goto round_two_bailey *label round_two_bailey *if (bailey_rapport > 60) and met_bailey Senator Bailey's gaze flicks in your direction; once the two of you have locked eyes, you sense that he can no longer delay the inevitable. *if players_support > 2 "Impressive, ${mr} ${surname}." "Surprised, are you?" "A little. Perhaps you will honor us all in your victory." "Let us hope, Senator. Yet, the field must narrow; there are still too many candidates." "The night is not yet over," he replies. "Unfortunately, no. But soon enough." His words of support offered, the two of you exchange a few more pleasantries before he continues on his circuit. *else "I have done what I can, ${mr} ${surname}…" "I sense an equivocation on your part, Senator." "I have done what I can, but a majority cannot agree upon you." "Then I shall have to redouble my efforts." "I wish you luck with that," he concludes. Nodding a farewell, he continues on his circuit. *page_break *if (partridge_rapport > 60) and met_partridge It is only a short time before Partridge appears at your elbow. Without Bailey, he seems a little lost, but that does not dissuade him from his words of encouragement. If they could be called that. *if players_support > 2 "I must commend you, ${mr} ${surname}." "Thank you, Senator." "Now, you will see this through to the end, won't you?" You turn to look Partridge in the eye. "Why else would I be here?" "It is simply that I do not want to find myself embarrassed for having supported you so ardently, only for you to withdraw when your victory is imminent." "You may put your fears to rest, Senator." With a smile and a squeeze of your forearm, he takes his leave of you. *page_break *goto round_two_santagostino *else "I cannot do this all by myself, ${mr} ${surname}." "Do what?" "Lobby for your election." "I had not realized how vocal your support was." "Do not doubt it. Please, you must make some sort of dramatic gesture, and soon." "Thank you for your advice, Senator." With a smile and a squeeze of your forearm he takes his leave of you. *page_break *goto round_two_santagostino *label round_two_santagostino *if (santagostino_rapport > 60) and met_chiara *if players_support > 2 A few minutes later, you notice the approach of Chiara. She has a smirk on her face. *if sire_alive = false *set flirting_with_chiara true "You have managed to accomplish quite a lot for one as independent as yourself, ${given_name}." "Independent?" "Your dominus is missing, you wander from city to city, and yet you've managed to earn the respect of several of the Senators here, including me." "You do me too much honor, Chiara." She cocks her head at your use of her given name. "That is very forward of you, ${given_name}, to speak to me so familiarly." "I hope you do not expect an apology." "By no means. Now, if you will excuse me," she finishes. Grazing your shoulder with her hand, she takes her leave of you. *page_break *goto round_two_conclusion *elseif avoided_new_orleans *if sire_formerly_quaestor "It really is a shame you forsook your dominus." "Oh?" "He would no doubt celebrate your accomplishments this evening." "Perhaps you would be so kind as to inform him?" "If I knew where he was, I would." "You are too kind, Senator," you reply. She nods her head and takes her leave of you. *page_break *goto round_two_conclusion *elseif sire_name != "West" *set sire_rapport %+5 "I am sure your dominus will be most flattered by your accomplishments this evening." "I imagine that you shall apprise him of the details?" "Most certainly, dear ${given_name}, most certainly." "You are too kind, Senator." She nods her head and takes her leave of you. *page_break *goto round_two_conclusion *else *label crap_on_west "It is unfortunate." "What is that?" "Your lineage. Had you been turned by a real vampire, your future in the Society could be unparalleled." "West might have said the same of you." "That I could have become unparalleled in the Society?" "No, that you should have been born to a real vampire." "Your tongue is sharp, dear ${given_name}. I hope that it serves you well this evening." "You are too kind, Senator." She nods her head and takes her leave of you. *page_break *goto round_two_conclusion *elseif sire_formerly_quaestor *if sire_rapport > 60 "I am sure your dominus would be proud of you, ${given_name}." "I do hope so. If only I knew where he was…" "When the time is right, he shall no doubt seek you out." "That moment will not come soon enough, I fear." "Do not fear. Do you see how these animals circle you? And yet you hold them off." You nod at the wisdom of her words. "Thank you, Senator." She smiles again, and then takes her leave of you. *page_break *goto round_two_conclusion *elseif sire_rapport >= 40 "I am sure your dominus would be proud of you, ${given_name}." "Perhaps. His affections were always so ambivalent. I suppose that I should pray that I have not provoked his ire; more than that, I cannot hope for." "You have brought no shame upon him tonight." "You are too kind, Senator." She nods and takes her leave of you. *page_break *goto round_two_conclusion *else "Your dominus should be proud of you, ${mr} ${given_name}." "I find that unlikely." "Should he turn up, I will be certain to praise your machinations." "You are too kind, Senator." She nods and takes her leave of you. *page_break *goto round_two_conclusion *elseif sire_name != "West" *set sire_rapport %+10 "Your dominus will hear of this." "Is that a threat?" "Not at all. You have conducted yourself with excellence this evening. He shall be proud of what you have wrought here, even if you do not succeed." "You are too kind, Senator." "He will hear only the unvarnished truth, ${mr} ${surname}," she concludes. *page_break *goto round_two_conclusion *else *goto crap_on_west *else A few minutes later, you detect the approach of Senator Santagostino. "You have made an admirable showing this evening, dear ${given_name}," she begins. "And yet?" "And yet, despite my efforts on your behalf, I do not see how you will be elected." "Then I shall simply have to redouble my efforts." *if sire_alive and (sire_name != "West") "For the sake of your dominus, I would urge caution. The field is lost; you should withdraw with honor." *if sire_rapport > 60 "I will do nothing to bring shame to him, I swear." She looks at you askance. "See that you do not." *page_break *goto round_two_conclusion *elseif sire_rapport >= 40 "Though I appreciate your advice, Senator, I feel no obligation to sacrifice my goals for my maker at this time." "That is unfortunate." "It is his own doing," you conclude. *page_break *goto round_two_conclusion *else "Your words restore my conviction, Senator. If I succeed, I frustrate him; if I fail, I bring shame upon him. It seems I am victorious either way." "That is an unfortunate position." "It is his own doing," you conclude. *page_break *goto round_two_conclusion *else *set santagostino_rapport %-10 "You are on your own, then, ${mr} ${surname}. Good evening." With that, she takes her leave of you. *page_break *goto round_two_conclusion *label round_two_conclusion Midnight comes and goes. In addition to the senators who come to show their continued support, most of the other attendees drift in your direction, if only for a few moments at a time. They do not seem quite convinced of the possibility of your success, but neither are they willing to outright snub someone who has made it this far. If you are going to win this election, you will likely need to eliminate one of the other candidates; a four-way race will come to no resolution. *choice *if heard_of_ogier and ((malloy_out = false) and ogier_unused) #I want to make some pointed inquiries about Malloy's dominus; if he was executed for heresy, can we be so sure of his offspring? *goto rumors_of_ogier *if lesczynskis_interest_in_memphis and lesczynskis_interest_unused #I ask pointed questions about Lesczynski's interest in the history of Memphis…and its founding by Andrew Jackson. *goto rumors_of_lesczynski *if jesse_for_senator and (withers_embarrassed and untold_tale_of_jesse_and_samantha) #I begin relating the tale of Jesse and Samantha in the hopes of discrediting Jesse. *goto withers_embarrassment *if jesse_for_senator and (jesse_embarrassed and untold_tale_of_jesse_and_samantha) #I begin relating the tale of Jesse and Samantha in the hopes of discrediting Jesse. *goto jesses_embarrassment *if pickering_and_pike and ((lore > 1) and pickering_and_pike_unused) #I begin to ask uncomfortable questions about Pickering's association with Albert Pike. *goto pickering_and_pike *if pickering_bigot and pickering_bigot_unused #I wonder aloud about the prejudices of Pickering. *goto pickering_bigot #I make my support of Stone's deeds clear. *set revolutionary_credentials %+30 *set bailey_rapport %+10 *set partridge_rapport %+10 *if malloy_out *set lesczynski_rapport %-10 *if malloy_out = false *set malloy_rapport %-10 *set lockridge_rapport %-20 *if pickering_out = false *set coffin_rapport %-10 *set pickering_rapport %-10 *if pickering_out *set lesczynski_rapport %-10 *set santagostino_rapport %-10 Your outspoken support of Stone does not go unnoticed. Soon, the room is buzzing with your comments. If anything, though, Bailey and Partridge seem frustrated that you may be drawing support from @{malloy_out Lesczynski|Malloy}. *goto round_two_end #I make my opposition to Stone's deeds clear. *set revolutionary_credentials %-30 *set bailey_rapport %-10 *set partridge_rapport %-10 *if malloy_out *set lesczynski_rapport %-10 *if malloy_out = false *set malloy_rapport %-10 *set lockridge_rapport %+10 *if pickering_out = false *set coffin_rapport %+10 *set pickering_rapport %+10 *if pickering_out *set lesczynski_rapport %+10 *set santagostino_rapport %-10 Your outspoken opposition of Stone does not go unnoticed. Soon, the room is buzzing with your comments. If anything, though, Lockridge seems frustrated that you may be drawing support from @{pickering_out Lesczynski|Pickering}. *goto round_two_end #I allow events to unfold around me. *set discretion %-10 *goto round_two_end *else Surveying the room, you contemplate how you can take a more active role in the course of the election. *choice *if heard_of_ogier and ((malloy_out = false) and ogier_unused) #I want to make some pointed inquiries about Malloy's dominus; if he was executed for heresy, can we be so sure of his offspring? *label rumors_of_ogier *set ogier_unused false *set malloy_rapport %-50 *set revolutionary_credentials %-15 *set lesczynski_credentials %+10 *set malloy_out true Unfortunately, any questions about Malloy's competency doom her candidacy to failure. Not without a much stronger base of support, anyway. Though reluctant to do so, Bailey and Partridge both bid their best wishes to Malloy and leave her side a final time. Once enough time has lapsed, and there is clearly no further chance of a recovery, Siobhan stands and concedes her chair and the election. *goto round_two_end *if lesczynskis_interest_in_memphis and lesczynskis_interest_unused #I ask pointed questions about Lesczynski's interest in the history of Memphis…and its founding by Andrew Jackson. *label rumors_of_lesczynski *set lesczynskis_interest_unused false *set lesczynski_out true *set lesczynski_rapport %-75 Your words seem to have more of an impact than you realized. Within an hour, Lesczynski has ceded his chair. For a few brief moments, your eyes meet; therein you read the full story of your betrayal. It is clear that it would take decades, if not centuries, to be seen as anything more than the most dire of enemies. *goto round_two_end *if jesse_for_senator *if withers_embarrassed and untold_tale_of_jesse_and_samantha #I begin relating the tale of Jesse and Samantha in the hopes of discrediting Jesse. *label withers_embarrassment *set jesse_rapport %-10 *set untold_tale_of_jesse_and_samantha false Unfortunately, this does little to affect Jesse's standing in the competition. What it does—in the eyes of the gathered vampires—is clarify your opposition to him *if jesses_revolutionary_credentials > 60 *set revolutionary_credentials %-5 and his revolutionary cause. *if jesses_revolutionary_credentials < 40 *set revolutionary_credentials %+5 and his counter-revolutionary cause. *comment endif Pausing to regroup, you shoot Jesse a look; he responds with the most condescending version of his grin you have ever seen. *goto round_two_end *if withers_embarrassed #I begin relating the tale of Jesse and Samantha in the hopes of demonstrating Jesse's finesse. *set untold_tale_of_jesse_and_samantha false *set jesse_rapport %+10 You work your way through the room, relating the tale of Jesse's masterstroke against Withers. While it is unclear if your tale aids Jesse, it certainly doesn't harm him. Moreover, your support of Jesse indicates to your listeners your loyalty to his *if jesses_revolutionary_credentials > 60 *set revolutionary_credentials %+5 revolutionary cause. *if jesses_revolutionary_credentials < 40 *set revolutionary_credentials %-5 counter-revolutionary cause. *comment endif *goto round_two_end *if jesse_embarrassed and untold_tale_of_jesse_and_samantha #I begin relating the tale of Jesse and Samantha in the hopes of discrediting Jesse. *label jesses_embarrassment *set untold_tale_of_jesse_and_samantha false *set jesse_rapport %-15 *set jesse_for_senator false Had Jesse been better prepared for this election, this tale of yours would bear no weight. Unfortunately for him, that is not the case, and his being outfoxed by Withers, and having a witness here to embellish the tale, is just enough to push his chances off the cliff. Within an hour, all traffic to Jesse's make-shift court ceases. If he could immolate you with the fury in his eyes, he no doubt would; failing that, he stands, conceding his chair and the election. Your whisper campaign also serves—in the eyes of the gathered vampires—to clarify your opposition to him *if jesses_revolutionary_credentials > 60 *set revolutionary_credentials %-5 and his revolutionary cause. *elseif jesses_revolutionary_credentials < 40 *set revolutionary_credentials %+5 and his counter-revolutionary cause. *else *bug is this possible? why is there no alternate result? *goto round_two_end *if (revolutionary_credentials > 60) and ((opinion_changed = false) and (heard_of_malloy)) #Considering my reputation for supporting Stone, a change of heart might sway the gathering away from Malloy. *set opinion_changed true *set revolutionary_credentials %-40 *set bailey_rapport %-20 *set partridge_rapport %-20 *set malloy_rapport %-20 *if jesses_revolutionary_credentials > 60 *set jesse_rapport %-15 *if jesses_revolutionary_credentials < 40 *set jesse_rapport %+10 *if status > 2 *set lockridge_rapport %+10 *set pickering_rapport %+10 The room definitely takes note of your new tune; Lockridge and Pickering seem particularly grateful for it. *goto round_two_end *else *set lockridge_rapport %-10 *set pickering_rapport %-10 Unfortunately, your change in loyalties is perceived more as rank opportunism than a bellwether. No one seems pleased by it. *goto round_two_end *if (revolutionary_credentials < 40) and ((opinion_changed = false) and (heard_of_pickering)) #Considering my reputation for opposing Stone, a change of heart might sway the gathering away from Pickering. *set opinion_changed true *set revolutionary_credentials %+40 *set lockridge_rapport %-20 *set pickering_rapport %-20 *if jesses_revolutionary_credentials > 60 *set jesse_rapport %+10 *if jesses_revolutionary_credentials < 40 *set jesse_rapport %-15 *if status > 2 *set bailey_rapport %+10 *set malloy_rapport %+10 The room definitely takes note of your new tune; Malloy and Bailey seem particularly grateful for it. *goto round_two_end *else *set bailey_rapport %-10 *set malloy_rapport %-10 Unfortunately, your change in loyalties is perceived more as rank opportunism than a bellwether. No one seems pleased by it. *goto round_two_end *if coffins_anti_semitism_unused and (knows_coffin_anti_semitic or offer_to_help_coffin_stop_ascher) #In order to break the impasse, I approach Senator Coffin and suggest that she openly support Malloy. *set coffins_anti_semitism_unused false Abigail listens to you patiently while you argue on Malloy's behalf; after all, were the Senators to tilt towards Malloy, Lesczynski would not win for simply being the compromise candidate. "${mr} ${surname}, thou asketh the impossible." "The impossible?" "I could not support Miss Malloy. Her revolutionary tendencies are repugnant to me." "But, would she not be indebted to one such as yourself, one whose wisdom were capable of perceiving the glimmer of compromise in her breast? I'm sure such a sign of support would be repaid in kind many times over." Abigail considers this a while longer before replying. *set revolutionary_credentials %+10 *if jesse_for_senator *set jesse_rapport %-5 *if (charm > 3) or ((status > 2) or (coffin_rapport > 80)) *label persuade_coffin *set notice_partridge_betrayal true "${mr} ${surname}, I think thine argument sound. Forgive me a moment, as I must speak with Miss Malloy." You watch as Coffin approaches Malloy, proceeding to spend some fifteen minutes in deep conversation together. The room watches intently, the collective amazement deepening with each passing moment. When she returns to her seat, you watch as something unexpected unfolds: Bailey makes his pilgrimage to the feet of Malloy, but when he returns to his seat beside Partridge, Partridge seems suddenly disinterested in Malloy's candidacy. He approaches her, but the conversation continues for only a few moments before Partridge excuses himself to speak avidly with Lesczynski. No one is more surprised by this than Bailey. *goto round_two_end *elseif (coffin_rapport > 60) and ((charm >= 3) or (status >= 2)) *goto persuade_coffin *else "Alas, I think her unlikely to bend to reason, ${mr} ${surname}. But I thank thee for thine opinion." Seeing that you will get no further with her, you decide it best to move on. *goto round_two_end *if jesse_for_senator and (coffins_anti_semitism_unused and (knows_coffin_anti_semitic or offer_to_help_coffin_stop_ascher)) #In order to break the impasse, I approach Senator Coffin and suggest that she openly support Jesse. *set coffins_anti_semitism_unused false Abigail listens to you patiently while you argue on Jesse's behalf; after all, were the Senators to tilt towards him, Lesczynski would fail in his bid. *if jesses_revolutionary_credentials > 60 *set revolutionary_credentials %+10 Moreover, Jesse, though a revolutionary, is not so extreme as Malloy. It would be easier to compromise with him than her. "${mr} ${surname}, thou asketh the impossible." "The impossible?" "I could not support Mr. Whitaker. His revolutionary tendencies are repugnant to me." "But, would he not be indebted to one such as yourself, one who's wisdom were capable of perceiving the glimmer of compromise in his breast? I'm sure such a sign of support would be repaid in kind many times over." Abigail considers this a while longer before replying. *if (charm > 3) or ((status > 2) or (coffin_rapport > 80)) *label persuade_coffin_support_jesse *set jesse_rapport %+15 "${mr} ${surname}, I think thine argument sound. Forgive me a moment, as I must speak with Mr. Whitaker." You watch as Coffin approaches Jesse, proceeding to spend some fifteen minutes in deep conversation together. The room watches intently, the collective amazement deepening with each passing moment. *if jesses_revolutionary_credentials > 60 *set notice_partridge_betrayal true When she returns to her seat, you watch as something unexpected unfolds: Bailey makes his pilgrimage to the feet of Jesse, but when he returns to his seat beside Partridge, Partridge seems suddenly disinterested in Jesse's candidacy. He approaches Jesse, but the conversation continues for only a few moments before Partridge excuses himself to speak avidly with Malloy. No one is more surprised by this than Bailey. *goto round_two_end *elseif (coffin_rapport > 60) and ((charm >= 3) or (status >= 2)) *goto persuade_coffin_support_jesse *else "Alas, I think him unlikely to bend to reason, ${mr} ${surname}. But I thank thee for thine opinion." Seeing that you will get no further with her, you decide it best to move on. *goto round_two_end *else *set revolutionary_credentials %-10 Moreover, Jesse is clearly more palatable to the opposition than Pickering. It would be much easier to find support for him than the vampire from Mobile. You approach the Senator and offer your argument. Abigail considers this a while before replying. *if (charm > 3) or ((status > 2) or (coffin_rapport > 80)) *goto persuade_coffin_support_jesse *elseif (coffin_rapport > 60) and ((charm >= 3) or (status >= 2)) *goto persuade_coffin_support_jesse *else "Alas, I find him underwhelming, ${mr} ${surname}. But I thank thee for thine opinion." Seeing that you will get no further with her, you decide it best to move on. *goto round_two_end *if jesse_for_senator = false *if (persuade_malloy = false) and (heard_of_malloy) *selectable_if (speaks_english) #I try to persuade Malloy to withdraw and throw her support behind Lesczynski. *label persuade_malloy *set persuade_malloy true *set supporting 3 *if met_malloy *if (status > 2) or ((charm > 4) or ((revolutionary_credentials > 75) or (malloy_rapport > 75))) *set malloy_out true *set lesczynski_credentials %+20 *set malloy_for_lesczynski true Siobhan listens gravely to your petition. After what seems like an eternity, she nods at the wisdom of your words. Slowly, making sure that all the eyes in the room are upon her, she stands. Having thereby relinquished her candidacy, she begins to circulate with you among the other caucus-goers. *goto round_two_end *else *set malloy_rapport %-15 Despite your best efforts, Siobhan refuses to bend to your will. *goto round_two_end *else *gosub meet_malloy *goto persuade_malloy *if (persuade_pickering = false) and (heard_of_pickering) *selectable_if (speaks_english) #I try to persuade Pickering to withdraw and throw his support behind Lesczynski. *label persuade_pickering *set persuade_pickering true *set supporting 3 *if met_pickering *if jesse_for_senator and ((status > 2) or ((charm > 3) or ((revolutionary_credentials < 35) or (pickering_rapport > 70)))) *set pickering_out true *set lesczynski_credentials %-20 *set pickering_for_lesczynski true Absalom listens gravely to your petition. After what seems like an eternity, he nods at the wisdom of your words. Slowly, making sure that all the eyes in the room are upon him, he stands. Having thereby relinquished his candidacy, he begins to circulate with you among the other caucus-goers. *goto round_two_end *else *set pickering_rapport %-15 Despite your best efforts, Absalom refuses to bend to your will. *goto round_two_end *else *gosub meet_pickering *goto persuade_pickering *if (persuade_lesczynski = false) and heard_of_lesczynski *selectable_if (lesczynski_tongue) #I try to persuade Lesczynski to withdraw and throw his support behind Malloy. *label persuade_lesczynski *set persuade_lesczynski true *if met_lesczynski *if (status > 2) or ((charm > 4) or (lesczynski_rapport > 75)) *set lesczynski_out true *set lesczynski_for_malloy true *if lesczynskis_interest_in_memphis Lesczynski listens to you patiently while you make your case. "…and just think, you could take up residence here, and do as much research as you needed, and not be bothered with the obligations of the Senate." "You speak wisely, ${mr} ${surname}." You nod in gratitude at this compliment. "Come, let us make our gesture of support," he concludes. When he stands, the room falls silent. The two of you walk together to Malloy, demonstrating your united support for her. You smile a secret smile at the chaos you have inflicted upon the gathering. *goto round_two_end *else Lesczynski listens to you patiently while you make your case. "And you think that such a concession would earn her support in a future election?" "I can only imagine, Mr. Lesczynski. After all, do you truly desire to take up residence in Memphis?" "In fact I do." You are momentarily taken aback, but do your best to hide your surprise. "I must admit, Mr. Lesczynski, I am surprised…" "Do not be. This city was founded by a future President of the United States. A man who found a peaceful death." *if met_andrew_jackson and (discretion > 40) "You know, I met the General once, decades ago." Lesczynski suddenly looks very interested. "It was right after the Battle of New Orleans. I tried to feed from him, but he knew what I was and stopped me." "That does not surprise me." "How do you mean?" "${mr} ${surname}, if you do not know, I cannot be the one to tell you." You look at him in confusion. *label conclude_lesczynski_for_malloy He brushes your look away and brings you back to the matter of the election: "Come, let us make our gesture of support." When he stands, the room falls silent. The two of you walk together to Malloy, demonstrating your united support for her. You smile a secret smile at the chaos you have inflicted upon the gathering. *goto round_two_end *elseif met_andrew_jackson or attended_marignys_party "I attended a soirée with him once, in fact. Just after the Battle of New Orleans. He was a luminous presence." "That does not surprise me. I never met the man, but I hear he was most extraordinary." He smiles at the thought. You look at him in some confusion; what is the nature of this statement? *goto conclude_lesczynski_for_malloy *else "And that is to be envied?" "Very much so, ${mr} ${surname}. To die a peaceful death? How many of our kind will find that?" "Not many." You look at him in some confusion; what does Jackson have to do with your kind? *goto conclude_lesczynski_for_malloy *else *set lesczynski_rapport %-15 Lesczynski listens to you patiently while you make your case. "What is this [i]michegas?[/i] Do you think I came all the way here to concede in favor of that [i]shiksa?[/i]" "No, but—" Lesczynski doesn't let you finish the thought; he is clearly outraged. Before the scene becomes any less dignified, you find an excuse to depart. *goto round_two_end *else *gosub meet_lesczynski *goto persuade_lesczynski *if heard_of_lesczynski *selectable_if (lesczynski_tongue) #I try to persuade Lesczynski to withdraw and throw his support behind Pickering. *label persuade_lesczynski_2 *set persuade_lesczynski true *if met_lesczynski *if (status > 2) or ((charm > 4) or (lesczynski_rapport > 75)) *set lesczynski_out true *set lesczynski_for_pickering true *if lesczynskis_interest_in_memphis Lesczynski listens to you patiently while you make your case. "…and just think, you could take up residence here, and do as much research as you needed, and not be bothered with the obligations of the Senate." "You speak wisely, ${mr} ${surname}." You nod in gratitude at this compliment. "Come, let us make our gesture of support," he concludes. When he stands, the room falls silent. The two of you walk together to Pickering, demonstrating your united support for him. You smile a secret smile at the chaos you have inflicted upon the gathering. *goto round_two_end *else Lesczynski listens to you patiently while you make your case. "And you think that such a concession would earn his support in a future election?" "I can only imagine, Mr. Lesczynski. After all, do you truly desire to take up residence in Memphis?" "In fact I do." You are momentarily taken aback, but do your best to hide your surprise. "I must admit, Mr. Lesczynski, I am surprised…" "Do not be. This city was founded by a future President of the United States. A man who found a peaceful death." *if met_andrew_jackson and (discretion > 40) "You know, I met the General once, decades ago." Lesczynski suddenly looks very interested. "It was right after the Battle of New Orleans. I tried to feed from him, but he knew what I was and stopped me." "That does not surprise me." "How do you mean?" "${mr} ${surname}, if you do not know, I cannot be the one to tell you." You look at him in confusion. *label conclude_lesczynski_for_pickering He brushes your look away and brings you back to the matter of the election: "Come, let us make our gesture of support." When he stands, the room falls silent. The two of you walk together to Pickering, demonstrating your united support for him. You smile a secret smile at the chaos you have inflicted upon the gathering. *goto round_two_end *elseif met_andrew_jackson or attended_marignys_party "I attended a soirée with him once, in fact. Just after the Battle of New Orleans. He was a luminous presence." "That does not surprise me. I never met the man, but I hear he was most extraordinary." He smiles at the thought. You look at him in some confusion; what is the nature of this statement? *goto conclude_lesczynski_for_pickering *else "And that is to be envied?" "Very much so, ${mr} ${surname}. To die a peaceful death? How many of our kind will find that?" "Not many." You look at him in some confusion; what does Jackson have to do with your kind? *goto conclude_lesczynski_for_pickering *else *set lesczynski_rapport %-15 Lesczynski listens to you patiently while you make your case. "What is this [i]michegas?[/i] Do you think I came all the way here to concede in favor of that [i]goy?[/i]" "No, but—" Lesczynski doesn't let you finish the thought; he is clearly outraged. Before the scene becomes any less dignified, you find an excuse to depart. *goto round_two_end *else *gosub meet_lesczynski *goto persuade_lesczynski_2 *if (outing_invitation_rejected = false) and ((outing_with_jesse = false) and (player_for_senator = false)) #All this politicking is boring me. I want to see if Jesse might go on an outing with me later this week. *gosub invite_jesse_date *goto round_two_end *if pickering_and_pike and ((lore > 1) and pickering_and_pike_unused) *selectable_if (speaks_english) #I begin to ask uncomfortable questions about Pickering's association with Albert Pike. *label pickering_and_pike *set pickering_and_pike_unused false *set lesczynski_credentials %-10 *set coffin_rapport %-10 *if heresy_of_masons > 0 *set masonic_apostate true *if jesse_for_senator *set pickering_rapport %-80 *set pickering_out true You are struck by just how quickly Pickering's candidacy folds in upon itself. Within twenty minutes, the gathered Senators avoid him like the plague. At the half hour mark, even Quaestor Harding can no longer show her support. He sits alone, waves of hatred roiling in your general direction. Abandoned by all, he soon stands, relinquishing his chair to join the ranks of the caucus-goers. *goto round_two_end *else *set pickering_rapport %-40 The matter of Pickering's possible affiliation with the Freemasons is quickly absorbed by the attendees; you can almost watch it race around the room. When it reaches the ears of Senator Coffin, however, the story falls down dead. She immediately makes a show of approaching Pickering and engaging him in deep conversation. Within moments, Lockridge has done the same. Your effort to see Pickering ousted from the caucus has clearly failed. *goto round_two_end *if pickering_bigot and pickering_bigot_unused #I wonder aloud about the prejudices of Pickering. *label pickering_bigot *set pickering_bigot_unused false *set pickering_rapport %-30 *set lockridge_rapport %-10 *set carothers_rapport %+15 While your musings do make the rounds, the matter is clearly not of sufficient import to derail Pickering's candidacy. If anything, it only amplifies the animosity between Carothers and Pickering. Fortunately for Pickering, Carothers' say in the matter is minimal. *if neutrality_asserted #I continue to maintain my neutrality. *set independence %-10 The gathered vampires now seem almost mystified by studied avoidance of any signs of political affiliation. *if neutrality_asserted = false *if (supporting = 1) #I maintain my neutrality. *set neutrality_asserted true *set discretion %-20 *set independence %-10 The gathered vampires do not seem to notice your lack of affiliation. *if (supporting > 1) #I continue making the rounds to support my candidate. *if supporting = 2 *set revolutionary_credentials %+5 *set malloy_rapport %+5 *if supporting = 3 *set lesczynski_rapport %+10 *if supporting = 4 *set revolutionary_credentials %-5 *set pickering_rapport %+5 The gathered vampires note your preferences, but you do not think you have swayed any positions. *label round_two_end The middle of the night has passed, though dawn is still several hours distant. *if player_for_senator *if jesse_for_senator Somehow, both you and Jesse retain your seats. No one could have anticipated this. *if malloy_out On the other hand, Malloy's departure has clearly upset Stone's allies, but most in the room are relieved to see the whelp gone. *goto round_three *elseif lesczynski_out Conversely, Lesczynski's withdrawal from the race has brought few tears. Coffin seems particularly dry-eyed over this development. *goto round_three *elseif pickering_out Conversely, Pickering's withdrawal has surprised everyone. The departure of Lockridge's favorite will have far-reaching consequences. *goto round_three *else And with five contenders still vying for the attentions of five Senators, a consensus by dawn seems increasingly unlikely. *goto round_three *elseif malloy_out *label malloy_three Even with Malloy's concession, the three-way contest provokes a new level of seriousness among the caucus-goers. *goto round_three *elseif lesczynski_out *label lesczynski_three Even with Lesczynski's concession, the three-way contest provokes a new level of seriousness among the caucus-goers. *goto round_three *elseif pickering_out *label pickering_three Even with Pickering's concession, the three-way contest provokes a new level of seriousness among the caucus-goers. *goto round_three *else *if jesse_out Even with Jesse's concession, the three-way contest provokes a new level of seriousness among the caucus-goers. *goto round_three *else *label four_way The tenacity of the candidates in this four-way contest provokes a new level of seriousness among the caucus-goers. *goto round_three *elseif jesse_for_senator *if malloy_out *goto malloy_three *elseif lesczynski_out *goto lesczynski_three *elseif pickering_out *goto pickering_three *else *goto four_way *elseif malloy_out A new level of seriousness descends upon the room. Though they cannot look each other in the eye, the struggle between Pickering and Lesczynski threatens to take shape in the space above their heads. The caucus-goers spin about the room with an ever-increasing degree of urgency, each seeking to be on the winning side of the contest. *goto round_three *elseif lesczynski_out *if lesczynski_for_malloy Despite Lesczynski's support for Malloy, the room has not decided for her over Pickering. *if (notice_partridge_betrayal = false) and ((perception > 1) and (heard_of_partridge)) *set notice_partridge_betrayal true Senator Partridge seems to be a confounding factor. Whenever a strong majority seems ready to form around Malloy, Partridge will wander over to Pickering, as though his mind has not yet been made up. @{heard_of_bailey Bailey is clearly enraged by this indecision.|} *goto round_three *else Despite Lesczynski's support for Pickering, the room has not decided for him over Malloy. *if perception > 1 Santagostino, Partridge, and Coffin cannot seem to come to an agreement. Whenever one stakes out a position, another will stake out the opposite, and the third will oscillate between the two. *if knows_coffin_anti_semitic Coffin seems displeased by the idea that Lesczynski now supports Pickering, as though his Jewishness will somehow rub off on her favored candidate. *goto round_three *elseif pickering_out A new level of seriousness descends upon the room. Though they cannot look each other in the eye, the struggle between Malloy and Lesczynski threatens to take shape in the space above their heads. The caucus-goers spin about the room with an ever-increasing degree of urgency, each seeking to be on the winning side of the contest. *goto round_three *else A new level of seriousness descends upon the room. Though they cannot look each other in the eye, the struggle between the three candidates threatens to take shape in the space above their heads. The caucus-goers spin about the room with an ever-increasing degree of urgency, each seeking to be on the winning side of the contest. *goto round_three *label round_two_forced_to_concede You could continue to hold your seat, but at this point, you are simply embarrassing yourself. *choice *selectable_if (discretion > 50) #They gave me a seat; I'll hold tight. *set independence %-15 *set discretion %+15 *set carothers_rapport %-10 *set lockridge_rapport %-10 *set coffin_rapport %-10 *set santagostino_rapport %-10 *set bailey_rapport %-10 *set partridge_rapport %-10 *set jesse_rapport %-10 *set applethorp_rapport %-10 *set harding_rapport %-10 *set lesczynski_rapport %-10 *set malloy_rapport %-10 *set pickering_rapport %-10 *if revolutionary_credentials > 60 *set revolutionary_credentials %-20 *if revolutionary_credentials < 40 *set revolutionary_credentials %+20 *if status > 1 *set status -1 *set player_obstinate true Your actions are clearly considered beyond the pale. Any pretenses of humoring your candidacy are now gone. *goto round_three #I will resign my seat and join the other caucus-goers. *set player_for_senator false *set independence %+10 *set discretion %-5 The room breathes a proverbial sigh of relief. *goto round_three *label round_three *temp candidate_count 3 *if player_for_senator *set candidate_count +1 *if jesse_for_senator *set candidate_count +1 *if malloy_out *set candidate_count -1 *if lesczynski_out *set candidate_count -1 *if pickering_out *set candidate_count -1 *page_break *if player_obstinate As the dawn approaches, it becomes clear that the gathered Senators are at an impasse. The frustration has reached a near-fever pitch, and your obstinacy does nothing to aide the situation. The senators stalk through the room, snapping at each other, just waiting for the least excuse to bare their fangs and sink them into the throats of their rivals. And yet. And yet. One by one, they begin to disperse. The threat of the sun trumps the manifold disappointment. It will be years before they come together again, but next time they will be better prepared. *page_break *goto_scene memphis_first_intermission *if met_harding and (perception > 2) *comment the higher perception requirement is because of her lack of importance: the character would be paying less attention to the individuals who are not voting Senators. You note as the night wears on that Quaestor Harding has not committed to the support of any individual candidate, or even a faction. *if player_for_senator and (harding_rapport > 30) For example, when she drifts to your side, she stays long enough for a pleasant exchange, but then moves on without engaging in any serious discussion. Not that she has to display any commitment; being a Quaestor, her opinion is formally irrelevant. Yet, the other non-voting caucus-goers are not so shy about making their feelings understood. *if heard_of_partridge and (heard_of_bailey and ((perception > 1) and (notice_partridge_betrayal = false))) *if (malloy_out = false) and ((player_for_senator = false) and (jesse_for_senator = false)) *set notice_partridge_betrayal true Strangely, whenever any sort of cohesion starts to form around Malloy—consisting of Bailey, Partridge, and Santagostino—Partridge finds a reason to resume talks with Lesczynski. *if perception > 2 Bailey is clearly infuriated by this betrayal on the part of Partridge. Confusion reigns in the hall, as no majority can be formed as long as at least three senators are unable to agree on a candidate. *elseif malloy_out and ((jesse_for_senator) and (jesses_revolutionary_credentials > 60)) *set notice_partridge_betrayal true Strangely, whenever any sort of cohesion starts to form around Jesse—consisting of Bailey, Partridge, and Santagostino—Partridge finds a reason to resume talks with Lesczynski. *if perception > 2 Bailey is clearly infuriated by this betrayal on the part of Partridge. Confusion reigns in the hall, as no majority can be formed as long as at least three senators are unable to agree on a candidate. *elseif malloy_out and ((jesse_for_senator = false) and ((player_for_senator) and (revolutionary_credentials > 60))) *set notice_partridge_betrayal true Strangely, whenever any sort of cohesion starts to form around Jesse—consisting of Bailey, Partridge, and Santagostino—Partridge finds a reason to resume talks with Lesczynski. *if perception > 2 Bailey is clearly infuriated by this betrayal on the part of Partridge. Confusion reigns in the hall, as no majority can be formed as long as at least three senators are unable to agree on a candidate. *if candidate_count = 2 The middle of the night has passed. The number of candidates stands at two. *if player_for_senator Somehow, you have managed to hold onto your seat and avoided provoking the ire of the gathered Senators. *elseif jesse_for_senator Somehow, Jesse has managed to hold onto his seat. His maverick candidacy has clearly amused the room, and beyond amusement, carried him nearly to victory. *elseif malloy_out Lesczynski and Pickering have retained their seats. *if malloy_for_lesczynski = false Malloy stalks sullenly about the room, shooting you foul looks. *elseif lesczynski_out Malloy and Pickering have retained their seats. *if lesczynskis_interest_unused = false Lesczynski stalks sullenly about the room, shooting you foul looks. *else Malloy and Lesczynski retain their seats. Pickering @{pickering_for_lesczynski does his best to encourage the Senators to vote for his replacement.|stalks sullenly about the room, shooting you foul looks.} *elseif player_for_senator *if jesse_for_senator and jesse_is_broodmate The rivalry between you and your sibling seems to have overtaken the night. *else Somehow, you have managed to hold onto your seat, and avoided provoking the ire of the gathered Senators. The remaining candidates seem somewhat surprised by your tenacity as well. *elseif jesse_for_senator The unexpected strength of Jesse's candidacy has surprised the room. His maverick candidacy has clearly astonished the caucus-goers, and it has clearly sustained beyond the expectations of most. *if jesse_rapport > 60 You smile at the idea that you might have played some part in his success. *elseif jesse_rapport < 40 You do your best not to show your frustration at your inability to force him from his seat. *else The dark of night has passed. Somehow, despite the machinations of the gathered members of the Society, all three original candidates still hold their chairs. The gathered Senators and caucus-goers set their jaws and prepare for another round of politicking in the hopes of finding some sort of resolution before the dawn overtakes them. Observing these proceedings, you wonder how you might affect them. *choice *if (candidate_count > 2) *if knows_ogier_heretic and ((malloy_out = false) and ogier_unused) #I want to make some pointed inquiries about Malloy's dominus; if he was executed for heresy, can we be so sure of his offspring? *set ogier_unused false *set malloy_rapport %-50 *set revolutionary_credentials %-15 *set lesczynski_credentials %+10 *set malloy_out true *set candidate_count -1 Unfortunately, any questions about Malloy's competency doom her candidacy to failure. Not without a much stronger base of support, anyway. Though reluctant to do so, Bailey and Partridge both bid their best wishes to Malloy before leaving her side a final time. Once enough time has lapsed, and there is clearly no further chance of a recovery, Siobhan stands and concedes her chair and the election. *if (lesczynski_out = false) and (lesczynskis_interest_in_memphis and lesczynskis_interest_unused) #I ask pointed questions about Lesczynski's interest in the history of Memphis…and its founding by Andrew Jackson. *set lesczynskis_interest_unused false *set lesczynski_out true *set candidate_count -1 *set lesczynski_rapport %-75 Your words seem to have more of an impact than you realized. Within an hour, Lesczynski has ceded his chair. For a few brief moments, your eyes meet; therein you read the full story of your betrayal. It is clear that it would take decades, if not centuries, to be seen as anything more than the most dire of enemies. *if (lesczynski_out = false) and ((malloy_out = false) and (coffins_anti_semitism_unused and (knows_coffin_anti_semitic or offer_to_help_coffin_stop_ascher))) #In order to break the impasse, I approach Senator Coffin and suggest that she openly support Malloy. *set coffins_anti_semitism_unused false Abigail listens to you patiently while you argue on Malloy's behalf; after all, were the Senators to tilt towards Malloy, Lesczynski would not win for simply being the compromise candidate. "${mr} ${surname}, thou seekest the impossible." "The impossible?" "I could not support Miss Malloy. Her revolutionary tendencies are repugnant to me." "But, would she not be indebted to one such as yourself, one whose wisdom were capable of perceiving the glimmer of compromise in her breast? I'm sure such a sign of support would be repaid in kind many times over." Abigail considers this a while longer before replying. *set revolutionary_credentials %+10 *if jesse_for_senator *set jesse_rapport %-5 *if (charm > 3) or ((status > 2) or (coffin_rapport > 80)) *label persuade_coffin_2 *set notice_partridge_betrayal true "${mr} ${surname}, I think thine argument sound. Forgive me a moment, as I must speak with Miss Malloy." You watch as Coffin approaches Malloy, proceeding to spend some fifteen minutes in deep conversation together. The room watches intently, the collective amazement deepening with each passing moment. When she returns to her seat, you watch as something unexpected unfolds: Bailey makes his pilgrimage to the feet of Malloy, but when he returns to his seat beside Partridge, Partridge seems suddenly disinterested in Malloy's candidacy. He approaches her, but the conversation continues for only a few moments before Partridge excuses himself to speak avidly with Lesczynski. No one is more surprised by this than Bailey. *elseif (coffin_rapport > 60) and ((charm >= 3) or (status >= 2)) *goto persuade_coffin_2 *else "Alas, I think her unlikely to bend to reason, ${mr} ${surname}. But I thank thee for thine opinion." Seeing that you will get no further with her, you decide it best to move on. *if jesse_for_senator and ((lesczynski_out = false) and (coffins_anti_semitism_unused and ((knows_coffin_anti_semitic or offer_to_help_coffin_stop_ascher)))) #In order to break the impasse, I approach Senator Coffin and suggest that she openly support Jesse. *set coffins_anti_semitism_unused false Abigail listens to you patiently while you argue on Jesse's behalf; after all, were the Senators to tilt towards him, Lesczynski would fail in his bid. *if jesses_revolutionary_credentials > 60 *set revolutionary_credentials %+10 Moreover, Jesse, though a revolutionary, is not so extreme as Malloy. It would be easier to compromise with him than her. "${mr} ${surname}, thou asketh the impossible." "The impossible?" "I could not support Mr. Whitaker. His revolutionary tendencies are repugnant to me." "But, would he not be indebted to one such as yourself, one who's wisdom were capable of perceiving the glimmer of compromise in his breast? I'm sure such a sign of support would be repaid in kind many times over." Abigail considers this a while longer before replying. *if (charm > 3) or ((status > 2) or (coffin_rapport > 80)) *label persuade_coffin_support_jesse_round_three *set jesse_rapport %+15 "${mr} ${surname}, I think thine argument sound. Forgive me a moment, as I must speak with Mr. Whitaker." You watch as Coffin approaches Jesse, proceeding to spend some fifteen minutes in deep conversation together. The room watches intently, the collective amazement deepening with each passing moment. *if jesses_revolutionary_credentials > 60 *set notice_partridge_betrayal true When she returns to her seat, you watch as something unexpected unfolds: Bailey makes his pilgrimage to the feet of Jesse, but when he returns to his seat beside Partridge, Partridge seems suddenly disinterested in Jesse's candidacy. He approaches Jesse, but the conversation continues for only a few moments before Partridge excuses himself to speak avidly with Malloy. No one is more surprised by this than Bailey. *elseif (coffin_rapport > 60) and ((charm >= 3) or (status >= 2)) *goto persuade_coffin_support_jesse_round_three *else "Alas, I think him unlikely to bend to reason, ${mr} ${surname}. But I thank thee for thine opinion." Seeing that you will get no further with her, you decide it best to move on. *else *set revolutionary_credentials %-10 Moreover, Jesse is clearly more palatable to the opposition than Pickering. It would be much easier to find support for him than the vampire from Mobile. You approach the Senator and offer your argument. Abigail considers this a while before replying. *if (charm > 3) or ((status > 2) or (coffin_rapport > 80)) *label persuade_coffin_support_jesse_2 *set jesse_rapport %+15 "${mr} ${surname}, I think thine argument sound. Forgive me a moment, as I must speak with Mr. Whitaker." You watch as Coffin approaches Jesse, proceeding to spend some fifteen minutes in deep conversation together. The room watches intently, the collective amazement deepening with each passing moment. *if jesses_revolutionary_credentials > 60 *set notice_partridge_betrayal true When she returns to her seat, you watch as something unexpected unfolds: Bailey makes his pilgrimage to the feet of Jesse, but when he returns to his seat beside Partridge, Partridge seems suddenly disinterested in Jesse's candidacy. He approaches Jesse, but the conversation continues for only a few moments before Partridge excuses himself to speak avidly with Malloy. No one is more surprised by this than Bailey. *elseif (coffin_rapport > 60) and ((charm >= 3) or (status >= 2)) *goto persuade_coffin_support_jesse_round_three *else "Alas, I find him underwhelming, ${mr} ${surname}. But I thank thee for thine opinion." Seeing that you will get no further with her, you decide it best to move on. *if (persuade_lesczynski = false) and (heard_of_lesczynski) *if (candidate_count > 2) and ((malloy_out = false) and ((lesczynski_out = false) and (player_for_senator = false))) *selectable_if (lesczynski_tongue) #I try to persuade Lesczynski to withdraw and throw his support behind Malloy. *label persuade_lesczynski_3 *if met_lesczynski *if (status > 2) or ((charm > 4) or (lesczynski_rapport > 75)) *set lesczynski_out true *set lesczynski_for_malloy true *if jesse_for_senator and (jesse_rapport > 50) *set jesse_rapport %-15 *if lesczynskis_interest_in_memphis Lesczynski listens to you patiently while you make your case. "…and just think, you could take up residence here, and do as much research as you needed, and not be bothered with the obligations of the Senate." "You speak wisely, ${mr} ${surname}." You nod in gratitude at this compliment. "Come, let us make our gesture of support," he concludes. When he stands, the room falls silent. The two of you walk together to Malloy, demonstrating your united support for her. You smile a secret smile at the chaos you have inflicted upon the gathering. *else Lesczynski listens to you patiently while you make your case. "And you think that such a concession would earn her support in a future election?" "I can only imagine, Mr. Lesczynski. After all, do you truly desire to take up residence in Memphis?" "In fact I do." You are momentarily taken aback, but do your best to hide your surprise. "I must admit, Mr. Lesczynski, I am surprised…" "Do not be. This city was founded by a future President of the United States. A man who found a peaceful death." *if met_andrew_jackson and (discretion > 40) "You know, I met the General once, decades ago." Lesczynski suddenly looks very interested. "It was right after the Battle of New Orleans. I tried to feed from him, but he knew what I was and stopped me." "That does not surprise me." "How do you mean?" "${mr} ${surname}, if you do not know, I cannot be the one to tell you." You look at him in confusion. *label conclude_lesczynski_for_malloy_round_three He brushes your look away, and brings you back to the matter of the election: "Come, let us make our gesture of support." When he stands, the room falls silent. The two of you walk together to Malloy, demonstrating your united support for her. You smile a secret smile at the chaos you have inflicted upon the gathering. *goto round_three_end *elseif met_andrew_jackson or attended_marignys_party "I attended a soirée with him once, in fact. Just after the Battle of New Orleans. He was a luminous presence." "That does not surprise me. I never met the man, but I hear he was most extraordinary." He smiles at the thought. You look at him in some confusion; what is the nature of this statement? *goto conclude_lesczynski_for_malloy_round_three *else "And that is to be envied?" "Very much so, ${mr} ${surname}. To die a peaceful death? How many of our kind will find that?" "Not many." You look at him in some confusion; what does Jackson have to do with your kind? *goto conclude_lesczynski_for_malloy_round_three *else *set lesczynski_rapport %-15 Lesczynski listens to you patiently while you make your case. "What is this [i]michegas?[/i] Do you think I came all the way here to concede in favor of that [i]shiksa?[/i]" "No, but—" Lesczynski doesn't let you finish the thought; he is clearly outraged. Before the scene becomes any less dignified, you find an excuse to depart. *else *gosub meet_lesczynski *goto persuade_lesczynski_3 *if (candidate_count > 2) and ((lesczynski_out = false) and ((player_for_senator = false) and (pickering_out = false))) #I try to persuade Lesczynski to withdraw and throw his support behind Pickering. *label persuade_lesczynski_4 *if met_lesczynski *if (status > 2) or ((charm > 4) or (lesczynski_rapport > 75)) *set lesczynski_out true *set lesczynski_for_pickering true *if jesse_for_senator and (jesse_rapport > 50) *set jesse_rapport %-15 *if lesczynskis_interest_in_memphis Lesczynski listens to you patiently while you make your case. "…and just think, you could take up residence here, and do as much research as you needed, and not be bothered with the obligations of the Senate." "You speak wisely, ${mr} ${surname}." You nod in gratitude at this compliment. "Come, let us make our gesture of support," he concludes. When he stands, the room falls silent. The two of you walk together to Pickering, demonstrating your united support for him. You smile a secret smile at the chaos you have inflicted upon the gathering. *goto round_three_end *else Lesczynski listens to you patiently while you make your case. "And you think that such a concession would earn his support in a future election?" "I can only imagine, Mr. Lesczynski. After all, do you truly desire to take up residence in Memphis?" "In fact I do." You are momentarily taken aback, but do your best to hide your surprise. "I must admit, Mr. Lesczynski, I am surprised…" "Do not be. This city was founded by a future President of the United States. A man who found a peaceful death." *if met_andrew_jackson and (discretion > 40) "You know, I met the General once, decades ago." Lesczynski suddenly looks very interested. "It was right after the Battle of New Orleans. I tried to feed from him, but he knew what I was and stopped me." "That does not surprise me." "How do you mean?" "${mr} ${surname}, if you do not know, I cannot be the one to tell you." You look at him in confusion. *label conclude_lesczynski_for_pickering_round_three He brushes your look away, and brings you back to the matter of the election: "Come, let us make our gesture of support." When he stands, the room falls silent. The two of you walk together to Pickering, demonstrating your united support for him. You smile a secret smile at the chaos you have inflicted upon the gathering. *goto round_three_end *elseif met_andrew_jackson or attended_marignys_party "I attended a soirée with him once, in fact. Just after the Battle of New Orleans. He was a luminous presence." "That does not surprise me. I never met the man, but I hear he was most extraordinary." He smiles at the thought. You look at him in some confusion; what is the nature of this statement? *goto conclude_lesczynski_for_pickering_round_three *else "And that is to be envied?" "Very much so, ${mr} ${surname}. To die a peaceful death? How many of our kind will find that?" "Not many." You look at him in some confusion; what does Jackson have to do with your kind? *goto conclude_lesczynski_for_pickering_round_three *else *set lesczynski_rapport %-15 Lesczynski listens to you patiently while you make your case. "What is this [i]michegas?[/i] Do you think I came all the way here to concede in favor of that [i]goy?[/i]" "No, but—" Lesczynski doesn't let you finish the thought; he is clearly outraged. Before the scene becomes any less dignified, you find an excuse to depart. *goto round_three_end *else *gosub meet_lesczynski *goto persuade_lesczynski_4 *if player_for_senator = false *if jesse_for_senator and (withers_embarrassed and untold_tale_of_jesse_and_samantha) #I begin relating the tale of Jesse and Samantha in the hopes of discrediting Jesse. *set jesse_rapport %-10 *set untold_tale_of_jesse_and_samantha false Unfortunately, this does little to affect Jesse's standing in the competition. What it does—in the eyes of the gathered vampires—is clarify your opposition to him *if jesses_revolutionary_credentials > 60 *set revolutionary_credentials %-5 and his revolutionary cause. *elseif jesses_revolutionary_credentials < 40 *set revolutionary_credentials %+5 and his counter-revolutionary cause. *else *bug what is this supposed to be? Pausing to regroup, you shoot Jesse a look; he responds with the most condescending version of his grin you have ever seen. *if jesse_for_senator and (withers_embarrassed and untold_tale_of_jesse_and_samantha) #I begin relating the tale of Jesse and Samantha in the hopes of demonstrating Jesse's finesse. *set untold_tale_of_jesse_and_samantha false *set jesse_rapport %+10 You work your way through the room, relating the tale of Jesse's masterstroke against Withers. While it is unclear if your tale aids Jesse, it certainly doesn't harm him. Moreover, your support of Jesse indicates to your listeners your loyalty to his *if jesses_revolutionary_credentials > 60 *set revolutionary_credentials %+5 revolutionary cause. *elseif jesses_revolutionary_credentials < 40 *set revolutionary_credentials %-5 counter-revolutionary cause. *else *bug what is this supposed to be? *if jesse_for_senator and (jesse_embarrassed and untold_tale_of_jesse_and_samantha) #I begin relating the tale of Jesse and Samantha in the hopes of discrediting Jesse. *set untold_tale_of_jesse_and_samantha false *set jesse_rapport %-15 *set jesse_for_senator false *set candidate_count -1 Had Jesse been better prepared for this election, this tale of your would bear no weight. Unfortunately for him, that is not the case, and his being outfoxed by Withers, and having a witness here to embellish the tale, is just enough to push his chances off the cliff. Within an hour, all traffic to Jesse's make-shift court ceases. If he could immolate you with the fury in his eyes, he no doubt would; failing that, he stands, conceding his chair and the election. Your whisper campaign also serves—in the eyes of the gathered vampires—to clarify your opposition to him *if jesses_revolutionary_credentials > 60 *set revolutionary_credentials %-5 and his revolutionary cause. *elseif jesses_revolutionary_credentials < 40 *set revolutionary_credentials %+5 and his counter-revolutionary cause. *else *bug what is this supposed to be? *else *if (revolutionary_credentials > 60) and ((opinion_changed = false) and (heard_of_malloy)) #Considering my reputation for supporting Stone, a change of heart might sway the gathering away from Malloy. *set opinion_changed true *set revolutionary_credentials %-40 *set bailey_rapport %-30 *set partridge_rapport %-30 *set malloy_rapport %-20 *if jesses_revolutionary_credentials > 60 *set jesse_rapport %-15 *if jesses_revolutionary_credentials < 40 *set jesse_rapport %+10 *if status > 2 *set lockridge_rapport %+10 *set pickering_rapport %+10 The room definitely takes note of your new tune; Lockridge and Pickering seem particularly grateful for it. *else *set lockridge_rapport %-15 *set pickering_rapport %-15 Unfortunately, your change in loyalties is perceived more as rank opportunism than a bellwether. No one seems pleased by it. *if (revolutionary_credentials < 40) and ((opinion_changed = false) and (heard_of_pickering)) #Considering my reputation for opposing Stone, a change of heart might sway the gathering away from Pickering. *set opinion_changed true *set revolutionary_credentials %+40 *set lockridge_rapport %-30 *set pickering_rapport %-30 *if jesses_revolutionary_credentials > 60 *set jesse_rapport %+10 *if jesses_revolutionary_credentials < 40 *set jesse_rapport %-15 *if status > 2 *set bailey_rapport %+10 *set malloy_rapport %+10 The room definitely takes note of your new tune; Malloy and Bailey seem particularly grateful for it. *else *set bailey_rapport %-15 *set malloy_rapport %-15 Unfortunately, your change in loyalties is perceived more as rank opportunism than a bellwether. No one seems pleased by it. *if jesse_for_senator *if withers_embarrassed and untold_tale_of_jesse_and_samantha #I begin relating the tale of Jesse and Samantha in the hopes of discrediting Jesse. *set jesse_rapport %-10 *set untold_tale_of_jesse_and_samantha false Unfortunately, this does little to affect Jesse's standing in the competition. It seems that the mistreatment of the Governor's vapid broodmate is not considered a character flaw. It does not take long for word of your tale to reach Jesse's ears. Glancing in his direction, he responds with the most condescending version of his grin you have ever seen. *if jesse_embarrassed and untold_tale_of_jesse_and_samantha #I begin relating the tale of Jesse and Samantha in the hopes of discrediting Jesse. *set untold_tale_of_jesse_and_samantha false *set jesse_rapport %-15 *set jesse_for_senator false *set candidate_count -1 Had Jesse been better prepared for this election, this tale of yours would bear no weight. Unfortunately for him, that is not the case, and his being outfoxed by Withers, and having a witness here to embellish the tale, is just enough to push his chances off the cliff. Within an hour, all traffic to Jesse's make-shift court ceases. If he could immolate you with the fury in his eyes, he no doubt would; failing that, he stands, conceding his chair and the election. *if pickering_and_pike and ((lore > 1) and pickering_and_pike_unused) #I begin to ask uncomfortable questions about Pickering's association with Albert Pike. *set pickering_and_pike_unused false *set lesczynski_credentials %-10 *set coffin_rapport %-10 *if heresy_of_masons > 0 *set masonic_apostate true *if jesse_for_senator *set pickering_rapport %-80 *set pickering_out true You are struck by just how quickly Pickering's candidacy folds in upon itself. Within twenty minutes, the gathered Senators avoid him like the plague. At the half hour mark, even Quaestor Harding can no longer show her support. He sits alone, waves of hatred roiling in your general direction. Abandoned by all, he soon stands, relinquishing his chair to join the ranks of the caucus-goers. *else *set pickering_rapport %-40 The matter of Pickering's possible affiliation with the Freemasons is quickly absorbed by the attendees; you can almost watch it race around the room. When it reaches the ears of Senator Coffin, however, the story falls down dead. She immediately makes a show of approaching Pickering and engaging him in deep conversation. Within moments, Lockridge has done the same. Your effort to see Pickering ousted from the caucus has clearly failed. *if pickering_bigot and pickering_bigot_unused #I wonder aloud about the prejudices of Pickering. *set pickering_bigot_unused false *set pickering_rapport %-30 *set lockridge_rapport %-10 *set carothers_rapport %+15 While your musings do make the rounds, the matter is clearly not of sufficient import to derail Pickering's candidacy. If anything, it only amplifies the animosity between Carothers and Pickering. Fortunately for Pickering, Carothers' say in the matter is minimal. *if (persuade_malloy = false) and heard_of_malloy *if (jesse_for_senator = false) and ((malloy_out = false) and ((lesczynski_out = false) and ((player_for_senator = false) and (pickering_out = false)))) *selectable_if (speaks_english) #I try to persuade Malloy to withdraw and throw her support behind Lesczynski. *label persuade_malloy_2 *if met_malloy *set supporting 3 *if (status > 2) or ((charm > 4) or ((revolutionary_credentials > 75) or (malloy_rapport > 75))) *set malloy_out true *set malloy_for_lesczynski true *set lesczynski_credentials %+20 Siobhan listens gravely to your petition. After what seems like an eternity, she nods at the wisdom of your words. Slowly, making sure that all the eyes in the room are upon her, she stands. Having thereby relinquished her candidacy, she begins to circulate with you among the other caucus-goers. *else *set malloy_rapport %-15 Despite your best efforts, Siobhan refuses to bend to your will. *else *gosub meet_malloy *goto persuade_malloy_2 *if (persuade_pickering = false) and (heard_of_pickering) *if (jesse_for_senator = false) and ((malloy_out = false) and ((lesczynski_out = false) and ((player_for_senator = false) and (pickering_out = false)))) *selectable_if (speaks_english) #I try to persuade Pickering to withdraw and throw his support behind Lesczynski. *label persuade_pickering_2 *set supporting 3 *if met_pickering *if jesse_for_senator and ((status > 2) or ((charm > 3) or ((revolutionary_credentials < 35) or (pickering_rapport > 70)))) *set pickering_out true *set lesczynski_credentials %-20 *set pickering_for_lesczynski true Absalom listens gravely to your petition. After what seems like an eternity, he nods at the wisdom of your words. Slowly, making sure that all the eyes in the room are upon him, he stands. Having thereby relinquished his candidacy, he begins to circulate with you among the other caucus-goers. *else *set pickering_rapport %-15 Despite your best efforts, Absalom refuses to bend to your will. *else *gosub meet_pickering *goto persuade_pickering_2 *if (outing_invitation_rejected = false) and ((outing_with_jesse = false) and ((player_for_senator = false) and (jesse_for_senator = false))) #All this politicking is boring me. I want to see if Jesse might go on an outing with me later this week. *gosub invite_jesse_date *if notice_partridge_betrayal and met_partridge *selectable_if (speaks_english) #I confront Partridge about his inconsistent support of the candidates. *set discretion %+15 *set partridge_rapport %-15 Cornering the Senator from Louisville, you voice your @{(discretion < 50) concerns|suspicions} about his conduct. *if status > 2 Partridge squirms under your gaze. "I am simply uncertain of whom I should support." "It seems more that you will support anyone, or rather, no one." @{(perception > 2) That seems to make him even more uncomfortable.|} "I do not have to account for my actions to you, ${mr} ${surname}. I am free to vote as I see fit." "Yes, but to not vote?" "Enough. I have work to do, unless you are the one who does not want my voice heard?" "By all means," you say with a magnanimous sweep of your hand. *else "How dare you?" he replies, before you can even finish. "I'm sorry?" "How dare you ask that of me?" he repeats. "It is an honest question. It is almost as though you want no one to win." @{(perception > 2) He looks intensely uncomfortable at this remark, even more uncomfortable that your initial inquiry.|} "You are wasting my time with these insinuations, ${mr} ${surname}. Now, if you will excuse me," he says, trying to escape your presence. "By all means," you say with a magnanimous sweep of your hand. *if notice_partridge_betrayal and (met_bailey and (player_for_senator = false)) *selectable_if (speaks_english) #I ask Bailey about Partridge's inconsistent support of the candidates. *if (revolutionary_credentials > 60) or (bailey_rapport > 60) *set discretion %-15 *set bailey_rapport %+10 *set revolutionary_credentials %+5 The skin around Bailey's eyes tightens slightly. With a quick glance around, he lowers his voice: "It is good to see that I am not the only one with concerns regarding Partridge's commitment to the revolution." "Do you think him false?" you whisper in return. "I…I cannot think him false," his voice falters with emotion, "but perhaps influenced?" "That bodes ill for the cause." "It does, ${mr} ${surname}, it does." *else *set discretion %+10 *set bailey_rapport %-10 "${mr} ${surname}, I do not think it is your place to question the decision-making process of the senators." "My apologies, Senator. I meant no offense." @{(perception > 2) Though his rebuke is stern, it is clear that you have hit a nerve; it seems that he too is concerned about Partridge's perfidy.|} *if neutrality_asserted #I continue to maintain my neutrality. *set independence %-10 The gathered vampires now seem almost mystified by your studied avoidance of any signs of political affiliation. *if neutrality_asserted = false *if (supporting = 1) #I maintain my neutrality. *set neutrality_asserted true *set discretion %-20 *set independence %-10 The gathered vampires do not seem to notice your lack of affiliation. *if (supporting > 1) #I continue making the rounds to support my candidate. *if supporting = 2 *set revolutionary_credentials %+5 *set malloy_rapport %+5 *if supporting = 3 *set lesczynski_rapport %+10 *if supporting = 4 *set revolutionary_credentials %-5 *set pickering_rapport %+5 The gathered vampires note your preferences, but you do not think you have swayed any positions. *label round_three_end As the dawn approaches, it becomes clear that the gathered Senators are at an impasse. *if player_for_senator *if discretion > 50 You seethe in impotent fury. These doddering fools are unwilling to take a stand, and you can only sit by while the opportunity to realize your ambitions slips away. *else You survey the room calmly. Your efforts may have been frustrated this evening, but you have certainly made an impressive showing despite the tardy nature of your campaign. *if candidate_count > 2 The other candidates sit *elseif candidate_count = 2 The other candidate sits tight, similarly trapped by the evening's lack of resolution. *elseif candidate_count = 2 *if jesse_for_senator Jesse and his remaining rival would both have to crane their necks to look each other in the eye, yet the tension between them is tangible nonetheless. *else *if malloy_out Despite Malloy's withdrawal, Pickering has managed to hang on to his seat through the early morning. Unable to look at each other directly, the tension between he and Lesczynski is nonetheless tangible. *elseif lesczynski_out The withdrawal of Lesczynski has only further polarized the room. *if lesczynski_for_malloy His clear support for Malloy seems to have gone mostly unremarked by the Senators; at least, by those that matter. With neither side willing to budge, the two remaining candidates can only seethe in hatred and frustration. *else His new-found support for Pickering seems to have gone mostly unremarked by the Senators; at least, by those that matter. With neither side willing to budge, the two remaining candidates can only seethe in hatred and frustration. *else Despite Pickering's withdrawal, Malloy has managed to hang on to her seat through the early morning. Unable to look at each other directly, the tension between she and Lesczynski is nonetheless tangible. *else *if jesse_for_senator Jesse and his remaining rivals would all have to crane their necks to look each other in the eye, yet the tension between them is tangible nonetheless. *else The three candidates would all have to crane their necks to look each other in the eye, yet the tension between them is tangible nonetheless. The candidates are not the only frustrated ones; the Senators stalk through the room, snapping at each other, just waiting for the least excuse to bare their fangs and sink them into the throats of their rivals. *if (player_for_senator = false) and ((perception > 1) and (intelligence > 2)) Observing this, the wisdom of the seating arrangements suddenly becomes clear: were the candidates able to stare directly at one another, the night would have devolved into a battle in tooth and claw. Though perhaps eminently frustrating for the participants, the scheme has again averted bloodshed. *if (lockridge_rapport > 50) and ((player_for_senator = false) and (heard_of_lockridge)) In a surprising moment of candor, Lockridge bemoans the absence of Simmons; had the Senator from Mobile been present, Lockridge claims, Pickering's election would have been assured. *if (malloy_out = false) and (((player_for_senator = false) and ((revolutionary_credentials > 55) or (malloy_rapport > 55))) and (speaks_english)) *if supporting = 3 *set malloy_contactable true Malloy approaches you, caution clearly etched on her face. *if met_malloy She arrives at her point quickly: *else *set met_malloy true She introduces herself and soon gets to her point: why does someone known for ${his} support of Stone side with Lesczynski? When you supply no convincing reply, she offers a way to contact her and recommends that you write to her to learn more of Stone's cause. You thank her and continue with your goodbyes. *elseif supporting = 2 *set malloy_contactable true *if opinion_changed Malloy approaches you, caution clearly etched on her face. *if met_malloy She expresses polite gratitude for the change in your political stance and offers you a way to contact her should you want to further edify yourself about the goals of Consul Stone. *else *set met_malloy true She introduces herself and thanks you politely for the change in your political stance. Moreover, she offers you a way to contact her should you want to further edify yourself about the goals of Consul Stone. You thank her, and continue with your goodbyes. *else Malloy approaches you. *if met_malloy She thanks you for your support, even if the night found no resolution. She also offers you a way to contact her should you need to write to her before the next election. *else *set met_malloy true She introduces herself and thanks you politely for your support, despite not having had a chance to meet her. She also offers you a way to contact her should you need to write to her before the next election. You thank her and continue with your goodbyes. *elseif (pickering_out = false) and ((player_for_senator = false) and ((revolutionary_credentials < 45) and speaks_english)) *if supporting = 3 *set pickering_contactable true Absalom Pickering approaches you, clearly troubled. *if met_pickering He arives at his point forthwith: *if met_pickering = false *set met_pickering true He introduces himself, but wastes no time arriving at his point: why does someone so known for ${his} opposition to Stone support Lesczynski for senator? When you supply no immediate justification, he offers you a way to contact him via post and encourages you to write to him so that you may learn more about Stone's crimes. You thank him and continue with your goodbyes. *elseif supporting = 4 *set pickering_contactable true *if opinion_changed Absalom Pickering approaches you. *if met_pickering He expresses wonder at your change of heart midway through the evening. You pass off the change with polite nonsense. *else *set met_pickering true He introduces himself and expresses wonder at your change of heart midway through the evening. You pass of the change with politie nonsense. He offers you a way to contact him via post should you need to converse with him between now and the next election. He hopes that you will take him up on the offer to further affiliate yourself with him and the other loyal members of the Society. *else Pickering approaches you. *if met_pickering He thanks you for your support, even if the night found no resolution. *else *set met_pickering true He introduces himself and thanks you for your support, even if the night found no resolution. He also offers you a way to contact him should you need to write to him before the next election. You thank him and continue with your goodbyes. *elseif (lesczynski_out = false) and (((player_for_senator = false) and (status > 1)) and (lesczynski_tongue)) *set lesczynski_contactable true *set met_lesczynski true Lesczynski approaches you. He dances around the matter, but in short, seems to be urging you to support him during the next election. He presses his calling card into your hand, suggesting that you write to him before then. You promise him that you will and soon excuse yourself. *elseif lesczynski_out and ((player_for_senator = false) and ((coffin_contactable = false) and (speaks_english))) *set coffin_contactable true *if heard_of_coffin Turning a corner, you nearly bump into Senator Coffin. *if met_coffin She greets you with a smile and wordlessly presses her calling card into you hands. Apparently, she was satisfied with your efforts and wishes for you to write to her. You promise to do so and quickly excuse yourself. *else *set met_coffin true She introduces herself and thanks you for your efforts this evening. Though not necessarily sure what she means by this, you have no energy to protest as she directs a companion to provide you with a calling card bearing instructions as to how to contact her in Cincinnati. You thank her as she pushes past you. *else *set heard_of_coffin true *set met_coffin true Turning a corner, you nearly bump into the woman in Puritan dress. She greets you by name, and what's more, thanks you for your efforts this evening. Though not necessarily sure what she means by this, you have no energy to protest as she directs a companion to provide you with a calling card bearing instructions as to how to contact her in Cincinnati. You thank her as she pushes past you. *elseif malloy_out and ((revolutionary_credentials < 40) and (lockridge_contactable = false)) *set lockridge_contactable true *if heard_of_lockridge You inadvertently find yourself cornered by Lockridge. *if met_lockridge He thanks you for the service that you have done the Society this evening. Before you part ways, he presses a calling card into your hand, which directs you to write to him before the next election. You promise to do so and quickly excuse yourself. *else *set met_lockridge true He introduces himself kindly and thanks you for the service that you have done the Society this evening. Before you part ways, he presses a calling card into your hand, which directs you to write to him before the next election. *else *set heard_of_lockridge true *set met_lockridge true *set heard_of_ethelmarr true You find yourself cornered by the gentleman from the Carolinas. He introduces himself as Arthur Lockridge, progeny of Ethelmarr, Senator from Charleston. He thanks you for your efforts on behalf of the Society and makes sure you part ways knowing how to contact him in the future, should you need to do so. Somewhat bewildered, you thank him and excuse yourself. *elseif pickering_out and (((revolutionary_credentials > 60) and (bailey_contactable = false)) and (speaks_english)) *set bailey_contactable true *if heard_of_bailey Senator Bailey approaches you. *if met_bailey He thanks you for your service to Consul Stone, and makes sure that you know how to write to him should you have need of doing so. You promise to do so and quickly excuse yourself. *else *set met_bailey true "I don't believe I've had the pleasure…" he begins. He soon introduces himself as the Senator from St. Louis. He thanks you for your service to Consul Stone and makes sure that you know how to write to him should have need of doing so. Slightly bewildered, you thank him and excuse yourself. *else *set heard_of_bailey true *set met_bailey true The fair-haired gentleman in colonial dress approaches you. He introduces himself as John Bailey, Senator of St. Louis. He thanks you for your service to Consul Stone, and makes sure that you know how to write to him should have need of doing so. Slightly bewildered, you thank him and excuse yourself. *if flirting_with_chiara *if santagostino_contactable From across the room, you notice Chiara gliding towards you. When she takes your hands in her own, you feel a jolt of energy. "Unlike the others here, I am grateful at least for the delay in these proceedings. I imagine that we will reconvene soon, and that means I will see you again soon." "Not soon enough, Senator," you reply. She smiles, kisses you on both cheeks and then excuses herself. *else *set santagostino_contactable true From across the room, you notice Chiara gliding towards you. When she nears, she raises her left hand and brushes the back of it against your cheek. At the same time, she presses a note into hands with her other hand. She holds your gaze for a long moment, enjoying both the energy and the spectacle. Finally, she kisses you on both cheeks and excuses herself. When she has left your presence, you glance at the note; it is an address in New Orleans, by means of which you may correspond with her. *if malloy_out and (((ogier_unused = false) and (player_for_senator = false)) and (speaks_english)) Wandering the room a final time, you are somewhat surprised to find yourself face-to-face with Siobhan. She glares at you. "Good morning to you, Miss Malloy." "And ta' you." "I am sorry to see that you have withdrawn from the election." She bites her tongue for a moment, balancing her words against who might possibly overhear and disapprove. "Do not think that I will be unprepared for your machinations next time, ${mr} ${surname}. Your slanderous innuendos will fall on deaf ears." *if discretion < 40 "I am sure that, whatever I may have said, I meant no offense, Miss Malloy. I certainly bear you no ill-will." Your evasions seem to confuse her. "Then you are more foolish than I imagined," she concludes. With that, she leaves your vicinity with all due haste. *elseif discretion <= 60 "My apologies if you have misconstrued my intentions, Miss Malloy." "Your intentions? What could they be other than to drive me from the election?" "I was simply looking out for your best interests, Miss Malloy. You have a questionable past, and the matter was best addressed now rather than after your election." *if (revolutionary_credentials > 60) or (charm > 4) *set malloy_rapport %+15 She looks at you in disbelief. "I…I had not considered that, ${mr} ${surname}." "Well, perhaps you will before you address me so harshly in the future." "Of course…" she mumbles, drifting away from you in embarrassment. *if (revolutionary_credentials <= 60) and (charm <= 4) *set malloy_rapport %-10 "Enough of your lies. I will have no more of them," she exclaims, wasting no time in leaving your presence. *else "I think you overstep yourself, Miss Malloy." "Overstep myself?" she exclaims, incredulous. "Yes. If I were you, I would observe and do my best to learn from this evening. Because it would extend my undying existence." Her eyes go wide at the implications of your words. You accompany your smile with a slightly raised eyebrow, allowing the sight of your contempt to sink in to her consciousness before turning away. As far as you are concerned, there is nothing more to be said. *page_break One by one, the senators begin to disperse. *elseif lesczynski_out and (((player_for_senator = false) and (lesczynskis_interest_unused = false)) and (lesczynski_tongue)) Wandering the room a final time, you are somewhat surprised to find yourself face-to-face with Ascher. He glares at you. "Good morning to you, Mr. Lesczynski." "Ach, and to you." "I am sorry to see that you have withdrawn from the election." He bites his tongue for a moment, balancing his words against who might possibly overhear and disapprove. "Do not think that I will be unprepared for your machinations next time, ${mr} ${surname}. Your slanderous innuendos will fall on deaf ears." *if discretion > 60 Closing the distance between the two of you, you whisper in Lesczynski's ear: "Do not threaten me, little man. I do not take kindly to such things." *if charm > 3 Lesczynski sputters in response, backing away from you. You smile at him, eyebrow slightly raised in contempt. "I see that we understand each other," you conclude before turning away. *else *set discretion %-15 Lesczynski laughs at you. "Go back to your dominus and beg him to take you back under his wing; maybe then you will learn something about what it means to be a vampire." *if willpower > 2 It takes all that you have to hold the fury of the blood close. Perceiving your delicate state, Lesczynski snorts one last time, and then departs from your presence. You do your best to isolate yourself in an effort to avoid further provocation. *else Your vision goes red. You feel your fangs extend, and your fingers clench into claws. The last thing that you hear is a cry from Lesczynski as you teeth begin to sink into the flesh of his neck. *page_break *set frenzied_on_lesczynski true *if status > 1 *set status -1 *set lesczynski_rapport %-40 *set carothers_rapport %-40 *if sire_alive *set sire_rapport %-20 When you regain consciousness, it is Dido who is standing over you. A young man's wrist is at your mouth, and it seems you've been drinking his blood for a few moments. Looking around, you see that you have been moved from the election room; the three of you are alone here. "What happened?" you inquire, pushing the man's arm away from you. "The beast done come up in you, an' you wen' after Mista Lesh-ski like he was a nice big steak." "Lesczynski, is he alive?" "Y${es_suh}. They pulled you off 'im right quick." @{(rationalism > 70) "Thank God for small favors."|"That is good news."} "The Quaestor gwine be here soon, Ah 'spect." "I would not be surprised." You sink back into the couch, dreading what is to come. *page_break *set debt_to_lesczynski true When Carothers arrives, you discover that such outbreaks of violence, while certainly not condoned, are not exactly uncommon in the Society. The caucuses are times of great stress, and while his opinion of you has clearly declined, there appears to be a mechanism for dealing with such events other than simple execution: you will owe Lesczynski a debt, and you are forbidden from attending any other elections for the next decade. Grateful for this small mercy, you accept your penance without further argument. "One last thing," you begin, as Carothers turns to leave. "Who won the election?" "No one. After your outburst, the election was tabled. It is considered unwise to continue after such events, as further unpleasantries become likely." "I see." "I expect it will be some time before we see each other again, ${mr} ${surname}. I hope that I will never see such behavior from you again." "Certainly not, Quaestor." "Good evening, then," he says, leaving you to find your way home. *page_break *if outing_with_jesse *goto_scene memphis_1873_jesse *else *goto_scene memphis_first_intermission *else "Innuendos? Surely we have misunderstood one another?" "I think not." "I am afraid I am unaware as to what you are alluding." "Do not be coy; it does not become you. I have said what I needed to say. Good day," he concludes. He wastes no time in vacating your proximity. *page_break One by one, the senators begin to disperse. *elseif pickering_out and (((player_for_senator = false) and (pickering_and_pike_unused = false)) and (speaks_english)) Wandering the room a final time, you are somewhat surprised to find yourself face-to-face with Absalom. He glares at you. "Good morning to you, Mr. Pickering." "And to you." "I am sorry to see that you have withdrawn from the election." He bites his tongue for a moment, balancing his words against who might possibly overhear and disapprove. "Do not think that I will be unprepared for your machinations next time, ${mr} ${surname}. Your slanderous innuendos will fall on deaf ears." *if discretion < 40 "I am sure that, whatever I may have said, I meant no offense, Mr. Pickering. I certainly bear you no ill will." Your evasions seem to confuse him. "Then you are more foolish than I imagined," he concludes. With that, he leaves your vicinity with as much disgust as he can muster. *elseif discretion <= 60 "My apologies if you have misconstrued my intentions, Mr. Pickering." "Your intentions? What could they be other than to drive me from the election?" "I was simply looking out for your best interests, Mr. Pickering. You have a questionable past, and the matter was best addressed now rather than after your election." *if (revolutionary_credentials < 40) or (charm > 4) *set pickering_rapport %+15 He looks at you in disbelief. "I…I had not considered that, ${mr} ${surname}." "Well, perhaps you will before you address me so harshly in the future." "Of course…" he mumbles, drifting away from you in embarrassment. *if (revolutionary_credentials >= 60) and (charm <= 4) *set pickering_rapport %-10 "Enough of your lies. I will have no more of them," he exclaims, wasting no time in leaving your presence. *else "I think you overstep yourself, Mr. Pickering." "Overstep myself?" he exclaims, incredulous. "Yes. If I were you, I would observe and do my best to learn from this evening. Because it would extend my undying existence." His eyes go wide at the implications of your words. You accompany your smile with a slightly raised eyebrow, allowing the sight of your contempt to sink in to his consciousness before turning away. As far as you are concerned, there is nothing more to be said. *page_break One by one, the senators begin to disperse. *else *page_break And yet. And yet. One by one, they begin to disperse. *set heard_of_malloy true *set heard_of_lesczynski true *set heard_of_pickering true The threat of the sun trumps their manifold disappointment. It will be years before they come together again, but next time they will be better prepared. Most consider it an embarrassment that the matter has been left undecided. *if (perception > 2) or ((revolutionary_credentials > 40) and (perception > 1)) Those who support Stone's revolution, on the other hand, silently declare victory. *if (independence > 40) and (carothers_rapport > 40) *set carothers_rapport %+10 As a citizen of the city, you feel it to be your duty to see the guests on their way. You join Carothers on the front steps to watch the last of them depart. "What is the source of this misery, ${mr} ${surname}?" "Misery?" "Natural or vampire-made? Or perhaps heaven-sent?" "I'm sorry, Quaestor…" "Have I committed some sin? In my youth, which I have since forgotten? Why is this happening to me?" *if notice_partridge_betrayal "It was not your doing, but rather the machinations of the Senators. Senator Partridge was unwilling to commit to a candidate…" "Yes, but why would he embarrass me so? He is a supporter of Stone, and yet he refused to back Stone's candidate. What could I have done to make him hate me so?" *else "Perhaps it was simply misfortune? The Senators could not reach a decision. There is no reason to blame yourself for their failure." "You are kind to say so, ${mr} ${surname}, but I cannot help but think the fault lies with me." No answer presents itself. In the meantime, however, the first light of dawn touches the horizon; a terror roils in the pit of your stomach. Unable to wait any longer, you bid Carothers good day and hurry to your resting place. *if outing_with_jesse *page_break *goto_scene memphis_1873_jesse *else *page_break *goto_scene memphis_first_intermission *label meet_lesczynski *set met_lesczynski true "Good evening, sir, do you have a moment?" "Of course! Please," he says, gesturing for you to come closer. "If you would, allow me to introduce myself. I am ${given_name} ${surname}, a citizen of this city." "A pleasure. I am Ascher Lesczynski. As you can see, I hope to be your Senator soon." "That is, in fact, what I wish to speak to you about…" *return *label meet_malloy *set met_malloy true "Good evening!" you begin. "Good evenin' ta ya!" she replies heartily. "Please, allow me to introduce myself. I am ${given_name} ${surname}, a citizen of Memphis." "A pleasure, ${mr} ${surname}. I am hopin' ta be a citizen here as well!" "Actually, that's what I wanted to talk to you about," you begin. "At yer service," she replies. *return *label meet_pickering *set met_pickering true When the moment seems right, you approach and introduce yourself to Mr. Pickering. He is a man of English descent with brown hair and eyes, along with a well-kept goatee that hides what would otherwise be a weak chin. His hair is parted to the side, somewhat low for your taste. Moreover, he is not shy about his desire to win the election, and is eager to answer any questions you may have for him. *return *label invite_jesse_date Jesse is clearly surprised when you broach the matter with him. "What did you have in mind?" he inquires. *choice #"Tomorrow night there is a performance @{(memphis_reception_planner = "Dido") here|} at the Greenlaw Opera House.…" *set date_location "greenlaw" *set jesse_rapport %+10 *set outing_with_jesse true "I suppose that wouldn't be a terrible way to spend the evening. I'm almost curious to know what passes for culture in a city like this." You think that was a yes? *return *if (streetwise > 0) or ((feeding_style = "prostitutes") or (feeding_style = "gamblers")) #"I was just thinking we should have a night on the town. There are some less-than-reputable corners to this town worth exploring.…" *set jesse_rapport %+15 *set outing_with_jesse true Jesse nearly claps his hands in excitement. "I did not realize we would get along so famously, dear ${given_name}! Let us plan for such after this whole election mess is finished?" "Yes, let us do so," you reply. "Tomorrow night?" "Yes, of course. Until then." *return *if technology > 0 #"There is the most amazing device they have developed here, for the sorting and processing of cotton.…" *set outing_invitation_rejected true Jesse instantly looks bored. "Cotton is sold to make money. I like spending money. How cotton is made is of little interest to me, ${mr} ${surname}." *if discretion > 50 "I'm sorry if I bore you, Mr. Whitaker. I'll try to do better next time." *if jesse_is_broodmate = false *set jesse_rapport %-5 *if male "Plucky, aren't you? Well, I suppose @{jesse_is_broodmate our|your} dominus did have a reason for giving you the gift. Now, if you will excuse me…" *return *else *if jesse_is_broodmate *set jesse_rapport %+5 "Spirited, aren't you? Well, I suppose @{jesse_is_broodmate our|your} dominus did have a reason for giving you the gift. Now, if you will excuse me…" *return *else *set jesse_rapport %-5 "Pardon me, Mr. Whitaker. I thought you might want to take in some of the sights of Memphis, indications that the economy is reviving…" "Most certainly not. Now, if you will excuse me…" *return *if religious_tradition = "catholic" *selectable_if (rationalism > 60) #"I was just thinking to myself, we should attend a mass together." *set outing_invitation_rejected true *set rationalism %+5 *set jesse_rapport %-5 Jesse looks at you askance. *if (sires_faith = "faithful") and (sire_religious_tradition = "catholic") *if jesse_is_broodmate "I had enough of that mumbo-jumbo while I resided with our maker. I need no more of it from you." "Mumbo-jumbo?" "I wasn't even Catholic when I was alive. Now, if you will excuse me," he says, taking his leave of you. *return *else "I had enough of that mumbo-jumbo while I resided with my maker. I need no more of it from you." "Mumbo-jumbo?" "I wasn't even Catholic when I was alive. Now, if you will excuse me," he says, taking his leave of you. *return *else "I was not a Catholic when I was alive, and I have found no reason to change that since dying." "But, your immortal soul…" "If it exists, it is long past redemption. Now, if you will excuse me…" he says, taking his leave of you. *return *if religious_tradition = "reformed" *selectable_if (rationalism > 60) #"I was just thinking to myself, we should attend a service together." *set outing_invitation_rejected true *set rationalism %+5 *set jesse_rapport %-5 Jesse looks at you askance. *if (sires_faith = "faithful") and (sire_religious_tradition = "reformed") *if jesse_is_broodmate "I had enough of that mumbo-jumbo while I resided with our maker. I need no more of it from you." "Mumbo-jumbo?" "Now, if you will excuse me," he says, taking his leave of you. *return *else "I had enough of that mumbo-jumbo while I resided with my maker. I need no more of it from you." "Mumbo-jumbo?" "Now, if you will excuse me," he says, taking his leave of you. *return *else "I was not a religious man when I was alive, and I have found no reason to change that since dying." "But, your immortal soul…" "If it exists, it is long past redemption. Now, if you will excuse me…" he says, taking his leave of you. *return *if (creation > 0) or (memphis_reception_planner = "Olivia") #"There is a salon held by one of the local debutantes, Olivia…she manages to gather an interesting crowd of artists and writers, such as there are in this town." *if jesse_rapport > 40 *set outing_with_jesse true *set jesse_rapport %+10 "I suppose that that doesn't sound dreadful. But after tonght, I think I would prefer to not be surrounded by idle prattle. Shall we take a walk along the river instead?" You nod agreeably. "Tomorrow night, then?" "Yes, tomorrow night." *if compassion < 45 You do your best not to clap your hands with excitement at the prospect of some time alone with Jesse. *return *else *set outing_invitation_rejected true *set jesse_rapport %-5 "That sounds dreadful." "No, truly…" He gestures dismissively. "Please, we are in the middle of an election. We can speak of this another time." Crestfallen, you take your leave of him. *return #"I thought we might walk along the river. The view just after sunset is breathtaking." *if jesse_rapport > 60 *set outing_with_jesse true "I suppose that that doesn't sound dreadful." "Tomorrow night, then?" "Yes, tomorrow night." *if compassion < 45 You do your best not to clap your hands with excitement at the prospect of some time alone with Jesse. *return *else *set outing_invitation_rejected true "That sounds absolutely dreadful." "No, truly…" He gestures dismissively. "Please, we are in the middle of an election. We can speak of this another time." Crestfallen, you take your leave of him. *return *if (heresy_of_masons > 1) and (knows_jesse_mason) #"I thought we might discuss our…fraternity." *set outing_with_jesse true "Yes, that would be good." "Tomorrow night, then?" "Yes, tomorrow night." *return